Hilton Head Restaurants Face Stringent Health Inspections

In a set of recent health inspections in Beaufort County, various food businesses were cited for violations resulting in slightly disappointing health scores. This exercise, carried out by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (S.C. DHEC) was aimed at ensuring that all restaurants and food businesses across the county adhere strictly to the set guidelines.

Restaurants’ Health Grades and Inspection Details

Within May, seven restaurants in the county were cited with “B” grades — one of them twice and two restaurants were cited with “C” grades — one of them twice as well. Among the restaurants inspected, the Asian Bistro on Hilton Head was marked at 86% (B grade) due to several violations including lack of chlorine in the dish machine and several others relating to storage and cleaning.

Another place that caught the health inspector’s attention was Blue Lagoon Mexican Grill. It earned a B grade with a score of 78% due to a series of violations such as lacking soap, paper towels in the employee restroom, and storing raw shrimp and chicken in the same container. However, upon reinspection on May 20, the restaurant scored a 100% (A).

Ela’s, one of the restaurants at Shelter Cove Lane, also failed to get an A in the first inspection due to violations such as a food handler touching ready-to-eat food with bare hands and leakage at the sink. But in the follow-up inspection, it managed to score a perfect 100%.

Other Restaurants’ Performance

Several other restaurants including House of Tang, Lager Head Tavern, New York City Pizza, Okko, Olde Beaufort Bar and Eatery and Piggly Wiggly deli and kitchen also faced various violations ranging from improper food storage, lack of adequate cleaning, and pest infestations.

In Jasper County, Alchile Mexican Grill and Caracol Para El Mundo were given B grades on their respective first inspections, but upon reinspection, they managed to score perfect 100% (A).

How these Grades Affect the Businesses

The health inspectors issue grades such as A, B, or C to establishments depending upon the condition found at the time of inspection. The establishments have an opportunity to correct their issues and improve their scores upon reinspection. During May, DHEC carried out a total of 209 inspections in Beaufort County and 44 inspections in Jasper County.

The various health grades have the following implications:

• A: 88% to 100%
• B: 78% to 87%
• C: 77% or less

Regular health inspections are crucial to maintain the hygiene and food safety standards in the public food establishments. This ensures the well-being of the consumers and helps restaurants build trust with their clientele.

Source: HERE News Network