Recent Restaurant Inspections in Escambia County: A Mixed Bag of Results
The Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation has recently conducted inspections across various restaurants in Escambia County, revealing a spectrum of compliance with health and safety standards. Over the past 30 days, a total of 81 restaurants were inspected, with 63 passing their initial evaluations and 18 failing to meet the required standards. This article delves into the highlights and lowlights of these inspections, shedding light on the state of dining establishments in the area.
Positive Outcomes: A Notable Number of Successful Inspections
Before diving into the specifics of the violations, it’s important to acknowledge the positive outcomes from these inspections. A commendable 30 restaurants in Escambia County passed their first inspections without any violations during this period. This statistic underscores the commitment of many local establishments to maintaining high standards of food safety and hygiene. For a complete list of these compliant restaurants, you can explore the state records here.
The Standouts: Restaurants with the Most Violations
As December 2025 comes to a close, three restaurants in Escambia County have drawn attention for their significant number of violations. Leading the list is Lee’s KBBQ Hot Pot, located at 6235 N Davis Hwy in Pensacola. During an inspection on December 11, the restaurant was cited for a staggering 15 violations, including two high-priority and two intermediate infractions. Fortunately, the staff was proactive in addressing the main issues on-site, allowing the restaurant to meet inspection standards the same day without requiring a follow-up visit.
Following closely is Restaurant Nola, a popular comfort food spot at 523 E Gregory Street in Pensacola. This establishment received nine violations during its December 11 inspection, with six of those being high-priority issues, including concerns related to rodent and roach infestations. A follow-up inspection the next day confirmed that while the restaurant had made progress, three high-priority issues remained unresolved.
Other Noteworthy Violations
In addition to Lee’s KBBQ Hot Pot and Restaurant Nola, several other restaurants also faced scrutiny during this inspection period:
- Chipotle Mexican Grill (5100 N 9 Ave Space E541-A, Pensacola) – 6 violations on December 27, 2024.
- 3-D Eats (3200 N Pace Blvd, Pensacola) – 6 violations on December 16, 2024.
- Wild Greg’s Saloon (22 S Palafox St, Pensacola) – 5 violations on December 13, 2024.
- Yummy (5100 N 9 Ave #G714a, Pensacola) – 5 violations on December 12, 2024.
- Kalbi Ichiban (600 W Garden St, Pensacola) – 5 violations on December 6, 2024.
- Sam’s Seafood (6209 Mobile Hwy, Pensacola) – 5 violations on December 2, 2024.
These findings highlight the ongoing challenges that some restaurants face in maintaining compliance with health regulations, particularly in a bustling county like Escambia.
The Importance of Compliance in a Growing Community
With an estimated population of 326,928 according to the United States Census Bureau’s 2023 data, Escambia County ranks as the 21st most populated county in Florida. This sizable population, coupled with a steady influx of visitors, means that dining out is a common activity for many residents. As such, the importance of restaurants adhering to health and safety standards cannot be overstated. The community relies on these establishments not only for nourishment but also for a safe dining experience.
Conclusion
The recent inspections by the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation serve as a reminder of the critical role that health and safety standards play in the restaurant industry. While many establishments in Escambia County are excelling, others must take immediate action to rectify their violations. As consumers, it is essential to stay informed about these inspections to make educated choices about where to dine. The commitment to food safety is a shared responsibility between restaurant owners and patrons, ensuring that Escambia County remains a vibrant and safe place to enjoy a meal.