FL Diner Seen On Diners Drive-Ins and Dives, Metro Diner, Shut Down After A State Inspection

Photo byLee CartledgeonUnsplash

Diners can be a great way for Floridians to enjoy large portions of delicious comfort food in a comforting, nostalgic setting. Patrons in the Tampa Bay / St Petersburg area have great diner options like Three Coins and Trip's Diners, to name a couple of examples. Unfortunately, one diner in this genre and area - St. Pete's Metro Diner - was recently shut down after a state inspection.

About Metro Diner: This chain has locations throughout Florida and offers typical diner fare like huge pancakes, fried chicken and waffles, and meatloaf that has been praised by Guy Fieri from Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Patrons at the St. Petersburg location in question give Metro Diner 4.5 out of 5 stars. It has been reviewed over 3,800 times. Patrons enjoy the large portion sizes, classic offerings, and friendly service. A reviewer named Sherlita wrote:

"The food was great! I ordered the French toast with eggs, cheesy grits, and bacon! Food cooked to perfection. My husband ordered the short stack and a steak bowl! We enjoyed eating delicious breakfast food in the afternoon! Go by and visit if you are in the area!"

What Happened At Inspection?: According to data from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, an inspection occurred on July 16, 2024. At that time, 10 violations were noted.

Basic violations came from a "black/green mold-like substance" in the interior of the ice machine, unwashed fruits and vegetables being stored with ready-to-eat foods, and the exterior door having a gap leading to outside.

High-priority violations came from the observation of live roaches and live flying insects, and a stop-sale order because cold foods were being held at too high a temperature. Additionally, hot foods were being kept at a temperature lower than 135 degrees.

As a result of some of the above violations, the restaurant was temporarily shut down. At a follow-up inspection on July 17, 2024, three violations remained, but none were considered an immediate threat to the public so the restaurant was free to reopen.

To be clear, there are many locations of Metro Diner, but the above inspection details are applicable for the St. Petersburg location located at 5250 4th Street North.

Please note that an inspection is one moment in time and not necessarily how a restaurant conducts itself every day.