A mobile pizzeria in Tampa faced closure last week after state health inspectors discovered an infestation of more than 100 live cockroaches inside, marking one of the most severe cases in a recent surge of 14 closures across Central Florida.
Between July 13 and July 19, a total of 14 restaurants and food trucks were temporarily shut down due to issues such as pest infestations, improper food storage, and violations of food time and temperature controls. Almost all of these establishments managed to reopen after meeting health requirements.
Farandulero Pizzeria's Troubling Discovery
One of the most notable cases involved Farandulero Pizzeria, a food truck located at 9743 W. Hillsborough Ave. Inspectors noted that the live cockroaches were primarily found within the cabinet beneath the three-compartment sink, along with cockroach droppings and four eggs in the same area.
In addition to the over 100 live cockroaches, the inspection report recorded more than 20 dead cockroaches, nine live fly-like insects inside the truck, and two bags of tamales stored in non-food-grade shopping containers inside the cooler.
Impact on Local Restaurants
As of July 21, Farandulero Pizzeria remained closed, five days after the initial inspection. The source did not specify when it might reopen or if it had passed any follow-up inspections. Other establishments were able to resume operations shortly after closure.
An Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar in Tampa, where inspectors found 13 live cockroaches and five dead ones, reopened the following day. Latin Flavors Bar and Grill in Lady Lake resumed operations two days after inspectors discovered over 80 dead cockroaches, eight live ones, and an egg capsule.
The list of affected establishments also included 2 Hermanos Tacos & Burrito in Altamonte Springs, with more than 20 live cockroaches, and Colorado’s Prime Steak in Sanford, where 17 live cockroaches were found and the business was operating with an expired license. Both met the necessary standards a few days later.
Frequent Pest Infestations in Florida
Closures due to pest infestations are not uncommon in Florida. Earlier this year, Soriano Brothers Cuban Cuisine in Palmetto Bay was shut down for 26 health violations, including live insects in food preparation areas. In May 2025, Tehillah Garden Restaurant in Pembroke Pines was closed after more than 90 cockroaches were found in its kitchen.
Understanding Restaurant Closures in Florida
What led to the closure of Farandulero Pizzeria in Tampa?
Farandulero Pizzeria in Tampa was closed after health inspectors discovered an infestation of over 100 live cockroaches, along with droppings and eggs, in the food truck.
Are pest infestations common in Florida restaurants?
Yes, pest infestations are a recurring issue in Florida restaurants. Several establishments face temporary closures annually due to health violations related to pests.
How do restaurants in Florida reopen after being closed for health violations?
Restaurants must address the identified health violations, including eliminating pest infestations, and pass a follow-up inspection to meet health standards before reopening.