Well-known Buckhead steakhouse fails health inspection

ATLANTA — UPDATE: Hal's has been inspected again and received a 98 score (3/10/16). The upstairs kitchen inspected on 3/8/16 recived a 100

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A well-known Buckhead steakhouse failed its most recent health inspection.

Hal’s “The Steakhouse” on Old Ivy Road received a 56U on Feb. 29.

The popular restaurant, that’s been in the area for more than 20 years, has a loyal clientele, and several customers were surprised by the score.

"I think a lot of people go there. They take clients. It's kind of well-known for business dinners and things like that. So, I’m kind of shocked,” said Angie Miller, who ate at the restaurant for Valentine’s Day.

The report says an inspector found food being stored in the same ice used for drinks, a hand sink being used as an ice bin, steaks stored at improper temperatures, slime on the inside of the ice machine, live flies in the kitchen, food items uncovered (in a walk-in cooler) and no soap or paper towels at sinks inside of the building.

When Channel 2 Action News went into the restaurant, we saw a score of 100A still posted despite the recent inspection.

The restaurant says it disagrees with the inspector’s findings.

A manager sent Channel 2 Action News a statement, saying, "Our facilities have been inspected at least annually for 25 years and we have never received an unsatisfactory score. We respectfully disagree with the results of the inspection that occurred on February 29^th, 2016 and are taking the appropriate steps to administratively appeal the report."

Customers and neighbors say they have confidence that Hal’s will fully address the concerns in the report.

Cox Media Group