A popular downtown Toronto shawarma spot, Shawarma Q, recently faced scrutiny from health inspectors, receiving eight infractions during a single visit.
Located in the bustling Financial District on Bay Street, the restaurant is known for its shawarmas, kebabs, and a unique spin on Canadian poutine, drawing a steady stream of customers.
The inspection revealed two crucial violations – failures that pose a significant risk to public health. These included a lapse in proper handwashing procedures by food handlers and inadequate protection of food from potential contamination.
Inspectors also noted five significant issues, ranging from the improper use and cleaning of utensils to a failure to adequately control pests and maintain pest control records. These details paint a picture of concerning hygiene practices.
Adding to the concerns, the restaurant was cited for not ensuring a qualified food handler or supervisor was present during all operating hours, a critical oversight for food safety.
Despite these recent findings, Shawarma Q has generally maintained a good record, passing its previous six inspections since 2024 with only minor infractions. This makes the current situation particularly noteworthy.
Meanwhile, across the city in Scarborough, T-Bones, a drive-in specializing in steaks and burgers, also received a health inspection report with seven infractions.
T-Bones’ significant violations centered around pest control record-keeping, waste management, and a lack of proper hand-drying facilities in their restrooms. These issues suggest a need for improved sanitation protocols.
Minor infractions at T-Bones included maintaining a clean food-handling room and preventing pest entry, while an additional issue arose from the absence of a displayed license during the inspection, prompting a referral to licensing authorities.
Both restaurants remain open to the public, but these inspection results serve as a stark reminder of the importance of rigorous food safety standards and the ongoing vigilance of health inspectors.
