Fruit flies and storage problems lower score for Knox cantina

By DON DARE
Food for Thought Reporter

KNOXVILLE (WATE) - Only one Knoxville area restaurant had a less than desirable health inspection report in the latest round of visits.

Although it's a passing grade, some of the critical violations are important to know about.

Low Score:

Cancun Mexican Grill and Cantina at 4100 Crippen Road: Grade: 70

The Knox County Health Department considers a score below 70 as unsanitary.

The inspector found fruit flies buzzing around areas throughout the restaurant. He ordered the manager to call his pest control company immediately.

Gloves that kitchen workers wear were stored with chemicals. They're supposed to be kept far from chemicals so there are no mistakes.

Also, an employee was sipping her soft drink from an open cup. It's required to have a lid and a straw so none of the drink spills onto diners' food.

Highest Scores:

Fairfield Inn restaurant at 1551 Cracker Barrel Lane- 98

Krystal at 7215 Strawberry Plains Pike - 97

Econo Lodge restaurant at 7424 Strawberry Plains Pike - 96

Red Roof Inn breakfast bar at 7525 Crosswood Boulevard - 95

Rothchild Catering at 8807 Kingston Pike - 92

Creekside Tavern at 7428 Clinton Highway - 91

Restaurants are inspected every six months, but if you encounter a problem politely talk with the manager. If that doesn't work, call your county health department.