Restaurants in CLEWISTON, FL, US
CLEWISTON, Florida, is a small city with a rich history and a vibrant community. Founded in 1931 by the Clewiston Company, the city was initially developed to support the sugar industry. During the 1940s, Clewiston became known as the "Sweetest Town in America" due to its proximity to the U.S. Sugar Corporation's sugar cane production. Over the years, the city has witnessed significant growth, particularly after World War II, as more families moved to the area. The population has steadily increased, reaching around 7,000 residents today, with a diverse demographic that includes a mix of ethnicities and backgrounds.
Common Violations in CLEWISTON
Most frequently cited violation codes in CLEWISTON over the last 90 days.
36-34-54 locations
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance in customer area and in walk in cooler. ...
36-27-53 locations
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust at handwashing sink on line. Warning...
22-02-43 locations
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime: cutting boards on line. Repeat Violation Warning...
16-37-13 locations
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths for chlorine. **Warni...
50-09-42 locations
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. Repeat Violation...
36-01-42 locations
Basic - Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed: behind cook line, behind ice machine . Repeat Violation...
53A-05-62 locations
Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredi...
53B-14-52 locations
Intermediate - Required employee training expired for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: F...
24-18-42 locations
Basic - Utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up in storage area. Operator removed and stored correctly. Corrected On-Site **Repea...
36-24-52 locations
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall under prep sink. Operator will have maintenance repair. **Corrective Action Taken** Warning...
Latest Inspections
- BEST WESTERN OF CLEWISTON1020 W SUGARLAND HWY11/12/20251 violations
- WENDY'S800 W SUGARLAND HWY11/12/20253 violations
- SUNRISE REST AUTHENIC MEXICAN842 E SUGARLAND HWY11/5/20253 violations
- JOEY'S PIZZA CLEWISTON880 W SUGARLAND HWY11/3/20254 violations
- TAQUERIA JALAPENOS INC444 E SUGARLAND HWY11/3/202511 violations
Worst Rated in CLEWISTON
- PUNTO ROJO RESTAURANT & BAKERY728 E SUGARLAND HWY4 inspections★½☆☆☆ (1.5/5)
- SUBWAY1005 W SUGARLAND HWY1 inspection★½☆☆☆ (1.9/5)
- TAQUERIA JALAPENOS INC444 E SUGARLAND HWY4 inspections★★☆☆☆ (2.0/5)
- BEEF O BRADY'S892 W SUGARLAND HWY UNIT 99 inspections★★☆☆☆ (2.0/5)
- SUNRISE REST AUTHENIC MEXICAN842 E SUGARLAND HWY6 inspections★★☆☆☆ (2.2/5)
Best Rated in CLEWISTON
- VERO PUPUSERIA Y MAS LLC420 HOLIDAY BLVD2 inspections★★★★★ (5.0/5)
- MOMMAS BURGERS321 CENTRAL AVE2 inspections★★★★★ (5.0/5)
- THE MOORE'S SOUL FOOD420 HOLIDAY BLVD3 inspections★★★★½ (4.5/5)
- TONY CARRIBBEAN SOUL FOOD806 E. SUGARLAND HWY1 inspection★★★★½ (4.5/5)
- NEALS RESTAURANT1028 HARLEM ACADEMY AVE3 inspections★★★★☆ (4.2/5)
Geographically, Clewiston is situated on the southern shore of Lake Okeechobee, which is the largest freshwater lake in Florida and one of the largest in the United States. Its location provides not only scenic views but also a wealth of recreational opportunities, drawing visitors and residents alike. The city's commitment to agriculture, particularly sugar cane farming, has shaped its economy and culture. Notable features include its vibrant downtown area and access to outdoor activities, such as fishing and boating, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.
Food safety in Clewiston is an important aspect of the community's health standards. Currently, there are 49 restaurants and food establishments in the city, with a total of 226 health inspections recorded. In the last 90 days alone, there have been 18 violations reported, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance in food safety practices. The average food safety rating across all establishments is 3.2 out of 5, which reflects a moderate level of compliance with health regulations. This rating indicates that while many establishments maintain satisfactory safety standards, there is room for improvement.
Recent inspection trends reveal that while some establishments are performing well, others have been flagged for multiple violations. This inconsistency is not unusual in restaurant inspections, where factors such as staff training and food handling practices can significantly impact safety ratings. When compared to state averages, Clewiston's food safety ratings are on par with some nearby cities, although there are opportunities for local establishments to enhance their compliance with health codes. Notable establishments like McDonald's of Clewiston, Domino's Pizza, and Cafe Tropical have maintained decent reputations in terms of food safety, but ongoing monitoring is essential.
The local food scene in Clewiston is diverse, reflecting the tastes and preferences of its residents. The city offers a variety of restaurants, ranging from fast food chains to family-owned eateries. Popular cuisines include American, Latin, and Caribbean, showcasing the multicultural influences present in the area. Establishments like McDonald's of Clewiston and Domino's Pizza provide familiar options for quick meals, while Cafe Tropical stands out for its unique offerings that cater to both locals and visitors.
Dining trends in Clewiston have evolved over time, with an increasing demand for fresh, locally sourced ingredients and healthier menu options. Residents are becoming more health-conscious, leading to a rise in interest for restaurants that emphasize freshness and quality. Popular dining areas include the downtown district, where many eateries are concentrated, offering a lively atmosphere for dining out.
In the broader regional context, Clewiston is surrounded by several cities, including Moore Haven, Belleview, and Okeechobee. Each of these nearby cities presents its own food safety landscape and culinary offerings. For instance, Okeechobee has been noted for its focus on agricultural markets and farm-to-table dining experiences. Comparatively, food safety trends in these nearby areas often reflect similar challenges and successes as those in Clewiston, indicating a regional commitment to improving health standards in food establishments.
Regional food safety initiatives are vital in promoting good practices across multiple cities. Local health departments often collaborate to share best practices and provide training for restaurant staff. This cooperative effort not only enhances food safety across the region but also encourages a culture of accountability among food establishments.
In conclusion, the overall food safety assessment in Clewiston reveals a mixed picture. While many restaurants adhere to health regulations and provide safe dining experiences, there is a clear need for ongoing education and improvement in food handling practices. Diners in Clewiston should remain informed about inspection results and choose restaurants that prioritize food safety. As the city continues to grow and evolve, the future outlook for food safety appears promising, provided that both establishments and patrons commit to maintaining high standards in food preparation and service. By emphasizing food safety, Clewiston can continue to enhance its reputation as a safe and enjoyable dining destination for residents and visitors alike.