By 3pm on Monday, the doors of Hungry Lion’s Monze branch were closed after health inspectors found sanitation conditions the local council says posed a risk to public health.
Monze Town Council ordered the immediate closure of the restaurant and suspended its Certificate of Compliance following inspections conducted on September 2 and September 28, 2026.
The closure order was issued by Assistant Director of Public Health Felix Buleke under Sections 34 and 43(4)(d) of the Food Safety Act No. 7 of 2019.
According to the council, the kitchen and food preparation areas were found in poor condition, with accumulated dirt, grease and food residues on floors, walls, surfaces, utensils and equipment.
The problems were not limited to the kitchen.
The council said the surrounding areas had accumulated refuse, while blocked drainage had resulted in stagnant wastewater.
Council Public Relations Officer Kanchele Kanchele said the conditions created a risk of food contamination and posed a potential health hazard to consumers.
The restaurant has now been ordered to address several issues before it can reopen.
These include unblocking the sewer line, maintaining the drainage system, thoroughly cleaning and sanitising food preparation areas and removing accumulated refuse.
The council has also directed the business to carry out pest control, improve food storage and safely dispose of any contaminated or spoiled food.
During the closure, the proprietor, manager, employees and agents are prohibited from preparing, handling, selling or distributing food from the premises.
Hungry Lion Monze will only be allowed to reopen after a satisfactory reinspection and written clearance from the health authorities.
The council says routine inspections of food establishments will continue as part of efforts to ensure compliance with public health requirements and protect consumers.