Caribbean restaurant in Naples, Florida, was closed with 16 violations in Collier County; Reopens

Rickema Food ServicesPhoto byYelp

Rickema Food Service, a Caribbean and American restaurant in Naples, Florida, was temporarily closed following a routine inspection conducted on October 1, 2024. The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation discovered 16 violations at the Collier County establishment, including 2 high-priority, 9 intermediate, and 5 basic infractions.

State records revealed that the inspection at this location at 4000 Bayshore Dr. revealed rodent activity, with droppings found on plates, in food containers, and throughout the kitchen area.

The inspector's note acknowledged that there were 31 rodent droppings observed on assorted plates on a shelf next to the steam table. Additionally, there were approximately 40 rodent droppings on the floor behind a shelf at the entrance to the kitchen.

This led to a stop sale order for sweet potatoes stored in a container with rodent droppings. Other issues included unsuitable handwashing facilities, lack of food manager certification, and absence of required employee training proof.

According to the inspector's note, two follow-up inspections were needed before the restaurant could reopen. On October 2, 11 violations remained without correcting, keeping the facility closed. Thankfully, Rickema Food Service finally met inspection standards and reopened on October 4, though 10 violations were still noted.

The high-priority violations centered around rodent activity and food safety issues.

Intermediate violations included issues with handwashing sinks, lack of managerial presence, and absent employee health reporting procedures. Basic violations ranged from wrongly stored food to equipment in need of repair.

This incident underpins the importance of regular inspections and quick action to address food safety issues. Rickema Food Service will need to maintain improved standards to regain customer trust and avoid future closures.

High Priority Violations:

• Rodent activity present as evidenced by rodent droppings found
• Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a healthy condition

Readers, I'd like to hear from you:

1. How does this inspection report affect your decision to dine at Rickema Food Service?
2. What measures do you think restaurants should take to prevent rodent issues?
3. How important is a restaurant's inspection history in your dining choices?