[Editor’s note: The report referenced in this article reflects conditions observed during an inspection conducted on March 11 and does not represent the establishment’s current or future status.]
The Philadelphia health department conducted a routine check across the area on March 11. Among the establishments inspected, the Indian restaurant Veda was cited for multiple violations, according to the report.
WhatNow has reached out to the restaurant for comment and will update the story upon receiving a response.
Veda
- When: March 11, 2026
- Where: 1920 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Veda serves innovative Indian cuisine and craft cocktails. According to the report, the restaurant was non-compliant with the safety regulations. The violations were as follows:
- The facility did not have a person with a valid Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate on duty during operating hours.
- No handwashing reminder sign was posted at the sink in the cooking area. The report said hot water at one handwash sink in the women’s restroom measured 56°F, below the required 100°F.
- According to the report, salad, cut tomatoes, fried foods, and sauces were displayed in open bowls without sneeze guards or protective covers.
- Cakes stored in an under-counter refrigerator were left uncovered, but staff covered them during the inspection, according to the report.
- Chlorine sanitizer in the three-bay sink measured 200 ppm, exceeding the required 50-100 ppm. he sanitizer solution was remade during the inspection.
- The can opener had food residue on its food-contact surfaces and was cleaned and sanitized.
- Ras malai, yogurt sauce, ranch, and cheesecake were held at 55-59°F, above the required 45°F or below, the report mentioned.
- Opened items like cheesecake and ranch in the refrigerator were not marked with the date they were opened.
- Temperature-measuring devices used to monitor refrigeration equipment were not working properly.
- Bulk ingredient containers were not labeled with the food’s common name.
- Food items in the walk-in cooler were stored less than 6 inches above the floor.
- The report noted that several pieces of equipment were not maintained. Rusted shelving was found in the warewash area, an inoperable under-counter refrigerator was used for storage, refrigeration unit was unable to maintain 41°F or below. Holes were found in the backsplash wall near the three-bay sink, a damaged rice cooker handle, and missing handles on a beer chest refrigerator were observed, and milk crates were used to support equipment.
- Floor mats were found in poor condition, and the refrigerator was not NSF/ANSI approved.
- Aluminum foil was used as shelf liners, which are not smooth or easily cleanable, the report said.
- The facility did not have test strips to monitor sanitizer concentrations.
- Equipment had grease build-up, electrical lines and fire suppression pipes had dust buildup, and shelves and inside refrigerators had accumulated debris.
- The report noted that food residue was found in the microwave, containers, compressor coils, counters, and sink splash guards. Residue was also observed on floors, particularly under cooking equipment and in the warewash area.
A detailed report is available online.
Follow-up Inspection
According to the report, Veda was asked to take the required action to eliminate the violations listed. Failure to correct the issues may result in the revocation of the establishment’s health license.
