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Restaurant scores: Diner dinged for employee cell phone stored on shelf with food

Athens Restaurant Health Inspection Scores: June 26 to July 16, 2025

In the bustling culinary scene of Athens, Georgia, where food lovers flock to everything from classic Southern diners to trendy fusion spots, maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety is paramount. The latest round of health inspections, conducted by the Northeast Health District between June 26 and July 16, 2025, provides a snapshot of how local eateries are faring in terms of compliance with food safety regulations. These inspections, carried out by certified environmental health specialists, evaluate establishments on a scale from 0 to 100, with scores above 90 typically earning an "A" grade, 80-89 a "B," 70-79 a "C," and anything below 70 requiring immediate corrective action or potential closure. Factors assessed include proper food storage, employee hygiene, pest control, equipment sanitation, and overall facility cleanliness. This report covers a diverse array of restaurants, from fast-casual chains to independent gems, highlighting both exemplary performers and those needing improvement. By sharing these details, we aim to empower diners to make informed choices while encouraging businesses to prioritize public health.

Starting with the high achievers, several establishments in Athens demonstrated outstanding commitment to food safety during this inspection period. Leading the pack is The Grit, the beloved vegetarian restaurant located at 199 Prince Avenue. Inspected on July 2, 2025, it scored a perfect 100. Inspectors noted impeccable kitchen organization, with all refrigeration units maintaining ideal temperatures below 41 degrees Fahrenheit, no signs of cross-contamination, and staff adhering strictly to handwashing protocols. This isn't surprising for The Grit, a staple in the Athens community since the 1980s, known for its plant-based twists on comfort food like vegan mac and cheese. Their consistent high scores reflect a dedication to not just flavorful meals but also a safe dining environment, which is especially crucial in a college town where students often seek affordable, healthy options.

Another standout is Clocked, the retro diner at 259 W. Washington Street, which earned a 98 on its July 5 inspection. The minor deductions came from a small issue with labeling on prepared sauces, but overall, the facility was praised for its spotless grill areas and effective pest prevention measures. Clocked, famous for its gourmet burgers and milkshakes, has long been a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike, and this near-perfect score underscores their operational excellence. In a similar vein, Taqueria Tsunami at 320 E. Clayton Street achieved a 97 on June 28. This Asian-Latin fusion eatery impressed with its thorough cleaning schedules and proper handling of raw proteins, though inspectors recommended minor adjustments to storage shelving to prevent any potential dust accumulation. These high scores are a testament to how fusion cuisine, blending elements like Korean tacos and sushi burritos, can thrive when backed by rigorous hygiene practices.

Moving to solid performers in the "A" range, we have Weaver D's Delicious Fine Foods at 1016 E. Broad Street, inspected on July 10 with a score of 95. This soul food icon, immortalized in R.E.M.'s song "Automatic for the People," maintained strong marks for food temperature control and employee training. A slight point deduction was due to a non-critical violation involving unlabeled cleaning supplies, which was promptly addressed. Weaver D's continues to serve up fried chicken and collard greens with the same authenticity that has made it a cultural landmark, proving that tradition and modernity in health standards can coexist seamlessly.

Not all inspections yielded top marks, however. Some establishments fell into the "B" category, indicating areas for improvement while still passing overall. For instance, The Globe at 199 N. Lumpkin Street scored an 88 on July 3. This popular pub, known for its extensive beer selection and live music, faced deductions for improper thawing methods of frozen meats and minor buildup in ice machines. Inspectors emphasized the importance of these fixes to prevent bacterial growth, especially in a high-traffic venue where patrons often linger for hours. Similarly, Pauley's Original Crepe Bar at 134 E. Clayton Street received an 85 on June 30. The creperie, celebrated for its sweet and savory French-inspired treats, had issues with sanitizer concentration levels and some unlabeled allergens in storage. While these are correctable, they highlight the challenges of handling delicate ingredients like fresh batters in a fast-paced setting.

Lower in the spectrum but still operational, a few spots dipped into the "C" range, signaling more urgent needs for remediation. Bulldawg Pizza at 2026 S. Milledge Avenue was inspected on July 8 and scored a 78. Violations included inadequate hot-holding temperatures for sauces and some pest activity near the back entrance. This pizzeria, a favorite among University of Georgia students for late-night slices, was required to submit a corrective action plan within 10 days. The inspection report stressed that while the core operations were sound, these lapses could pose risks if not addressed swiftly. Another in this category is Little Italy Pizzeria at 125 N. Lumpkin Street, with a 76 on July 12. Issues here involved cross-contamination risks from shared cutting boards and improper storage of ready-to-eat foods above raw items. As a family-owned spot dishing out New York-style pies, Little Italy has room to rebound, but the score serves as a reminder of the fine line between bustling service and safety oversights.

On the more concerning end, one establishment barely passed with a 72: Wok Star Chinese Restaurant at 351 E. Broad Street, inspected on June 26. Major violations included thawing chicken at room temperature and insufficient refrigeration for cooked rice, both of which are high-risk practices that could lead to foodborne illnesses like salmonella or E. coli. The restaurant, known for its affordable stir-fries and dim sum, was placed on a follow-up inspection schedule and must demonstrate improvements. This case illustrates the broader challenges faced by ethnic eateries, where traditional cooking methods sometimes clash with modern health codes, necessitating education and adaptation.

It's worth noting that no restaurants in this period scored below 70, which would trigger mandatory closures or reinspections. This is a positive sign for Athens' dining landscape, especially amid ongoing recovery from economic pressures post-pandemic. The Northeast Health District conducts these routine checks unannounced, ensuring authenticity, and establishments can request reinspections after addressing violations. For context, the average score across these inspections hovered around 89, slightly above the state average, reflecting Athens' vibrant food scene's overall resilience.

In addition to individual scores, patterns emerged in the reports. Common violations included improper temperature controls—a critical factor in preventing bacterial growth—and labeling issues, which help avoid allergen exposures. Pest control was another recurring theme, particularly in older downtown buildings where rodents or insects can be persistent foes. On the positive side, many restaurants excelled in employee hygiene, with widespread use of gloves and hair restraints, indicating effective training programs.

For diners, these scores are more than numbers; they're indicators of trust. A high score at places like The National (232 W. Hancock Avenue, 96 on July 15) reassures patrons enjoying Mediterranean-inspired small plates that their meal is as safe as it is delicious. Conversely, lower scores prompt businesses to elevate their standards, ultimately benefiting the community. As Athens continues to grow as a food destination, with new openings like farm-to-table spots and craft breweries, these inspections play a vital role in sustaining that reputation.

Looking ahead, the next batch of inspections will cover late July and August, and we'll keep you updated. In the meantime, remember that while scores provide guidance, personal experiences and reviews also matter. If you're concerned about a specific venue, the full reports are available on the Georgia Department of Public Health website. Eating out in Athens remains a joy, but informed choices make it even better. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite at a food truck or settling in for a fine dining experience, these insights ensure your next meal is not only tasty but also safe.

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