Bugs and Cobwebs Found in Crossville Restaurant Kitchen During Inspection

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During a routine health inspection at Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant and Cantina in Crossville, Tennessee, the inspector found several critical violations, including a live roach crawling on a food preparation table, an employee handling food with bare hands, and a pot with bugs and cobwebs inside that was being stored as clean. The restaurant was given a 79 score, but later corrected the issues and earned a 93 on a follow-up inspection.

Why it matters

Restaurant health inspections are crucial for ensuring food safety and sanitation standards are met to protect public health. This case highlights the importance of regular, unannounced inspections to identify and address any issues that could potentially lead to foodborne illness outbreaks.

The details

The inspector observed several critical violations at Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, including a live roach on a food prep table, an employee handling food with bare hands, and a pot with bugs and cobwebs that was being stored as clean. These types of issues can pose serious risks to food safety and public health if not addressed.

• The initial inspection took place on February 5, 2026.
• The restaurant received a 79 score on the initial inspection.
• The inspector returned for a follow-up inspection, and the restaurant earned a 93 score after correcting the issues.