Myrtle Beach-area restaurant receives low score during health inspections

A Myrtle Beach-area restaurant received the lowest score during health inspections in mid April for evidence of rodents and improper food storage, according to a state report.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control conducts inspections every month and scores establishments based on their practices.

Margarita’s Mexican Restaurant, on North Kings Highway, scored a 73%, or “C,” during a routine check on April 19.

The facility lost points due to not having an employee health policy or a vomiting and diarrheal event clean up policy, according to the DHEC report. It stated inspectors found hand washing sinks without any soap or paper towels.

Inspectors found an employee not changing gloves between handling of raw chicken and vegetables and said the restaurant does not have a procedures in place for date marking foods.

There was evidence of rodents in the dish room and storage closet, according to the report.

It stated uncovered food was found in a walk-in cooler near raw meat, and some food was placed on floor of freezer and storage. The restaurant lost more points for storing a cutting board on the ground and stacking clean pans while still wet.

Inspectors also found duct tape being used to keep a microwave door shut, along with grease and debris on ground by grease container.

The report stated the building’s walls had holes in them and an excess of grease buildup.

Felipe Onate, the manager of the establishment, said they are improving the business and are actively addressing the problems listed in the inspection report.

“We are working to get a 100% during the next inspection,” he said.

The restaurant is scheduled for a follow-up inspection on April 28.

This story was originally published April 25, 2022 at 12:16 PM.