Charlotte, North Carolina, August 5, 2025
News Summary
In a recent inspection, restaurants in Mecklenburg County received multiple health violations, resulting in low safety grades. Issues like dirty dishes, expired food, and pest infestations were reported. Several eateries scored ‘B’ grades, indicating a drop in health compliance. With the potential risk of permit revocation for scores below 70%, local authorities encourage close monitoring of restaurant compliance, ensuring public safety.
Charlotte, North Carolina – In July, Mecklenburg County health inspectors uncovered significant health violations at several local restaurants, leading to multiple establishments receiving low safety grades. Reports highlighted issues such as dirty dishes, expired food, and alarming numbers of pests across various eateries.
No restaurants in the county received a “C” grade in June, highlighting a decline in overall health compliance as four establishments reported low “B” grades, scoring between 80% and 90%. A comprehensive inspection of over 135 eateries was conducted in July, resulting in an upsurge of restaurants grappling with sanitation issues.
Low “B” Grade Restaurants in July
- Cottage Restaurant: Inspection date – July 2; Score – 81.5%
- Imperial Treasure Ballantyne: Inspection date – July 29; Score – 86%
- Tous Le Jours SouthPark: Inspection date – July 14; Score – 86%
- New Century Oriental Deli: Inspection date – July 16; Score – 86.5%; Not yet reinspected as of publication.
Sanitation Information
Sanitation scores are critical, evaluating restaurants’ adherence to health regulations intended to prevent foodborne illnesses. According to state law, any establishment scoring below 70% faces potential permit revocation. Mecklenburg County provides public access to restaurant inspection data, ensuring consumers can make informed dining decisions.
Noteworthy Violations from Other Restaurants
- Shane’s Rib Shack: Inspection date – July 25; Score – 89%; Violations involved cooked chicken in direct contact with charcoal.
- Jersey Mike’s Subs: Inspection date – July 31; Score – 88%.
Additional Inspections
During the inspection period from July 25 to July 31, there were at least 135 entries; fortunately, most establishments managed to maintain A grades (90% or higher). Examples of other July inspections include:
- Bojangles (8521 N. Tryon St.): July 21; Score – 87%; Violations included pest presence and hygiene infractions.
- Bojangles (6915 Albemarle Rd.): July 24; Score – 89%; Reported issues with pests and staffing shortages.
- Pho Real: Score – 88%; Reported 13 violations, primarily concerning improper food storage, though most were rectified during the visit.
June Violations Recap
In June, five establishments also fell short of health standards, receiving “B” grades, including the following:
- G.O.A.T. Restaurant and Bar: Score – 84.5%.
- Vibe Cafe & Wine Bar: Score – 85%.
- State of Confusion: Score – 86%; Violations revolved around hygiene and food storage practices.
The rise in health violations among Mecklenburg County restaurants poses a potential risk to public health, emphasizing the need for rigorous adherence to sanitary guidelines. Both local authorities and dining patrons are encouraged to monitor restaurant compliance as inspection results are made publicly available through designated online resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grades do Mecklenburg County restaurants receive after inspections?
Restaurants receive grades based on their sanitation scores, with ‘A’ being 90% and above, ‘B’ ranging from 80% to 89%, and ‘C’ below 79%. A score below 70% can lead to permit revocation.
How can I access the inspection results for local restaurants?
Inspection results for local restaurants in Mecklenburg County are publicly accessible through the county’s official health department website.
What should you do if you see a restaurant with health violations?
If you observe health violations at a restaurant, you can report your concerns to local health authorities, who will investigate the matter.
| Restaurant Name | Inspection Date | Score | Notable Violations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cottage Restaurant | July 2 | 81.5% | Dirty dishes, expired food |
| Imperial Treasure Ballantyne | July 29 | 86% | None listed |
| Tous Le Jours SouthPark | July 14 | 86% | None listed |
| New Century Oriental Deli | July 16 | 86.5% | Not yet reinspected |
| Shane’s Rib Shack | July 25 | 89% | Cooked chicken in contact with charcoal |
| Jersey Mike’s Subs | July 31 | 88% | None listed |
| Bojangles (8521 N. Tryon St.) | July 21 | 87% | Pest presence, hygiene issues |
| Bojangles (6915 Albemarle Rd.) | July 24 | 89% | Pest presence, staffing issues |
| Pho Real | Not specified | 88% | Improper food storage |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Shane’s Rib Shack Faces Health Violations in Latest Inspection
Romeo’s Vegan Burgers in South Charlotte Receives ‘B’ Grade
Charlotte Dining Scene Under Scrutiny Due to Health Violations
South Charlotte Restaurant Faces Health Inspection Challenges
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte Observer: Health Violations Uncovered
- Wikipedia: Food Safety
- Charlotte Observer: July Restaurant Inspections
- Google Search: Food Sanitation Guidelines
- Charlotte Observer: Restaurant Compliance Issues
- Google Scholar: Mecklenburg County Health Inspections
- Charlotte Observer: Noteworthy Restaurant Violations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant Health Regulations
- Charlotte Observer: Food Safety Recap
- Google News: Restaurant Inspection Results
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
