Buzz’s restaurant in Pearl City to close permanently

Buzz’s Original Steak House in Pearl City will not reopen following a forced shutdown due to health code violations earlier this month.

Owner Bobby Lou Yeackel announced the permanent closure today, citing the advanced deterioration of its location on Kuahao Place.

“Due to the deterioration of the building, it has become difficult and impractical to continue restaurant operations at this location,” Yeackel said in a statement released this afternoon. “This led to our decision to not renew the lease which was set to expire in December. We would like to extend our thanks and gratitude to the community and to all the loyal customers we have had the privilege to serve over the past 51 years.”

The restaurant closed on June 22 after failing a Department of Health inspection.

Inspectors issued the restaurant a red placard, indicating a imminent health hazard, due to an infestation of cockroaches, inadequate plumbing, conditions that could lead to cross-contamination and a lack of necessary supplies at hand-washing sinks.

The investigation, which was triggered by a June 13 complaint regarding roaches in the restaurant, found cockroaches “active and walking on food-contact surfaces of equipment and utensils” and in the dining area.

The subsequent food establishment inspection report also stated that the restaurant’s plumbing system was not in proper condition, despite recent repairs to pipes close to the grease trap and in the bar area.

Restaurant management said leaking pipes may have resulted in moisture under the building that in turn contributed to the roach infestation.

The DOH addressed the closure in a statement released today.

“The Hawaii Department of Health consulted with the owner of the Pearl City Buzz’s Original Steak House after its most recent health inspection on June 22,” the statement read. “The Pearl City facility did not pass its inspection and because the owner decided to close the restaurant, its permit has been rescinded and the facility is no longer required to post an inspection placard. We understand the Pearl City Buzz’s Original Steak House has decided to close due to leasing issues. The Kailua Buzz’s Original Steakhouse was issued a green placard during its most recent routine inspection and its license remains in good standing.”

Five of the restaurant’s 31 employees will be transferred to the Kailua location. The rest will be paid through June 22. All will receive an additional two weeks of pay. Health benefits for eligible employees will continue through July.