Green Zebra Cafe

1377 Main St, Sarasota, FL 34236
Café / Breakfast
Last inspected: Apr 16, 2026
70
Score
Medium Risk

Green Zebra Cafe has been inspected 18 times since 2022. Green Zebra Cafe was last inspected on Apr 16, 2026. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.

The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around six violations, down from roughly nine violations earlier in the record.

“No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer” comes up most often, recorded nine times in the inspection record.

Restaurants in Sarasota average 81, so Green Zebra Cafe trails the local norm. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.

18
Inspections
1
Critical latest
0
Major latest
4
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 16, 2026
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
High Priority - Employee failed to wash hands before putting on gloves to initiate a task working with food. Employee cracked raw eggs, changed their glove and handled clean equipment without washing their hands. Employee removed the equipment to be sanitized, washed their hands and changed gloves. **Corrective Action Taken**
12A-07-5
Basic - Opened employee beverage container in a cold holding unit with food to be served to customers. Employee drink stored in a reach in cooler on the cook line. Employee removed the drink. **Corrected On-Site**
12B-13-4
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee phone stored on a cutting board on the cook line. Employee removed the phone and sanitized the cutting board. **Corrected On-Site**
40-06-5
Basic - Exposed studs/joists/rafters present in food preparation or warewashing area. Exposed studs on the ceiling in the pantry/dry storage area. **Repeat Violation**
36-58-4
Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Light shield missing in the dry storage/Pantry area and the preparation area next to the cook line. **Repeat Violation**
38-07-4
70
Apr 8, 2026
Routine - Food
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exposed studs/joists/rafters present in food preparation or warewashing area. Exposed studs on the ceiling in the pantry/dry storage area. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2026-04-08: **Time Extended**
36-58-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Light shield missing in the dry storage/Pantry area and the preparation area next to the cook line. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2026-04-08: **Time Extended**
38-07-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unprotected ice machine in a customer/nonsecure area Ice machine outside the back of the establishment with no lock. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2026-04-08: **Time Extended**
08B-62-4
86
Feb 5, 2026
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 10 violations
High Priority - Employee touching ready-to-eat food with their bare hands - food was not being heated as a sole ingredient to 145 degrees F or immediately added to other ingredients to be cooked/heated to the minimum required temperature to allow bare hand contact. Establishment has no approved Alternative Operating Procedure. Employee handled cooked potatoes in hot holding with their bare hands. Employee reheated the potatoes to 150F and place them in hot holding.. **Warning**
09-01-4
High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. **Admin Complaint**
50-17-3
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pest emitting strip stored next to liquor bottles in the bar area . Manager removed the pest strip. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
41-24-4
High Priority - Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb or on fitting/splitter added to hose bibb. No vacuum breaker on the hose bib next to the handwashing sink in the dishwasher area. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
29-34-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Sandwich press on the cook line soiled. **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Menu does not identify which items contain raw or undercooked animal foods covered by the consumer advisory. Raw cold smoked salmon on the menu is not identified as a raw item. **Warning**
02B-01-5
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. No paper towels provided at the hand wash sink next to the cook line. Employee placed paper towels at the hand wash sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-02-4
Basic - Unprotected ice machine in a customer/nonsecure area Ice machine outside the back of the establishment with no lock. **Warning**
08B-62-4
Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Light shield missing in the dry storage/Pantry area and the preparation area next to the cook line. **Warning**
38-07-4
Basic - Exposed studs/joists/rafters present in food preparation or warewashing area. Exposed studs on the ceiling in the pantry/dry storage area. **Warning**
36-58-4
35
Nov 19, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb or on fitting/splitter added to hose bibb. Hose Bibb under the hand wash sink in the dishwasher area. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-11-19: **Time Extended**
29-34-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-11-19: **Time Extended**
16-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand wash sign at the hand wash sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-11-19: **Time Extended**
31B-04-4
78
Sep 18, 2025
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 11 violations
High Priority - Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb or on fitting/splitter added to hose bibb. Hose Bibb under the hand wash sink in the dishwasher area. **Warning**
29-34-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food reheated for hot holding not reaching 165 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds within 2 hours. Cooked Potatoes 9:40 (76F - Reheating) stored on the stove on the cook line. Employee stated the potatoes were placed on the stove to reheat at 7:30am. Employee discarded the potatoes. **Warning**
03E-02-5
High Priority - Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Cooked Potatoes 9:40 (76F - Reheating) stored on the stove on the cook line. Employee stated the potatoes were placed on the stove to reheat at 7:30am. Employee discarded the potatoes. **Warning**
01B-13-4
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pesticide emitting strip stored next to containers of coconut chips an pancake mix in the kitchen and next to clean pans in the dry storage area. Operator removed the strips. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
41-24-4
Intermediate - No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
53A-07-6
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. No paper towels at the hand wash sink in the bar area. Employee placed paper towels at the hand wash sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Spray bottles containing cleaning fluid not labeled. Employee labeled the bottles. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
41-17-4
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand wash sign at the hand wash sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-04-4
Basic - Opened employee beverage container in a cold holding unit with food to be served to customers. Employee drinks stored in the reach in cooler on the cook line. Employee removed the drinks. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
12B-13-4
Basic - Outdoor ice machine with no overhead protection. Ice machine outside the back exit. **Warning**
08B-61-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Warning**
16-03-4
33
Jun 12, 2025
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 6 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 13 violations
High Priority - Employee handled soiled equipment or utensils and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Employee handled dirty dishes then clean dishes without washing their hands. Employee washed their hands and rewashed the dishes. **Corrective Action Taken**
12A-13-4
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pesticide emitting strips hanging in the bar area next to bottle of liquor and in the dishwasher area next to clean pans. Employees removed the strips. **Corrected On-Site**
41-24-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw bacon stored above deli ham in the walk in cooler. Employee removed the bacon. **Corrected On-Site**
08A-05-6
Intermediate - No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
53A-07-6
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No chlorine test kit for the dish machine. No quaternary test kit for the sanitized buckets. **Repeat Violation**
16-37-1
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. No paper towels at the hand washing sink in the bar area. Employee placed paper towels at the hand washing sink. **Corrected On-Site**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
53B-01-5
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. No soap at the hand washing sink next to the right side of the cook line. Employee placed soap at the hand washing sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Fresh squeezed juice prepared in the establishment stored in the glass door reach in cooler in the front counter area with no date marks. Operator stated the juice was prepared more than 24 hours ago .Operator placed a date mark on the juice. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
02C-02-5
Basic - Silverware/utensils dried with a towel/cloth. Employee dried dished with a with a cloth towel. Employee was informed and rewashed the dishes and allowed them to air dry **Corrected On-Site**
24-17-4
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No handwashing sign at the hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation**
31B-04-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Case of oranges stored on the floor in the dry storage area. Employee placed the oranges on a shelf. **Corrected On-Site**
08B-38-4
Basic - Single-service articles improperly stored. Single service cups and lids stored on the floor in the dry storage area. Employee placed the items on a shelf. **Corrected On-Site**
25-05-4
29
May 15, 2025
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-05-15: **Admin Complaint**
53A-07-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-05-15: **Admin Complaint**
53B-01-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand washing sign at the hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-05-15: **Time Extended**
31B-04-4
78
Mar 18, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 6 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Employee cracked raw shell eggs and then handled handles on the reach in cooler without washing hands. Employee washed their hands and sanitized the handles of the reach in cooler. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
12A-27-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Emailed handouts to the operator **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
11-26-1
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
53A-07-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary test kits for the sanitizer buckets. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
16-37-1
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
53B-01-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand washing sign at the hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-03-18: **Time Extended**
31B-04-4
55
Mar 14, 2025
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 6 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 12 violations
High Priority - Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Spray bottle containing cleaning fluid stored next to bottled beverages in the bar area. Employee removed the bottle. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
41-10-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Swiss cheese (52F - Cold Holding); Turkey (51F - Cold Holding); Sausage (52F - Cold Holding); stored stacked above the fill line in pans in the top section of the roll top reach in cooler on the cook line. Employee stated the items were stored in the reach in cooler for approximately 1 hour. Employee placed the items stored above the fill line in the bottom section of the reach in cooler **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pesticide-emitting strip stored next to clean utensils in the dishwasher area. Employee removed the pest strip and sanitized the utensils **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
41-24-4
High Priority - Employee cracked raw shell eggs and then handled handles on the reach in cooler without washing hands. Employee washed their hands and sanitized the handles of the reach in cooler. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
12A-27-4
Intermediate - No certified food manager for establishment. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Warning**
53A-07-6
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary test kits for the sanitizer buckets. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
16-37-1
Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning**
53B-01-5
Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Emailed handouts to the operator **Warning**
11-26-1
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. Hand washing sinks on the left side of the cook line and the dishwasher area. Employee placed soap at the hand washing sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Fresh squeezed juice prepared in the establishment stored in the glass door reach in cooler in the front counter area with no date marks. Operator stated the juice was prepared on 3/12. Operator placed a date mark on the juice. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
02C-02-5
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand washing sign at the hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-04-4
Basic - Opened employee beverage container in a cold holding unit with food to be served to customers. Employee drinks stored in the reach in cooler on the cook line. Employee removed the drinks. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
12B-13-4
27
Jan 14, 2025
Routine - Food
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No chlorine test kit for the dish machine. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-01-14: **Time Extended**
16-37-1
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unclean building components, attachments or fixtures. Fan covers in the walk in cooler soiled. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-01-14: **Time Extended**
36-50-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. Hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-01-14: **Time Extended**
31B-04-4
82
Nov 12, 2024
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food reheated for hot holding not reaching 165 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 seconds within 2 hours. Cooked potatoes 75F stored on the stove in the cook line area. Employee stated they began reheating the potatoes at approximately 7:30. Temperature of the potatoes were taken at 9::50. Employee discarded the potatoes. **Warning**
03E-02-5
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Cooked potatoes 75F stored on the stove in the cook line area. Employee stated they began reheating the potatoes at approximately 7:30. Temperature of the potatoes were taken at 9::50. Employee discarded the potatoes. **Warning**
01B-02-5
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Raw ground beef stored over raw scallops in the reach in cooler next the cook line. Employee removed the beef. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08A-20-5
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. Raw bacon stored over unwashed produce in the reach in cooler in the store room. Employee removed the bacon. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08A-04-5
Intermediate - Menu does not identify which items contain raw or undercooked animal foods covered by the consumer advisory. Cold smoked salmon on the menu not identified as a raw product. **Warning**
02B-01-5
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No chlorine test kit for the dish machine. **Warning**
16-37-1
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. Hand washing sink in the bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-04-4
Basic - Raw fruits/vegetables not washed prior to preparation. Employee cutting unwashed romaine lettuce. Employee washed the cut and uncut lettuce. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08B-39-4
Basic - Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. Salmon and chicken thawing at room temperature in the dishwasher area. Employee placed the items in the walk in cooler. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
06-01-5
Basic - Unclean building components, attachments or fixtures. Fan covers in the walk in cooler soiled. **Warning**
36-50-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Several containers of food stored on the floor in the walk in cooler. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
35
May 28, 2024
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Elena Ianakiev 7/6/18 360 training ONLY CFM FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-05-28: **Admin Complaint**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Slicer blade soiled. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-05-28: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Faucet/handle missing at plumbing fixture. Preparation sinks next to the back exit and the dishwasher area missing faucets. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-05-28: **Time Extended**
29-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. Hand washing sink in the bar area. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-05-28: **Time Extended**
31B-04-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unprotected ice machine in a customer/nonsecure area. Ice machine stored outside the back exit of the establishment with no lock. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-05-28: **Time Extended**
08B-62-4
70
Mar 26, 2024
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Proper Hot and Cold Holding Temperatures
FL-21
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Toilet Rooms Maintained
FL-53
Wiping Cloths Properly Used and Stored
FL-41
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Equipment Adequate to Maintain Product Temperature
FL-29
37
Nov 27, 2023
Routine - Food
3 major violations.
View 3 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Elena Ianakiev 7/6/2018 360 training. No other CFM FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-27: Observed no certified manager certifications or any manager on duty during callback. **Admin Complaint**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary or chlorine test strips for the sanitizer buckets and the dishwasher. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-27: Observed no chemical test strips **Time Extended**
16-37-1
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Provided Person in charge with the handout. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: Person in charge filled out 1 form. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-27: Observed no other employee agreement **Time Extended**
11-26-1
74
Sep 26, 2023
Routine - Food
5 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 6 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Certified Food Manager or person in charge lacks knowledge of foodborne illnesses and symptoms of illness that would prevent an employee from working with food, clean equipment and utensils, and single-service items. Emailed handouts to the operator. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended**
11-07-5
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Emailed handouts to the operator. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended**
11-27-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Elena Ianakiev 7/6/2018 360 training. No other CFM FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary or chlorine test strips for the sanitizer buckets and the dishwasher. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended**
16-37-1
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Provided Person in charge with the handout. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: Person in charge filled out 1 form. **Time Extended**
11-26-1
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unclean building components, attachments or fixtures. Fan cover in the walk-in cooler soiled. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-26: **Time Extended**
36-50-4
58
Sep 22, 2023
Routine - Food
5 critical violations. 5 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 11 violations
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. All the following items were stored in the reach in cooler on the left side of the cook line. Feta cheese (52F - Cold Holding); Leafy greens (61F - Cold Holding); Tomato sauce (51F - Cold Holding); Cut tomatoes (52F - Cold Holding); Pesto sauce (51F - Cold Holding); Turkey (53F - Cold Holding); Chicken (53F - Cold Holding); Munster cheese (48F - Cold Holding); Swiss cheese (48F - Cold Holding); Hummus (47F - Cold Holding); Salmon (48F - Cold Holding). Person in charge stated all the items were stored in the reach in cooler overnight. Person in charge discarded all the items.
01B-02-5
High Priority - Raw animal food stored in top portion of make table over ready-to-eat food in bottom portion of make table - no complete physical barrier between top and bottom. Raw shell eggs stored over cooked mushrooms in the reach in cooler on the cook line. Employee removed the mushrooms.
08A-13-5
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pest strip stored in the bar area next to beverage bottles. Employee removed the strip. **Corrected On-Site**
41-24-4
High Priority - Employee handled soiled equipment or utensils and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Employee handled dirty dishes then clean dishes without washing their hands. Employee washed their hands and rewashed the dishes. **Corrected On-Site**
12A-13-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. All the following items were stored in the reach in cooler on the left side of the cook line. Feta cheese (52F - Cold Holding); Leafy greens (61F - Cold Holding); Tomato sauce (51F - Cold Holding); Cut tomatoes (52F - Cold Holding); Pesto sauce (51F - Cold Holding); Turkey (53F - Cold Holding); Chicken (53F - Cold Holding); Munster cheese (48F - Cold Holding); Swiss cheese (48F - Cold Holding); Hummus (47F - Cold Holding); Salmon (48F - Cold Holding). Person in charge stated all the items were stored in the reach in cooler overnight. Person in charge discarded all the items. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Certified Food Manager or person in charge lacks knowledge of foodborne illnesses and symptoms of illness that would prevent an employee from working with food, clean equipment and utensils, and single-service items. Emailed handouts to the operator.
11-07-5
Intermediate - Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Emailed handouts to the operator.
11-27-4
Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Elena Ianakiev 7/6/2018 360 training. No other CFM FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT. **Warning**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary or chlorine test strips for the sanitizer buckets and the dishwasher. **Repeat Violation**
16-37-1
Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Provided Person in charge with the handout.
11-26-1
Basic - Unclean building components, attachments or fixtures. Fan cover in the walk-in cooler soiled.
36-50-4
27
Nov 30, 2022
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 10 violations
High Priority - Employee touched soiled surface and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Employee handled their phone then clean utensils without washing hands. Employee washed their hands. Instructed employee and manager on proper hand washing protocol. **Corrected On-Site**
12A-29-4
Intermediate - Juice packaged in the establishment that has not been specifically processed to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the presence of pathogens not bearing a warning label. Observed in house packaged non pasteurized juice that is bottled on site and sold to customers with no warning or date labels. Manager labeled and dated the the bottles. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrected On-Site**
02D-12-1
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No quaternary test kit for sanitizer buckets.
16-37-1
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. Hand washing sink in the dishwasher area and next to the cook line. Manager placed soap at the hand washing sink. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Repeat Violation**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Spray bottles containing cleaning fluid not labeled. Operator labeled the bottles. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
41-17-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Ceiling tiles next to the ventilation hood on the cook line soiled.
36-34-5
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee phone stored on a preparation table on the cook line. Employee removed the phone. **Corrected On-Site**
40-06-5
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Floors in the dry storage room.
36-73-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Several cases of produce stored on the floor in the walk-in cooler.
08B-38-4
Basic - Raw fruits/vegetables not washed prior to preparation. Employee cutting kale before washing. Employee washed the cut and uncut kale. **Corrected On-Site**
08B-39-4
45
Jul 12, 2022
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 13 violations
High Priority - Employee touching ready-to-eat food with their bare hands - food was not being heated as a sole ingredient to 145 degrees F or immediately added to other ingredients to be cooked/heated to the minimum required temperature to allow bare hand contact. Establishment has no approved Alternative Operating Procedure. Observed employee preparing and plating a RTE veggie wrap with no gloves (direct bare hand contact with food) .Employee threw out wrap and immediately washed hands and put on gloves. **Corrective Action Taken**
09-01-4
High Priority - Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. Observed employee cracking raw shell eggs and not changing gloves and washing hands and touched clean utensils. Employee changed gloves and washed hands. Instructed employee and manager on proper hand washing protocol. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
12A-09-4
High Priority - Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Observed employee preparing and plating a RTE veggie wrap with no gloves (direct bare hand contact with food) .Employee threw out wrap and immediately washed hands and put on gloves.
01B-13-4
Intermediate - Juice packaged in the establishment that has not been specifically processed to prevent, reduce, or eliminate the presence of pathogens not bearing a warning label. Observed in house packaged non pasteurized juice that is bottled on site and sold to customers with no warning or date labels. Owner stated the juices were made on the prior day and labeled all juices with warning, date and address labels. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
02D-12-1
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. Employee provided soap at sink. **Corrected On-Site**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Observed spray bottle containing blue cleaning fluid without a label in kitchen. Employees labeled all bottles. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Corrected On-Site**
41-17-4
Basic - Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
32-12-5
Basic - Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Repeat Violation**
32-04-4
Basic - Unpackaged food in an unprotected holding unit in a customer/nonsecure area. Observed outside freezers in rear of restaurant with no operational locks. As a repeat violation the importance of following proper protocol with this violation was reinforced with the employee. **Repeat Violation**
08B-63-4
Basic - Sanitizer bucket stored with food, equipment, utensils, linens, single-service, or single-use articles. Observed sanitizer bucket on prep table next to RTE food. Employee removed and placed on lower shelf. **Corrected On-Site**
21-44-1
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. Observed both bathrooms used by employees with no hand washing signs present.
31B-04-4
Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Observed light fixture in kitchen area with no light bulb sleeves over exposed bulbs.
38-07-4
Basic - Faucet/handle missing at plumbing fixture. Observed missing faucet on utility sink in dish room.
29-09-4
33

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Green Zebra Cafe last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Green Zebra Cafe on file is from Apr 16, 2026. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Green Zebra Cafe?

Across the inspection record, “no chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Green Zebra Cafe.

How does Green Zebra Cafe compare to other restaurants in Sarasota?

Green Zebra Cafe most recently scored 70 out of 100, which is lower than the Sarasota average of 81.

Has Green Zebra Cafe's inspection record improved over time?

Yes. Recent inspections at Green Zebra Cafe have averaged around six violations per visit, down from roughly nine earlier in the record.

What does a medium risk rating mean?

A medium risk rating at Green Zebra Cafe means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.

How often is Green Zebra Cafe inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Green Zebra Cafe is inspected around five times per year on average.