Reno Health Inspectors Close Westside Cafe

Officials shuttered the restaurant on October 1, 2026, following multiple food safety violations.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Nutrition

Bold vector editorial illustration of a metal thermometer and mixing bowls, evoking public health and food safety standards. — Northern Nevada Public Health inspectors closed Westside Cafe in Reno on October 1, 2026, citing critical food safety violations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Northern Nevada Public Health inspectors closed Westside Cafe in Reno on October 1, 2026, due to severe food safety violations. The restaurant has since been cleared to resume operations following an office hearing.

Why it matters

The closure stems from critical temperature control failures, as food must be stored at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below to prevent bacterial growth. Ensuring these standards are met is essential for protecting the public from foodborne illness.

Inspectors recorded shelled eggs and cheese at 46-52 degrees Fahrenheit and milk products at 50-57 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly exceeding the 41-degree safety threshold. This inspection marked a third repeat violation regarding cooling methods.

The players

Northern Nevada Public Health

This agency serves as the lead public health authority for Washoe County and oversees restaurant safety inspections.

Westside Cafe

Located at 5150 Mae Anne Ave., this establishment is a food service provider subject to local health regulations.

The details

The facility faced closure after inspectors found wastewater backing up into floor sinks and discovered mold on cut melon. Additionally, the cafe failed to maintain proper date marks on nearly all food items stored on-site.

Sept. 28-Oct. 4, 2026: Health inspectors cited violations at local restaurants.
Oct. 1, 2026: Northern Nevada Public Health closed Westside Cafe.
Fiscal year 2025: Closures accounted for less than 3% of total inspections.

Health Landscape

The closure of Westside Cafe is an outlier in the regional food landscape, as the 3% annual closure rate for Washoe County food establishments confirms that the vast majority of local venues pass their yearly inspections.

Residents should remain aware of food safety practices when dining out to understand the risks associated with improper storage temperatures. The recent reopening of the cafe indicates that officials have verified the facility now meets required health standards.

The takeaway

Maintaining food at proper temperatures is the most effective way to prevent the rapid growth of harmful bacteria. Consumers can check local health reports to make informed decisions about where they choose to dine.