Inspectors temporarily close Bradenton restaurant with roach problem

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 recent inspections, a Thai restaurant in Bradenton was temporarily shut down for the second time this year after inspectors again found signs of roach activity. The business was temporarily closed in February after inspectors found live and dead bugs and rodent droppings onsite.

Siam Thai Bistro, 5763 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton — Inspected and temporarily shut down April. 9

• High priority: An inspector observed approximately 10 live roaches between reach-in coolers in the kitchen.
• Intermediate: The bottom shelves of all food preparation tables had surface rust.
• Basic: An inspector observed a dead roach in a waitstaff area on the floor along a wall.
• Basic: An inspector noted three additional basic violations, including mold-like substance in an ice machine and soiled floors in food preparation areas.
• During a follow-up inspection on April 10, the restaurant met inspection standards 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.