State shuts down Hilo eatery after multiple repeated food safety violations

A Hilo eatery was closed Friday after an inspector with the Hawai‘i Department of Health Food Safety Branch determined it was an imminent health hazard to the public because of multiple repeated food safety violations.

Hiro’s Place was issued a red “closed” placard and shut down immediately after demonstrating an inablility to maintain proper food safety procedures.

The restaurant, located in Suite 108 of the KTA Center at 50 East Pūʻainakō St., will remain closed until all deficiencies and corrective actions are addressed.

The health department inspector during inspections March 24 and 27 at Hiro’s Place observed and corrected the following violations:

• Hand sink not supplied with soap and paper towels.
• Worker handling ready-to-eat food with bare hands.
• Improper food storage in refrigerator.
• Inadequate sanitizer concentration.
• Wipe cloths not properly used or stored.
• Improper hot and cold holding temperatures.
• Drinking and eating in food preparation area.

The same violations were again observed Friday by the inspector — for a third time in the same week — and the establishment was shuttered.

Several corrective actions are required by the state Health Department before Hiro’s Place can reopen:

• Order staff to attend a state Health Department food safety class.
• Provide written policies and procedures for handwashing, cleaning and maintaining food contact surfaces and food processes.
• Deep clean and sanitize the restaurant.

Hiro’s Place also must schedule an inspection with the state Health Department before being cleared to again serve food.

Visit the Food Safety Branch website for additional information about the placard program.