BOSTON, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at Cava in an inspection dated 04/14/2023.
Situated at 125 SUMMER ST, the establishment is part of Downtown's active food service sector. The Downtown area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.
The inspection identified 7 distinct violations requiring correction. Health inspectors document such issues to ensure establishments take corrective action promptly.
The first violation concerned sanitization. Inspectors documented: Food-Contact Surfaces-Cleanability (Pf). 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. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces.
The second violation concerned food equipment. Inspectors documented: (B) and (C) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (C). Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils.
The third violation related to handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Hand Drying Provision (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. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food.
The fourth violation related to handwashing procedures. Inspectors documented: Handwashing Signage (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. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands.
The fifth violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Toilet Tissue Availability (Pf). Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
The sixth violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Maintaining Premises Unnecessary Items and Litter (C). Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.
The seventh violation concerned cleaning procedures. 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.
The correction of health violations is monitored through follow-up inspections and documentation requirements. Establishments must demonstrate that they have addressed the root causes of violations, not just the immediate symptoms.
This inspection data is provided by Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/14/2023 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.
This inspection was conducted on August 21, 2025.
Boston Public Health Commission
The establishment was cited for health code violations during the inspection. See the full article for detailed violation information.
Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces. Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils. Inadequate handwashing can transmit Norovirus, Hepatitis A, and other pathogens directly to food. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands. Biofilms can form on inadequately cleaned surfaces, protecting bacteria from sanitizers.
This inspection data is sourced directly from Boston Public Health Commission. For the most current information, please visit the official health department website.
Federal Guidelines: Our reporting follows standards established by the FDA Food Code, CDC Food Safety Guidelines, and USDA Food Safety Standards.
📖 Food Safety Codes: Reference the specific regulations that govern this establishment: Massachusetts Food Code (105 CMR 590), FDA Food Code 2022
⚠️ Important Note: Restaurant conditions can change rapidly. This inspection represents a snapshot in time and may not reflect current conditions. For the most up-to-date information, consider checking recent reviews or contacting the establishment directly.
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