Oakland County Health Department inspections in July and August found mold, drain flies, and other violations at several Farmington Hills restaurants. Most issues have since been addressed, but reports highlight ongoing food safety concerns.
Recent routine health inspections by the Oakland County Health Department uncovered a range of food safety violations at several Farmington Hills restaurants between July and August. The findings included the presence of drain flies, mold-like growth, improper food storage temperatures, and sanitation lapses. While many of the cited issues have since been corrected, the inspection reports provide a detailed look at the types of problems that can arise in local food establishments.
Inspection reports are publicly available at swordsolutions.com/inspections/. The presence of violations in a past inspection does not necessarily mean the same issues persist today, but the reports offer insight into the standards and challenges faced by area restaurants.
Key Violations at Local Restaurants
Among the restaurants cited, Sunrise Cafe on Orchard Lake Road was found to have potentially hazardous foods stored above safe temperatures, employees preparing food without hair restraints, and missing ceiling tiles in storage areas. Antonio of Farmington Hills on W. 12 Mile was cited for improper cooling of pizza meat and pasta, as well as sanitation issues in the warewashing area.
Blue Moose Tavern on W. Eight Mile was noted for a lack of sanitizer test strips, soiled equipment, and a significant fruit fly presence in the bar area. Inspectors also observed mold-like growth on cooler walls and grease accumulation on kitchen surfaces. Bonchon on Orchard Lake Road was cited for storing raw chicken above noodles, inadequate cooler temperatures, lack of a manager on site, and soiled food containers stored as clean. Additional issues included unlabeled chemical bottles and a heavily soiled dumpster area.
Scores Sports Bar & Grill on Halsted was found to have a large number of small flies, soiled floor drains, deteriorated cooler thresholds, and grease buildup under kitchen equipment. Little Caesars on W. 12 Mile Road was cited for storing a dented can with other food, employee beverages stored above food prep areas, and mold-like growth on shelving. Kabuki Restaurant on Orchard Lake Road had improper food storage temperatures, manufacturer plastic left on the ice machine, and tiles in disrepair near food prep sinks.
Food Safety and Public Health Oversight
Health inspections are conducted regularly to ensure restaurants comply with food safety regulations. Violations can range from minor infractions to more serious issues that may pose a risk to public health. In most cases, restaurants are required to correct violations promptly and may be subject to follow-up inspections to verify compliance.
Potentially hazardous foods, such as dairy products and cooked meats, must be stored at or below 41°F to prevent bacterial growth. Sanitation standards also require that food contact surfaces be kept clean, chemicals be properly labeled, and pest control measures be in place. The Oakland County Health Department's inspection process is designed to identify and address these risks before they can affect customers.
How the Inspection Process Works
Restaurants in Farmington Hills and throughout Oakland County are subject to unannounced inspections by county health officials. Inspectors check for compliance with state and local food safety codes, including proper food handling, storage, equipment maintenance, and facility cleanliness. When violations are found, establishments are given a timeline to correct them and may face re-inspection or enforcement actions if issues persist.
Residents interested in the safety record of a particular restaurant can review inspection reports online. The Health Department encourages the public to report suspected food safety concerns and works with businesses to maintain high standards of cleanliness and food handling.
Food safety remains a shared responsibility between restaurant operators, health officials, and the community. Regular inspections help ensure that dining establishments in Farmington Hills continue to meet public health requirements and provide safe meals to customers.
