FLATIRON — Gluten-free pizza spot Mozzarelli’s was shut down by the Health Department after inspectors found evidence of mice, among other violations, records show.
The pizzeria at 38 E. 23rd St. was ordered to shut down on Monday after it racked up 96 violation points for issues including fish stored at an unsafe temperature, workers with dirty garments, no space for washing utensils and equipment and conditions that attract vermin, according to online records.
"Mozzarelli's was closed due to immediate public health concerns that could not be addressed at the time of the inspection," the Health Department said in a statement. "In this case, it was because of a severe pest infestation and no facilities to wash, rinse or sanitize their utensils."
Inspectors also found more than a dozen containers of individually sliced cakes with no packaging or label to indicate where they came from, the DOH said.
The restaurant was still closed as of Wednesday morning, but an employee said he hoped to reopen on Friday after a new inspection.
The eatery is known for its gluten-free pizzas, but it also serves regular sandwiches, salads and pasta.
