Popeye's

301 E Lamar St, Americus, GA 31709
American
License: Food Service
Last inspected: Apr 7, 2026
45
Score
High Risk

The health department has logged five inspections at Popeye's, the earliest from 2024. The latest inspection on file is from Apr 7, 2026. High risk indicates the latest inspection turned up problems worth knowing about.

The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around 12 violations each, up from closer to four violations before.

The most common issue across all inspections has been “food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable”, showing up four times.

Compared to other Americus restaurants (averaging 90), there's room to close the gap. The pattern in the record is worth a careful look.

5
Inspections
0
Critical latest
4
Major latest
8
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 7, 2026
Routine
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
2-2A - management knowledge, responsibilities, reporting
Inspector notes: Observed no written electronic or verbal employee health policy. Explaining the responsibility of the person in charge for preventing the transmission of foodborne disease by a food employee who has a disease or medical condition that may cause foodborne disease Describing the symptoms associated with the diseases that are transmissible through food
511-6-1.03(2)(o)
16A - hot and cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: Observed the facility did not have access to hot water at the time of inspection. The water source and system shall be of sufficient capacity to meet the peak water demands of the food service establishment. Pf 2. Hot water generation and distribution systems shall be sufficient to meet the peak hot water demands throughout the food service establishment. Pf (h) Pressure. Water under pressure shall be provided to all fixtures, equipment, and nonfood equipment that are required to use water except that water supplied as specified under subsection (1)(k)1 and 2 to a temporary food service operation or in response to a temporary interruption of a water supply need not be under pressure. Pf
511-6-1.06(1)(g)
2-2D - adequate handwashing facilities supplied & accessible
Inspector notes: Observed handwashing sinks turned off or not operable at the time of inspection. Using a Handwashing Sink. 1. A handwashing sink shall be maintained so that it is accessible at all times for employee use. Pf 2. A handwashing facility may not be used for purposes other than handwashing. Pf 3. An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Pf
511-6-1.06(2)(o)
1-2A - pic present, demonstrates knowledge, performs duties
Inspector notes: Observed sewage was backing up out of all floor drains in the facility. PIC did not immediately discontinue operations after 2 our more hours or contact the health authority prior to the incident occurring. No preapproved Emergency Operations plan was available by the establishment. Imminent Health Hazard. If an imminent health hazard exists because of an emergency such as a fire, flood, interruption of electrical or water service for two or more hours, sewage malfunction, misuse of poisonous or toxic materials, onset of an apparent foodborne illness outbreak, gross unsanitary occurrence or condition, or other circumstances that may endanger public health, then operations are immediately discontinued and the Health Authority is notified. P However, establishments may continue to operate...
511-6-1.03(2)(a)
14A - in-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed in use utensil for the steam line sitting in stagnant water below the 135 degree minimum and observed a scoop handle laying directly in the cole slaw within the walk-in cooler. Storage of In-Use Utensils. During pauses in food preparation or dispensing, food preparation and dispensing utensils shall be stored: 1.Except as specified under paragraph 2 of this subsection, in the food with their handles above the top of the food and the container; 2.In food that is not time/temperature control for safety food with their handles above the top of the food within containers or equipment that can be closed, such as bins of sugar, flour, or cinnamon; 3.On a clean portion of the food preparation table or cooking equipment only if the in-use utensil and the food-contact surface of the foo...
511-6-1.04(4)(k)
15B - warewashing facilities: installed, maintained, used; test strips
Inspector notes: Warewashing area was not self draining due to drainage failure throughtout the facility. Warewashing Machines, Flow Pressure Device. 1. Warewashing machines that provide a fresh hot water sanitizing rinse shall be equipped with a pressure gauge or similar device such as a transducer that measures and displays the water pressure in the supply line immediately before entering the warewashing machine; and 2. If the flow pressure measuring device is upstream of the fresh hot water sanitizing rinse control valve, the device shall be mounted in a 6.4 millimeter or one-fourth inch Iron Pipe Size (IPS) valve. 3. The requirements in paragraphs 1 and 2 of this subsection do not apply to a machine that uses only a pumped or recirculated sanitizing rinse. (ee) Warewashing Sinks and Drainboards, Sel...
511-6-1.05(2)(dd)
15C - nonfood-contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Observed build-up of debris on multiple nonfood-contact surfaces throughout the facility and on the outside of the equipment. Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues. PIC had food employee clean the items.
511-6-1.05(7)(a)
16B - plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: Entire building plumbing system was not in good repair. All floor drains were sending sewer water back up the drains and onto the floor. System Maintained in Good Repair. A plumbing system shall be repaired according to law; P and maintained in good repair.
511-6-1.06(2)(r)
16C - sewage and waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: Observed sewer grey water backflowing back into the facility Grease Trap. If used, a grease trap shall be located to be easily accessible for cleaning. (e) Conveying Sewage. Sewage shall be conveyed to the point of disposal through an approved sanitary sewage system or other system, including use of sewage transport vehicles, waste retention tanks, pumps, pipes, hoses, and connections that are constructed, maintained, and operated according to law. P
511-6-1.06(4)(d)
17A - toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, cleaned
Inspector notes: Both bathrooms were out of order at the time of inspection. Employees had to travel across the street to use the restroom facilities of another business. Location and Placement. (a) Toilet Rooms Convenience and Accessibility. Toilet rooms shall be conveniently located and accessible to employees during all hours of operation.
511-6-1.07(4)(a)
17B - garbage/refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: Outdoor dumpster area had high levels of trash buildup on the ground. Using Drain Plugs. Drains in receptacles and waste handling units for refuse, recyclables, and returnables shall have drain plugs in place. (p) Maintaining Refuse Areas and Enclosures. A storage area and enclosure for refuse, recyclables, or returnables shall be maintained free of unnecessary items and clean.
511-6-1.06(5)(o)
17C - physical facilities installed, maintained, and clean
Inspector notes: Grey sewer water covers the floor throughout the facility. Excess grease in the fryer area was being stored in one of the fryers as the outdoor grease dump unit was unable to hold additional grease. Maintenance and Operation. (a) Good Repair. All physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair. (b) Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions. 1. The physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and by methods that prevent contamination of food products. 2. Except for cleaning that is necessary due to a spill or other accident, cleaning shall be done during periods when the least amount of food is exposed, such as after closing. 3. If present, playground equipment and associated areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. In addition, a cl...
511-6-1.07(5)(a)
45
Oct 3, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation. 1 corrected on site.
View 1 violation
12B - personal cleanliness (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed employee actively cooking and handling TCS foods with no hair restraint. Employee put on a hair net after being advised to do so. Employees preparing or handling food shall use effective and clean, disposable or easily
95
Mar 28, 2025
Followup
2 major violations. 5 minor violations. 5 corrected on site.
View 7 violations
4-2B - food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed the ice chute of the ice machine in the main kitchen with residue build-up on it. Equipment food-contact surfaces and utensils shall be cleaned: Except when dry cleaning methods are used as specified under subsection (7)(e) of this Rule, surfaces of utensils and equipment contacting food that is not time/temperature control for safety food shall be cleaned: (i) At any time when contamination may have occurred; (ii) At least every 24 hours for iced tea dispensers including nozzles and consumer self-service utensils such as tongs, scoops, or ladles; (iii) Before restocking consumer self-service equipment and utensils such as condiment dispensers and display containers; and (iv) In equipment such as ice bins and beverage dispensing nozzles and enclosed components of equipment such...
511-6-1.05(7)(b)
2-2E - response procedures for vomiting & diarrheal events (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed facility without cleanup procedures for vomit and fecal events. A food establishment shall have written procedures for employees to follow and an EPA registered disinfectant effective against Norovirus available on-site at the food service establishment when responding to vomiting or diarrheal events that involve the discharge of vomitus or fecal matter onto surfaces in the food service establishment. The procedures shall address the specific actions employees must take to minimize the spread of contamination and the exposure of employees, consumers, food, and surfaces to vomitus or fecal matter. The PIC was given a example/copy of the cleanup procedures.
511-6-1.03(6)
17C - physical facilities installed, maintained, and clean
Inspector notes: Observed the buildup of accumulated debris on the floors in the walk-in freezer area. The physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and by methods that prevent contamination of food products. Must correct within 72 hours.
511-6-1.07(5)(a)
4-2A - food stored covered (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed macaroni and cheese in the warmer cabinet not covered or without a lid at the time of the inspection. xcept as specified under paragraph 2. of this subsection and when cooling as specified in DPH Rule 511-6-1-.04(6)(e)2.(ii), storing the food in packages, covered containers, or wrappings, except for loosely covered or uncovered containers in which food is being cooled if protected from overhead contamination. PIC had food employee cover items.
511-6-1.04(4)(c)
14C - single-use/single-service articles: properly stored, used
Inspector notes: Observed single-use cups being used as drain stoppers in the 3-compartment sink. Single-service and single-use articles may not be reused. Single-service and single-use articles may not be reused. Must correct within 72 hours.
511-6-1.05(6)(r)
15A - food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed, and used (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed 3 compartment sink unable to hold water or sanitizing solution at the time of inspection. Observed facility utilizing single-use bowls as drain stoppers to keep the water from draining. Equipment shall be maintained in a state of repair and condition that meets the requirements specified under subsections (1) and (2)of this Rule. 2. Equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 3. Cutting or piercing parts of can openers shall be kept sharp to minimize the creation of metal fragments that can contaminate food when the container is opened. Must correct within 72 hours.
511-6-1.05(6)(a)
15C - nonfood-contact surfaces clean (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed build-up of debris on multiple nonfood-contact surfaces throughout the facility and on the outside of the equipment. Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues. PIC had food employee clean the items.
511-6-1.05(7)(d)
64
Mar 18, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 5 major violations. 11 minor violations. 3 corrected on site.
View 17 violations
6-1A - proper cold holding temperatures (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed TCS items in the walk in cooler at temperatures above 41 degrees. (Rice and Cole Slaw) Items were discarded by the PIC.
1-2B - certified food protection manager
Inspector notes: Observed no CSFM Documentation posted at the time of inspection. The original CFSM certificate shall be posted in public view in each food service establishment. An additional copy shall be retained on file at the food service establishment at all times, and shall be made available for inspection by the Health Authority.
511-6-1.03(3)(c)
2-2A - management knowledge, responsibilities, reporting
Inspector notes: Observed no written electronic or verbal employee health policy. Explaining the responsibility of the person in charge for preventing the transmission of foodborne disease by a food employee who has a disease or medical condition that may cause foodborne disease Describing the symptoms associated with the diseases that are transmissible through food
511-6-1.03(1)(c)
2-2D - adequate handwashing facilities supplied & accessible
Inspector notes: Observed handwashing sinks turned off or not operable at the time of inspection. Using a Handwashing Sink. 1. A handwashing sink shall be maintained so that it is accessible at all times for employee use. Pf 2. A handwashing facility may not be used for purposes other than handwashing. Pf 3. An automatic handwashing facility shall be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Pf
511-6-1.06(2)(o)
15B - warewashing facilities: installed, maintained, used; test strips
Inspector notes: Observed no sanitizer test strips at the time of inspection. Sanitizing Solutions, Testing Devices. A test kit or other device that accurately measures the concentration in mg/L of sanitizing solutions shall be provided. Pf
511-6-1.05(3)(h)
2-2E - response procedures for vomiting & diarrheal events
Inspector notes: Observed no vomit or fecal event response procedure. Responding To Contamination Events. A food establishment shall have written procedures for employees to follow and an EPA registered disinfectant effective against Norovirus available on-site at the food service establishment when responding to vomiting or diarrheal events that involve the discharge of vomitus or fecal matter onto surfaces in the food service establishment. The procedures shall address the specific actions employees must take to minimize the spread of contamination and the exposure of employees, consumers, food, and surfaces to vomitus or fecal matter.Pf
511-6-1.03(6)
4-2A - food stored covered
Inspector notes: Observed TCS stored uncovered in ice bath and in reach in cooler items were not sealed properly at the time of inspection. Except as specified under paragraph 2. of this subsection and when cooling as specified in DPH Rule 511-6-1-.04(6)(e)2.(ii), storing the food in packages, covered containers, or wrappings, except for loosely covered or uncovered containers in which food is being cooled if protected from overhead contamination;
511-6-1.04(4)(c)
12B - personal cleanliness (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed employee actively cooking and handling TCS foods with no hair restraint. Employee put on a hair net after being advised to do so. Employees preparing or handling food shall use effective and clean, disposable or easily cleanable nets or other hair restraints approved by the Health Authority, worn properly to restrain loose hair including beards and mustaches longer than one half inch.
511-6-1.03(5)(j)
13A - posted: permit/inspection/choking poster/handwashing
Inspector notes: Observed that the previous inspection report was not posted anywhere in the facility. 1. The most current inspection report shall be prominently displayed in public view at all times, within fifteen feet of the front or primary public door and between five feet and seven feet from the floor and in an area where it can be read at a distance of one foot away. 2. Food service establishments with drive-thru windows will post the current inspection report, and also have the inspection report posted so that a minimum of the top one-third of a copy of the current inspection report is visible through each window allowing customers to easily read the score, date of inspection and establishment information. 3. At food service establishments with no primary or public door, the current inspection r...
511-6-1.02(1)(d)
13A - posted: permit/inspection/choking poster/handwashing
Inspector notes: Observed that the Food Service Permit was no posted at the time of inspection. Post the permit in a location in the food service establishment that is conspicuous to consumers
511-6-1.02(1)(f)(1)
13A - posted: permit/inspection/choking poster/handwashing
Inspector notes: Observed no hand washing signage at the time of inspection. Handwashing Signage. A sign or poster that notifies food employees to wash their hands shall be provided at all handwashing sinks used by food employees and shall be clearly visible to food employees.
511-6-1.07(3)(d)
14A - in-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed in use utensil for the steam line sitting in stagnant water below the 135 degree minimum and observed a scoop handle laying directly in the cole slaw within the walk-in cooler. Storage of In-Use Utensils. During pauses in food preparation or dispensing, food preparation and dispensing utensils shall be stored: 1.Except as specified under paragraph 2 of this subsection, in the food with their handles above the top of the food and the container; 2.In food that is not time/temperature control for safety food with their handles above the top of the food within containers or equipment that can be closed, such as bins of sugar, flour, or cinnamon; 3.On a clean portion of the food preparation table or cooking equipment only if the in-use utensil and the food-contact surface of the foo...
511-6-1.04(4)(k)
14C - single-use/single-service articles: properly stored, used
Inspector notes: Observed single-use cups being used as drain stoppers. Single-service and single-use articles may not be reused.
511-6-1.05(6)(r)
15A - food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed, and used
Inspector notes: Observed 3 compartment sink unable to hold water or sanitizing solution at the time of inspection. Maintenance and Operation. (a) Good Repair and Proper Adjustment. 1. Equipment shall be maintained in a state of repair and condition that meets the requirements specified under subsections (1) and (2)of this Rule. 2. Equipment components such as doors, seals, hinges, fasteners, and kick plates shall be kept intact, tight, and adjusted in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. 3. Cutting or piercing parts of can openers shall be kept sharp to minimize the creation of metal fragments that can contaminate food when the container is opened.
511-6-1.05(6)(a)
15C - nonfood-contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Observed build-up of debris on multiple nonfood-contact surfaces throughout the facility. Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
511-6-1.05(7)(a)
17C - physical facilities installed, maintained, and clean
Inspector notes: Observed buildup of accumulated debris on the floors in the main kitchen area. Maintenance and Operation. (a) Good Repair. All physical facilities shall be maintained in good repair. (b) Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions. 1. The physical facilities shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean and by methods that prevent contamination of food products. 2. Except for cleaning that is necessary due to a spill or other accident, cleaning shall be done during periods when the least amount of food is exposed, such as after closing. 3. If present, playground equipment and associated areas shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition. In addition, a cleaning and sanitizing plan along with cleaning and sanitizing records for playground equipment and associated areas shal...
511-6-1.07(5)(a)
17D - adequate ventilation and lighting; designated areas used (corrected on site)
Inspector notes: Observed employee personal items in the main kitchen area and not in the designated employee area. Personal Items were moved to the proper area. Dressing Areas and Lockers. 1. Dressing rooms or dressing areas shall be designated and used if employees routinely change their clothes in the establishment. 2. Lockers or other suitable facilities shall be provided and used for the orderly storage of employees' clothing and other possessions.
511-6-1.07(3)(h)
30
Jun 20, 2024
Routine
2 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 11 violations
2-2A - management knowledge, responsibilities, reporting
Inspector notes: Observed no verbal or written employee health policy containing return to work procedures after a doctor diagnosis or exhibiting symptoms of foodborne illness from pathogens transmitted through food.
511-6-1.03(1)(c)
2-2E - response procedures for vomiting & diarrheal events
Inspector notes: Observed no vomit and diarrhea clean up procedure.
511-6-1.03(6)
13A - posted: permit/inspection/choking poster/handwashing
Inspector notes: Observed inspection report not posted in the drive thru window. Observed choking poster not posted.
511-6-1.02(1)(d)
13A - posted: permit/inspection/choking poster/handwashing
Inspector notes: Observed food service permit not posted.
511-6-1.02(1)(f)(1)
15A - food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed, and used
Inspector notes: Observed "Birdcage" warmer/hot hold unit , deep fryers in need of repair.
511-6-1.05(6)(a)
15A - food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed, and used
Inspector notes: Observed dishwashing sink basin stopper not in alignment to hold water without use of a single service bowl.
511-6-1.05(6)(a)
15C - nonfood-contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Observed flour bin exteriors and lids soiled.
511-6-1.05(7)(d)
16B - plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: Observed hand wash sinks with leaks or drain pipe leaks.
511-6-1.06(2)(r)
17A - toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, cleaned
Inspector notes: Observed no paper towels provided to restrooms with door handles for exiting the room.
511-6-1.06(2)(h)
17A - toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, cleaned
Inspector notes: Observed hand wash sinks in need of cleaning.
511-6-1.07(5)(h)
18 - insects, rodents, and animals not present
Inspector notes: Observed flies in the mop sink area and the dumpster storage area.
511-6-1.07(5)(k)
52

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Popeye's last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Popeye's on file is from Apr 7, 2026. The public record contains five inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Popeye's?

Across the inspection record, “food and nonfood-contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited four times, more than any other issue at Popeye's.

How does Popeye's compare to other restaurants in Americus?

Popeye's most recently scored 45 out of 100, which is lower than the Americus average of 90.

Has Popeye's inspection record improved over time?

No. Recent inspections at Popeye's have averaged around 12 violations per visit, up from roughly four earlier in the record.

What does a high risk rating mean?

A high risk rating at Popeye's means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.

How often is Popeye's inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Popeye's is inspected around three times per year on average.