Restaurant scores: 'Live roaches, flies and rotting food' observed in downtown Athens bar

Published in Food and Wine on Sunday, August 10th 2025 at 20:40 GMT by Athens Banner-Herald
^{🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source}

Headed out for lunch or dinner? Here are the Georgia Department of Health's inspection scores for Athens area restaurants.

Athens Area Restaurant Health Inspection Scores: July 17-30 Overview

In the bustling culinary scene of Athens, Georgia, maintaining high standards of food safety is paramount for both restaurateurs and diners alike. The latest round of health inspections conducted by the Georgia Department of Public Health's Northeast Health District, covering the period from July 17 to July 30, provides a snapshot of how local eateries are faring in terms of hygiene, food handling practices, and overall compliance with state regulations. These inspections are routine yet critical, aiming to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure that establishments adhere to guidelines on everything from temperature control to pest management. Scores are given on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being perfect and anything below 70 typically requiring immediate corrective action or potential closure. This summary delves into the details of the inspections, highlighting top performers, those with minor issues, and any notable violations that could impact public health.

Starting with some of the highest scorers, several establishments demonstrated exemplary practices. For instance, The Grit, a beloved vegetarian spot on Prince Avenue, achieved a perfect 100. Inspectors noted impeccable cleanliness in the kitchen, proper labeling of all food items, and staff well-versed in handwashing protocols. This score reflects the restaurant's long-standing commitment to quality, which has made it a staple for locals and University of Georgia students seeking healthy, plant-based meals. Similarly, Clocked, known for its inventive burgers and retro vibe on Washington Street, also notched a 100. No violations were recorded, with particular praise given to their refrigeration units maintaining optimal temperatures and the absence of any cross-contamination risks.

Moving to other strong performers, Mama's Boy on East Macon Highway scored a 98. This popular brunch destination, famous for its biscuits and Southern comfort food, had only minor deductions for a slightly disorganized storage area, but overall, the inspection lauded their pest control measures and employee hygiene. Trappeze Pub, a craft beer haven on West Washington Street, earned a 97. Inspectors appreciated the thorough cleaning of beer lines and proper storage of perishable items, though a small point was deducted for a single unlabeled container in the walk-in cooler. These high scores underscore the dedication of Athens' dining establishments to uphold standards amid the challenges of high-volume service, especially during the summer months when tourism and student activities peak.

Not all inspections were flawless, however. Some restaurants faced deductions for common issues like temperature control and sanitation. For example, Taqueria Tsunami on Baxter Street received a 92. This fusion taco joint, blending Latin and Asian flavors, was cited for a few violations, including a reach-in cooler that was not holding food at the required 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Staff were observed correcting the issue on-site, and follow-up is expected. The violation highlights a frequent challenge in busy kitchens where equipment maintenance can sometimes lag. Another notable inspection was at Last Resort Grill on Clayton Street, which scored an 89. Known for its upscale Southwestern cuisine, the restaurant had points deducted for improper thawing of proteins and some unclean utensils stored in a drawer. While not severe, these issues prompted immediate remediation, and the establishment's management expressed commitment to addressing them promptly.

Lower scores drew more attention, signaling areas needing improvement. The Globe on Lumpkin Street, a historic bar and grill popular with the college crowd, came in at 85. Violations included evidence of rodent activity in the storage room, which required pest control intervention, and several instances of employees not washing hands after handling raw meat. Such findings are concerning, as they could lead to contamination risks, but the inspection report noted that the issues were addressed during the visit, with a re-inspection scheduled. Even more troubling was the score for a fast-food outlet, Wendy's on Prince Avenue, which received an 82. Common chain restaurant pitfalls were evident here, such as fryers not cleaned adequately and some expired condiments in the prep area. These deductions emphasize the importance of consistent training for staff in high-turnover environments.

On the lower end of the spectrum, a few establishments faced significant challenges. China Star on Alps Road scored a 78, with multiple violations including improper hot-holding temperatures for buffet items and cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods on the same cutting board. This buffet-style Chinese restaurant, a go-to for affordable meals, must now undergo corrective actions to avoid potential health hazards like salmonella or E. coli outbreaks. Inspectors recommended enhanced staff training and equipment upgrades. Similarly, Bulldawg Pizza on Baxter Street earned a 75, just above the failing threshold. Issues ranged from grease buildup on kitchen surfaces to inadequate labeling of allergens, which is particularly risky in a college town with diverse dietary needs. The pizzeria, favored for late-night slices, has been given a timeline for fixes, including deep cleaning and policy reviews.

Beyond individual scores, patterns emerge from this inspection period. Temperature control remains a recurring theme, appearing in about 40% of the reports with deductions. This is often due to the hot Georgia summers straining cooling systems, but it serves as a reminder for operators to invest in reliable equipment. Pest control was another hotspot, mentioned in several lower-scoring venues, likely exacerbated by urban settings and outdoor dining patios. On a positive note, many restaurants showed quick responsiveness, correcting violations on the spot, which speaks to the proactive nature of Athens' food service community.

These inspections are not just bureaucratic exercises; they directly influence consumer choices and business reputations. Diners can access full reports online through the health department's portal, empowering them to make informed decisions. For restaurant owners, high scores can boost patronage, while lower ones might necessitate operational overhauls. In a city like Athens, where the food scene thrives on innovation—from farm-to-table bistros to international fusion spots—these health checks ensure that creativity doesn't come at the expense of safety.

Looking ahead, the next inspection cycle will cover early August, and establishments with follow-ups will be monitored closely. Overall, this July period shows a mix of excellence and areas for growth, reflecting the dynamic nature of the hospitality industry. As Athens continues to evolve as a dining destination, maintaining these standards will be key to sustaining its vibrant culinary landscape. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a fine meal, these scores offer valuable insights into the behind-the-scenes efforts that keep our plates safe. (Word count: 928)

Read the Full Athens Banner-Herald Article at:
[ https://www.onlineathens.com/story/entertainment/dining/restaurant-inspections/2025/07/31/health-inspections-restaurant-scores-for-july-17-30/85445119007/ ]