Pizza Romano, a well-known Oakland eatery on Atwood Street, has recently been cited for 17 health code violations by the Allegheny County Health Department. This inspection, conducted on Thursday, identified several serious issues within the restaurant, including three high-risk violations. The health department issued a “consumer alert,” warning the public about the state of cleanliness and food safety practices at the establishment.
One of the most concerning findings was the discovery of numerous rodent droppings throughout the restaurant. The violations were not limited to the back areas but extended to critical spots like food preparation zones, behind refrigeration units, and near cash counters. In addition, exposed green bait, which is commonly used to control rodent populations, was found throughout the restaurant. These unsanitary conditions have raised significant concerns about the restaurant’s ability to maintain a safe environment for customers.
Along with pest control issues, the inspection revealed problems with the personal hygiene of staff. The report highlighted that employees were not seen changing their gloves during the inspection and failed to change them at the required times. Two workers were also observed eating on food contact surfaces, including food preparation coolers and cutting boards, further compounding the restaurant’s hygiene problems. These actions go against basic food safety protocols and can increase the risk of cross-contamination, endangering the health of patrons.
The inspection also flagged additional violations such as improper cold holding temperatures, malfunctioning refrigeration units, and soiled food-contact surfaces and equipment. The health department found that certain food items were being stored at improper temperatures, which can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria, making food unsafe for consumption. The malfunctioning refrigeration units were another critical concern, as they could cause food to spoil more quickly, further compromising the restaurant’s ability to provide safe meals to customers.
The report also mentioned issues with wastewater disposal and the accessibility of handwashing sinks, which are crucial for maintaining proper hygiene in food establishments. Inadequate wastewater disposal can lead to contamination of food preparation areas, and blocked handwashing stations can prevent staff from effectively cleaning their hands after handling food. These violations point to a lack of attention to basic sanitation practices, which are vital in any food service setting.
Despite these alarming findings, the restaurant remains open to the public. The health department’s consumer alert does not require the restaurant to close, but it does serve as an official notice of the violations. The management of Pizza Romano will need to address these issues and comply with health regulations to avoid further action. Failure to correct these problems could result in fines, a suspension of their business license, or even closure.
The health and safety of customers should always be a top priority for any food establishment. These recent violations at Pizza Romano underscore the importance of maintaining rigorous food safety standards. Restaurants are expected to adhere to health codes to prevent the spread of illness and ensure a clean, safe environment for those who dine there. While Pizza Romano remains open, patrons should be aware of the health concerns flagged during this inspection. The restaurant’s ability to rectify these issues will be crucial in restoring its reputation as a safe and reliable place to eat.
As of now, the restaurant’s management has not issued a public statement regarding the health violations. However, it is likely that they will be working quickly to resolve these issues in order to meet the county’s standards and avoid further scrutiny. Customers who are concerned about the conditions at Pizza Romano can keep an eye on future inspections to see if the restaurant makes the necessary changes to its operations. The health department’s role in ensuring public safety is essential, and inspections like this are a reminder that businesses must remain vigilant in upholding the standards that protect both their customers and their employees.
These health code violations are a significant blow to the restaurant’s reputation, especially for a business that prides itself on serving the Oakland community. If Pizza Romano is able to address the problems highlighted during the inspection, it may be able to restore the public’s trust and continue operating. However, the situation serves as a reminder to all food service businesses about the importance of following health regulations and keeping their establishments clean and safe for all who visit.
