Restaurant inspections in Chatham County, Georgia, reveal a mixed bag of results, with some establishments earning perfect scores and others falling short. The Georgia Department of Public Health's Environmental Health Section conducts these inspections to ensure food safety for residents and visitors alike.
Among the top-performing restaurants, Plant Riverside-Bohemian Beer Garden (Kiosk 5 Beer & Beer) and Plant Riverside-Bohemian Beer Garden (Kiosk 6 Asian Sushi & Beer) at 200 W. River St., Savannah, stand out with perfect scores. These scores highlight the dedication of these establishments to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety.
However, not all restaurants received perfect scores. Some establishments received high to moderate scores, indicating areas for improvement. For instance, River Street Sweet, Zaxby's, and The Shrimp Factory all received scores of 99, which is commendable but not exceptional. These scores suggest that these restaurants are maintaining good hygiene practices but may have room for further enhancement.
On the other hand, some restaurants received low scores, indicating more significant issues. Ziggi's Coffee, for example, received a score of 89, with the inspector noting several items being stored above the recommended temperature of 41F in reach-in coolers. This highlights the importance of proper temperature control in food storage to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Over Yonder, another establishment with a low score of 87, faced issues with temperature control and sanitation. The inspector observed TCS items stored above the safe temperature and noted the presence of chemicals without labels and improper storage of raw food items.
Taqueria Los Compas and Savannah River House, LLC, both received scores of 85, with the inspectors citing issues such as raw steak stored above ready-to-eat items and a heavy presence of fruit flies. These findings emphasize the need for better organization and sanitation practices in food preparation areas.
Seasons of Japan, with a score of 80, faced challenges with raw shell eggs stored above raw vegetables and improper storage of sushi rice. The inspector also noted the storage of a scoop handle inside a container of flour, which could lead to cross-contamination. These issues highlight the importance of proper food storage and handling practices to prevent foodborne illnesses.
In conclusion, these restaurant inspection scores provide valuable insights into the food safety practices of various establishments in Chatham County. While some restaurants excel in maintaining high standards, others have areas for improvement. By addressing these issues, restaurants can enhance their food safety practices and provide a safer dining experience for their customers.
