[Editor’s note: The report referenced in this article reflects conditions observed during an inspection conducted on March 24. A reinspection is scheduled for April 14, and conditions at the establishment may change. This report does not convey the future status of the establishment.]
The Orange County Health Department conducted a routine health inspection at Cafe Naderi on March 24. The eatery was flagged for several health violations, resulting in a temporary shutdown of the restaurant.
WhatNow has reached out to the restaurant for comment and will update the story upon receiving a response.
Cafe Naderi
- When: March 24, 2026
- Where: 18040 Culver Dr, Irvine, CA 92612
Cafe Naderi is a Persian restaurant serving Persian delicacies. According to the report, the violations noted:
- Covered and stacked containers of lamb stew, which were dated March 23, were seen in the walk-in cooler at 46-48°F. Staff were instructed not to stack or cover hot, potentially hazardous foods (PHF) during cooling.
- Live and dead cockroaches were observed in several areas, including under and around the 3-compartment sink and in the front service area.
- A box of frozen lamb was stored directly on the floor near the prep sink.
- Food residue and grime covered equipment and surrounding areas, including microwaves, cooking equipment, hot holding units, and under the 3-compartment sink.
- A reach-in freezer was inoperable, raw wood shelving was present, meat grinder components were rusty, and sealant was deteriorated in multiple areas.
- An unapproved prep table was also observed.
- Single-use bowls were stored uncovered and facing upward.
- A light fixture above the cook line was missing a protective cover, and a leak was observed under the 3-compartment sink.
Screenshot of the violations (Image Credit: inspections.myhealthdepartment.com/orange-county) - Sanitizer solution at the prep table measured 0 ppm. Wiping cloths must be stored in a properly maintained sanitizer solution, the report said.
- Personal food items were stored above clean utensils. Employee belongings must be kept in designated areas away from food and equipment.
- The flooring was damaged in several areas, including under sinks, with rough and uneven patches. Walls near the sink were deteriorated, and standing water, grease, and debris were observed under the equipment.
- Approximately 50 pounds of beef and wheat stew were noted, likely requiring disposal.
A detailed report is available online.
Follow-up Inspection
According to the report, the food facility has its permit suspended temporarily during the health inspection due to live cockroach activity. A reinspection is scheduled for April 14, 2026. The restaurant was asked to correct all the violations noted and use pest control methods before contacting the department for reinspection.
