The inspection conducted on June 23 at La Fontana Della Citta identified multiple health code violations, according to the Philadelphia Department of Health.Due to non-compliance, the restaurant voluntarily ceased operations following the inspection. To reopen, the facility should address all issues and contact the department.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from a particular inspection conducted on June 23 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishment.
Highlights
- La Fontana Della Citta closed following a failed health inspection on June 23.
- The Italian restaurant was found to be out of compliance with food safety standards.
- The facility must correct all violations to resume normal operations.
La Fontana Della Citta
- Where: 1701 Spruce St, Philadelphia, PA 19103
- When: June 23, 2025 (12:15 PM to 02:00 PM)
Five risk factors/intervention violations were documented in the inspection findings at La Fontana Della Citta. The inspector noted an empty paper towel dispenser at the handwash sink during the visit. The facility was informed that at least one designated person in charge would be available on-site during operational hours.
Lids were missing on containers inside the refrigerators. Some black residue and food debris were identified on the ice machine and slicer, respectively. Temperature issues at the restaurant were significant. It was observed that the cold hold unit was not maintaining the required temperature of 41 degrees F or lower. The same was ordered discontinued pending repair.
The door handle and gasket of the refrigerator were in poor condition. Other citations included the use of a non-NSF/ANSI-approved chest freezer and the lack of a hot water handle in the ware wash sink. Ready-to-eat food items considered potentially hazardous were stored without proper labeling.
Rodent activity was among the most serious violations identified during the inspection. The restaurant’s infrastructure was not equipped to protect against the potential entry of rodents, insects, and other animals. Evidence of rodent activity, including both mice and rat droppings, was found in crucial areas of the establishment.
Sanitizer test strips were missing, and water was seen leaking above the storage. The restaurant was using a chest freezer and an under-counter refrigerator as storage. The kitchen prep area had a hole in the ceiling, chipped paint, and damaged walls.
The restrooms were missing proper trash cans with lids. Accumulation of food debris and residue was also noted in food preparation areas. The complete inspection report was published online.
Follow-Up Requirements
The inspector noted that the facility’s conditions did not meet health code requirements. The restaurant agreed to discontinue food handling and voluntarily close. The department’s approval is essential for the place to resume operations. The restaurant may request a reinspection once corrections are made.
As per the Philadelphia Health Code, the establishment must correct all the listed violations during the inspection. Failure to comply may lead to revocation of the health license. In such cases, the department may even take additional legal action.
