CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Two Champaign restaurants were recently shut down following health inspection reports that revealed pest infestations and unsanitary conditions.
McAlister’s Deli, located at 421 Town Center Blvd., was closed by the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District on September 9 after a complaint led to the discovery of live cockroaches under kitchen equipment and numerous flies. A red “closed” placard was issued, halting all food service operations.
A follow-up inspection on September 11 revealed a live cockroach in a refrigerator door seal, several dead cockroaches behind the front counter, and fresh mouse droppings in the manager’s office. Inspectors also noted food debris on the floor, standing water under storage racks, and gaps around the building—including an opening under the back door large enough to allow rodent entry.
McAlister’s must now submit two consecutive pest control reports showing no activity and complete thorough cleaning and repairs before reopening. The business has until September 25 to address the violations.
Meanwhile, Kajiken / Kyo Matcha, located at 617 E. Green St., was closed on August 20 following a report of a cockroach infestation. Inspectors also found that a basement grease trap had overflowed into the sump pump, creating additional sanitation concerns.
On September 2, a follow-up inspection still found two live cockroaches, and the restaurant was ordered to remain closed. The next day, the business was found to have replaced the red closure placard with a maintenance sign, prompting officials to reissue the correct signage and remind the owner that inspection placards cannot be removed or altered.
After two clean pest control reports and a final inspection on September 12, Kajiken / Kyo Matcha was cleared to reopen, and a green placard was issued. The Champaign-Urbana Public Health District has not yet confirmed when McAlister’s Deli will be eligible for reopening.