Florida Cold Stone Creamery Shut Down After State Inspection

Photo byHarrison Keely, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

One could argue that ice cream is one of life's simple pleasures. And it can taste especially sweet when eaten in Florida's hot climate. Floridians who want to enjoy the sweet treat away from home can choose from chains like Baskin Robbins, Dairy Queen, and Cold Store Creamery. Unfortunately, a store location of the latter - in Valrico - was recently temporarily shut down after a state inspection.

About Cold Stone Creamery: This chain has been around for about thirty years and although it is known for its ice cream, it also serves cakes, smoothies, and shakes. They assemble their ice cream using a frozen granite stone.

The location in question, at 3426 Lithia Pinecrest Road, has been reviewed over 1,100 times and earns 4.8 out of 5 stars on Google reviews. Many people had nice things to say, like Lucca who wrote:

"Decided to try this Coldstone today with my kid today and the employee Brielle was very attentive and extremely nice. The ice cream was very good and the store was pretty clean compared to other Coldstones I have been to. Recommend."

What Happened At Inspection?: According to data from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation, an inspection occurred on September 23, 2024. At that time, 7 violations were noted.

Examples of basic violations were for equipment in poor repair (rusted shelving,) a light not functioning, and food debris on shelving in the walk-in cooler.

An intermediate violation came because the handwash sink was not available at all times as a pitcher was observed stored in it.

And a high-priority violation was issued due to rodent activity evidenced by a large amount of droppings. Specifically, 100 droppings were noted between a floor safe and the wall, and 20 droppings were observed near a floor drain.

As a result of some of the above, the restaurant was temporarily shut down.

At a follow-up on September 24th, 3 violations remained, but none were considered an immediate threat to the public so the restaurant "met inspection standards" and was free to reopen.

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