🚨 Recent Restaurant Closures 🚨
Home › Berklee Noodles › Inspection

Berklee Noodles

FAIL

Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 5:50 PM

Address
173 MASSACHUSETTS AV
Fenway, MA 02115
Category
FS
Violations
27 total
⚠️ 3 critical
⚠ 8 major
Facility History
38 inspections
18 failures

Violations Cited

⚠️ CRITICAL 590.003/3-501.16-P
✓ Corrected

(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)

In kitchen area observed raw shelled eggs at 80F - discarded by PIC. Observed numerous RTE prepared vegetables stores in ambient with no cold holding.

Why This Matters

RAPID BACTERIAL GROWTH: At 50°F, E. coli doubles every 30 minutes. At 70°F, it doubles every 20 minutes. After 4 hours above 41°F, bacteria can reach dangerous levels causing severe illness. Common result: 24-72 hours of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, potential hospitalization.

Code Requirements

Immediately discard foods held above 41°F for over 4 hours. Rapidly cool foods above 41°F if less than 2 hours. Check ALL cooler temps every 2 hours with calibrated thermometer. Repair/adjust refrigeration immediately. Never store food in non-refrigerated areas.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
⚠️ CRITICAL 590.003/3-501.16-P1

(A)(1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)

In kitchen inside toaster oven observed cooked beef slices. PIC states they had been cooked at around 10:00am today. Temped at 90F. Hold all cooked foods at 135F or above.

Why This Matters

RAPID BACTERIAL GROWTH: At 50°F, E. coli doubles every 30 minutes. At 70°F, it doubles every 20 minutes. After 4 hours above 41°F, bacteria can reach dangerous levels causing severe illness. Common result: 24-72 hours of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, potential hospitalization.

Code Requirements

Immediately discard foods held above 41°F for over 4 hours. Rapidly cool foods above 41°F if less than 2 hours. Check ALL cooler temps every 2 hours with calibrated thermometer. Repair/adjust refrigeration immediately. Never store food in non-refrigerated areas.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
⚠️ CRITICAL 590.005/5-202.13-P

Backflow Prevention Air Gap (P)

At prep sink provide proper air gap.

Why This Matters

This violation directly contributes to foodborne illness risk

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.005. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.005 | FDA Code: Section 5
⚠ MAJOR 590.002(D)/2-103.11-PF

(A)-(P) Person-In-Charge-Duties (Pf)

Provide training in food protection temperatures to all employees and PIC when CFPM is not present.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.002(D). Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.002(D) | FDA Code: Section 2
⚠ MAJOR 590.002/2-103.11-PF
✓ Corrected

(O) Person in Charge-Duties (Pf)

PIC states there is no documentation for employees to verify they understand the employee illness policy. Provide method for employees to verify they understand the employee illness policy.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.002. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.002 | FDA Code: Section 2
⚠ MAJOR 590.002/2-501.11-PF
✓ Corrected

Clean-up of Vomiting and Diarrheal Events (Pf)

Vomit cleanup kit missing face shield and disposable scraper per the cleanup kit instructions included in location's vomit cleanup kit.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.002. Implement proper cleaning & sanitization procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.002 | FDA Code: Section 2
⚠ MAJOR 590.003/3-401.14-PF
✓ Corrected

Non-Continuous Cooking of Raw Animal Foods (Pf)

In standing fridges in kitchen observed partially cooked chicken wings. PIC states they parcook chicken wings to 100F then cool them. Discontiune parcooking until writen procedures are provided and approved by regulatory authority.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
⚠ MAJOR 590.003/3-501.17-PF
✓ Corrected

Ready-To-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Date Marking (Pf)

Throughout kitchen fridge units observed RTE foods in containers not date labeled held more than 24-hours per PIC. Date label all RTE foods held more than 24 hours.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper temperature control procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
⚠ MAJOR 590.004/4-302.12-PF
✓ Corrected

Food Temperature Measuring Devices (Pf)

PIC presented metal stem thermometer but was unable to confirm or able to calibrate it; another digital thermometer was located but it would not turn on. Provide accurate thin food thermometers.

Why This Matters

TEMPERATURE ABUSE: Without thermometers, 73% of foods are held at unsafe temperatures. Bacteria double every 20 minutes between 41-135°F. Undercooked ground beef (not reaching 155°F) causes E. coli outbreaks affecting hundreds.

Code Requirements

Provide calibrated probe thermometers immediately: One per cook station minimum, Range -40°F to 200°F, Accurate to ±2°F, Calibrate daily in ice water (32°F). Check temps every 2 hours for holding, always for cooking.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.004 | FDA Code: Section 4
⚠ MAJOR 590.006/6-404.11-PF
✓ Corrected

Segregation and Location-Distressed Merchandise (Pf)

In basement storage area observed expired premade soup mix and coconut water dated January 2025 and a dented sauce can. Rotate and remove all expired and damage products and foods.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper personal hygiene procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
⚠ MAJOR 590.006/6-501.111-PF

Controlling Pests (Pf)

Observed rodent droppings under seta in dining area underneath storage racks in basement. Clean and sanitize floors and shelving of droppings. Provide detailed pest control reports to damien.yee@boston.gov

Why This Matters

SEVERE CONTAMINATION: Rodent droppings carry 35+ diseases including Hantavirus (36% mortality rate), Salmonella (20% of cases from rodents), Leptospirosis (kidney/liver failure). Mice contaminate 10 times more food than they eat through urine and droppings.

Code Requirements

IMMEDIATE ACTION: Clean/sanitize all affected areas with 10% bleach solution. Discard ALL exposed food. Seal holes over 1/4 inch (mice) or 1/2 inch (rats). Remove food sources. Install bait stations. Professional extermination within 24 hours.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.003/3-302.11-C

Packaged and Unpackaged Food-Separation Packaging and Segregation (C)

In standing fridges in kitchen observed raw animal product stored directly over cooked animal product and RTE produce. Store raw animal product below RTE foods and cooked animal foods. 8/7/2025 On compliance visit observed raw chicken stored directly above and touching raw beef and fish in standing two door fridges. PIC corrected on site.

Why This Matters

DIRECT CONTAMINATION PATH: Raw chicken contains Salmonella (23% of samples) and Campylobacter (71% of samples). One drop of raw chicken juice can contaminate entire shelf below. Results in 1-3 million US illnesses annually.

Code Requirements

REORGANIZE IMMEDIATELY - Top to bottom: Ready-to-eat foods, Fish/Seafood (145°F), Whole meat/pork (145°F), Ground meat (155°F), Poultry (165°F) on bottom. Use separate coolers if needed. Cover all foods. Train all staff on proper order.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.003/3-302.12-C
✓ Corrected

Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food (C)

In kitchen observed multiple containers sauce bottles without any name labels. Provide labels for all foods removed from original containers.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.003/3-304.12-C
✓ Corrected

In-Use Utensils Between-Use Storage (C)

Observed usage of deili containers in sauce containers. Use only containers or utensils with handles and store with handle above foods.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.003/3-305.11-C

Food Storage-Preventing Contamination from the Premises (C)

Throughout kitchen observed foods stored directly on ground. Eleveate all foods and food contact items at least 6" off ground.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.003/3-305.14-C
✓ Corrected

Food Preparation (C)

Observed multiple containers of food in kitchen without coverings. Provide coverings for all foods to prevent contamination.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.003/3-501.15-C
✓ Corrected

(B) Cooling Methods (C)

PIC states that the cooked soup broth in large pot is cooled in the in-line fridge units. Provide proper cooling methods for foods as discussed.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.003 | FDA Code: Section 3
• MINOR 590.004/4-101.11-C
✓ Corrected

Characteristics-Materials for Construction and Repair (C)

Obseved usage of plastic deli containers and #10 cans for foods. Food containers must be cleanable durable. Observed used raw chicken cardboard boxes and shell egg containers used for storage. Discontinue usage of cardboard or paper for containers.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.004 | FDA Code: Section 4
• MINOR 590.004/4-601.11-C
✓ Corrected

(B) and (C) Equipment Food-Contact Surfaces Nonfood-Contact Surfaces and Utensils (C)

Interior of condiment containers in use next to cooking area have notable soils buildup. Clean and sanitize regularly.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.004 | FDA Code: Section 4
• MINOR 590.004/4-602.13-C
✓ Corrected

Nonfood Contact Surfaces (C)

Floors under equipment in kitchen fryer cabinet exterior and interior. Clean to remove grease and soils buildup. Clean soils on soup cooking range.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.004 | FDA Code: Section 4
• MINOR 590.005/5-205.15-C
✓ Corrected

System Maintained in Good Repair (C)

At three compartment sink the drain plugs do not work and they are using cloths to plug sinks. Provide proper drain plugs or repair existing ones.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.005. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.005 | FDA Code: Section 5
• MINOR 590.006/6-201.18-C

Walls and Ceilings Studs Joists and Rafters (C)

Provide enclosed ceiling in food prep area. Remove bucket hanging from HVAC duct in kitchen area.

Why This Matters

Poor facility maintenance can harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning

Code Requirements

Smooth, washable surfaces; No holes or damage; Light-colored in food areas; Clean condition

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.006/6-202.11-C

Light Bulbs Protective Shielding (C)

In basement the lightbulbs have no shieldings or coverings. Provide shielding or coverings.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.006/6-202.15-C
✓ Corrected

Outer Openings Protected (C)

Both front door and vestibule door of restaurant are propped open during investigation. Close all doors to prevent pest entry and contamination.

Why This Matters

PEST INVASION: Open doors allow entry of flies (carry 100+ pathogens), rodents (35+ diseases), and airborne contaminants. One fly can contaminate entire prep area in minutes, landing on 30+ surfaces spreading E. coli, Salmonella.

Code Requirements

Install self-closing devices on ALL exterior doors immediately. Doors must close completely within 3 seconds. No gaps over 1/4 inch. Consider air curtains for frequently used doors. Keep doors closed when not in active use.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.006/6-501.11-C
✓ Corrected

Repairing-Premises Structures Attachments and Fixtures-Methods (C)

Observed hole in stairs leading to fire escape. Repair hole.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR 590.006/6-501.114-C
✓ Corrected

Maintaining Premises Unnecessary Items and Litter (C)

In outside refuse area clean of refuse and unnecessary items; clean and sanitize area.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.006. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
• MINOR L1
✓ Corrected

Provide allergen warning on all printed menus. Provide up-to-date site cleanliness license.

Why This Matters

Violations can contribute to foodborne illness if not corrected

Code Requirements

Must comply with all applicable food code requirements

View Facility Profile →

Tags

📍 Longwood 🚇 Hynes Convention Center (Green Line) ⚠️ Rodent Activity ⚠️ Pest Control ⚠️ Temperature Control ⚠️ Food Storage ⚠️ Cross Contamination ⚠️ Floor Maintenance ⚠️ Wall and Ceiling Issues ⚠️ Surface Cleanliness ⚠️ Equipment Maintenance ⚠️ Dishwashing ⚠️ Food Labels ⚠️ Food Protection ⚠️ Plumbing Issues ⚠️ Waste Disposal
📍 Neighborhoods 🍽️ Cuisines 🚇 Transit ⚠️ Violations
Data sourced directly from Boston Inspectional Services Department