Alachua County's Big Dogg Jamaican BBQ & More was cited for 14 violations in Gainesville, FL

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Big Dogg Jamaican BBQ & More in Gainesville, Florida, received a warning and required a follow-up inspection after its latest Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation review.

According to state records, the eatery at 1308 E University Ave in Alachua County, FL, faced 14 violations during the August 16, 2024 inspection.

What Happened During The Inspection: The restaurant gathered 1 high-priority, 5 intermediate, and 8 basic violations.

The high-priority violation involved live, small flying insects in the food preparation areas. Approximately 6 flies were observed in the food truck.

Meanwhile, intermediate violations included issues with handwashing facilities, such as no soap provided and water temperature below 85°F. The manager lacked proof of food manager certification, and there was no evidence of required state-approved employee training.

Basic violations ranged from incorrectly stored clean equipment to food stored on the floor and equipment in poor repair.

The inspector noted several repeat violations, including clean equipment stored in an area open to the outdoors, equipment in poor repair, and food stored on the floor.

The establishment's plumbing system was found to be in disrepair, with pipes disconnected under the three-compartment sink.

The inspection report also highlighted issues with the establishment's ability to properly seal outer openings when not in operation, as well as warewashing being conducted in an outdoor area.

Questions:

1. How important do you think proper food safety training is for restaurant staff?
2. What steps can restaurants take to prevent insect infestations?

NOTE: Please note that an inspection report, per the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, provides a snapshot of the conditions observed during the inspection