Two Philadelphia Restaurants Cited for Major Health Code Violations

Health inspectors in Philadelphia identified multiple food safety and sanitation violations at two restaurants.

Deepali Singla
Written By Deepali Singla
News Writer
Annesha
Edited By Annesha
Managing Editor
A cafe and a bakery were found to have major health code violations (Source - Google Reviews)

The Office of Food Protection of the Philadelphia Department of Health conducted a health inspection on March 27, 2025. Two restaurants, a coffee shop, and a bakery were found to have multiple repeated and new violations. As per the Philadelphia Health Code, the restaurants are required to correct the listed violations.

Please note that the results mentioned here are from a particular inspection conducted on March 27 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishments.

Highlights

  • Two restaurants in Philadelphia demonstrated unsatisfactory operations at the premises during the inspection.
  • Shortcomings such as unclean premises, utensils, improper labeling, etc., were observed at the restaurants.
  • Some issues were even corrected on-site in the presence of the inspecting officers.

Es Cafe Lounge

Philadelphia health inspection failure
Es Cafe Lounge’s sitting area (Source – Google Reviews)
  • Where: 1447 N American St, Philadelphia, PA 19122
  • Date: March 27, 2025

The Es Cafe Lounge is a family-run coffee shop in Philadelphia. People can stop by for quick homemade bites, desserts, and beverages. A health inspection was conducted at the restaurant on Thursday, and multiple violations were found by the officials.

Inspection Findings at Es Cafe Lounge

The report mentioned repeated violations. Dishes and coffee utensils were observed in the handwash sink in the front service/ coffee station area. The employees removed them at the time of the inspection. No soap or paper towels were kept at the handwash sink in the rear preparation area. This was also corrected on-site.

The report also stated that prepacked food, such as pastries, was not labeled properly. Officials observed evidence of rodent activity. Mouse droppings were seen in the front coffee station area, the rear prep area along floor perimeters, and underneath the bathroom sink.

Gaps were noted in the doors, thus making an entryway for insects, rodents, and other animals. Ventilation issues, leaking pipes, deep scratches on the cutting board, and improper equipment were other violations that were observed. A detailed report is available for people.

Mighty Bread Bakery & Cafe

Philadelphia health inspection failure
Inside Mighty Bread Bakery & Cafe (Source – Google Reviews)
  • Where: 1211 Gerritt St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
  • Date: March 27, 2025

Mighty Bread Bakery & Cafe is a neighborhood go-to place for people to get fresh sourdough bread and pastries. It demonstrated unsatisfactory practices during an inspection conducted by the Health Department of Philadelphia on Thursday.

Inspection Findings at Mighty Bread Bakery & Cafe

The inspecting officials observed cleaning equipment in the handwash sink of the main kitchen area. This was corrected on-site by the employees. A handwash sign was also posted during the inspection above the sink in the rear prep area to remind the employees to wash their hands.

No splashguard was observed between the handwash sink and baked bread storage racks. Black residue was observed on the interior of the ice machine bin in the point of sale area. Officials asked to discontinue its use until cleaned and sanitized. Fruit flies were present in the ware wash area.

The report also mentioned that three electric induction burners were being used for cooking eggs in the kitchen. There was no adequate mechanical ventilation. Induction burners were approved for bakery use only. Any cooking that produces grease requires the installation of an exhaust hood. The facility added a liquor license over the past year and an additional 30 seats. A new LER is pending to be issued. For public discretion, a detailed report is available.

Both establishments must address these violations to comply with health regulations and maintain their licenses. If the violations are not fixed, the food establishments might have to face repercussions. The re-inspection dates have not yet been announced, allowing time for corrections.

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Deepali Singla is a food technologist by discipline and a seasoned, versatile writer by profession. Her passion for writing emerged during her academic journey. With a strong foundation in research, she excels at crafting well-researched content. Combining technical knowledge with a flair for storytelling, Deepali brings depth and clarity to her work.
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