CHELSEA — A popular falafel and wrap eatery in Chelsea was shut down by Health Department officials over the weekend after inspectors found evidence of roaches, flies and rats.
Wrapido at 171 W. 23rd St., which is known for its affordably priced falafel sandwiches, chicken wraps and salads, was shut down after a June 15 inspection netted the restaurant a whopping 85 violation points.
In addition to the vermin, inspectors found that the chain's cold food was kept outside of a refrigerator, allowing it to heat up to "hazardous" temperatures, documents show. The Health Department also found that the restaurant had improperly installed or maintained plumbing.
A call to Wrapido's management was not immediately returned Monday.
The restaurant, which also has an outpost on Eighth Avenue near West 15th Street, lures customers by offering free samples of its falafel to passing pedestrians. Wrapido's $5 falafel pita sandwich is a hit with thrifty locals.
Until now, the spot managed to pass most of its health inspections with few violations. The restaurant was still closed at lunchtime on Monday, with signs indicating it was shut down for renovations.
