Health Violations Exposed in Myrtle Beach Restaurant Inspections

News Summary

Recent inspections by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture revealed alarming health violations in 231 restaurants across Myrtle Beach and its neighboring areas. Inspectors found issues like live roaches, molding cheese, and poor sanitation practices, leading to low grades for several eateries. This report highlights the need for stricter health standards and the importance of safe dining experiences for the community. As follow-up inspections are scheduled, the spotlight is on the restaurants to improve their scores and ensure customer safety.

Health Violations Exposed in Restaurant Inspections Across Myrtle Beach

In a recent round of inspections, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) has uncovered some alarming health violations at various restaurants in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas. Between November 22 and December 16, inspectors combed through 231 eateries in Horry and Georgetown Counties, and what they found might make you think twice before dining out.

What’s Cooking Under the Hood?

Restaurant scores are categorized into three grades based on their performance during inspections:

A grades for scores between 88-100 points
B grades for scores between 78-87 points
C grades for scores of 77 points or fewer

During this recent inspection spree, it was found that some restaurants were harboring live roaches, pesky spiders, and, perhaps most shockingly, molding cheese and poor hygiene practices. While eight restaurants managed to snag B grades, two were handed C grades. A total of only four restaurants scored below that coveted 88 points!

Restaurant Highlights and Low Points

Let’s dive into some specific restaurants that were inspected:

La Olanchana, located at 4245 Socastee Blvd., received a score of 80. Violations included the presence of live roaches and spiders, along with improper food storage and temperature issues. A follow-up inspection on December 12 showed improvement, resulting in a solid A grade with a score of 95.
Crown Reef Conference Center scored 82 during routine inspection on December 12. The inspectors found a dirty slicer, improperly stored liquid eggs, and standing water in the kitchen. A follow-up inspection will occur on December 22.
Mura Restaurant and Bar also earned a score of 82 during its November 26 inspection. The establishment struggled with raw chicken stored above ready-to-eat foods, clutter, and date marking issues. However, follow-up inspections resulted in scores of 91 and 99, reflecting significant improvements.
Loco Gecko scored 84. Issues included molding cheese, dirty cutting boards, and improper food dating. Another inspection is set for December 22 to ensure necessary changes are made.
Klocker’s Tavern, with a low score of 78, faced serious concerns with several out-of-date food items and improper chicken storage. This restaurant will need to straighten things out quickly.
Tupelo Honey Cafe, known for its unique offerings, scored 80 due to observed molding ginger and outdated foods. The dishwashing sanitation process raised red flags as well.
Carrabba’s Italian Grill earned a score of 81 with violations including improperly stored food at room temperature and sanitation issues in ice bins and sinks.

What’s Next for Our Local Eateries?

All these inspections serve as important reminders for restaurant owners and patrons alike. Making sure that food is safe and properly prepared is essential to maintaining the well-being of our communities. In response to these findings, several establishments have already set up follow-up inspections to ensure that they are adhering to health standards and providing safe dining experiences.

As the follow-up inspections unfold, locals will be curious to see which restaurants step up their game and improve their grades. If you’re planning a meal out anytime soon, it might be worth checking in on these scores – your health and comfort matter when it comes to enjoying your favorite bites.