Palm Beach County's Dixie Fried Chicken in Belle Glade Cited For 12 Health Violations

Photo byLucas AndradeonUnsplash

Dixie Fried Chicken, a cherished local eatery in Belle Glade, Palm Beach County, known for its crispy fried chicken and comforting sides, faced a significant health inspection challenge earlier this month.

The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation cited the restaurant for multiple violations, leading to a temporary closure on February 7, 2024. Following a diligent effort to rectify the issues, Dixie Fried Chicken has reopened, though it remains under scrutiny for potential follow-up inspections.

During the initial full complaint inspection, the health department discovered a total of 12 violations, including five high-priority concerns, such as evidence of rodent activity.

The inspector spotted significant findings of rodent droppings in critical areas, including the dry storage room and under the prep table near the ice machine.

Additionally, inspectors found raw animal food improperly stored over unwashed produce in the walk-in cooler, and a toxic substance was improperly stored above a basket of clean containers.

A follow-up inspection on February 9, 2024, noted ongoing efforts to clean and sanitize the affected areas, leading to a reduction in violations.

However, some issues persisted, prompting an extension for complete resolution and a follow-up inspection requirement to ensure all health standards are met consistently.

Meanwhile, despite these concerning findings, the seemingly popular Palm Beach County restaurant boasts a 4.1-star rating from nearly 600 reviews on Google Reviews.

A/c Army, recent reviewer wrote (Feb. 21)

The only great place to eat in Belle glade without them the city would have nothing 😊😂🤩🙏

Einar Zenka visited last month and left a review about his take-out dinner:

Fried chicken was the best I’ve ever had! First time having fried catfish aswell and it was delicious!Nice place to stop on the way from Fort Myers to Jupiter!

Violations Summary:

• High Priority Violations:
• • Raw animal food stored over unwashed produce.
  • Evidence of live and dead roaches on premises.
  • Rodent activity indicated by droppings found throughout the facility.
  • Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored.
  • Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb.
• Intermediate Violations:
• • No written procedures available for use of time as a public health control.
  • Required employee training expired for all employees.
• Basic Violations:
• • Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
  • Dead roaches found in a broken soap dispenser.
  • Food stored on floor.
  • Ice buildup in walk-in freezer.
  • Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime, or dust.