As we cherish the moments spent dining out and savouring Australia's diverse culinary scene, it's crucial to know if these establishments uphold the highest food safety and hygiene standards.

Unfortunately, not all restaurants meet these expectations, as a local food authority's latest report became a sobering reminder for food lovers across the state.


In a recent crackdown, the NSW Food Authority released a list of restaurants in Sydney that were fined for breaching food safety standards.

The violations listed ranged from food contamination, lack of cleanliness, and selling food past its use-by date, among others.

The list could help the public make informed decisions about dining choices across the city.


Within the last three months, about $90,000 of fines were levied against various New South Wales restaurants.

Yet, one suburb emerged as a hotspot for food safety breaches.
A chunk of restaurants based in Burwood faced some hefty fines related to food safety violations.


Eateries like Leung Kam Kee, 1915 Lanzhou Beef Noodles, D'Penyetz and D'Cendol, and Rickshaw Food were all penalised for failing to meet food safety standards.

Malaysian restaurant Pot & Sizzle received five separate infringement notices, totalling fines of approximately $5,000.

The fines were for failing cleanliness standards on food contact surfaces.

The list also revealed fast food giants that have been repeat offenders.

Despite previous warnings, Hungry Jacks in Leumeah got fined for not maintaining their food premises clean within food safety standards.

A McDonald's branch in Taree also received two fines related to cleanliness issues.


The list also included numerous upscale dining establishments.

Restaurant Toshiya, a Japanese fine dining spot, got fined for not meeting the required cleanliness standards.

Blue Monkey Thai, located in the upscale suburb of Rose Bay, was fined $1760 for two offences, which included failing pest control standards.

Hong Kong Kitchen in Chatswood also got caught for improper food storage, which could cause contamination.

True to the Bean, a café in the Blue Mountains, got fined for allowing smoking near unprotected food or working surfaces.

Yass Valley's local IGA store got fined for selling food past its use-by date.

Pepper's Pizza in Darlinghurst also faced consequences for serving food without notifying appropriate agencies.


Dozens of restaurants were also fined for lesser offences, such as failing to maintain handwashing facilities.

The list highlighted a systemic issue within the industry which should require both consumers and businesses to be more attentive to food safety practices.

It's essential to stay informed about the places you dine at and to support establishments that prioritise food safety.

For those who have concerns about a restaurant's hygiene practices, you may report them to your local food authority.

Food safety is not the restaurant's responsibility; it's a shared concern for everyone who enjoys the culinary experience.
Have you ever had a bad experience at a restaurant? How do you make sure that the places you eat in follow food safety standards? Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments below!