Florida restaurant closes due to 235 rodent droppings found in multiple locations during inspection

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The Surf Restaurant Bar Grill & Motel, a longtime fixture in Fernandina Beach since 1957, recently faced a temporary shutdown following a state inspection on July 8, 2024. Known for its casual beachside vibe and comfort food menu featuring favorites like burgers, wings, and pizza, The Surf has been a go-to spot for both locals and tourists seeking a relaxed dining experience.

Customers have generally praised The Surf, giving it a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars on Google reviews. Many rave about dishes like the shrimp basket and commend the friendly service provided by staff members who enhance the dining experience.

However, during the inspection, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation found several violations that prompted the temporary closure. These included basic violations such as improper storage practices, like a cup stored in flour and personal drinks left on prep tables. An intermediate violation was noted for an unlabeled bottle of chemicals.

The most concerning were the high-priority violations related to 235 rodent droppings found in various areas of the restaurant. The inspection report detailed multiple locations where rodent droppings were observed, totaling a significant number that required immediate attention.

As a result of these violations, The Surf was temporarily shut down pending corrective measures. A follow-up inspection on July 10, 2024, confirmed that the restaurant had addressed the issues and met inspection standards, allowing it to reopen its doors to patrons.

This isn't the first time The Surf has faced closure due to inspection findings; a similar incident occurred back in October 2021. Despite these setbacks, the restaurant continues to serve its community with its popular beachside fare and remains a nostalgic favorite for many.

For now, diners can once again enjoy The Surf's offerings, hoping that measures are in place to maintain cleanliness and compliance with health standards in the future.