Inspectors Find Persistent Cockroach Problem at Acai Cafe

Health inspectors have shut down the Sambazon Acai Café in Newport Beach twice in as many months for cockroach infestations.

The first shutdown came April 15. Inspectors with the Orange County Health Care Agency found “dead and live cockroaches of different life cycles (egg case, nymphs, adults) as well as spotting (cockroach fecal matter) were found throughout the facility.”

A return visit the next day found more cockroaches. But after a second visit April 16, the café got permission to re-open.

The insect troubles prompted a follow-up visit May 8, in which more cockroaches were found:

• At least 5 live cockroaches were found behind and under the espresso preparation station
• At least 5 dead baby cockroaches were found inside the white food utensil storage cabinet located near the cash register
• One live nymph cockroach was found on the floor beneath the FX series freezer
• One live nymph cockroach was found on the wall surface at the smoothie preparation area
• Dead cockroaches of varying life cycles (egg case, nymph, juvenile and adult) were found on the floor surface, along the wall, behind and under the dry storage shelves, under the ware wash sink and employee lockers

The eatery was allowed to reopen May 9.

--City News Service