Beaufort County Food Businesses Get Mixed Grades in October Health Inspections
Hey there, Beaufort! It seems like the culinary scene in our lovely county has had its fair share of ups and downs this October, as the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) recently shared some health inspection results that are worth discussing. Ten food businesses were handed “B” and “C” grades during their routine checks, prompting our curiosity about what’s happening behind the kitchen doors.
Albergotti Grill – Boundary St. Buzz
Let’s dive into the details. The popular Albergotti Grill, located at 2225 Boundary St., received a score of 81% (B) on October 24. Inspectors noted a laundry list of issues that had food safety advocates shaking their heads. From a lack of a food handler certification for the person-in-charge to a shocking amount of food hygiene faux pas—like raw hamburger and eggs stored alongside ready-to-eat biscuits. Yikes! Other concerns included fruit flies swarming around soda nozzles and dirty knives that shouldn’t have made the “clean” cut. However, a follow-up inspection on November 4 saw them snag a perfect 100% (A) rating. Well done, team!
Dos Amigos Mexican Grill – Grilled to Perfection?
Next on the list is Dos Amigos Mexican Grill at 2121 Boundary St. Suite 103, which scored 80% (B) on October 4. They had significant concerns like uncovered cooked meats in their walk-in cooler and a men’s restroom that didn’t feature a handwashing sign. Oh, and they weren’t alone; inspectors spotted multiple roaches throughout the establishment. Not the kind of company one expects while enjoying tacos! After a handful of reinspections, they, too, achieved a sparkling 100% (A) on October 23. Talk about a turnaround!
La Poblanita Restaurant – Left with a C
Now let’s head over to La Poblanita Restaurant at 4490 Bluffton Park Crescent. They scored a bit differently with 87% (C) during their follow-up on October 3, as inspectors found chlorine levels dropping dangerously low and a few flies buzzing around. They certainly didn’t have a free pass; however, things did improve with a follow-up inspection on October 11, when they grabbed that sought-after 100% (A) score!
Bowdies Chophouse – A Sizzling Experience?
On the juicy side, we have Bowdies Chophouse, which received an 80% (B) on October 29. Their list of issues primarily included an employee drink on the cutting board and no date marking on cooked pasta and marinara sauce. Surprisingly, after another inspection on November 5, they snagged a 94% (A). Way to get it together!
Chin Dynasty China Bistro – Every Dish Tells a Story
Making our way to possible sushi scenery, Chin Dynasty China Bistro at 108 Buckwalter Parkway scored an 79% (B). A food handler was spotted drinking while prepping food—definitely not what you want to see at your sushi counter! They received their golden ticket shortly after, scoring a perfect 100% (A) on November 1.
And What About Others?
Restaurants like Grooby’s Too! and Red Stripes had their issues too, ranging from potential rodent activity to unsafe food temperatures. The latter presented a hazard by holding food cooked a day prior without proper cooling techniques.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the SCDA inspections serve as a reminder to establishments not just to meet the mark but to elevate food safety. If you’re dining out, it might be worth checking these recent grades beforehand! Remember, you can always scan QR codes on the newer food grade decals for real-time inspection results, so you know just what you’re biting into.
With that said, Beaufort, let’s support our local eateries as they strive to serve us delicious and safe food!
