EMPIRE GARDEN in BOSTON, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/10/23

BOSTON, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at EMPIRE GARDEN in an inspection dated 04/10/2023.

Situated at 686 WASHINGTON ST, the establishment is part of Financial District's active food service sector. The Financial District area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.

The inspection identified 6 distinct violations requiring correction. These findings represent specific conditions observed during the inspection that must be addressed to meet health code requirements.

The first violation regarded supervisory requirements. Inspectors documented: (A) Certified Food Protection Manager (C). The FDA Food Code mandates that at least one employee with supervisory responsibility be a certified food protection manager to ensure active managerial control. For more information, see FDA certified food protection manager requirements. Untrained employees may unknowingly create food safety hazards.

The second violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Wiping Cloths Use Limitation (C). According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.

The third violation concerned food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C). Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The fourth violation related to hand hygiene and handwashing facilities. Inspectors documented: Using a Handwashing Sink-Operation and Maintenance (Pf). According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Fecal-oral transmission of pathogens occurs when hands are not properly washed after restroom use.

The fifth violation involved pest management. Inspectors documented: Removing Dead or Trapped Birds Insects Rodents and other Pest (C). The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Pest droppings and debris can trigger allergic reactions and asthma in sensitive individuals.

The sixth violation related to sanitization. Inspectors documented: Cleaning of Plumbing Fixtures (C). FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.

Establishments receiving violations must submit correction plans and may face additional inspections. Failure to address violations can result in fines, permit suspension, or closure.

This inspection data is provided by Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/10/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Boston Public Health Commission. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Massachusetts Food Code. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.