Whether you're a fan of government regulation or not, there are some bureaucratic entities that come in handy from time to time -- parking services certainly is not one.
The Health Department, however, is one that helps keep us safe (most of the time).
Just last week, one of the longest-running -- and most entertaining -- eateries in Broward County was shut down for the day. Mai-Kai had to shutter its doors after being cited by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation.
See Also: Ten Best Bars for Cocktails in Broward County
UPDATED Thu., May 1, 2014 at 12:26 p.m.:
We are completely committed to our guest's safety and wellbeing.
Following the inspection on Thurs, April 24th we met and
surpassed each and every objective on the inspectors list.
Based on the follow up inspection on Friday, April 25th it was
found conditions were no longer a threat to public health and
safety and we reopened for business that evening.
We ARE open for business and please be rest assured that we
will continue to give our guests the same good service and
great experience that they deserve and have been use to for
the past 58 years.
Dave Levy
G.M./Owner
The Sun Sentinel reports that on April 24, the restaurant suspended operations for the day after an inspector cited several violations.
According to the inspector's report, critical violations included:
- Food was not being held at proper temperatures, which resulted in a stop sale order.
- Tags on mussels were not maintained for 90 days.
- Non-exempt raw salmon for sushi rolls had not received proper parasite destruction.
- Perishables, including ham, cheese, beef, ducks, seafood, and vegetables, were held at temperatures over 41 degrees.
- Prime rib was thrown away due to improper cooling.
- Raw beef was stored over ice cream.
- Numerous insects were spotted, including a dozen roaches (with one in the ice crusher and one on a prep table) and small flying insects in the bar area.
- Rodent fecal matter was spotted in storage areas.
- The person in charge (or certified food manager) was not fully aware of health requirements and policy.
- An employee did not wash hands before donning gloves to work with food.
- Two coolers were not holding the correct temperature.
On April 25, the Mai-Kai remedied all of the citations to meet inspection standards. The department allowed the restaurant to reopen when conditions were found to be compliant with public health and safety regulations.
We have reached out to the Mai-Kai for comment. We will update as further information is received.
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