Health inspectors temporarily close Bradenton pizza shop after signs of rodents, bugs
Florida’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants routinely inspects restaurants, food trucks and other food service establishments for public health and cleanliness issues.
The reports are public information.
During the most recent inspections in Manatee County, a Bradenton Papa Johns Pizza location was temporarily shut down when dead bugs and rodent droppings were found in the kitchen.
Here is what inspectors found:
Papa Johns Pizza, 5838 S.R. 70, Bradenton
- An inspector ordered that Papa Johns Pizza be temporarily shut down on Nov. 1 after pest problems were found on site.
- An inspector observed approximately 20 rodent droppings in a back area of the kitchen near a hot water heater.
An inspector observed approximately 30 dead flying insects on floor next to a pizza oven in the main kitchen area.
Food storage shelves were lined with cardboard. Corrective action was taken.
The restaurant met inspection standards during a follow-up visit later that day and was allowed to reopen.
Editor’s Note: According to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, these reports are a “snapshot” of the conditions present at the time of the inspection and are public record. The agency is required to inspect every licensed restaurant at least once per year, but new and “high-risk” establishments tend to be inspected more frequently.
When an emergency shutdown order is given by an inspector, it must first be reviewed and approved by agency supervisors. In order for a business to reopen, an inspector will continue visiting the establishment daily until compliance is met. Some citations may include a financial penalty. Inspectors may also respond to complaints, which can be filed at www.myfloridalicense.com.
The Bradenton Herald’s weekly dirty dining reports list restaurants where inspectors found issues that might concern the average diner — such as unsafe food temperatures, employee hand-washing issues or moldy drink machines — regardless of whether or not the businesses passed inspection.