The Department of Health issued a red “closed” placard to Hiro’s Place in Hilo because of repeated food safety violations, the department said in a recent release.
The violations were observed during routine inspections conducted on March 24 and March 27, 2025. During these inspections, a DOH health inspector identified the following issues:
- The hand sink was not properly stocked with soap and paper towels
- A worker was handling ready-to-eat food with bare hands
- Improper food storage was found in the refrigerator
- The sanitizer concentration was too low
- Wipe cloths were not stored or used correctly
- Hot and cold food temperatures were not maintained
- Eating and drinking occurred in food preparation areas
Despite the initial findings, the violations were not corrected by the time of a follow-up inspection on March 28, leading the DOH to issue a red "closed" placard. The establishment is prohibited from operating until all deficiencies are corrected.
According to the DOH, "The establishment demonstrated an inability to maintain proper food safety procedures and will remain closed until all deficiencies and corrective actions are addressed."
In order to reopen, Hiro’s Place must comply with several corrective measures set forth by the DOH:
- Staff must attend a DOH-approved food safety class
- The establishment is required to submit written policies for handwashing, food cleaning, and maintaining food contact surfaces
- The eatery must undergo a deep cleaning and sanitization process
The DOH emphasized that Hiro’s Place must schedule a follow-up inspection to verify the completion of these corrective actions before resuming food service.
The Department of Health's Food Safety Branch regularly conducts health inspections at food establishments to ensure the safety and well-being of Hawaii residents and visitors. These inspections aim to identify and correct any violations that could jeopardize public health.
