Why a popular Lexington Chinese restaurant was shut down by health department
A popular Asian restaurant known for its authentic cuisine has been shut down temporarily by the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department.
According to the health department, Panda Cuisine at 2358 Nicholasville Rd. #115, was ordered closed on Aug 2 “largely due to evidence of rodents within the kitchen area.”
The establishment’s owner submitted an application for reinstatement on Aug. 3, and after reinspection was allowed to reopen on Monday Aug. 7, according to the health department.
The restaurant scored 69 on Aug. 2, down from a previous score of 76. The restaurant has been on the health department’s enhanced regulatory enforcement list since Aug. 18, 2021, which mean it is inspected every four months rather than every six.
According to the latest report, the inspector found insects in dry rice and rodent droppings in the dry storage area on food product and in containers holding food, among other problems.
This isn’t the first time the Chinese restaurant has been in trouble with the health department: In 2018, Panda Cuisine was cited for hanging dead ducks outside near a dumpster. Manager Ke Bao said at the time that it was “a one-time thing.” The ducks were spotted by someone passing by, who took a photo and sent it to the health department.
Diners love Panda Cuisine authentic Chinese cuisine
Despite such issues, Panda Cuisine is beloved among Lexington diners for its authentic cuisine, including Dim Sum. For major holidays such as Chinese New Year, Panda Cuisine often has a special buffet to celebrate and it’s a hub for Lexington’s Asian community.
On social media over the weekend, fans continued to rave about the food, with several saying they couldn’t wait to go back.
One commenter said: “I don’t care if they have a level 12 bio lab operating in the back. I’d still eat there. It’s that good.” “As soon as they re-open, I’ll be there with bells on,” said another.
This story was originally published August 7, 2023 at 11:03 AM.
