Subway
 shop 
makes changes

HAMILTON — After an unusually high number of complaints were filed, a local sandwich shop came close to being shut down recently by the city’s health department.

Subway, 1240 Main St., came into compliance with the health department late last week, showing sufficient proof that it has addressed problems with cockroaches and other issues, said Hamilton Health Director Dr. Bill Karwisch.

Since May 2008, health inspectors responded to 10 complaints at the location — one from a previous employee — that involved bad food, unsanitary service practices and cockroaches being seen around the food preparation area, according to health records.

Karwisch said he was prepared to recommend to health commissioners that the food service license be revoked from the owner, Rakesh Patel, until an April 29 inspection report showed compliance.

An unused walk-in cooler was cleared of boxes and other storage items, cracks in the floor were filled and pesticide that kills cockroaches is being sprayed each week for the next four weeks at the location, according to records.

Karwisch said the property will be inspected again in about one month.

“There has been considerable improvement at the restaurant. I myself would feel comfortable eating there,” he said.

Patel, who also owns the Subway at 1021 High St., said the bug problem emanated from a neighboring Chinese restaurant that closed and sat vacant for several months.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2122 or rwilson@coxohio.com.