Okaloosa County, FL's First Choice Buffet cited for 12 violations; then passes a follow-up review

First Choice BuffetPhoto byMarek Kucharski/Google maps image

First Choice Buffet in Niceville, Florida, received a warning and follow-up inspection requirement on July 17 after health inspectors found 12 violations during a complaint-driven inspection.

What Happened During The Inspections

The popular local Chinese restaurant, known for its all-you-can-eat buffet and sushi bar at 4585 E Hwy 20 Ste 150 in Okaloosa County, was cited for five high-priority infractions and seven basic violations.

A follow-up inspection on July 18, 2024, found the restaurant had addressed all violations, with inspectors reporting full compliance.

One of the notable high-priority infractions the inspector found during the initial inspection was observing live, small flying insects in the kitchen's rear storage area near an open door.

The state records revealed that the restaurant was also operating with an expired license as of June 1, 2024. Food safety concerns included improper cold holding temperatures for items like crab salad and squid salad on the buffet, as well as egg rolls and chicken in the make-line cooler.

Other violations ranged from basic maintenance issues to food preparation practices. Inspectors noted a vehicle jack supporting a sink in the women's restroom, soiled ceilings, and standing water in the warewashing area.

Employees were observed preparing stuffed wontons in the dining room, though this was corrected during the inspection.

Ratings and Reviews: First Choice Buffet maintains a 4.1-star rating from over 1,000 Google reviews.

Local guide Livingbysharing praised the restaurant while citing it as good value for money.

This is the only Chinese restaurant that I go around here. Chinese restaurant in town. Good value for money.

Another local guide reviewer, Jasmine Anderson, shared:

My daughter really loves this buffet. And she’s usually a picky eater. Atmosphere is nice, they play calming music. Sushi not so good, but the rest is decent.