SMOKIN JOES BBQ
4050 HWY 17 N, Bowling Green FL 33834 · 863-375-4422
Last inspected Aug 12, 2026 · 13 visits since August 2023
AUG 24
MAY 25
OCT 25
JAN 26
AUG 26
▼ IMPROVING
5 inspections, climbing. The current grade is the best on record.
Raw sewage on ground of establishment at septic tank covers behind building. While Inspecting the operator called septic service to have it pumped out. They will be by tomorrow, per conversation.
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined
Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →
Disciplinary actions
6 cases · $2,800
| Case | Violation date | Final order | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7--2026014891 | Jan 13, 2026 | Mar 25, 2026 | $200 |
| 7--2023053685 | Aug 9, 2023 | Oct 30, 2023 | $600 |
| 7--2023029223 | May 18, 2023 | Jun 28, 2023 | $400 |
| 7--2018054766 | Oct 22, 2018 | Dec 7, 2018 | $400 |
| 7--2016034877 | Jul 21, 2016 | Sep 12, 2016 | $800 |
| 7--2016001827 | Jan 11, 2016 | Feb 5, 2016 | $400 |
Inspection history
13 visits, newest first
Aug 12, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 12 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
1 High priority3 Intermediate8 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 12 findingsThe state's own report →
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed a flat of hard raw shell eggs over lettuce and tomatoes in the reach in cooler at front counter, employee moved the eggs.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths.
No soap provided at handwash sink. Observed no soap at hand washing sink in kitchen, employee replaced.
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Observed pan of sweet potato casserole in reach in cooler not labeled or date marked per owner made yesterday morning.
Show the remaining 8 findings ▾
Equipment in poor repair. Observed torn gaskets in reach in cooler and reach in freezer in kitchen and a leak in reach in cooler in kitchen.
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Observed the handle of scoop down in brown sugar in the kitchen, employee removed.
In-use utensil stored in standing water less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed utensils in standing water of 94F, employee changed water and turned up.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed microwave on shelf soiled with food debris in the kitchen.
Plumbing system in disrepair. Hand washing sink in front of kitchen not draining properly.
Single-service articles not stored inverted or protected from contamination. Observed coffee filters not covered or protected on top tea urn in kitchen.
Water draining onto floor surface. Observed employees bathroom leaking from pipe from hand washing sink.
Wiping cloth quaternary ammonium compound sanitizing solution not at proper minimum strength. Observed quat sanitizer solution at 0ppm, owner changed out the solution and new reading is at 200ppm.
Jan 28, 2026□ Call Back - CompliedComplaint Investigation
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 2 findings ▾
Equipment in poor repair. Gaskets on the reach in freezer next to the three compartment sink torn.
Water leaking from pipe and/or faucet/handle. Hot waster heater leaking in the unisex bathrooms.
Jan 28, 2026□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate1 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
Equipment in poor repair. Observed torn gaskets in the reach in freezer in the kitchen next to 3-compartment sink.
Jan 14, 2026Call Back - Extension given, pendingComplaint Investigation
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
2 High priority3 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 10 findings ▾
Drinking water not obtained from an approved source. Establishment has no running water from their well, owner stated that the well is not working. The establishment is hook up and receiving their water from their residential neighbors well.
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Spray bottles containing cleaning fluid stores next to food on a shelf in the dry storage area. Employee removed the bottles
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Can opener blade soiled. Employee removed the can opener to be sanitized.
No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/
Well water testing report/documentation is not available upon request.
Equipment in poor repair. Gaskets on the reach in freezer next to the three compartment sink torn.
Food stored on floor. Several containers of food stored on the floor in the dry storage area. Employee placed the items on a shelf.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Interior of all microwaves in the kitchen soiled.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Floors. thought out the kitchen.
Water leaking from pipe and/or faucet/handle. Hot waster heater leaking in the unisex bathrooms.
Jan 13, 2026Administrative complaint recommendedComplaint Investigation
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 10 violations recorded, 2 high priority.
2 High priority3 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 10 findings ▾
Drinking water not obtained from an approved source. Establishment has no running water from their well, owner stated that the well is not working. The establishment is hook up and receiving their water from their residential neighbors well.
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Spray bottles containing cleaning fluid stores next to food on a shelf in the dry storage area. Employee removed the bottles
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Can opener blade soiled. Employee removed the can opener to be sanitized.
No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/
Well water testing report/documentation is not available upon request.
Equipment in poor repair. Gaskets on the reach in freezer next to the three compartment sink torn.
Food stored on floor. Several containers of food stored on the floor in the dry storage area. Employee placed the items on a shelf.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Interior of all microwaves in the kitchen soiled.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Floors. thought out the kitchen.
Water leaking from pipe and/or faucet/handle. Hot waster heater leaking in the unisex bathrooms.
Oct 29, 2025Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 11 recorded, 1 high priority.
1 High priority4 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed a case of raw hard shell eggs over sliced cheese and key lime pie in the reach in cooler, owner moved to different shelve.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification. Observed no proof of certified food manager.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed no towels at the hand wash sink by the 3-compartment sink, owner replaced.
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. Printed a copy for the owner, employees signed before inspection was done.
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 J. Arango expired 6/26/2025 and J. Prine expired 6/25/2025.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed torn gaskets in the reach in freezer in the kitchen next to 3-compartment sink.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed ice buildup up in reach in freezer at front counter.
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Observed handle down in a container of flour, owner moved.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed both microwaves soiled with food debris.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Observed floors in the front area unsealed, owner stated working on getting floors replaced.
Wall not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, warewashing areas or bathroom. Observed wall at the front counter area next to reach in cooler that is not smooth or easily cleanable.
May 15, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 11 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
2 High priority0 Intermediate9 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed hard shell eggs over a jar of pickles in the reach in cooler at the counter area, employee moved.
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed a gallon of bleach next to a case of Dr Pepper soda in the dry storage area, employee removed.
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Observed a funnel with no handle in the sugar, owner removed.
Dumpster/cans/garbage disposal location improper because it is causing a nuisance or public health hazard. Observed a fire pit behind the restaurant where they are burning boxes, by a wooded area, called the Hardee Fire Department and left a message.
Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Observed an employee cup on the prep table in the kitchen was removed.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets torn on the reach in freezer in the kitchen. Observed reach in cooler out of order next to the reach in freezer.
Food stored on floor. Observed a bottle of jalapeños on the floor in front of the reach in cooler, employee put on shelve.
Hood filter missing from automatic fire suppression/exhaust system. Observed no hood filters in the kitchen over the equipment.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Observed floors in the kitchen and front area unsealed, owner stated in the process of working on the floors.
Wall not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, warewashing areas or bathroom. Observed wall behind reach in cooler at the front counter is nonabsorbent or easily cleanable.
Water leaking from pipe and/or faucet/handle. Observed water leaking from a hand washing sink in the employees bathroom.
Aug 15, 2024□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority1 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime: cutting boards on line.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Grease receptacle lid open, broken, or missing.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Operator states he is planning on closing in September and will re-seal.
Wall not smooth, nonabsorbent on line behind white stand up freezer.
Aug 14, 2024Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 16 recorded, 3 high priority.
3 High priority2 Intermediate11 Basic
Show 16 findings ▾
Dented/rusted cans present. See stop sale. One can banana pudding dented. Operator removed from service.
Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. Three small flying insects in kitchen. Operator terminated small flying insects.
Raw sewage on ground of establishment at septic tank covers behind building. While Inspecting the operator called septic service to have it pumped out. They will be by tomorrow, per conversation.
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. Provided operator with the vomiting and diarrhea clean up poster.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime: cutting boards on line.
Accumulation of dead small flying insects in dry storage. Five in dry storage. One on ice cream counter top. Operator removed.
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food in ice cream jimmies. Operator removed.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Dumpster/cans/garbage disposal location improper because it is causing a nuisance or public health hazard. Burn pit outside near creek.
Garbage on the ground and/or pad around dumpster.
Grease receptacle lid open, broken, or missing.
In-use utensil stored in standing water less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Operator removed.
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees in kitchen.
Open dumpster lid.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Operator states he is planning on closing in September and will re-seal.
Wall not smooth, nonabsorbent on line behind white stand up freezer.
Apr 1, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 4 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
0 High priority2 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 4 findings ▾
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed bucket and cleaning utensils stored in handsink at 3 Bay Area.
Packaged food not labeled as specified by law. Observed packaged pies and cookies offered for self service at front counter.
Employee eating in a food preparation or other restricted area. Observed drinks and fast food bag of food stored on table under tea brewer at kitchen. Manager removed and sanitized area.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom, Throughout kitchen. Owner states floors are scheduled to be redone.
Oct 31, 2023□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
Aug 9, 2023Call Back - Admin. complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 7 violations recorded, 2 high priority.
2 High priority1 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 7 findings ▾
Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. small reachin preptop cooler at steamtable (); potatoes salad 3lbs (59F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes 1cup (63F - Cold Holding); banana pudding 4 lbs (65F - Cold Holding); link sausage 8lbs(65F - Cold Holding); cooked BEEF 15 lbs(83F - Cooling) front display case (); ream pies 7 servings (47F - Cold Holding); key lime pies w cream topping (51F - Cold Holding) 2 door prep top cooler on wall at kitchen beside sandwich press (); cut lettuce (68F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes (67F - Cold Holding); sour cream (55F - Cold Holding); sliced cheese 4lbs (61F); shredded cheese 3 lbs (67F - Cold Holding); ham 2 lbs (62F - Cold Holding); wings2lbs (68F - Cold Holding); meatballs 2 lbs (61F - Cold Holding)
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. small reachin preptop cooler at steamtable (); potatoes salad 3lbs (59F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes 1cup (63F - Cold Holding); banana pudding 4 lbs (65F - Cold Holding); link sausage 8lbs(65F - Cold Holding); cooked BEEF 15 lbs(83F - Cooling) front display case (); ream pies 7 servings (47F - Cold Holding); key lime pies w cream topping (51F - Cold Holding) 2 door prep top cooler on wall at kitchen beside sandwich press (); cut lettuce (68F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes (67F - Cold Holding); sour cream (55F - Cold Holding); sliced cheese 4lbs (61F); shredded cheese 3 lbs (67F - Cold Holding); ham 2 lbs (62F - Cold Holding); wings2lbs (68F - Cold Holding); meatballs 2 lbs (61F - Cold Holding)
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233.
Dumpster/cans/garbage disposal location improper because it is causing a nuisance or public health hazard. Observed no dumpster available and trash is being burned outside back door.
Garbage on the ground and/or pad aroundback door and smoker area..
Plumbing system in disrepair. Observed outdoor sewage lines open and uncapped muddy sewage water in hole around piped areas leading to and before the septic tank.
Trash receptacles not provided where needed in establishment. Observed no trash can at outdoor area an trash on the ground behind establishment.
Aug 3, 2023Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 15 violations recorded, 4 high priority.
4 High priority3 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 15 findings ▾
Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Observed cooked BEEF 15 lbs(83F - Cooling) cooked and sliced, cooling from day before, not cooled to 41F within 6 hours. See stop sale
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed large pieces of raw beef and pork stored on top of and sitting in contact with bulk cheese and ready to eat ham in reach in cooler at front counter.
Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. small reachin preptop cooler at steamtable (); potatoes salad 3lbs (59F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes 1cup (63F - Cold Holding); banana pudding 4 lbs (65F - Cold Holding); link sausage 8lbs(65F - Cold Holding); cooked BEEF 15 lbs(83F - Cooling) front display case (); ream pies 7 servings (47F - Cold Holding); key lime pies w cream topping (51F - Cold Holding) 2 door prep top cooler on wall at kitchen beside sandwich press (); cut lettuce (68F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes (67F - Cold Holding); sour cream (55F - Cold Holding); sliced cheese 4lbs (61F); shredded cheese 3 lbs (67F - Cold Holding); ham 2 lbs (62F - Cold Holding); wings2lbs (68F - Cold Holding); meatballs 2 lbs (61F - Cold Holding)
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. small reachin preptop cooler at steamtable (); potatoes salad 3lbs (59F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes 1cup (63F - Cold Holding); banana pudding 4 lbs (65F - Cold Holding); link sausage 8lbs(65F - Cold Holding); cooked BEEF 15 lbs(83F - Cooling) front display case (); ream pies 7 servings (47F - Cold Holding); key lime pies w cream topping (51F - Cold Holding) 2 door prep top cooler on wall at kitchen beside sandwich press (); cut lettuce (68F - Cold Holding); cut tomatoes (67F - Cold Holding); sour cream (55F - Cold Holding); sliced cheese 4lbs (61F); shredded cheese 3 lbs (67F - Cold Holding); ham 2 lbs (62F - Cold Holding); wings2lbs (68F - Cold Holding); meatballs 2 lbs (61F - Cold Holding)
Ambient air thermometer in holding unit not accurate within plus or minus 3 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed reach in cooler thermometer reading 30F and ambient air registers at 57F.
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing at 3 bay sink area used to store sanitatizer bucket.
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233.
Dumpster/cans/garbage disposal location improper because it is causing a nuisance or public health hazard. Observed no dumpster available and trash is being burned outside back door.
Garbage on the ground and/or pad aroundback door and smoker area..
No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. Observed no thermometer in reach in cooler at prep/ sandwich press area.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed grease and old food buildup on doors and front of warmer.
Plumbing system in disrepair. Observed outdoor sewage lines open and uncapped muddy sewage water in hole around piped areas leading to and before the septic tank.
Single-service articles not stored inverted or protected from contamination.
Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner.observed 4 cases of pork slacking at room temperature. Operator removed to cooler.
Trash receptacles not provided where needed in establishment. Observed no trash can at outdoor area an trash on the ground behind establishment.
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.