Sbarro in Lutz, Florida, reopens after closure due to roach violations in Pasco County

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Sbarro, the Italian fast-food chain known for its thin-crust pizza, has reopened its Lutz location after successfully addressing health code violations. The Pasco County eatery, located at 2382 Grand Cypress Dr. Ste 989, had been temporarily closed following a routine inspection by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation.

What Happened During the Inspections?

The initial inspection on September 5th resulted in the restaurant's closure due to seven violations, including one high-priority infraction, state records revealed.

However, through diligent efforts, which needed a total of five follow-up inspections, Sbarro was finally able to rectify the issues and pass a subsequent inspection, allowing for its reopening on September 10th.

The main concern was roach activity, with inspectors noting live roaches in various areas of the restaurant, including storage areas, food preparation zones, and even inside equipment. Dead roaches were also found throughout the premises.

Other violations included unsuitable storage of clean utensils, employees without proper hair restraints, and unlabeled spray bottles containing unhealthy substances. The restaurant also lacked complete written procedures for controlling temperature-acute foods over time.

Reopened After Five Follow-up Inspections

Despite these challenges, Sbarro's management took swift action to address the problems. After four unsuccessful follow-up inspections, the restaurant finally met inspection standards on September 10, 2024, and was allowed to reopen.

Besides its thin-crust pizza by the slice, Sbarro is also popular for pastas, and salads. The Lutz location currently holds a 3.1-star rating from 24 Google reviews.

The restaurant's commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and food safety is evident in its ability to address the issues promptly and effectively.

As a result of the inspections and subsequent improvements, Sbarro in Lutz is now open for business and ready to serve the community.

Violations Summary:

High-Priority Violations (1):

• Roach activity present: Numerous live roaches were found in various locations, including storage areas and near food preparation sites.

Intermediate Violations (2):

• Absence of written procedures for time/temperature control of safety food.
• Multiple spray bottles containing harmful substances were not labeled.

Basic Violations (4):

• Clean glasses and utensils incorrectly stored.
• Dead roaches found on the premises, with a total of 11 observed near back doors and other areas.
• An employee was observed without a hair restraint while preparing food.
• Nonfood-contact surfaces were incorrectly maintained, resulting in grease and debris accumulation.