Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina & Restaurante Reopens After Addressing Health Violations

After a comprehensive follow-up inspection, the Hawaii Department of Health Food Safety Branch authorized the reopening of Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina & Restaurante in Kailua-Kona on August 12.

The establishment, located at 75-5725 Alii Drive, was issued a green “pass” placard, signaling compliance with health standards.

During the inspection, officials confirmed that corrective actions had been implemented to address multiple food safety violations previously identified.

On August 7, the Department of Health had issued a red “closed” placard, leading to the immediate shutdown of the restaurant due to several critical food safety infractions.

These violations included the presence of live and dead cockroaches on food-contact surfaces, in ready-to-eat foods, and within kitchen and food storage areas.

Additionally, equipment, food-contact surfaces, and utensils were found unclean to sight and touch.

Physical facilities were neither maintained nor cleaned adequately.

The handwashing sink was obstructed and lacked disposable towels.

Refrigerated foods were not properly separated and protected, posing a risk of cross-contamination.

Furthermore, no Certified Safe Food Handler was present during operations.

To rectify these issues, the Department of Health mandated several corrective actions.

All contaminated food products were to be discarded.

A professional pest control service was required, with the service report submitted to the Department.

A thorough cleaning and disinfection of all food and non-food contact surfaces were to be conducted.

Employees needed retraining on proper food storage requirements.

All handwashing stations were to be unobstructed and equipped with disposable towels.

At least one employee with a valid Safe Food Handler certificate was required to be on duty during operational hours.

Following the successful implementation of these measures, Pancho & Lefty’s Cantina & Restaurante has resumed serving the Kailua-Kona community.

The Department of Health’s Food Safety Branch continues to educate food industry workers and regulate establishments statewide to ensure the health and safety of residents and visitors.

In related news, Kailua-Kona has seen significant developments in its business landscape.

The Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay is set to open in Summer 2025 after a $30 million renovation, blending modern comfort with a 1960s Hawai‘i aesthetic in the heart of the tourist district.

Additionally, the Niumalu Marketplace has welcomed new tenants, including a United States Post Office, Safeway Fuel & Convenience Store, and several dining options, enhancing the shopping and dining experience for residents and visitors alike.

These developments reflect the dynamic growth and revitalization of Kailua-Kona’s business community.