by MIAMI, Fla. — Several South Florida restaurants, including one shut down for the third time this year, were ordered closed after inspectors discovered disturbing sanitary violations such as live roaches inside ovens, rodent droppings in storage areas, and even sewage backups flooding kitchen floors.
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation released reports revealing that Iron Sushi in Miami topped this week’s “Dirty Dining” list with 27 violations, followed by multiple other establishments across Broward and Miami-Dade counties.
Iron Sushi Shut Down Again After Repeat Roach Violations
Located in Downtown Dadeland at 9030 SW 72nd Place, Iron Sushi was ordered shut for the third time in 2025 after inspectors documented live and dead roaches throughout the kitchen, along with household bug spray near food prep areas and a strong odor under sinks.
According to inspection records, officials found live roaches crawling under coolers, on hot water dispensers, and near the cook line, as well as over 20 dead roaches stuck to glue traps. The report also cited the restaurant for dirty food-contact surfaces, missing floor tiles, and an employee returning from the restroom without washing hands — with no soap provided at the sink.
Records show Iron Sushi has required 10 follow-up inspections since March 2023, making it one of the most frequently cited food establishments in the area.
Rodent Droppings Found at La Santa Taqueria Biscayne
At La Santa Taqueria Biscayne on 2699 Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, inspectors documented approximately 50 rodent droppings in food storage areas and behind kitchen walls. The restaurant was ordered shut on November 4 after multiple sanitation failures, including standing water in drains, holes in walls, and employees working without hair restraints.
Additionally, health officials noted the misuse of a handwashing sink for food preparation and the absence of state-approved employee training, marking repeat violations from previous visits.
Sewage Backup and Roaches at Grace of God Restaurant
In Margate, inspectors ordered Grace of God Restaurant closed after finding live roaches, sewage water backing up through kitchen drains, and an inaccessible handwashing sink blocked by a mattress.
Officials observed brownish wastewater bubbling up from the floor drain every time the sink faucet was turned on. The report cited nine total violations, including roach activity near employee food and personal items and dead roaches under sinks and freezers.
The combination of pests and sewage contamination led authorities to immediately suspend operations until the restaurant completed a full cleanup and passed reinspection.
Roaches Inside Oven at Don Rodone Ceviche & More
In Hollywood, Don Rodone Ceviche & More, located at 3383 Sheridan Street, was shut down on November 5 after inspectors found live roaches crawling inside an oven and under cooking equipment.
The inspection noted temperature control violations, with cut tomatoes stored above 45°F, as well as dead roaches inside food prep areas and the absence of soap at the handwashing sink.
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Officials cited the restaurant for five total violations before issuing a closure order.
Chow Time Grill & Buffet Hit With 16 Violations
At Chow Time Grill & Buffet in Pembroke Pines, inspectors found roaches, flying insects, and heavy grease and mold buildup throughout the kitchen. The restaurant, located in Flamingo Market Place at 12375 Pembroke Road, was ordered closed on November 3 after a complaint-based inspection revealed 16 violations.
Officials reported live roaches crawling on ovens and prep areas, flying insects landing on food tables, and mold-like buildup on ceiling vents and tiles. Additional issues included unsafe food temperatures, improperly labeled cooked chicken, and the reuse of single-use containers for serving food.
All Restaurants Reopened After Cleanup
All of the restaurants mentioned were eventually allowed to reopen following mandated cleanups and re-inspections, according to state records.
Health authorities continue to urge restaurant owners to maintain proper pest control and sanitation standards to protect public health. Consumers can review inspection reports or file complaints through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s online database.
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