A well-liked chicken chain restaurant in Florida, which underwent a temporary closure due to a state inspection last month, appears to have reopened for business. The establishment, specializing in fried chicken, sandwiches, salads, and sides, faced citations for various violations, including roach and fly activity, improper food storage, and insufficient sanitization.
Inspection Details
The inspection, conducted on December 28, 2023, at the West Nine Mile Road location in Pensacola, revealed a total of 11 violations, with four classified as high-priority. These high-priority issues comprised:
- Discovery of live roaches beneath the sandwich wrapping and soda dispensing stations, as well as next to a cabinet on the cook line.
- Improper storage of raw chicken above ready-to-eat food in a walk-in cooler.
- Maintenance of potentially hazardous food, such as chicken, cheese, and coleslaw, at temperatures exceeding 41 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Lack of any sanitizer for warewashing.
Consequently, the restaurant was directed to temporarily close until the violations were rectified.
Reopening Timeline
Upon a revisit by the inspector on December 29, 2023, it was noted that most violations had been addressed, except for the roach activity. With one live roach and three dead roaches observed, the restaurant remained closed. A subsequent inspection on January 2, 2024, reported no violations, highlighting the restaurant’s employment of a pest control company and the thorough cleaning and sanitization of the premises. Subsequently, the restaurant received approval to reopen.
Customer Reactions
Post-reopening, some customers expressed satisfaction with the food and service in reviews. Sean, in a Google review dated January 5, 2024, commented positively on the sandwiches. Jessica, on January 7, 2024, praised the location as the best in Pensacola, particularly appreciating the staff’s consideration for her fiancé, who has celiac disease.
On the flip side, some customers, citing concerns over hygiene standards, vowed not to return. Karen, in a Yelp review on January 6, 2024, expressed disgust after learning about roach and food temperature issues. Mike, in a review on January 8, 2024, recounted seeing a roach during his last visit, leading to his decision to stop patronizing the establishment.
Restaurant’s Response
The restaurant’s manager, choosing to remain anonymous, assured that the necessary measures had been taken to guarantee food safety, facility cleanliness, and overall quality. He emphasized cooperation with the inspector, adherence to pest control recommendations, staff training on proper food handling, and sanitization procedures. Apologizing for any inconvenience or concern caused by the inspection, the manager conveyed the restaurant’s commitment to providing the best possible service.
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