Low Key

501 S Mill Ave, Tempe, AZ 85281

Bar / Pub

License: Food Establishment - Eating & Drinking

Last inspected: Mar 19, 2026

Score

Low Risk Grade: B

Across the available record, Low Key has four inspections on file, the first dated 2024. The newest entry in the record is dated Mar 19, 2026. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit.

Recent inspections have turned up roughly the same number of issues each time, hovering near two violations per visit.

Restaurants in Tempe average 95, so Low Key trails the local norm. Overall, the inspection record reads well.

Inspections

Critical latest

Major latest

Minor latest

Inspection History

Mar 19, 2026

Routine

1 major violation. 1 minor violation. 1 corrected on site.

View 2 violations

Sanitizer test kit not available (corrected on site)

Inspector notes: Observed establishment to sanitize dishes with chlorine dishwasher with no test strips available. Test strips are required for any sanitizers used with food contact surfaces. PIC obtained chlorine test strips at time of inspection

4-302.14

Physical facilities not cleaned at required frequency

Inspector notes: Observed debris in floor drains including bottle caps, plastic caps, and shot glasses. Physical facility must be cleaned frequently enough to prevent accumulation of dirt, organic matter, and food debris. Must clean physical facility prior to next routine inspection

6-501.12

Oct 23, 2025

Routine

1 minor violation.

View 1 violation

No certified food protection manager

Inspector notes: Observed no Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) in facility at time of inspection. Discussed with a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) is required to be on the premises during all hours of operation

2-102.12(A)

Apr 10, 2025

Routine

2 minor violations.

View 2 violations

Equipment material allows contamination or unsafe migration

Inspector notes: During inspection observed a stainless steel storage rack with visible rust and debris accumulated,. The storage rack was located near the ice machine & per the person in charge it will be removed/replaced. Please ensure to maintain equipment smooth, non-absorbeent, durable and easily cleanable

4-101.11(B-E)

Nonfood-contact surfaces not cleaned at required frequency

Inspector notes: During the inspection observed an accumulation of food debris located in the interior lining of the beer chest in the bar by the entrance. Per the person in charge the specified area will be cleaned. Please ensure to maintain equipment clean at all times

4-602.13

Oct 3, 2024

Routine

1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 2 corrected on site.

View 2 violations

Toxic materials not stored separately from food (corrected on site)

Inspector notes: Observed soap, stainless steel cleaner stored on a shelf directly above Jello boxes and wiping clothes. Chemicals must be stored away from food, utensils, and single service items at all times to prevent contamination. All chemicals were relocated and properly stored by PIC at time of inspection

7-201.11

Handwashing sink blocked, inaccessible, or used improperly (corrected on site)

Inspector notes: Observed ice in hand sink behind bar next to stage. Using hand sinks for alternate activities from hand washing prevents hand washing and may clog the sink rendering it unavailable for proper hand washing. PIC will ensure establishment discontinues use of handwash sink for all activities that are not for handwashing. Ice was cleared

5-205.11

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Low Key last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Low Key on file is from Mar 19, 2026. The public record contains four inspections in total.

How does Low Key compare to other restaurants in Tempe?

Low Key most recently scored 86 out of 100, which is lower than the Tempe average of 95.

Has Low Key's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Low Key have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Low Key means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.

Nearby Restaurants

Matsuri Izakaya

699 S Mill Ave

Score: 100 — Low Risk

Chili's Grill & Bar

400 W University Dr

Score: 100 — Low Risk

Pedal Haus Brewery

730 S Mill Ave

Score: 86 — Low Risk

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→ All locations in Tempe → Bar / Pub restaurants in Maricopa → Bar / Pub restaurants in Tempe