Health Department Shuts Down a Coffee Shop and Two Food Trucks With Imminent Health Hazards

The Southern Nevada Health District shut down Aware Coffee & Tea Lounge at 5590 Painted Mirage Road on January 24 after it operated for three days without hot water, an imminent health hazard. The restaurant returned to a zero-demerit A grade on January 27.

The health department also shut down two food trucks for imminent health hazards. A1 Mobile Catering had no hot water when the health department closed it on January 21. Staff on board the truck prepared food despite the lack of water for washing their hands or dishes. The truck also lacked sanitizer. The truck returned to service on January 22 with a zero-demerit A grade.

The health department shut down El Buen Taco on January 24 after inspectors investigated a complaint that staff sprayed down the interior of the truck with a garden hose at a home that the food truck used as a commissary. Inspectors found greasy, soapy, and dirty water in the driveway and street, evidence of the complaint. On board, inspectors found mozzarella cheese held at an unsafe temperature inside an unplugged refrigerator and rice and beans held at room temperature. Since the food truck now has its fifth shutdown by the health department, the owners are required to contract a food safety consultant and attend a managerial conference with agency. On January 29, the food truck earned a zero-demerit A grade.

The health district conducts unannounced inspections at least once a year. Inspections are posted online about five days after the inspection. The Southern Nevada Health District routinely shuts down restaurants that receive more than 40 demerits. Restaurants have the option of requesting a re-inspection before the next scheduled inspection.

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