Charlotte, NC, December 5, 2025
Several restaurants in Charlotte recently scored ‘B’ grades during health inspections, highlighting issues such as improper hand washing, food storage violations, and insect presence. While these grades indicate a generally safe dining experience, improvement is necessary for optimal food safety. Diners are urged to be mindful of these issues when selecting restaurants and to check recent inspection scores for informed decisions.
Charlotte Restaurants Receive ‘B’ Grades in Recent Health Inspections
Charlotte, NC – Several Charlotte-area restaurants have recently received ‘B’ grades in Mecklenburg County health inspections, indicating the need for improvements in food safety practices. These establishments were cited for various violations, including improper hand washing, presence of insects, and inadequate food storage temperatures.
Notable ‘B’ Grade Restaurants
- STK Steakhouse: Located at 201 South College St., this uptown restaurant scored an 89 on its January 21, 2025, inspection. Violations included improper hand washing procedures and lack of employee health knowledge policies. An employee was observed touching their face and then handling clean utensils without washing hands or changing gloves.
- Popeyes: Situated at 11858 University City Blvd., this fast-food chain received an 88 on its July 25, 2024, inspection. Issues found were microbial mold in lemonade nozzles and employees touching raw chicken multiple times without proper hand washing.
- Jersey Mike’s: Located at 3609 South Blvd., this sub shop scored 86.5% on August 15, 2024. Violations included employees washing hands for less than 20 seconds and unwashed mushrooms stored over ready-to-eat prosciuttini.
- Wendy’s: Found at 7920 Cambridge Commons Dr., this fast-food restaurant received an 87.5 on August 8, 2024. Violations included the presence of flies, mold inside a cooler, and employees handling food without washing hands after sucking on lollipops.
Common Violations Identified
The inspections revealed several recurring issues across these establishments:
- Improper Hand Washing: Employees were observed not washing hands properly after handling raw food or touching their faces, leading to potential cross-contamination.
- Inadequate Food Storage: Instances of raw foods stored above ready-to-eat items, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses.
- Presence of Insects: Findings of flies and roaches in dining and kitchen areas, indicating sanitation concerns.
- Unlabeled Food Items: Condiments and other food items without proper labeling, posing risks of allergens and spoilage.
Implications for Diners
While a ‘B’ grade indicates that a restaurant is generally safe for dining, these violations highlight areas that require attention to ensure food safety. Diners are encouraged to be aware of these issues and consider them when choosing where to eat. It’s advisable to check the latest health inspection scores before visiting a restaurant to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Recent health inspections in Charlotte have identified several restaurants with ‘B’ grades due to various food safety violations. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining public health and ensuring a safe dining experience for all patrons.
FAQ
What does a ‘B’ grade mean in Mecklenburg County health inspections?
A ‘B’ grade indicates that a restaurant has received a score between 80 and 89.9% on its health inspection, suggesting that while the establishment is generally safe, there are areas that need improvement to meet optimal food safety standards.
How can I find a restaurant’s health inspection score?
Health inspection scores for restaurants in Mecklenburg County are publicly available through the North Carolina Public Health Inspections’ online database. This resource allows consumers to review the latest inspection results for various establishments.
What should I do if I notice health violations at a restaurant?
If you observe health violations during your visit, it’s advisable to report them to the Mecklenburg County Health Department. They can investigate the issue and take appropriate action to ensure public safety.
Key Features of This Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Subject | Charlotte-area restaurants receiving ‘B’ grades in recent health inspections |
| Key Violations | Improper hand washing, inadequate food storage, presence of insects, unlabeled food items |
| Implications | Potential risks to public health; importance of diners being informed |
| Recommendations | Check health inspection scores before dining; report violations to health authorities |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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