The Philadelphia Department of Health performed regular inspections at two local restaurants on May 27, 2025. Both restaurants had several health code violations that led to point deduction and unsatisfactory grades.
Highlights
- Dae Bak was forced to close voluntarily due to several infractions, including pest infestation.
- Treasures Cove was observed operating without a valid food license and proper certification.
- The two restaurants were cited for improper cleaning, sanitation, and food handling practices.
Two Philly Restaurants Face Critical Health Code Violations
Philadelphia health inspectors discovered major violations at both restaurants during a routine inspection. The violations included pest infestation, improper food handling, and failure to produce necessary certifications.
Dae Bak
Where: 1016 Race Street SPC 201, Philadelphia, PA 19107
When: May 27, 2025
Dae Bak, a Korean restaurant, was cited for serious violations during their inspection. The facility had three risk factor violations and several good retail practice violations.
The inspection identified the presence of mouse feces across the dining, cashier, and kitchen areas. Dead and live German cockroaches were discovered on glue traps in the kitchen. No hot water was available for hand washing, cleaning, or sanitizing dishes and equipment.
Cornish hens were observed thawing at room temperature in the sink. The walk-in cooler thermometer was not functioning correctly. Bulk containers were labeled only with common names rather than specific contents.
Employee hygiene violations were observed, with employees not wearing appropriate hair restraints. The establishment was also noted for improper storage of utensils and cleaning supplies.
Treasures Cove
Where: 5547 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19144
When: May 27, 2025
Treasures Cove faced two risk factor violations during their inspection. The restaurant lacked a valid food license during the inspection.
The individual in charge possessed a ServSafe certificate but not the Philadelphia Department of Public Health Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate as required. There was no handwashing reminder sign near the kitchen sink.
Other issues included a lack of sanitizer test strips to check the cleaning solution concentration. Food debris on door tracks of the refrigerator surfaces was also discovered. Improper trash disposal in the kitchen area and dust buildup under the storage racks were among other major citations.
Follow-Up Requirements
Dae Bak agreed to suspend the food business and close voluntarily until they are allowed to reopen by the department. The restaurant must contact the inspector to schedule a reinspection to resume operations.
Treasures Cove must acquire an up-to-date food license to continue operations. The person in charge can apply for the required Food Safety Certificate within 30 days. Failure to do this may lead to a cease operations order.
Both restaurants must resolve all the cited violations in the inspection reports. Failing to comply can lead to license revocation and legal action. These inspections demonstrate the need to maintain proper food safety standards in Philadelphia restaurants.
