"Raw Sewage on Bathroom Floor" Florida Taco Bell Closed After State Inspection

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In Daytona Beach, a popular Taco Bell location found itself under scrutiny after a recent state inspection by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The inspection, which took place on October 17, 2024, revealed ten health and safety violations that led to a temporary shutdown of the restaurant. Despite its reputation as a convenient stop for budget-friendly Tex-Mex fare, this Taco Bell, located at 2140 W International Speedway Boulevard, required immediate action to bring it back up to code.

A Closer Look at the Violations

During the initial inspection, several issues were highlighted. Basic violations included water damage to ceiling tiles, grease buildup on the floors, improperly dried utensils and equipment, a public bathroom being out of service, and a slow-flushing toilet. These minor issues combined to create a situation DBPR felt needed prompt addressing.

Beyond these basic concerns, an intermediate violation was reported due to food debris buildup on cooking pans, which pointed to concerns around sanitation and food safety. Most concerning was a high-priority violation involving raw sewage on the floor of the women’s restroom. This issue alone warranted immediate closure until the restaurant could ensure public health safety.

About Taco Bell’s Presence in Florida

Although Taco Bell may not be the first brand associated with Florida’s cuisine, it has a substantial presence in the state. Taco Bell, founded in California in the 1960s, serves a range of Mexican-inspired fast-food dishes, from tacos and burritos to quesadillas and nachos. The chain has grown globally, with approximately 7,400 locations, of which around 480 are in Florida. The Sunshine State ranks third in Taco Bell locations nationwide, trailing only California and Texas.

Taco Bell’s focus on affordable, fast Mexican cuisine has gained it a loyal following, particularly in Daytona Beach. However, online reviews reveal mixed opinions. Earning 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google, customers have noted various issues, including occasional order errors and some cleanliness concerns.

Inspection Results and Restaurant Reopening

Following the inspection on October 17, the restaurant was temporarily closed to address the immediate violations. A subsequent inspection on the same day showed that six of the issues persisted but none posed an immediate threat to the public. With these issues resolved, the Taco Bell location was cleared to reopen.

For patrons of the Daytona Beach Taco Bell, the DBPR inspection serves as a reminder of the importance of health and safety standards in maintaining quality and trust.