Top 10 Worst Health Inspection Failures: Protect Yourself from Foodborne Illness

When we dine out, we trust that the restaurants we visit are up to health and safety standards. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Every year, restaurants across the country fail health inspections, putting their customers at risk for foodborne illness. To help keep you informed and safe, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 worst health inspection failures from restaurants across the Austin the greater surrounding area. From unclean kitchens to improper food storage, these restaurants have failed to meet basic health and safety requirements. We’ll give you the details on what went wrong and where, so you can make informed decisions about where to eat. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to protecting your health, so read on to learn about the top 10 worst health inspection failures.

Why Buffet Palace is the Worst Restaurant to Eat at According to Multiple Health Inspections – Risky Bites Analysis

At Risky Bites, we take restaurant hygiene and safety seriously. Based on our analysis of health inspection scores, we believe that Buffet Palace is one of the worst restaurants to eat at. Buffet Palace has consistently failed multiple health inspections, with violations ranging from improper food storage to unsanitary food handling practices. These violations create a significant risk for customers, who may be exposed to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens when dining at this establishment. We strongly recommend that customers avoid eating at Buffet Palace until it can demonstrate a consistent commitment to improving its hygiene and safety practices. At Risky Bites, our mission is to help customers make informed decisions about where to eat safely and healthily, and we will continue to hold restaurants accountable for their hygiene and safety practices to ensure that our customers can dine out with confidence.

 

 

 

#1 worst place: Buffet Palace

 

 

 

4608 WEST GATE BLVD AUSTIN TX 78745

03/03/2021

03/25/2021

01/18/2023

score: 59

score: 66

score: 65

Based on our analysis of health inspection scores, it appears that Buffet Palace has shown a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of its customers. The repeated and ongoing violations of food safety regulations and guidelines are a clear indication that this establishment has failed to prioritize the health of its customers. Food safety violations, such as improper food storage, cross-contamination, and unsanitary food handling practices, can lead to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens that can cause serious illness and even death. By ignoring food safety and repeatedly failing health inspections, Buffet Palace has demonstrated that they do not care about the safety of their customers. At Risky Bites, we believe that all restaurants have a responsibility to prioritize the safety and well-being of their customers, and we will continue to hold establishments like Buffet Palace accountable for their actions.

Score: 44

6613 AIRPORT BLVD AUSTIN, TX 78752

mom’s taste

“Pint-sized specialty market provides house-made banchan, soups, meats & other classic Korean dishes.” – Google Description

With a routine inspection score of 44, this establishment has repeatedly failed to meet the basic food safety standards necessary to protect the health and safety of its customers. Violations reported during the health inspection include issues related to improper food storage, inadequate refrigeration, and unsanitary food handling practices, which can lead to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens. We strongly advise against eating at Mom’s Taste until significant improvements are made in its hygiene and safety practices.

score: 47

6801 AIRPORT BLVD AUSTIN, TX 78752

China Family

“Laid-back destination serving traditional Chinese cooking amid simple surroundings” – Google Description

China Family Restaurant has consistently received low routine health inspection scores of 47, 70, 73, and 65, indicating that it has repeatedly failed to prioritize the safety and well-being of its customers. Violations reported during health inspections include improper food storage, cross-contamination, and unsanitary food handling practices, all of which increase the risk of exposure to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens that can cause serious illness. China Family Restaurant’s consistent failure to comply with food safety regulations and guidelines shows a lack of commitment to customers’ health and safety. Until significant improvements are made in hygiene and safety practices, we strongly advise against eating at this establishment. Risky Bites holds all restaurants accountable for upholding the highest standards of food safety.

SCORE: 50

13201 N FM 620 RD AUSTIN, TX 78729

Hot Pot Alley

There was no Google Description

Routine health inspections scores of 50 and 70 indicate serious food safety issues at the establishments being inspected. A score of 50 suggests that the establishment has numerous critical violations that put customers at risk of exposure to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens, while a barely passing score of 70 shows that the establishment has several violations that require immediate attention.

Score: 50

14900 AVERY RANCH BLVD AUSTIN, TX 78717

Hunan Ranch

Casual eatery with a large fish tank offering a sushi bar & standard Chinese takeout-style menu.” – Google Description

Routine health inspection scores of 50 and 56 within 2 years indicate disregard for customers’ food safety. At Risky Bites, we believe all restaurants should prioritize the health and safety of their customers.

score:  50

9025 RESEARCH BLVD AUSTIN, TX 78758

Zaika indian cuisine

“Branch of a no-frills mini-chain serving vegetarian & kosher Northern & Southern Indian dishes.” – Google Description

Zaika’s routine health inspection score of 50 (11/02/2022) and a follow-up score of 74 (11/22/2022) indicate serious food safety concerns. These violations put customers at risk of exposure to dangerous bacteria and other pathogens. At Risky Bites, we believe that establishments should prioritize food safety and uphold the highest standards of hygiene to ensure their customers’ health and safety. We advise caution when eating at Zaika until significant improvements are made in its hygiene and safety practices.

score: 51

6002 BURLESON RD AUSTIN, TX 78744

Casa Vallarta Restaurant

“Everyday Mexican dishes & breakfast fare whipped up in small, no-nonsense surrounds with booths.” – Google Description

Casa Vallarta’s routine inspection scores of 59, 62, 57 and a barely passing follow-up score of 74 within the past 2 years indicate significant food safety issues. Risky Bites strongly advises against eating at this establishment until consistent  improvements are made in hygiene and safety practices.

score: 51

4323 S IH SVRD NB AUSTIN, TX 78744

Hideaway Kitchen & Bar

“Bar/restaurant serving Southern comfort food with a Texan twist in a trendy, casual space.” – Google Description

Hideaway Bar and Restaurant has consistently scored in the 70s on their routine inspections, but received a low score of 51 on 05/17/2022. It is recommended to avoid eating at this establishment until significant improvements are made in their food safety procedures. At Risky Bites, we believe that all restaurants should prioritize the health and safety of their customers and maintain the highest standards of food safety.

score: 52

4101 W PARMER LN AUSTIN, TX 78727

Thai Cuisine

“Standards like curries & noodles in a colorful room; all-you-can-eat soup & salad bar at lunch.” – Google Description

Thai Cuisine received inspection scores of 52, 73, and 71, all in 2021, but there are no recent reports available from the health department on this establishment’s hygiene and safety practices. Due to the lack of recent data, we recommend avoiding eating at Thai Cuisine until more information becomes available. At Risky Bites, we believe that customers have the right to be fully informed about the food safety practices of the establishments they visit to protect their health and safety.

score: 52

13201 POND SPRINGS RD AUSTIN, TX 78729

Dr. Wok

“No-frills joint offers a menu of noodle, rice & other classic Chinese plates for pickup or delivery.” – Google Description

Dr. Wok scored a 52 on a routine inspection in 2021, and there is no follow-up inspection report available from the Travis County Health Department. As a result, we lack current information about the restaurant’s hygiene and safety practices. At Risky Bites, we believe that establishments should maintain consistent food safety practices to protect the health and safety of their customers. Without up-to-date information about Dr. Wok’s hygiene and safety practices, we recommend exercising caution when dining at this establishment.

score: 53

12221 RIATA TRACE PKWY AUSTIN, TX 78727

Cafe eden (Eden Oriental Garden LLC)

There was no Google description

Cafe Eden scored a 53 on a routine inspection and a 61 on the follow-up, indicating serious food safety issues. At Risky Bites, we believe all restaurants should uphold the highest standards of food safety to ensure the health and safety of their customers.

It is worth noting that Cafe Eden has since improved its hygiene and safety practices, as evidenced by their 2023 routine inspection score of 89. At Risky Bites, we commend establishments that take food safety seriously and prioritize the health and safety of their customers.

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Enjoy Safe and Delicious Dining Experiences in Texas: A Guide to Restaurant Health Inspections


Wondering what Texas health inspectors look for during restaurant inspections? Our guide covers the 7 key factors they check, including food storage, sanitation, and employee hygiene. By understanding what inspectors are looking for, you can make informed decisions about where to dine out and ensure that you’re dining in a safe and healthy environment. Click now to read our guide and learn how to enjoy safe and worry-free dining experiences in Texas.

 

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SAFE EATING TIPS

Want to dine out without worry? Our guide to safe eating tips can help you make informed decisions and enjoy meals without the risk of foodborne illnesses. From choosing the right restaurants to ordering and handling food safely, our tips are designed to keep you and your loved ones healthy and happy when dining out.

Click here to learn more

REstaurant spotlight

There is no justification for poor food safety practices in the service industry because such practices can lead to the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses, causing foodborne illnesses. Additionally, foodborne illnesses can harm the reputation of the business and lead to legal consequences, resulting in financial losses. Therefore, it is crucial for the service industry to prioritize food safety to protect the health and satisfaction of customers, maintain the reputation of the business, and comply with regulatory standards.


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