The Pearl Seafood Grill & Raw Bar in DORCHESTER, MA Failed Its Health Inspection on 08/12/25

DORCHESTER, MA - Health inspectors documented violations at The Pearl Seafood Grill & Raw Bar during a routine inspection conducted on 08/12/2025.

Located at 20 DISTRICT AV in the Dorchester area, the establishment serves the local community. The Dorchester neighborhood maintains numerous food service establishments that undergo regular health monitoring.

The inspection identified 6 distinct violations requiring correction. Each violation has established correction procedures that must be followed to achieve compliance.

The first violation concerned food temperatures. Inspectors documented: (A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P). 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. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating.

The second violation involved food equipment. Inspectors documented: Good Repair and Proper Adjustment-Equipment (C). Improper equipment can cause physical contamination of food.

The third violation involved 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. The CDC identifies poor hand hygiene as a leading contributor to foodborne illness outbreaks.

The fourth violation related to pest management. Inspectors documented: Controlling Pests (Pf). 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. Rodents can transmit Salmonella, Hantavirus, and other serious pathogens through their droppings and urine.

The fifth violation involved sanitation and cleanliness. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Frequency and Restrictions (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. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces.

The sixth violation involved cleaning procedures. Inspectors documented: Cleaning Frequency and Restrictions (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. 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 Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 08/12/2025 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.