The Hawai‘i Department of Health (DOH) Maui Food Safety Branch has issued a red "closed" placard to Ramen Bones, a restaurant located at 44 Ho‘okele St., Kahului. This action was taken following a routine follow-up inspection on March 17, 2025, which revealed a cockroach infestation.
Initially, during an inspection on March 13, 2025, the establishment received a yellow "conditional" placard due to the presence of some cockroaches. At that time, the restaurant was instructed to complete professional pest control treatment before the next scheduled inspection. However, by the follow-up visit, inspectors observed an increased number of cockroaches and evidence of breeding within the premises. As no pest control measures had been implemented, the DOH decided to shut down the restaurant.
To reopen, Ramen Bones must fulfill several requirements set by the DOH. These include hiring a professional pest control company to create and implement a comprehensive pest treatment and monitoring plan. The establishment is also required to clean all kitchen surfaces thoroughly and develop procedures for active managerial control over pest prevention and management.
Ramen Bones was expected to provide an update on their progress towards meeting these requirements by March 19, 2025.
The DOH Food Safety Branch is committed to safeguarding public health through educating food industry workers and regulating food establishments across Hawai‘i. They conduct regular inspections and investigate potential sources of foodborne illnesses or adulteration incidents. Their goal is to collaborate with business owners and food service employees to ensure safe food preparation practices.
For more information about the department's placarding program or current inspections, visit http://health.hawaii.gov/san/.