News Summary
Recent health inspections in Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties have shown a wide range of scores among local restaurants, with some achieving perfect marks while others faced serious violations. Tacos El Cunao received a score of 80, indicating multiple health code issues. The community is urged to stay informed about restaurant safety as inspectors continue to monitor compliance with health regulations to ensure public safety.
Chattanooga – Recent inspections by health departments in Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County have revealed a significant range of health scores among local restaurants. Tacos El Cunao received a score of 80, while multiple establishments attained perfect scores of 100. This disparity highlights ongoing concerns about food safety and sanitation across the region.
The inspection results for the week ending June 3 show that health departments evaluate food service establishments biannually, using a 100-point scale to assess compliance with health standards. Restaurants that fail to meet critical criteria are subject to re-inspection. It is important to note that published scores reflect initial evaluations and do not account for any immediate improvements made during inspections.
Tacos El Cunao, located at 5813 Lee Highway, Suite 4, received a score of 80, primarily due to several health code violations. These included lapses in foodborne illness risk control, roof leaks resulting in puddles, improper food storage temperatures, and employee drinks found on food contact surfaces. Additionally, the establishment failed to adhere to best practices for food preservation and hygiene, raising concerns about the safety of its food products.
Slightly better scores were given to other local eateries such as Sonic, which scored 84, and Brainerd Golf Snack Bar, which garnered a score of 85. Sonic, situated at 6915 Shallowford Road, was cited for employee beverage consumption on the cook line and disorganized cleaning product storage. Meanwhile, Brainerd Golf Snack Bar, located at 5203 Old Mission Road, faced issues including improper date-marking on food items and evidence of rodent droppings.
In contrast, numerous establishments excelled with high ratings. Tacos y Tortas Don Beto, Miller’s Ale House, and O’Charley’s each scored above 88, indicating solid compliance with health regulations. Notably, several restaurants achieved perfect scores, including Oaks Coffee House in Chattanooga, Tropical Sno in Catoosa County, and Snapfinger Scoops in Whitfield County.
Other notable high scores include:
- Ichiban Japanese Steakhouse – 93
- Shangri-La Restaurant – 94
- Biba’s Italian – 95
- Numerous establishments including Taco Bell, Little Caesars, and Bojangles also scored above 90.
However, not all restaurants performed well. El Metate in Soddy Daisy received a score of 75 due to serious health violations, including problems with handwashing practices, improper food storage, and outdated products. Such violations underscore the need for strict adherence to health guidelines to ensure the safety of food served to the public.
The health departments encourage community awareness of restaurant safety standards through the publication of inspection reports. Residents are reminded of their ability to report health code violations to the following contact numbers:
- Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department: 423-209-8110
- Catoosa County Health Department: 706-406-2030
- Walker County Health Department: 706-639-2574
As restaurant inspections play a vital role in safeguarding public health, establishments are urged to maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety. The community’s well-being largely depends on the diligence of food service providers and the regulatory efforts of health departments. With inspection results now available, consumers can make informed decisions when dining out.
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Broken Sink Causes Mexican Restaurant to Come Close to Failing
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Times Free Press: Unwashed Avocados, Chips on the Floor
- Google Search: Restaurant Inspection Guidelines
- Local 3 News: Popular Downtown Chattanooga Restaurant Scores 71, Then 95 in Follow-Up Inspection
- Google Scholar: Restaurant Health Inspections
- Times Free Press: Snake in the Kitchen, Bare-Handed Food Contact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Sanitation
