News Summary
Recent inspections by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture revealed alarming health violations in several Grand Strand restaurants. Findings included mildew, rodent evidence, and unsanitary conditions. A total of five restaurants received B grades, while three were assigned C grades, calling into question the safety standards at popular dining venues. As inspectors continue to enforce health regulations, locals are urged to stay cautious about where they dine, especially with follow-up inspections scheduled to address these serious issues.
Recent Restaurant Inspections Reveal Health Hazards Across Grand Strand Establishments
Grand Strand, SC – A recent round of inspections conducted by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) has thrown some of the area’s restaurants into the spotlight, and not for the right reasons. From January 9 to January 15, inspectors explored various establishments in Horry and Georgetown Counties, including popular local dining spots. What they found was concerning, to say the least.
Among the alarming findings were reports of mildew, evidence of rodents, and even a terrible odor wafting through the air in more than a few places. The SCDA utilized a grading system to evaluate the cleanliness and safety standards of these restaurants, assigning grades based on scores:
- A grades for 88-100 points
- B grades for 78-87 points
- C grades for 77 points or fewer
In this latest inspection period, five restaurants managed to snag B grades, while three ended up with C grades. Surprisingly, only four venues scored below 78 points, but the issues identified were enough to raise eyebrows and a few stomachs.
Spotlight on the Lower Scores
Let’s take a closer look at some of the restaurants that faced challenges:
Clearwater Oyster Bar / Pollo Loco (Myrtle Beach, SC)
This restaurant landed a score of 73. Inspectors found a concerning build-up and terrible odor emanating from the floor drains. There was also mildew present in the ice machine, which is less than ideal for seafood lovers. To make matters worse, they recorded unsafe storage temperatures for sausage and butter. The restaurant was missing crucial shellstock tags necessary for shellfish safety, and food items were improperly stored. Despite the issues, a follow-up inspection on January 17 showed that improvements were made, culminating in a perfect score.
Island Taste (Myrtle Beach, SC)
With a score of 80, this venue had its fair share of issues too. Cooked foods were found sitting at insufficient temperatures, which is definitely not something you’d want to see at a restaurant. Additionally, inspectors noted that fish was improperly thawed and food was carelessly stored on the floor. Concerns about cleanliness were amplified by the handsink lacking soap, and the designated person in charge did not possess the minimum food handling certification. A follow-up inspection has been set for January 24 to check for improvements.
Jimmyz Original Hibachi House (Myrtle Beach, SC)
Another restaurant with a score of 80, Jimmyz also faced issues with food safety standards. The individual in charge did not have the basic food handling certification, raising a red flag for diners. There were also boxes of food stored on the floor in a walk-in freezer, casting doubt on their food safety practices. Even more alarming was the report of frozen tuna thawed in its original packaging, which can pose a risk of botulism. A follow-up inspection is planned for January 23.
Pawleys Island Tavern (Pawleys Island, SC)
This establishment managed to score a bit higher with an 81, but still faced multiple red flags. A complaint inspection brought to light openings in the ceilings and walls, granting pests free access. Shockingly, evidence of rats was spotted outside the restaurant. Inside, food was carelessly stored on the floor of the walk-in refrigerator, and employees were caught handling ready-to-eat food with bare hands. Problems with grilled chicken and cooked onions not reaching safe temperatures also raised safety concerns. A follow-up inspection is scheduled for January 25 to see if things get better.
The Bigger Picture
The SCDA’s inspection efforts underscore the importance of adhering to health regulations and food safety standards. As the department steps in to enforce these regulations, locals and visitors are encouraged to stay informed about the conditions of their favorite dining spots. After all, nobody wants their meal, or their health, to be at risk!
So, while Grand Strand is known for its vibrant food scene, these recent inspections serve as a healthy reminder to keep an eye on restaurant cleanliness. With follow-up inspections coming up, it will be interesting to see how these establishments rise to the challenge and improve for the sake of their patrons.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
The Space at Kaleidoscope to Open in Myrtle Beach
Grand Strand Restaurant Scene Flourishes in 2024
Myrtle Beach Offers Limited Golfing Options This Christmas Day
Myrtle Beach Golf Courses Shine in Top 100 Rankings
Golf Lovers in Myrtle Beach Tee Off This Christmas Day
Golfing on Christmas Day in North Myrtle Beach
Health Violations Exposed in Myrtle Beach Restaurant Inspections
Concerns Rise as South Carolina Restaurants Receive Low Inspection Grades
Myrtle Beach Restaurant Inspections Uncover Health Violations and Cleanliness Issues
Myrtle Beach Restaurant Inspections Expose Shocking Health Violations
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: Recent Inspections Report
- AOL: Health Violations in Restaurants
- AOL: Dirty Utensils and Ice Machines
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Google Search: Restaurant Health Inspection Standards
