(Semmes, Ala.) October 22nd--The Pantry also known as Kangaroo Express on Moffet Rroad was already on hot seat after employees were caught working without proper food handlers permit cards. The food police came back October 14th for a follow up inspection and apparently things had gone from bad to worse. In addition to the food handler permits, another disgusting discovery literally left Mobile County health inspector's screaming rats!
Mobile County Health officials say The Pantry, also known as "The Kangaroo” was hopping with rat droppings. Two days later inspectors came back and things hadn't improved. In fact, their October 16th report includes the words "rat infestation". The state considers that an imminent threat to your dining health. Inspectors had no choice but to temporarily shut’em down.
Corporate leaders in North Carolina responded by issuing this statement saying "the Moffet Road location was apart of a larger acquisition of 38 stores in the Mobile area. “Since that time we have been implementing various physical and operational improvements,” said Andrew Klein, VP of Corporate Counsel for The Pantry. Mr. Klein went on to say “we're bringing all the new stores up to our company standards and upon being notified we took immediate and appropriate steps to correct the situation.” The Pantry reopened four days later, but only after passing a re-inspection.
Other big names with low scores included Popeye’s Chicken located on Hwy 43 in Saraland. The new owners at this location have inherited a few problems including the area's lowest score. One look into the hen house and inspectors say their “bird” was cooked. Popeye’s Chicken in Saraland didn’t have a lot to crow about this week with a score as low as 73. Remember, 85 and higher is considered passing.
It’s been more like a Manic Monday for TGI-Fridays on Airport Blvd in Mobile This week, they’re serving up the Port City’s lowest health rating a below average 80.
Check out this week’s Scorecard Standouts:
Greyhound Race Track Restaurant in Theodore--- 96
Java Joe Coffee and Deli on Snow Road in Semmes—100
Silver King located in Irvington is "golden" with a score of 100.
Racks BBQ located on McKenzie Street in Foley—100
The Muffin Man located on Fairhope Avenue—100
Donna’s Grocery also located in Irvington—100.
