ISLAND CRAVE in Manhattan, NY Failed Its Health Inspection on 02/13/25

Manhattan, NY - Health department officials identified compliance issues at ISLAND CRAVE in an inspection dated 02/13/2025.

Situated at 1 WEST 137 STREET, the establishment is part of Harlem's active food service sector. The Harlem area undergoes regular health inspections as part of the city's comprehensive food safety monitoring program.

The inspection identified 4 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 concerned thermal management. Inspectors documented: Hot TCS food item not held at or above 140 °F.. The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Time-temperature abuse allows harmful bacteria to multiply to levels that can cause illness.

The second violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Non-food contact surface or equipment made of unacceptable material, not kept clean, or not properly sealed, raised, spaced or movable to allow accessibility for cleaning on all sides, above and underneath the unit.. 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. Cross-contamination from improperly sanitized equipment is a common cause of foodborne illness.

The third violation concerned food temperatures. Inspectors documented: No hand washing facility in or adjacent to toilet room or within 25 feet of a food preparation, food service or ware washing area. Hand washing facility not accessible, obstructed or used for non-hand washing purposes. No hot and cold running water or water at inadequate pressure. No soap or acceptable hand-drying device.. The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Time-temperature abuse allows harmful bacteria to multiply to levels that can cause illness.

The fourth violation related to sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Single service article not provided. Single service article reused or not protected from contamination when transported, stored, dispensed. Drinking straws not completely enclosed in wrapper or dispensed from a sanitary device.. 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. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

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 NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The establishment had violations identified during the 02/13/2025 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the New York City Health Code. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.