Health Inspections Reveal Mold and Safety Violations in Montgomery County Restaurants

Recent food safety inspections conducted by the Montgomery County Office of Public Health (MCOPH) have uncovered several violations across various restaurants in the region, including mold found in the HVAC vents of some establishments. The inspections took place during the week of September 21-27, 2025, highlighting issues that may pose health risks to patrons.

Each restaurant is required to undergo inspections annually, with further visits if initial inspections reveal violations or if complaints arise. The MCOPH emphasizes that these reports are a snapshot of conditions at the time of inspection and may not represent the overall cleanliness of the establishments.

Key Violations Uncovered

Among the establishments inspected, Giuseppe’s Pizza & Family Restaurant in Ambler, PA, had multiple infractions, including unclean food-contact surfaces and improper storage of shellfish tags. The inspection on September 26, 2025, noted that a soda gun and holster at the bar were not cleaned properly and that food containers were stored on the floor in the walk-in freezer.

Similarly, Frais Cafe in Norristown was cited for reheating food improperly, as items were found at temperatures below the required 135°F. The inspector also noted that some foods lacked proper date marking, which is crucial for food safety.

At the Jarrettown Hotel, a follow-up inspection revealed significant progress, as handwashing facilities were fully operational following previous repairs. However, initial inspections indicated that raw shell eggs were stored above cooked foods in the refrigerator, a serious food safety violation.

Other notable mentions include the Keystone Grill & Family Bistro, which was closed temporarily due to inadequate hot water supply, and the House of Biryani’s and Kebab’s, where a lack of proper date marking and unclean food-contact surfaces were flagged during inspections.

Impact on Public Health and Compliance Measures

The findings from these inspections raise concerns about food safety standards in the area. The MCOPH advises consumers to remain vigilant and report any illnesses related to dining experiences through their complaint form. Establishments with critical violations face follow-up inspections to ensure compliance and may be required to take immediate corrective action.

For instance, the Texas Roadhouse was cited for lacking a Certified Food Sanitation Manager, which is necessary for compliance with local health regulations. The restaurant must provide proof of certification within 30 days.

Additionally, the Red Lobster location in King of Prussia received warnings for unclean food surfaces and pest control issues, reiterating the importance of maintaining hygiene standards in food preparation areas.

As the inspections continue, the MCOPH will monitor these establishments closely to ensure that they adhere to safety standards and protect public health. Complete inspection reports for each establishment are accessible via the county’s food safety database, allowing the public to make informed dining choices.

For further information about the inspection process or to submit a complaint, residents are encouraged to visit the MCOPH’s official website.