Chattanooga, TN, August 20, 2025
News Summary
The health departments of Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties have released recent health inspection scores for food establishments. Notably, one-third of inspected restaurants received perfect scores, while Crust Pizza reported a failing score due to hygiene issues. The inspections emphasize the importance of adhering to health standards to prevent foodborne illnesses across the region.
Chattanooga, TN – Health Inspection Scores Released for Food Service Establishments in Hamilton, Catoosa, and Walker Counties
The health departments of Hamilton County, Catoosa County, and Walker County have released the latest health inspection scores for local food service establishments, with a significant number of businesses achieving high marks. The scores are based on a 100-point grading scale, and all establishments are inspected biannually. Notably, no failing scores were reported for the week ending August 19, with approximately one-third of inspected restaurants achieving a perfect score of 100.
The highest-scoring establishments were Allen Elementary School, Butterfly Juice Co., Calliope, and several others. A total of 53 businesses received a perfect score of 100 during this inspection cycle. Meanwhile, Crust Pizza located on Broad Street received a failing score of 67 due to unhygienic conditions, which included dirty equipment and unsafe food storage practices.
Food service establishments that did not meet critical health standards were reinspected to verify compliance. Health-related inquiries can be directed to the respective health departments: the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department at 423-209-8110, Catoosa County Health Department at 706-406-2030, and Walker County Health Department at 706-639-2574.
Inspection Scores Overview
The following are inspection scores for notable establishments from the release:
- 80 – Park Place Restaurant (Fort Oglethorpe, GA): Violations included improper storage of raw foods and temperature issues.
- 83 – Mi Casita and Taqueria Adela: Issues with foodborne illness management and improper handwashing.
- 84 – Taqueria La Bonita.
- 88 – Mr. Burrito.
- 90 – Caffeine Addicts and Shuford’s BBQ.
- 91 – Countryside Cafe.
- 92 – The Smoky Gnome.
- 94 – Multiple establishments including El Matador Mexican Restaurant and Pizza Hut.
- 95 – Corazon De Mexico and Domino’s.
- 98 – ALC Chattanooga and Taco Bell.
- 99 – Numerous locations including Burger King and Mr. Wok.
- 100 – Allen Elementary School and various others.
Summary of Findings
Health inspection scores reflect both the general conditions under which food is prepared and served, ignoring any immediate corrective actions taken during inspections. This categorization emphasizes the importance of consistent health practices in food establishments to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Upon the return of students to Hamilton County schools, most establishments connected to the schools received scores in the high 80s, indicating a focus on maintaining cleanliness and safety standards in food services tied to educational institutions.
Conclusion
The periodic health inspections are vital in maintaining high standards of food safety in local establishments. With the majority achieving high scores, residents can be reassured that local eateries are committed to ensuring their health and well-being.
FAQ
What is the health inspection grading scale?
The health department uses a 100-point scale to assess food service establishments, with scores reflecting specific health and safety criteria related to food preparation and service.
How often are food establishments inspected?
Food service establishments are inspected twice a year by their respective health departments.
What happens if an establishment fails inspection?
If an establishment fails to meet critical health standards, it will be reinspected to ensure compliance and address health violations.
How can I report health-related concerns?
Concerns can be reported by contacting the local health department offices: Chattanooga-Hamilton County at 423-209-8110, Catoosa County at 706-406-2030, and Walker County at 706-639-2574.
Key Features Summary
| Score | Establishment Name | Location | Key Issues |
|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | Park Place Restaurant | Fort Oglethorpe, GA | Improper food storage, temperature violations |
| 67 | Crust Pizza | Broad Street | Dirty equipment, unsafe food storage |
| 100 | Allen Elementary School | Various | No issues reported |
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Additional Resources
- Local 3 News: Pizza Place Fails Inspection
- Times Free Press: Unwashed Avocados and Chips on the Floor
- Times Free Press: Leaks and Rodent Droppings
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food Safety
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
