JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Roaches and a lack of soap and paper towels were some of the critical violations health inspectors found last week in restaurants around Northeast Florida, according to state regulators' records.
Hoot Owl Farm House
In Putnam County, an emergency closure was ordered at the Hoot Owl Farm House on Reid Street in Palatka.
The ice cream parlor has rave reviews from customers on Trip Advisor, but an inspector said six live roaches were found last week, leading to an emergency closure.
INSPECTION REPORTS: Hoot Owl Farm House
The report inspection report also stated the business was cited for an employee who failed to wash their hands before putting on gloves, which is a critical violation.
The restaurant reopened the next day after meeting inspection standards.
J-Ville Crab Shack No. 3
In Duval County, health inspectors forced the J-Ville Crab Shack No. 3 on Edgewood Avenue in Jacksonville to briefly shut down.
It's the restaurant's first closure since 2016, according to state records.
INSPECTION REPORTS: J-Ville Crab Shack No. 3
During the inspectors' visit last week, records show 15 live roaches, more than a dozen dead roaches and two flies were in the kitchen.
According to state regulators' records, the restaurant had other violations, which included missing paper towels at the sink and an employee washing his hands without any soap then drying his hands on his pants.
The restaurant is back open and in compliance.