Dean & Deluca Re-opens, Outside Cafe Still Closed

Dean & Deluca has re-opened on M Street after being closed temporarily by the DC Department of Health for eight critical and 11 non-critical health violations.

The company issued a statement Thursday afternoon just before 5 p.m.:

"Yesterday, our Georgetown store was temporarily closed, primarily due to issues in our open-air cafe that arose from major construction next door.  We have been working closely with the health department today to immediately address all areas of concern, and are pleased to report that the market has re-opened."

The DOH inspection report stated there were "live birds, rat droppings and mice droppings found inside of the cafe." And, according to the statement from Dean & Deluca the outside cafe remains closed for service because of the ongoing presence of live birds.

The ongoing major construction is a reference to the makeover at the Georgetown Park mall, directly next to the cafe and market.

The statement continued:

"While we are unable to serve food and beverages at the cafe, guests are still welcome to sit there and enjoy food bought inside the market. Additionally, we are in the process of temporarily moving the espresso bar inside, until the outdoor cafe issues are resolved. We hope to re-open with full service as soon as possible."

Not all of the issues in the DOH report were related to the outside area, however. Citations including mold in the ice machine and roaches and mice droppings around the cheese section, among other issues.

Read the full report here.

"As always, DEAN & DELUCA is committed to offering our team and guests the cleanest and most hygienic environment, and we will continue to work tirelessly to achieve the highest standards," the statement concluded.

Read More:

• Dean & Deluca Closed for 'Imminent Health Hazard'