Lancaster County Restaurant Inspections: Three Kitchens Receive ‘B’ Grades in November

State health inspectors conducted 79 inspections of local dining establishments across Lancaster County in November 2025. While the majority of kitchens maintained “A” grades, three locations received “B” ratings, citing violations involving food temperature safety, pest control, and improper storage practices.

A “B” grade is typically issued when an establishment scores between 78 and 87 points on a routine inspection or fails to correct priority violations during a follow-up.

Here are the details for the three establishments that received “B” ratings during the November reporting period:

Aroma Bar and Indian Grill

• Location: 9648 Red Stone Drive, Indian Land

• Score: 82 (B)

• Inspection Date: Nov. 18, 2025

Inspectors cited Aroma Bar and Indian Grill for multiple priority violations, including raw chicken stored over cooked chicken and sauces, which was noted as a consecutive violation. The report also highlighted that food held using time as a public health control was not marked with the required time limits. Cleanliness and storage issues included raw bread dough stored on the floor, in-use utensils stored on the floor in standing water, and dust buildup on kitchen ceiling tiles and vents. Additionally, inspectors found a pesticide designed for home use in the facility. A follow-up inspection was required within 10 days.

Aroma Bar received an A grade on follow up inspection.

Brenda Kay’s Cafe, Catering

• Location: 242 N. Hampton St, Kershaw

• Score: 83 (B)

• Inspection Date: Nov. 4, 2025

Brenda Kay’s Cafe received an 83 due to several temperature control and cleanliness issues. Inspectors found sausage holding at 88°F on the stove top, while various cold foods—including lettuce, sliced tomato, and chicken wings—were holding above the required 41°F safety threshold. The report noted that dead insects and pests had not been removed from the premises. Other violations included single-service items stored on the floor, excess debris in the microwave and refrigeration units, and grease accumulation on tables. A follow-up inspection was required within 10 days.

Brenda Kay’s Cafe received an A grade on follow up inspection.

Lowes Foods #283 Deli/Sushi

• Location: 2230 Daisy Lane, Indian Land

• Score: 96 (B)

• Inspection Date: Nov. 21, 2025

While this facility received a high numerical score of 96 during a follow-up inspection, it retained a “B” grade. The report cited priority violations regarding cold holding temperatures. Items in the deli case and self-service salad bar—such as cranberry walnut chicken salad, coleslaw, and fried chicken—were found holding between 46°F and 50°F, above the safe maximum of 41°F. Additionally, inspectors noted that sheet pans and hotel pans were stacked while wet, preventing proper air-drying. A follow-up inspection was scheduled within 10 days.