UPPER EAST SIDE — The Sweet Shop on East 73rd Street, known for its huge variety of candy, doughnuts and ice cream, was temporarily closed over the weekend after health inspectors were unable to check its food-prep areas.
A Department of Health inspector found during a May 5 visit that a surface at the shop wasn't properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use when contamination may have occurred, records show.
The staffer was not able to complete the inspection because his or her duties were "interfered with or obstructed," as the shop failed to grant inspectors access to food preparation and storage areas, agency spokeswoman Carolina Rodriguez said.
The shop, located at 404 E. 73rd. St. between First and York avenues, received 33 violation points as a result.
Over the weekend, the confectionery's employees posted a notice on the door explaining that the inspector wasn't able to access to the basement.
"Because his inspection was not technically complete we have been forced to close until they return on Monday," the posting read.
Kelly "The Candyman" Jaime, who owns the shop with his wife Glyn, explained that he lost his keys on the day of the inspection.
"I lost my keys of all things," he told DNAinfo New York on Tuesday. "Then the Department of Health came to inspect and they weren't able to access the clean storage space we have upstairs and the basement."
He said the shop is currently working with the Department of Buildings to expand so that it can carry more ice cream, which is why there were issues with the food prep area.
"Right now we're trying to expand for the summer and using this time to get caught up," he said. "The violations weren't for egregious reasons. I got an A grade on my shop and I've been at the Department of Health every day this week."
The Sweet Shop hasn't requested a reopening inspection yet, Rodriguez noted.
The Jaimes specialize in retro candies, handmade chocolates, licorice, ice cream, gelato and other desserts.
"We run out of ice cream because we're selling small-batch stuff," Jaime added. "We're expanding so we don't run out as frequently but the Department of Health has to sign off on it."
