Buzz’s in Pearl City shuttered due to health violations

Buzz’s Original Steak House in Pearl City remains closed as its owners seek to redress concerns raised by a recent Department of Health inspection.

Under DOH’s color-coded placard system, the restaurant, owned by Bosh Ltd., was determined to merit a red placard 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 red designation is given to food establishments that “need to be immediately closed because they pose an imminent health hazard to the community,” according to DOH.

The investigation was triggered by a June 13 complaint regarding roaches in the restaurant.

The subsequent DOH inspection found roaches present throughout the establishment, according to a food establishment inspection report filed on June 22.

“Roaches are active and walking on food-contact surfaces of equipment and utensils,” the report stated. “Roaches also observed in dining area’s furniture and carpet.”

The report noted that restaurant management was aware of the problem and that a pest-control company had visited the restaurant the day prior to the inspection. The report did not state what sort of treatment, if any, the pest-control company performed.

Inspectors recommended that the restaurant continue to work with pest-control experts and clean grease deposits.

The report also found 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, inspectors found that additional repairs were needed to address leaking pipes.

In addition, the Buzz’s location was found not to be in compliance with requirements that adequate hand-washing facilities be supplied and accessible and that food be separated and protected.

Inspectors noted a lack of disposable towels or hand-drying

devices at hand-washing stations. They also found cabbage stored directly on rusted shelves, eggs stored above and next to ready- to-eat items and cakes left uncovered — all representing risks for cross- contamination.

The restaurant will remain closed until it receives clearance to reopen during a follow-up inspection.