Rodent droppings, improper temperatures result in state closing Urban Cafe

Urban Cafe in Wilmington was temporarily closed by the health department after an inspector found rodent droppings throughout the eatery and several foods at an improper temperature, including eggs, cheese and butter.

The restaurant, at 1201 N. Market St., was closed by the health department on Feb. 12 during a routine inspection due to "imminent health hazards," the report said. Manager Mike Galli said the restaurant reopened Monday and all repairs and fixes were completed.

"Everything is 100 percent," he said. 

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During the inspection, a health inspector discovered eggs, cheese and butter at the grill area had a temperature of 55, 56 and 65 degrees, respectively, according to the inspection report. 

Droppings could be seen on the floors of the storage area, prep station, warewashing area and the bottom cabinet of the sandwich station, among other areas, the report said. 

The state official also found raw salmon above ready-to-eat foods in the sushi station refrigerator as well as an unused cigarette under a prep table, the report said.

The blade of the can opener had "encrusted debris," the inspector wrote. Debris was also seen under the microwave in the oven area. Several areas in the kitchen also needed repairs, the report said.

The inspector wrote on the Feb. 12 report that in order to reopen, the business must hire a pest service to perform treatment and clean and sanitize all contact surfaces and areas where droppings were present. 

So far this year, at least 11 food establishments have been ordered closed by the state. This includes the bar of Bowlero near Prices Corner, China Taste in Milford and Tasti Thai in New Castle. 

Customers who want to anonymously report unsanitary conditions at Delaware food establishments and restaurants can call a consumer complaint hotline at 302-744-4736. Inspectors follow up on complaints.

Contact Meredith Newman at (302) 324-2386 or mnewman@delawareonline.com and on Twitter @MereNewman.