This diner in Ocala, Florida, cited for 3 violations in Marion County; Needs follow-up

Biscuits, gravy, eggs and potatoesPhoto byYelp/Johnny D.

Diner On The Square, an Ocala breakfast and brunch spot, received a follow-up inspection order from the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation (DBPR) on October 14, 2024, following a routine visit.

The inspection at Diner On The Square, located at 316 E Silver Springs Blvd, revealed three violations, two categorized as high-priority. While the diner remained open, rectification of these issues is mandatory, according to state records.

The high-priority violations involved employees handling food without proper procedures and touching their faces or hair before handling food or clean utensils. This is noted as a repeated violation, but corrective actions were taken on-site, including handwashing instructions from the inspector.

Meanwhile, an intermediate violation cited the absence of a submitted and approved plan review for recent modifications, specifically a walk-in cooler.

This violation, also a repeat, requires plans to be submitted to the DBPR within 60 days.

Diner On The Square in Ocala holds a Google rating of 4.5 stars from 271 reviews, suggesting a generally positive customer experience.

A recent customer named Elijah Cantrell praised the "amazing" food and friendly staff.

The food was amazing and it's authentic southern for sure, staff was very friendly and helped us with the menu, the paintings were nice too, mostly farm themed stuff, overall it's a quaint spot with some good grub

The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation's follow-up inspection will determine if the necessary improvements have been implemented.

Locals should stay updated on the restaurant's progress in resolving these food safety concerns.

High-Priority Violations:

• Employee touching face/hair then handling food or clean utensils (repeat violation).
• Employee handling ready-to-eat food with hands not properly protected for food safety (repeat violation).

Intermediate Violations:

• No plan review submitted for modifications (walk-in cooler addition) (repeat violation).

Questions for our Readers:

1. What are some ways restaurants can ensure proper handwashing by employees?
2. How can diners stay informed about a restaurant's recent inspection results?
3. What are the best practices for handling food safely at home?