News Summary
Recent health inspections in Shelby County revealed alarming violations at several Memphis restaurants. Key offenders included Noodles Asian Bistro and Dixie Queen, both scoring 77, highlighting issues like moldy food and unsanitary conditions. Other establishments, including Perkins American Food Co. and Number One Chinese Kitchen, also reported serious health risks. The inspections stress the critical need for restaurant operators to adhere to food safety regulations to protect public health and improve customer experiences.
Memphis โ Recent inspections conducted by health authorities have revealed multiple health violations at several restaurants in Shelby County. The inspections were carried out to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and highlight establishments that require immediate improvements to maintain public health standards.
The Noodles Asian Bistro located at 7850 Poplar Avenue, Suite #30, received a score of 77, indicating significant violations needing attention. Key issues include a moldy lemon found inside the Coca-Cola cooler, black build-up on the ice dispenser and drink nozzles, and uncovered food items in storage. Additionally, the restaurant’s prep coolers were not maintaining the required temperature of 41 degrees. Other violations noted were grease build-up on the vent hood, improper storage of chemicals, and general food contamination concerns.
Dixie Queen, situated at 3141 Austin Peay Hwy, also scored 77. Inspections highlighted a male employee preparing food without a hair restraint and an inoperable prep cooler. Other concerns included dirty soda dispenser nozzles, unpleasant odors emanating from a floor drain, and uncovered food items in storage. The kitchen was found to have dirty equipment and surfaces, raising serious hygiene questions.
Perkins American Food Co., at 3455 Poplar Avenue, scored a slightly better 79 but still presented numerous violations including the presence of gnats, uncovered food, and dirty utensils and equipment. Deep cleaning was required for kitchen spaces, and there were issues with the restroom facilities, such as non-functional hot water in the women’s restroom.
Number One Chinese Kitchen, located at 1219 Getwell Road, managed a score of 83, but inspections revealed serious health risks. Flies were present in the kitchen, and food safety was compromised with uncovered cookies and improperly labeled food in the walk-in refrigerator. Staff members were not wearing required hair restraints, further contributing to cleanliness concerns.
One & Only BBQ, found at 1779 Kirby Parkway, scored 84. Violations included raw chicken improperly stored next to baked beans and pink build-up in the ice machine. The presence of dust and lack of proper food safety measures indicated a need for improved sanitation practices.
Jasonโs Deli scored 85, reporting issues like pink and black slime inside the ice machine, the presence of gnats, and uncovered food items. Walk-in freezers were noted not to close properly, and there were concerns regarding excessive residue in equipment.
Memphis Whistle Restaurant, located at 2299 Young Avenue, also scored 85, citing excessive gnats and dirty refrigerators among other violations in need of prompt resolution.
Other establishments that received inspections include Chickasaw Menโs Grill, Brendalay Grill Restaurant, Club Windward, and Ancient Grounds Coffee Shop, though specific health violations from these locations were not detailed in the most recent reports.
This series of inspections underscores the necessity for restaurant operators in Memphis to adhere strictly to health and safety regulations. Ensuring the cleanliness of food preparation areas and maintaining proper food storage practices not only protects public health but also enhances the overall dining experience for customers. Authorities will continue to monitor compliance and encourage establishments to address identified issues promptly.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Food Safety Concerns Rise in Memphis Grocery Stores
New Restaurant Happy Memphis Set to Open in Downtown
Memphis Restaurant Inspection Scores Reveal Need for Improvements Across Local Eateries
Serenity Towers in Memphis Declared Chronic Nuisance by Court Amid Ongoing Resident Complaints
Judge Rules Serenity Towers in Memphis a Chronic Nuisance Amid Ongoing Resident Struggles
Memphis Community Welcomes Reopening of Shelby County Juvenile Court After Safety Improvements
Serenity Towers Faces Comprehensive Inspection Amid Resident Concerns Over Living Conditions
Memphis Celebrates National Seat Check Saturday: Parents Urged to Ensure Car Seat Safety
Exciting Changes in Memphis Business Landscape with New Leadership Appointments and Strategic Expansions
Additional Resources
- WREG: Restaurant Inspection Scores May 20-May 26
- Commercial Appeal: Memphis Restaurant Health Inspection April 2025
- WREG: Restaurant Inspection Scores April 8-April 14
- Google Search: Memphis restaurant health inspections
- WREG: Restaurant Inspection Scores March 25-March 31
- Wikipedia: Food safety
- WREG: Restaurant Inspection Scores April 29-May 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Food safety
- WREG: Restaurant Inspection Scores January 21-February 3
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
