KNOXVILLE (WATE) - The critical violations found by the inspector at the lowest-scoring restaurant were items that a manager should be able spot and correct as part of the daily routine.
Any score below 70 is considered unsanitary.
Lowest score:
Rouxbarb, 130 South Northshore Drive - Grade: 63
Containers of pimento cheese and cream soup were at 60 degrees. 41 and below is the required safe temperature to prevent someone from getting ill. The cheese and soup were thrown out.
Also, the inspector found raw, shelled eggs stored on ready-to-eat apples, creating the possibility of cross-contamination.
When she looked into the three-compartment sink, the inspector found beef and shrimp thawing in the sink. That's where pots and pans are supposed to be cleaned.
Frozen food is supposed to be thawed in the refrigerator to prevent the growth of bacteria.
The inspector also found that one of the hand sinks at Rouxbarb was not functioning.
Paint was found stored over platters and above single service items.
Chemicals like paint are supposed to be placed in a separate area, away from food items to prevent any mistakes.
Finally, the inspector observed a kitchen worker spraying his hands with water and then wiping them off with a towel. He didn't wash his hands with any soap before he resumed preparing food.
Other low scores:
Taste of Thai, 213 North Peters Road - Grade: 76
The restaurant received a passing grade, but there were critical violations.
The inspector found milk that was not at 41 degrees and observed several food workers drying their hands on dirty aprons.
A hand sink was being used to clean and rinse utensils, where workers wash their hands. Utensils are supposed to be cleaned in the dishwasher.
The inspector also found a cleaning agent next to forks.
Top scores:
- Frussie's Deli, 133 Moody Avenue - Grade: 100
- Armstrong's Grill, 3307 John Sevier Highway - Grade: 98
- Snappy Tomato, 10612 Hardin Valley Road - Grade: 97
- Kay's Ice Cream, 6200 Chapman Highway - Grade: 95
- Paul's Oasis, 8021 Kingston Pike - Grade: 93
- Daniel's Bar and Grill, 8725 Chapman Highway - Grade: 93
- Dine-A-Mite Diner, 611 Winona St - Grade: 93
- Subway, 10612 Hardin Valley Road - Grade: 92
6 On Your Side reporter Don Dare reports on the latest restaurant inspections by the Knox County Health Department every Thursday on 6 News at 6:00.
