A Lexington restaurant closed temporarily by the health department for multiple violations has reopened.
According to the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department, Johnny Carino’s, 2333 Sir Barton Way, was closed May 1 for “multiple leaks from the ceiling in the food preparation area and the walk-in cooler.”
The dish machine was not sanitizing, too, among other issues, according to the health department.
There was no bloodborne pathogen kit provided; employee drinks were observed in an unauthorized area; food-contact surfaces were not cleaned and sanitized; food was not stored in a clean, dry location (there was standing water from a leak observed in the walk-in cooler); plumbing was not maintained in good repair (there were leaks at the dish machine and at a sink in the bar); among other issues.
Despite scoring an 86 out of 100, the restaurant was closed until the issues could be addressed and repairs made.
In a statement released on May 7, Johnny Carino’s corporate office said that the Lexington location had reopened for business on Tuesday, May 6, and scored a 97 on a health inspection.
“Johnny Carino’s in Lexington is giving away Free Pizza for a Year to all Moms who dine in with them this Saturday… and Sunday,” according to the statement.
Restaurants are closed when the health department finds an imminent risk to public health, such as insect or rodent infestation, lack of running water or sewage contamination.
Establishments that score below 60 on an inspection are also immediately closed.
The health department also closed one other establishment recently: Speedway at 2290 Elkhorn Rd. was closed May 1 for not having a food manager present at a third consecutive inspection.
What happens when a restaurant is closed
When the health department closes a restaurant, a red sign is placed on the door to notify potential customers that food service has been halted. But the health department does not publicize that restaurants have been closed.
How Lexington health department inspections work
Restaurants and food service establishments are required to post their most recent scores at the front door; scores in green boxes indicate passage and scores in red indicate failure.
Inspection scores are available online at the Lexington health department’s website.
The health department inspects every local food service establishment at least every six months; some restaurants are placed on enhanced regulatory enforcement and receive additional inspections. Restaurants are also inspected if the health department receives credible complaints.
In March, the Herald-Leader published an updated list of the 148 restaurants and food service providers that are under enhanced regulatory enforcement, formerly called probation, by the health department.
Any restaurant that scores 80 or below on an inspection is placed under enhanced enforcement.
Restaurants must correct the issues and pass reinspection before they can re-open.
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