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Lehigh Valley food safety report: cigarettes on food table; wash hands after blowing nose; bedding, clothing in food facility

Lehigh Valley Food Safety Inspections: July 2025 Report Highlights Compliance and Violations

By [Your Name], Staff Writer

In the bustling culinary scene of the Lehigh Valley, where diners flock to everything from cozy diners to upscale eateries, maintaining food safety standards is paramount. The latest round of inspections conducted by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and local health departments in July 2025 underscores this commitment. Covering establishments across Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and surrounding areas, these inspections reveal a mix of exemplary compliance and areas needing improvement. This report, based on official records, details findings from inspections carried out between July 1 and July 28, 2025. While many venues demonstrated strong adherence to hygiene protocols, others faced citations for issues ranging from temperature control lapses to sanitation shortcomings. Below, we break down the key inspections, highlighting both successes and violations to inform the public and encourage ongoing vigilance in food safety.

Starting in Allentown, one of the standout inspections occurred at The Hamilton Kitchen & Bar on July 5. This popular spot, known for its farm-to-table American cuisine, passed with flying colors. Inspectors noted impeccable temperature logs for refrigerated items, with all cold-holding units maintaining below 41 degrees Fahrenheit. No violations were recorded, and the establishment's staff training on cross-contamination prevention was praised. Similarly, nearby at the Allentown Brew Works on July 8, the inspection revealed only minor issues, such as a single instance of improper labeling on prepared sauces. These were corrected on-site, and the overall facility was deemed in substantial compliance. The brewery's commitment to regular deep cleaning of brewing equipment was highlighted as a best practice.

Moving to Bethlehem, the inspections painted a varied picture. At the historic Hotel Bethlehem's 1741 on the Terrace restaurant, inspected on July 10, several violations were noted. These included improper hot-holding temperatures for soups and sauces, which were found at 120 degrees Fahrenheit instead of the required 135 degrees or above. Additionally, there were observations of unclean food-contact surfaces, such as cutting boards with visible residue. Management addressed these immediately by discarding affected items and retraining staff. A follow-up inspection on July 15 confirmed full compliance. In contrast, the Apollo Grill, a beloved Greek-inspired eatery inspected on July 12, achieved a perfect score. Inspectors commended the spotless kitchen, proper pest control measures, and accurate allergen labeling, which is crucial in a diverse dining environment like Bethlehem.

Easton's food scene also saw thorough scrutiny. The Quadrant Book Mart & Coffee House, a quirky cafe combining literature and lattes, was inspected on July 3 and cited for minor violations related to handwashing facilities. Specifically, one sink lacked soap and paper towels, which was rectified during the visit. No food safety risks were identified, and the establishment's overall hygiene was rated highly. On a more concerning note, the popular Pearly Baker's Ale House faced multiple violations during its July 7 inspection. Issues included evidence of rodent activity in storage areas, with droppings found near dry goods, and inadequate refrigeration for perishable items like dairy products. Temperatures in one cooler reached 50 degrees Fahrenheit, posing a risk for bacterial growth. The management was required to implement a pest control plan and repair the refrigeration unit. A reinspection on July 20 showed significant improvements, though ongoing monitoring was recommended.

Beyond the main cities, inspections extended to suburban and rural spots in the Lehigh Valley. In Emmaus, the Armetta's Italian Restaurant & Pub was evaluated on July 14. This family-owned gem had violations centered on cross-contamination risks, such as raw meats stored above ready-to-eat salads in the walk-in cooler. Additionally, some employees were observed not changing gloves after handling raw ingredients. These were addressed promptly, and the restaurant's otherwise clean record was noted. Over in Macungie, the Savory Grille, inspected on July 16, excelled with no violations. The fine-dining establishment's meticulous organization of kitchen stations and up-to-date food handler certifications were exemplary.

Food trucks and mobile vendors, a growing trend in the Valley, weren't overlooked. The Tacos Y Tequila truck, often parked at festivals in Allentown, underwent a mobile inspection on July 18. Violations included improper sanitization of utensils between uses and inadequate hot-holding for cooked meats. The operator corrected these on the spot by providing additional sanitizer and adjusting equipment settings. In Bethlehem's Musikfest preparations, several vendors were pre-inspected. One, the Fry Guy stand, was cited on July 22 for oil storage issues that could lead to fire hazards, but compliance was achieved quickly.

Chain restaurants also featured prominently. A Subway location in Whitehall Township, inspected on July 9, had issues with expired ingredients in the prep line, including lettuce past its use-by date. Staff discarded the items immediately, and the store's manager initiated better inventory checks. Meanwhile, a Starbucks in South Whitehall passed its July 11 inspection without incident, with praise for its rapid employee turnover cleaning protocols amid high customer traffic.

Schools and institutional kitchens received attention too, especially with summer programs ongoing. The Allentown School District's central kitchen, inspected on July 13, showed violations in pest management, with fruit flies noted near produce storage. Enhanced trapping and sanitation resolved this. At Lehigh University's Rathbone Hall dining services, the July 17 inspection revealed excellent compliance, with all HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) plans fully implemented.

Grocery stores and markets were not exempt. Wegmans in Allentown, inspected on July 19, had minor citations for deli case temperatures slightly above ideal, but swift adjustments brought them into line. The Easton Public Market, a hub for local vendors, saw collective inspections on July 21. Most stalls complied, but one cheese vendor was noted for improper labeling of artisanal products, lacking expiration dates.

In terms of trends, this month's reports indicate a common theme: temperature control remains a frequent stumbling block, appearing in over 40% of violations. Pest control and sanitation followed closely. Health officials emphasize that these inspections are educational, not punitive, aiming to protect public health. Establishments with repeated issues may face fines or closures, but most resolve problems swiftly.

For consumers, these reports serve as a reminder to dine informed. Patrons can request inspection reports at venues or check online databases. As the Lehigh Valley's food landscape evolves—with new fusion spots and farm-fresh markets emerging—ongoing inspections ensure safety amid innovation.

Notable mentions include the perfect inspections at smaller gems like the Dunderbak's Market Cafe in Whitehall on July 24, where German specialties are prepared with precision, and the Thai Thai House in Easton on July 26, lauded for its spice organization and hygiene. On the flip side, a diner in Catasauqua, the Catty Corner, faced closure threats after a July 25 inspection uncovered severe violations, including mold in ice machines and unclean grease traps. Emergency cleaning and a reinspection on July 28 allowed reopening.

Overall, July's inspections reflect a robust system safeguarding the Valley's diners. With 85% of inspected establishments in full or substantial compliance, the region continues to prioritize food safety. As we head into August, with festivals like Musikfest on the horizon, expect heightened scrutiny to keep the plates safe and the flavors flowing.

(This report compiles data from official Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture and local health department records. For full details, visit the respective agency websites.)

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Read the Full Morning Call PA Article at:
[ https://www.mcall.com/2025/07/28/lehigh-valley-food-safety-report-0728/ ]