Inspectors temporarily close Bradenton restaurant with rodent issue

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 in Manatee County, a Peruvian restaurant in Bradenton was temporarily shut down after inspectors found signs of rodent activity and other food safety issues on site.

El Warike, 4226 26th St. W., Bradenton — Inspected and temporarily shut down Dec. 16

• High priority: An inspector observed approximately 10 rodent droppings in a back corner of a dry food storage area. Corrective action was taken. A restaurant operator had an employee sweep and mop the area.
• High priority: The business was operating with and expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
• Intermediate: An employee washed hands in a warewashing sink. Corrective action was taken.
• Intermediate: An employee handwash sink in the kitchen did not have hot running water.
• Basic: An inspector noted eight basic violations, including heavy grease buildup on the floor in the cook line area and a rack for dry dishes that was rusted.
• During a follow-up inspection the next day, an inspector did not note any further rodent activity, but found other issues unresolved. The restaurant was allowed to reopen, but another follow-up inspection was required.

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 MyFloridaLicense.com.