SAN ANTONIO - When you walk into a restaurant you expect it to be clean. The News 4 WOAI Kitchen Cops often uncover some local eateries aren't living up to your standards.
In the last month La Cocina De Susana has had one routine inspection and three follow-ups. That is a lot for one restaurant. Most only see an inspector once, maybe twice a year. This is also the second time News 4 WOAI visited La Cocina De Susana, which is located off Zarzamora and "B" Street.
During a recent inspection, the health inspector found employees using grocery and black trash bags to store food. There was also no soap or towels at any sink in the restaurant for employees or customers to clean their hands.
All the violations added up to 48 demerits. Anything higher than 30 is considered a poor score.
Nearly eight months ago, the Mexican-food restaurant received 58 demerits on an inspection. Back then, evidence of roaches and rodents was found and the restaurant shut down to clean things up.
No one would speak with us on camera, but an employee did tell us they are continuing to work on all the problems.
La Cocina De Susana's recent follow-up inspections did note an improvement in food handling. But the inspector still had some issues with building maintenance. They are scheduled for another follow-up in four to six weeks.
Blue Plate Award
This week's Blue Plate award winner is The Fox & The Hound Pub & Grille off Vance Jackson at De Zavala on the Northwest Side.
The manager tells us keeping the restaurant clean is a key part of keeping customers happy and coming back.
"This is just a result of training your staff right and hiring the right people," says Sean Phoenix. "And keeping them around, treating them right. They'll take care of things from there."
Congratulations goes out again to Fox & Hound.
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