A Mediterranean Grill in OC was Ordered Closed After Routine Inspection

Cockroach infestation in critical areas at Desert Moon in OC’s Anaheim prompted health inspectors to issue a closure.

Shruti Saraogi
Written By Shruti Saraogi
News Writer
Annesha
Edited By Annesha
Managing Editor
Desert Moon was shut down by OC Health Care Agency on August 5 (Source: desertmoongrilloc.com)

The Environmental Health Division of OC Health Care Agency conducted a routine inspection at Desert Moon in Anaheim on August 5, 2025. Inspectors found the establishment out of compliance with health standards. The report cited both major and minor violations. A cockroach infestation throughout the facility led to the suspension of the health permit and a temporary shutdown. The issues must be corrected to reopen and resume food handling activities.

Please note that the report mentioned here is from an inspection conducted on August 5 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the food establishment.

Highlights

  • Desert Moon was subjected to a routine inspection by the OC health department on August 5.
  • The inspectors issued a closed seal outside the facility following the discovery of a cockroach infestation.
  • To reopen and resume regular business, the establishment must address all the citations mentioned in the report.

Desert Moon

Dining area at Desert Moon restaurant in Anaheim (Source: desertmoongrilloc.com)
  • Where: 888 S Brookhurst St., Anaheim, CA 92804
  • When: August 5, 2025

Inspectors noted that staff lacked adequate training on proper glove usage. Not every member of the staff handling food possessed a valid California Food Handler Card.

Inspectors found inadequate handwashing facilities at the venue, including obstructed access. A major violation reported during the inspection was related to incorrect cooking time and temperature.

The most serious violation was the presence of several live cockroaches throughout the facility, particularly around the dish machine. A chemical spray bottle found at the warewashing station was missing a proper label to avoid contact with utensils and food contact surfaces.

The ware washing facilities showed a lack of general upkeep, as inspectors observed missing sanitizer chlorine test strips. A number of utensils and pieces of equipment used at the facility were found in poor repair, failing to meet applicable standards.

The establishment did not maintain toilet facilities in sanitary conditions. Toilet paper was found on top of the dispenser, and the bidet handle was observed leaking. The air curtain required to prevent potential pest entry was found disconnected.

The premises were not well equipped to prevent the entry or harborage of insects and other animals. The walls adjacent to the dish machine had gaps, which required immediate repair. The inspection report is available for the public to view here.

Follow-up Inspection

Desert Moon was asked to immediately close following the inspection. The officials also suspended the health permit, as the cockroach infestation posed an imminent health hazard. No food or beverage sales are allowed at the facility without written approval from the agency.

The establishment can request a reinspection following the correction of all the listed violations. All cockroaches, dead and alive, should be eliminated using approved pest control methods only.

Equipment, walls, floors, and other key surfaces and areas in the facility should be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized following pest control service. All the cracks found on the walls and other structural areas should be properly sealed to avoid potential vermin entry. The facility must provide a pest control receipt as proof of service.

Currently, the suspended health permit disallows the food facility from selling food and beverages. The restaurant will remain shut until all conditions warranting the closure are corrected and a representative of Environmental Health reinstates the permit.

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Shruti Saraogi is a detail-driven writer who specializes in crafting clear, engaging content with editorial precision. At WhatNow, she brings sharp news judgment and a minimalist lens to local news coverage. With a background in blog writing and digital storytelling, Shruti blends strong research with narrative clarity to inform and connect readers. Passionate about sustainability and thoughtful consumption, she approaches ideas with curiosity, empathy, and purpose.
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