A Cuban restaurant located in South Florida was forced to shut down immediately after state inspectors discovered live insects crawling over food preparation surfaces, clean equipment, and areas where food is handled.
The affected establishment, Soriano Brothers Cuban Cuisine & Marketplace, situated at 18005 S. Dixie Highway in Palmetto Bay, is a popular spot for the local Cuban community. According to a report from Local 10, the restaurant was closed on January 20 after an inspection revealed 26 sanitary violations, deemed severe enough to warrant an immediate closure.
The inspection report highlighted that inspectors observed approximately 35 live flying insects moving around the front counter area, landing directly on the prep table. In the kitchen, additional insects were spotted on already cleaned equipment, demonstrating a widespread pest control issue.
Furthermore, the inspection uncovered unsanitary conditions on surfaces in direct contact with food. Specifically, the blade of a can opener was found with food residue and a mold-like substance on the prep table, which was noted as a repeat violation. Temperature control failures were also identified, with items like mozzarella cheese and pork stored above safe levels, increasing the risk of contamination as per state health standards.
Inspectors also documented a buildup of grime on kitchen equipment handles, refrigerator seals covered with debris, and clean utensils stored while still damp—a practice that promotes bacterial growth. In the dishwashing area, stagnant water was found on the floor, indicating unhygienic conditions previously noted in earlier inspections.
Staff behavior raised additional concerns. According to Local 10, one employee was seen touching their hair while preparing food without washing their hands afterward, and another was working without a beard cover, a violation that was only addressed during the inspection itself.
After undergoing thorough cleaning and passing a follow-up review, the restaurant was allowed to reopen, along with other establishments closed that same week in South Florida. However, the incident has sparked concern within the Cuban community, for whom these businesses are not merely eateries but also important cultural and familial hubs filled with identity and nostalgia.
Health and Safety Concerns in Restaurants
What led to the closure of Soriano Brothers Cuban Cuisine in Florida?
The restaurant was closed due to 26 sanitary violations, including the presence of live insects on food prep surfaces and equipment, unsanitary conditions, and improper temperature control of perishable items.
How did the restaurant address the violations to reopen?
The restaurant conducted a thorough cleaning and passed a follow-up inspection, after which it was permitted to reopen.