Applebee's in Temple Terrace, Florida, was closed with 23 violations & Reopens - Hillsborough County

Chicken wings mealPhoto byYelp/Applebee's Grill + Bar

Applebee's Grill + Bar in Temple Terrace, Florida, closed temporarily after a Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation inspection on September 19, 2024. The Hillsborough County restaurant received 24 violations, including 5 high-priority issues related to roaches and flying insects.

The initial routine inspection found 24 total violations: five high-priority, two intermediate, and 17 basic. State records showed that a follow-up inspection on September 20 showed 11 remaining violations, keeping the facility closed.

Another review that day found 10 violations, still requiring further inspection. Finally, this Applebee in Temple Terrace was allowed to reopen and resumed normal service on September 23 after meeting standards, with only five violations remaining.

This is What Happened During The Inspection

Live roaches, flying insects, and issues with dishwashing cleaners were among the high-priority violations found during the initial inspection.

Inspectors observed live roaches on single-service lids, under equipment, and in storage areas. Flying insects were seen in food preparation zones and the bar. The dishwashing machine's food and health-safe cleaner tested at 0 ppm initially.

Meanwhile, basic violations ranged from mold in the ice machine to litter collection on equipment. Inspectors noted black mold-like substance inside the ice machine, food scrap on the dish machine exterior, and grease buildup behind cooking equipment.

The 3.7-star rated restaurant, known for American fare and sports bar atmosphere, addressed the issues over several days of inspections. By the final review on September 23, Applebee's had resolved most violations and was allowed to reopen.

High Priority Violations:

• Live roaches found in food preparation and storage areas
• Small flying insects present in kitchen, food prep, and bar areas
• The dishwashing machine for safe cleaning not at the proper strength
• • Employee handled soiled equipment and then engaged in food prep without washing hands
• • Presence of insects or other pests (spider, dead frog)

Share Your Thoughts:

1. How often do restaurants typically undergo routine inspections?

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3. How quickly are restaurants usually able to address and correct violations?