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CHINA TASTE

3800 S TAMIAMI TRL STE 26A, Sarasota FL 34239

Last inspected Jul 30, 2026 · 12 visits since August 2023

Licence typeRestaurant
Seats15
Risk levelRisk Level 2
LicenceSEA6805121
Grade history
FEB 25
AUG 25
JAN 26
MAR 26
JUL 26
▲ GETTING WORSE

5 inspections trending down, 29 points off where it started.

Worst finding on record
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed license expired 12/1/25. Renew at www.myfloridalicense.com
High priority/50-17-3
Badges — none earned
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined

Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →

Disciplinary actions

1 case · $160

CaseViolation dateFinal orderAmount
7--2023068145Dec 4, 2023Jan 16, 2024$160

Inspection history

12 visits, newest first

Jul 30, 2026□ Call Back - CompliedComplaint Investigation

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 1 finding
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Interior of the microwave oven on the dry storage shelf soiled.
Intermediate/22-02-4/Warning/Return visit Jul 30, 2026 · Time Extended
Jul 29, 2026Administrative complaint recommendedComplaint Investigation

Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 9 violations recorded, 5 high priority.

5 High priority2 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 9 findings ▾
Employee cracked raw shell eggs and then handled ready-to-eat food and/or clean equipment or utensils without washing hands. Employee cracked raw shell eggs then handled clean equipment without washing their hands. Employee removed the equipment to sanitized and washed their hands.
High priority/12A-27-4/Corrective Action Taken/Warning
Employee touched soiled surface and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Employee handled their phone then clean utensils without washing their hands. Employee removed the utensils to be sanitized and washed thier hands
High priority/12A-29-4/Corrective Action Taken/Warning
Employee washed hands with no soap. Employee was informed and properly washed their hands.
High priority/12A-20-4/Corrective Action Taken/Warning
Nonfood-grade containers used for food storage - direct contact with food. Observed cooked chicken stored in cardboard boxes that once contained raw chicken on a speed rack in the kitchen. Operator was informed and discarded the chicken.
High priority/14-15-4/Repeat Violation/Admin Complaint
Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Observed cooked chicken stored in cardboard boxes that once contained raw chicken on a speed rack in the kitchen. Operator was informed and discarded the chicken.
High priority/01B-13-4/Warning
Employee washed hands in a sink other than an approved handwash sink. Employee washed their hands in a three compartment sink. Employee was informed and properly washed their hands in a hand wash sink.
Intermediate/12A-03-4/Corrective Action Taken/Warning
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Interior of the microwave oven on the dry storage shelf soiled.
Intermediate/22-02-4/Warning
Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Floors in the walk in cooler soiled.
Basic/36-73-4/Warning
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Hood filters on the cook line exhaust hood soiled. Wok stove top cooking surface soiled. All dry storage racks in the kitchen soiled. Walk in cooler shelves soiled.
Basic/23-03-4/Warning
Mar 10, 2026Administrative complaint recommendedComplaint Investigation

Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 11 violations recorded, 6 high priority.

6 High priority2 Intermediate3 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Container of medicine improperly stored. Observed advil and supplemental zinc on preparation table outside walk in cooler. Operator relocated medication.
High priority/41-07-4/Corrected On-Site
Dented/rusted cans present. See stop sale. Observed top rim dented on Fi Hood 7lb baby corn. Operator relocated can for return to vendor.
High priority/01B-01-4/Corrective Action Taken
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed egg rolls in to go bags in freezer chest.
High priority/14-31-5/Repeat Violation
Nonfood-grade containers used for food storage - direct contact with food. Observed cardboard chicken box lids used for cooked chicken.
High priority/14-15-4
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.Observed license expired 12/1/25.
High priority/50-17-3/Repeat Violation/Admin Complaint
Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit.Observed rice in warmer/cooker at 94F. Operator to reheat.
High priority/03B-01-6
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed plastic bottles in hand sink. Operator removed.
Intermediate/31A-11-4/Corrected On-Site
No soap provided at handwash sink.
Intermediate/31B-03-4
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Observed can in rice and deli container in cooked rice. Operator removed containers.
Basic/14-01-5/Corrected On-Site
Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Observed drinks on preparation table and above reach in cooler top. Operator removed.
Basic/12B-07-4/Corrected On-Site
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed grease buildup on hood filters. Observed food and debris between fryer and cooler.
Basic/23-03-4
Jan 14, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 7 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

2 High priority3 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 7 findings ▾
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed egg rolls in chest freezer in take out bags.
High priority/14-31-5/Repeat Violation
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed license expired 12/1/25. Renew at www.myfloridalicense.com
High priority/50-17-3
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing.Observed containers in hand sink on cook line. Cook removed.
Intermediate/31A-11-4/Corrected On-Site
Paper towel dispenser at handwash sink not working/unable to dispense paper towels. Observed in bathroom dispenser not working properly.
Intermediate/31B-05-4
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Observed no date marking on chicken and noodles cooked day before.
Intermediate/02C-02-5/Repeat Violation
Equipment in poor repair. Observed walk in cooler floor with approximate 6" hole and metal peeling around hole.
Basic/14-11-5/Repeat Violation
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed food debris on handles of 3 door reach in freezers.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation
Oct 14, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority1 Intermediate7 Basic
Show 8 findings ▾
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Did not observe any dates on prepared foods such as cooked chicken.
Intermediate/02C-02-5/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Observed no handle can in rice and no handle deli containers used in salt and sugar.
Basic/14-01-5/Repeat Violation/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Observed no handle can in rice. Time Extended
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Observed soiled handles on 3 door reach in freezer.
Basic/23-24-4/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Dumpster rusted out on bottom.Observed shared dumpster rusted on bottom and no drain plug.
Basic/33-12-4/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Equipment in poor repair. Observed walk in cooler floor with approximate 6" hole and metal peeling around hole.
Basic/14-11-5/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Food stored on floor.Observed bag of cornstarch and oil stored on floor in kitchen area.
Basic/08B-38-4/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Observed chicken on floor in walk in cooler and sugar on floor outside walk in cooler door. Time Extended
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed food debris in microwave.
Basic/22-08-4/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed grease buildup on hood filters. Observed soiled handles on 3 door reach in freezer. Observed food debris on side of wok station and smoker.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation/Return visit Oct 14, 2025 · Time Extended
Aug 13, 2025Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection

Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 12 recorded, 1 high priority.

1 High priority2 Intermediate9 Basic
Show 12 findings ▾
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food.Observed egg rolls in chest freezer in to go bags.
High priority/14-31-5
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Did not observe any dates on prepared foods such as cooked chicken.
Intermediate/02C-02-5
Required employee training expired for all employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233.Observed all employee training certificates expired in June 2025.
Intermediate/53B-05-5/Warning
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Observed no handle can in rice and no handle deli containers used in salt and sugar.
Basic/14-01-5/Repeat Violation
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Observed soiled handles on 3 door reach in freezer.
Basic/23-24-4
Dumpster rusted out on bottom.Observed shared dumpster rusted on bottom and no drain plug.
Basic/33-12-4
Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Observed employee drink on reach in cooler cutting board on cook line.
Basic/12B-07-4
Equipment in poor repair. Observed walk in cooler floor with approximate 6" hole and metal peeling around hole.
Basic/14-11-5
Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed.Observed grease and debris on floor under cooking equipment.
Basic/36-01-4/Repeat Violation
Food stored on floor.Observed bag of cornstarch and oil stored on floor in kitchen area.
Basic/08B-38-4
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed food debris in microwave.
Basic/22-08-4
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed grease buildup on hood filters. Observed soiled handles on 3 door reach in freezer. Observed food debris on side of wok station and smoker.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation
Apr 22, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority0 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 4 findings ▾
Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed. Observed food and grease on floor under utility sink, smoker, and wok. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-01-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Apr 22, 2025 · Time Extended
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed walk in cooler gasket soiled. Observed bakers rack and reach in cooler handles soiled. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Apr 22, 2025 · Time Extended
Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover. Observed ripped soiled foil used under tables on shelves.
Basic/14-20-4/Warning/Return visit Apr 22, 2025 · Time Extended
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed bulk food containers not labeled.
Basic/02D-01-5/Warning/Return visit Apr 22, 2025 · Time Extended
Feb 18, 2025Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection

Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 8 violations recorded, 1 high priority.

1 High priority2 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 8 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed license expired 12/1/24. Renew at www.myfloridalicense.com
High priority/50-17-3/Admin Complaint
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Did not observe any employee certificates completed.
Intermediate/53B-01-5/Warning
Paper towel dispenser at handwash sink not working/unable to dispense paper towels. Observed paper towel machine in bathroom not dispensing towels. Spoke with manager.
Intermediate/31B-05-4/Warning
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food.Observed deli containers and cans without handles used to scoop sugar, rice, and other bulk food. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/14-01-5/Repeat Violation/Warning
Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed. Observed food and grease on floor under utility sink, smoker, and wok. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-01-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed walk in cooler gasket soiled. Observed bakers rack and reach in cooler handles soiled. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover. Observed ripped soiled foil used under tables on shelves.
Basic/14-20-4/Warning
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed bulk food containers not labeled.
Basic/02D-01-5/Warning
Aug 1, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 9 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

0 High priority2 Intermediate7 Basic
Show 9 findings ▾
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed no towels at sink by front counter. Person in charge added.
Intermediate/31B-02-4/Corrected On-Site
Records/documents for required employee training do not contain all of the required information.Need dates on training certificates. Operator corrected.
Intermediate/53B-10-4
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Observed empty can in rice and deli container in cornstarch without handles.
Basic/14-01-5
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles.Observed food debris on handles of triple door upright reach in freezers.
Basic/23-24-4
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas.Observed ceiling tiles above triple sink area and dry storage area not smooth. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-37-5/Repeat Violation
Dumpster rusted out on bottom.Observed on shared dumpster without drain plug. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-12-4
Floor not cleaned when the least amount of food is exposed.Observed debris on floor behind reach in cooler and fryers.
Basic/36-01-4
Food stored on floor.Observed Potato Starch on floor in dry storage area and cornstarch bag on floor by bulk containers.
Basic/08B-38-4
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed bakers rack with soiled shelves. Observed soiled gaskets on triple door reach in cooler on cook line.
Basic/23-03-4
Feb 28, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 6 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

1 High priority0 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 6 findings ▾
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored.Observed drain cleaner next to clean pots. Operator removed.
High priority/41-10-4/Corrected On-Site
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles.Observed debris on door handles on 3 door reachin freezer near back entrance.
Basic/23-24-4
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas.Observed ceiling tiles not smooth in triple sink area. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-37-5/Repeat Violation
Dumpster rusted out on bottom.Shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-12-4/Repeat Violation
Missing drain plug at dumpster.Observed on shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-11-4/Repeat Violation
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed gasketssoiled on 3 door reachin cooler across from woks. Observed grease buildup on hood filters. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation
Oct 17, 2023Call Back - Admin. complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection

Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 5 violations recorded.

0 High priority1 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Observed Yunhui Ni expired 6/22/23 Prometric Manager and no other manager.
Intermediate/53A-03-7/Warning/Return visit Oct 17, 2023 · Observed expired certificate. Admin Complaint
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas.Observed unsmooth tiles over triple sink area. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-37-5/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Oct 17, 2023 · Time Extended
Dumpster rusted out on bottom. Observed on shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-12-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Oct 17, 2023 · Time Extended
Missing drain plug at dumpster.Observed on shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-11-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Oct 17, 2023 · Time Extended
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed grease buildup on hood filters. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Oct 17, 2023 · Observed grease buildup on hoods. Time Extended
Aug 15, 2023Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection

Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 11 violations recorded, 2 high priority.

2 High priority3 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager. Observed license expired 12/1/22. Renew at www.myfloridalicense.com
High priority/50-17-3/Repeat Violation/Admin Complaint
Wiping cloth solution exceeding the maximum concentration allowed stored in a location that could result in the cross contamination of food, equipment, utensils, linens, single-service, or single-use articles. Observed chlorine sanitizer bucket at 200 ppm. Employee corrected to 100ppm. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
High priority/41-15-5/Corrected On-Site/Repeat Violation/Warning
Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Did not observe any vomit/diarrhea cleanup plan. Printed for establishment.
Intermediate/11-27-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Observed Yunhui Ni expired 6/22/23 Prometric Manager and no other manager.
Intermediate/53A-03-7/Warning
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Did not observe any employee health reporting agreements. Printed, read, and signed by employees.
Intermediate/11-26-1/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food.Observed a deli container without handle in hot rice warmer.
Basic/14-01-5/Warning
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas.Observed unsmooth tiles over triple sink area. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/36-37-5/Repeat Violation/Warning
Dumpster rusted out on bottom. Observed on shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-12-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
In-use knife/knives stored in cracks between pieces of equipment. Observed knives between crack at triple sink and preparation table. Employee corrected by removing.
Basic/10-17-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Missing drain plug at dumpster.Observed on shared dumpster with plaza. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/33-11-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust.Observed grease buildup on hood filters. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the Manager.
Basic/23-03-4/Repeat Violation/Warning

This record follows the licence, not the owner. Restaurants change hands and the licence history normally does not, so an older entry may describe people who no longer run the place. Every inspection above links to the state's own report. Something wrong? Tell us.