Moldy melons, apple juice, other violations cause Pho Saigon Vietnamese Noodle and Grill to fail inspection

Pho Saigon Vietnamese Noodle and Grill, 2640 E. 32nd Street, failed its Joplin Health Department inspection today, according to information posted on the department website.

The restaurant received four priority violations and six core violations.

The priority violations were for the following reasons:

-Dishes used for employee food were stored among the establishment's food equipment.

-Cut melons, whole peppers and limes and apple juice packages had mold accumulating on surfaces.

-Cut lettuce and cabbage were kept on the counter prior to serving.

-Ready-to-eat potentially hazardous food in the walk-in cooler did not have an expiration date.

Core violations were noted for the following:

-Bowl maintained in bag of rice

-Broiler grates deteriorating

-Raw lumber used for cabinets, shelves and tables in the dining area not smooth, durable or easily cleaned

-Holes present in walls in kitchen and hallway near thermostat

-Covering is missing at kitchen floor/wall junctures

-Debris accumulating in hard to reach areas around equipment and floor transitions in drink area

The following establishments passed their inspections:

 Royal Heights Elementary School, 2100 Rolla Street

Regal Northstar, 201 N. Northpark Lane

Wendy's, 701 S. Maiden Lane

Eden's Garden, 931 E. 4th Street

The Corner, 2002 S. Main, passed its reinspection.