Health Department Orders Closure Of Pittsburgh Restaurant

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Allegheny County Health Department has shut down Chaai & Chaatwala, on Centre Avenue in North Oakland, for numerous food code violations.

During an Aug. 18 inspection, rodent droppings were observed on a shelf near the walk-in cooler and behind cooking equipment on a counter. A bug zapper was found on a counter behind cooking equipment.

Several items in a sandwich prep cooler were being stored at temperatures between 57 and 65 degrees. The food items must be stored at temperatures 41 degrees or colder.

The restaurant is unable to clean and sanitize dishes due to the three-compartment sink being unable to drain. Sewage was found to be pooling in an unused basement.

A handwashing sink at the front counter was blocked by cup display.

Cracked container lids were being used to cover food items. An open container of ice cream was observed in the walk-in freezer.

Food residue was found on walls in the food prep area and grease was observed on the wall behind a countertop fryer.

The eatery does not have a valid health permit.

A closure placard has been placed on the front of the restaurant. For it to reopen:

• A valid health department operating permit must be obtained.

• All coolers must be functional and capable of holding food at 41F or lower.

• The backup in the sink must be eliminated and repaired.

• All wall and ceiling surfaces cleaned to remove grease. The vent grate above the fryers must be cleaned to remove oil.

• A menu must be provided to the health department for review. An explanation of preparation and cooking methods for menu items must be provided upon request.

• Sewage in the basement must be removed and all affected surfaces must be cleaned and disinfected. The underlying issue resulting in the sewage backup must be repaired.