Florida’s Favorite Seafood Spot Closed After State Inspection

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Catfish Johnny’s, a beloved seafood restaurant known for its fresh catches and lively atmosphere, faced a temporary shutdown following a state inspection. This popular dining destination, which has delighted locals and tourists alike for 33 years, was briefly closed after the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) flagged multiple violations.

Located in Lake Panasoffkee, Catfish Johnny’s has long been a staple in the community, offering seafood dishes and occasional live entertainment. The restaurant earned a dedicated following, with a Google rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,600 reviews.

Inspection Findings

During the inspection on July 11, 2024, DBPR inspectors identified seven violations at Catfish Johnny’s. These included:

• Basic Violations: Employee jackets found on the clean dish rack, lack of hair restraints for food preparation, and improper drying of equipment and utensils.
• Intermediate Violations: The presence of a "mold-like substance" on a can opener blade.
• High-Priority Violations: The discovery of 31 rodent droppings in various locations and the use of paper towels as food liners.

These issues prompted the temporary closure of the restaurant to address the violations.

A follow-up inspection on July 12, 2024, indicated significant improvements. By this time, only one violation remained, allowing Catfish Johnny’s to resume operations and welcome back its patrons.

Despite the brief interruption, Catfish Johnny’s remains committed to providing its signature seafood experience, reflecting its longstanding reputation in the community and among visitors. The restaurant's swift response to the inspection issues demonstrates its dedication to maintaining high standards for food safety and customer satisfaction.