Health Inspectors Shut Down Port Arthur Restaurants Due to Pest and Water Issues

Overview of Recent Restaurant Inspections in Port Arthur

Recent restaurant inspection reports from the Port Arthur Health Department have revealed a wide range of outcomes, with some establishments excelling while others face significant issues. Between August 18 and August 28, most restaurants received an A grade, but several had much lower scores, with the lowest being a 74. These findings highlight both the strengths and weaknesses in food safety and sanitation practices across the city.

Common Violations Identified

Several recurring violations were observed during these inspections. One of the most common issues was the lack of proper sanitizers or their improper use. Many restaurants were cited for not having food thermometers available, which is essential for ensuring that food is stored and cooked at safe temperatures. Additionally, overdue grease trap servicing and blocked or missing handwashing stations were frequently noted.

Improper food storage was another major concern. Raw meat was often placed above ready-to-eat foods, and items were sometimes stored directly on the floor. Chemicals were also found to be improperly stored near food areas, posing potential contamination risks.

Structural and cleanliness issues were also prevalent. Ceiling damage, worn flooring, and the buildup of grease or debris were common. Some facilities even had expired food on their shelves, raising serious concerns about food safety.

Notable Cases and Scores

Some restaurants stood out for their high scores and good practices. For example:

• Top Nutrition, located at 2642 Memorial Blvd, scored 91 and received an A grade with only 9 demerits. The primary violation was the absence of a chemical sanitizer on site.
• Rio Grande, at 5001 Procter St, scored 78 and received a C grade with 22 demerits. This included multiple repeat violations such as improper food storage and a lack of allergen labels.
• Subway at 2800 26th St scored 94 and received an A grade with just 6 demerits. The violations included an outdated grease trap servicing log and a three-compartment sink without an air gap.
• Banh Mi Deli, located at 3920 Gulfway Dr, scored 88 and received a B grade with 12 demerits. Issues included improper storage of foods and an un-serviced grease trap.
• Fresita’s Caffeine Hub, at 5949 W. Port Arthur Rd, scored 91 and received an A grade with 9 demerits. The main issues were unsanitized food contact surfaces and a low air gap at the three-compartment sink.

On the other end of the spectrum, Happy Donuts, located at 3629 Twin City Hwy, scored 74 and received a D grade with 26 demerits. This included several critical violations such as storing cooked eggs and sausage without temperature control, improper storage of donuts, and a rodent infestation.

Significant Concerns and Temporary Closures

Some of the most severe violations led to temporary closures. For instance, Taqueria Los Chilangas, at 3939 Twin City Hwy, scored 77 and received a C grade with 23 demerits. The facility was temporarily closed due to a lack of running water, no working AC, and being connected to the corner store's electric outlet. Other issues included improper storage of raw meats and a lack of certified food protection managers.

Similarly, Tacos Lara, located at 5266 Gulfway Dr, scored 82 and received a B grade with 18 demerits. The inspection found a pest infestation, with over 10 roaches discovered, leading to immediate closure. Other violations included improper storage of food items and blocked handwashing stations.

Summary of Findings

The overall inspection results show that while many restaurants in Port Arthur maintain good food safety standards, a small number continue to struggle with repeat violations, cleanliness issues, and unsafe conditions. These findings underscore the need for continued oversight and improvement in food safety practices across the city. Restaurants with lower scores must address their violations promptly to ensure the health and safety of their customers.