Guatemalan-themed Restaurant in North Knoxville Marginally Passes Health Inspection

Health department cites crucial infractions at Comedor Guatemaya

In the bustling area of North Knoxville, local Mexican restaurant Comedor Guatemaya recently managed to pass its health inspection just barely, scoring only a 70. A score of 70 at Comedor Guatemaya based at 200 W. Woodland Avenue is considered a borderline passing grade, anything falling under 69 is deemed a fail.

Health hazards inside the restaurant

The health inspector noted several violations that could potentially lead to foodborne illnesses if not swiftly rectified. Of prime concern was the sighting of restaurant employees failing to wash their hands as mandated. These standards dictate that workers must cleanse their hands every time they handle food or replace their protective gloves. The absence of paper towels at both the kitchen hand sink and the restroom prevented them from drying their hands in the stipulated manner.

Further health hazards included inadequately heated food such as rice registering at only 130 degrees, far below the temperature necessary to halt bacterial growth. The inspector also reported unwelcome guest flies in both the kitchen and bar areas.

Raw chicken mishandled

Adding to the list of infractions, a grievous unsanitary mishap was identified, where raw chicken was stored inappropriately over tamale wraps meant to be served. Alarmingly, blood from the raw chicken was found frozen on the tamale leaves – a perfect recipe for severe foodborne illness. Consequently, ten pounds of tamale wraps had to be discarded.

Follow-up inspection yields improvement

A follow-up inspection of Comedor Guatemaya, however, brought good news. The previously reported critical violations had all been corrected, lifting the restaurant’s score to an improved 91. Regular, unannounced restaurant inspections by the health department ensures adherence to health standards. They can, however, return unannounced if a complaint is lodged against a particular establishment.