Colorado Springs – The El Paso County Health Department’s latest routine inspection highlighted a stark contrast among local eateries. Mici Italian, a popular Italian restaurant in downtown Colorado Springs, failed its inspection after investigators discovered missing date labels on pre‑made lasagna and other foods, as well as pizza boxes, paper towels and to‑go cups stored directly on the floor.
Specific violations at Mici Italian
Inspectors noted that employees were not using water or soap to properly clean pizza peels, merely wiping away debris. The health report also cited the lack of proper labeling, a basic requirement that helps both staff and patrons track freshness and safety.
When we spoke with the owner, he acknowledged the oversights and said corrective steps have already been taken. “The checklist which we have in all our restaurants has to be followed to a T and, the day that they came in, the team obviously didn’t follow the checklist,” he explained. He added that the restaurant has now added dates to all food items, removed to‑go containers from the floor, and retrained staff on proper sanitation procedures.
Lebowski’s Taproom earns a perfect score
In the same round of inspections, Lebowski’s Taproom on Centennial Boulevard received a perfect score, reflecting the establishment’s commitment to rigorous food‑safety standards. Co‑owner David Kowalski said the secret to their success is consistency. “If you keep up on it all the time, you don’t have to scramble,” he said, emphasizing that daily adherence to the health checklist prevents last‑minute scrambles during inspections.
Kowalski also highlighted two menu favorites – the wings and the cheesecake – and invited patrons to enjoy the venue’s regular trivia and bingo nights, underscoring that a clean kitchen can coexist with a vibrant community gathering place.
Why health inspections matter
Routine health inspections are a cornerstone of public safety, ensuring that restaurants protect families and uphold the standards that keep communities healthy. The El Paso County Health Department’s transparent reporting helps diners make informed choices and encourages local businesses to maintain high standards.
When establishments like Mici Italian respond promptly to identified issues, they demonstrate a commitment to the well‑being of their customers and the broader community. Likewise, Lebowski’s Taproom’s flawless record serves as a model for other restaurateurs seeking to earn the trust of families who value safe, clean dining environments.
Looking ahead
Consumers are encouraged to look for the KRDO13 Restaurant Roundup Awards badge, which signals that a kitchen has passed its routine health inspection with minimal violations. This visual cue helps families quickly identify establishments that meet the county’s rigorous standards.
All scores referenced in this roundup are based on routine health inspections conducted by the El Paso County Health Department. Continued vigilance by both regulators and restaurant owners will ensure that Colorado Springs remains a safe place for families to enjoy meals out.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
