Imagine biting into your favorite meal, only to discover that the kitchen behind it was crawling with mice and cockroaches – a nightmare that could turn dinner into a health hazard! But here's where it gets controversial: Are restaurant inspections tough enough, or do they leave diners in the dark about what they're really eating? Let's dive into this week's roundup of food safety checks in Colorado Springs, where we've uncovered some shocking lapses and celebrated standout spots that keep things spotless.
First up, the unsettling story of La Carreta Mexican Restaurant on E Pikes Peak Avenue. This spot was temporarily closed down after inspectors found a whopping 25 violations, painting a picture of serious neglect. We're talking evidence of mice scurrying around and cockroaches lurking in the shadows – pests that can spread diseases like salmonella if they contaminate food. To make matters worse, staff were storing takeout containers right in the mop sink, which is a big no-no because it mixes clean and dirty areas, potentially leading to cross-contamination. Old food didn't help either: green chili and pork that had been sitting around for over a week, and chicken kept at unsafe temperatures that could promote bacterial growth like E. coli. And get this – employees were washing their hands without soap, a basic hygiene step that's crucial to prevent the spread of germs. For beginners wondering why this matters, think of it like this: improper handwashing can mean the difference between a safe meal and one that sends you to the doctor with food poisoning.
When we swung by, the place was eerily quiet with no one around. A peek at the back revealed cracks under the exit doors, creating gaps that let pests in – the doors weren't sealed properly, and someone had slapped painters' tape on one as a makeshift fix. We tried calling, but the voicemail was full, and there's no email listed online. We'll keep trying to reach them for more details.
Shifting gears, La Patrona on N Academy Boulevard faced 11 violations, including moldy hot dogs that could harbor toxins like aflatoxin, food stored at incorrect temperatures (which might not kill off harmful bacteria), and items without proper dating labels, making it hard to track freshness and safety. Meanwhile, BBQ & Hotpot Story at the Powers and Carefree intersection racked up about a dozen infractions for moldy, improperly dated food, fruit flies buzzing around uncovered buffet items (a sign of poor sanitation that attracts pests and contamination), and a dish machine lacking sanitizer – meaning dishes might not be truly clean, risking the spread of illnesses.
But not all news is grim! We have a shining example to highlight: Jet’s Pizza on Stetson Hills Boulevard earned a perfect score, proving that with diligence, restaurants can maintain top-notch cleanliness. They were joined by other high scorers like Wing It Plus in the Chapel Hills Mall and Santana's on N Academy Boulevard, all demonstrating that excellence in food safety is possible.
We also dropped by Rosie's Diner in Monument, another top performer. Manager Mimi Reilly shared their secret to success: embracing retro vibes from the 1950s while prioritizing hospitality. 'It’s not just about grabbing your order and rushing off,' Mimi said with a smile. 'We chat about your day, make you feel valued – that's our style.' So, how does a diner built in the '50s stay so pristine? 'The managers and owner are super picky about details,' Mimi chuckled, explaining they focus on regular cleaning and checks. And their burgers? They aced our taste test, proving great food can come from a clean kitchen!
La Patrona and BBQ & Hotpot Story were still waiting for their follow-up inspections as we wrapped this up. Stay tuned for the KRDO 13 Restaurant Roundup awards – look for them at your go-to eateries to confirm the kitchen is up to par.
And this is the part most people miss: While inspections catch major issues, some argue they're not foolproof – what if a restaurant passes but still has hidden problems? Could stricter penalties or customer reviews change the game? Do you think consumers should boycott places with violations, or is forgiveness key? Share your thoughts in the comments – agree, disagree, or add your own take on food safety!
