POMPANO BEACH, Fla. – Ebenezer Bakery & Restaurant, located at 686 NE 33rd St. in Pompano Beach, is facing serious food safety violations following a recent inspection by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
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The March 5, 2025, inspection uncovered a series of alarming infractions, including rodent infestations, improper food storage, and a failure to maintain basic hygiene standards.
Records show evidence of a widespread rodent problem.
Live rodents were seen running throughout the food service area.
Dead and dying rodents were discovered on glue traps behind ovens and fryers.
Live roaches were spotted crawling across the bakery floor and inside refrigerators. Rodent droppings were found on kitchen floors.
Read the report:
As a result of these violations, FDACS issued Stop-Use and Stop-Sale Orders on affected areas and equipment. If the infestation is not eradicated by the next inspection, the restaurant will face further enforcement actions, including a prohibition on receiving new food items.
The inspection revealed multiple instances of food contamination and improper temperature control. Bread on racks was found with rodent chew marks and had to be voluntarily discarded. Various cooked items, including empanada filling and rice, were stored at unsafe temperatures of 57-60°F instead of below 41°F, leading to voluntary disposal. Empanadas in the hot case were held at temperatures between 114-134°F, which is below the required 135°F minimum for hot holding. Ground beef in the walk-in cooler was measured at 50°F instead of the required 41°F or below.
Improper food storage practices, such as onions and vegetables placed directly on dirty floors, further contributed to the contamination risks.
Hand hygiene and overall cleanliness were also major issues in the inspection. Employees failed to wash hands after entering the kitchen. Hand sinks were obstructed or lacked essential items like soap and hand-drying devices. The kitchen lacked a dedicated handwashing sink, which is a violation of food safety regulations. Equipment, such as a large mixer, was heavily encrusted with food debris.
Beyond the pest and sanitation issues, inspectors found additional violations. The person in charge was unable to answer basic food safety and employee health-related questions. Toxic materials, such as bleach, were improperly stored near food preparation areas. Cooling methods for perishable foods were ineffective, leading to bacterial growth risks. The establishment lacked a written procedure for handling biohazards such as vomitus or diarrhea.
Perhaps most concerning, Ebenezer Bakery & Restaurant was found to be operating without a valid food permit, which is an egregious violation of Florida food safety laws.
A follow-up inspection is required. The business must implement a comprehensive pest control plan, improve hygiene practices, and renew its food permit before reopening certain operations. Failure to comply may result in further administrative action or potential closure.