Oxford kebab shop ‘unacceptably dirty’ and a rat risk

Located on one of the city’s busiest streets, Cowley Road, Kebab Kid is a popular spot for residents and students, especially at night.

Despite its popularity, the takeaway was given a shocking hygiene rating of two out of five following an inspection on Monday 18 March.

Oxford City Council’s environmental protection team noted that “major improvement” was required at the busy restaurant.

READ MORE: Pizza reopens after car crashes through shop window

Kebab Kid on Cowley Road in Oxford.Kebab Kid on Cowley Road in Oxford.

The Oxford Mail has now obtained a copy of the full report from that inspection under a Freedom of Information request.

One shocking discovery inspectors made that day was evidence of a rodent infestation at Kebab Kid.

“A gap large enough for the rodents to pass through was apparent at the top of the door to the rear of the building,” the report said.

“To reduce the risk of rodents entering the building, doors must be properly secured.

“The outside bin area was unacceptably dirty. To avoid attracting pests, the bin area must be thoroughly cleaned and the problem must not be repeated.”

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Another ongoing issue at Cowley Road was the lack of cleanliness throughout the facility, with the building described by inspectors as “unacceptably dirty”.

“The kitchen, first floor storage area and basement were unacceptably dirty and littered with excess material,” the report continued.

“There was a heavy build-up of dirt and food residue under and behind the cooking equipment.

“At high level, the hood and walls were covered in grease and grime. The hob was covered in carbonized grease and dirt.”

In addition to cleanliness issues, there were problems with broken equipment in the restaurant that inspectors were quick to point out.

READ MORE: Oxford’s Art Cafe had ‘mice and flies’ during inspection.

Customers outside Kebab Kid when it had a food hygiene rating of four out of five.Customers outside Kebab Kid when it had a food hygiene rating of four out of five. (Image: Photo: BSM employees and customers)

“The light to the basement storage was insufficient and created many shadows,” the report added.

“Sufficient lighting must be provided so that people can clearly see what they are doing and check for pests.

“The freezer light was broken. Fix or replace the light so people can clearly see what they are doing.

“The toilet hand dryer was broken. Repair or replace a hand dryer so people can dry their hands hygienically.

“Alternatively, provide a paper towel dispenser and ensure a constant supply of towels.

READ MORE: ‘Live flies’ in cooler and ‘out-of-date food served’ at zero-rated pub

Kid Kebab specializes in donner kebabs (pictured).Kid Kebab specializes in donner kebabs (pictured). (Image: NQ archive)

“One of the vertical fridges in the main kitchen is missing a panel. Replace the panel to ensure the mechanism is not damaged and to allow adequate cleaning.”

The Oxford Mail turned to Kebab Kid with a request for comments on the hygiene report.

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