Popular BBQ eatery is shut down briefly

RIVIERA BEACH — A well-known Palm Beach County barbecue eatery was closed briefly Friday after failing inspections.

McCray’s Backyard BBQ and Seafood, at 1549 W. Blue Heron Blvd., was shut down for about 90 minutes after inspectors with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation reported finding dead roaches, rodent droppings and soiled equipment, among other violations.

Inspectors found a total of 20 violations, including nine that were considered high-priority. Three intermediate violations and eight basic violations also were found at McCray’s, which operates a second location on North Military Trail in West Palm Beach.

The 84-year-old family eatery is known for its barbecue and has catered numerous Super Bowls.

Inspectors were on site for more than five hours Friday, DBPR spokesperson Rose Hebert said.

The eatery was shut down at lunchtime and reopened after inspectors determined it was in compliance with state safety laws.

Seven violations remain, but they do not present an immediate threat to public safety and health, Hebert said. The restaurant has until at least Friday to bring those

violations into compliance. A follow-up inspection will be scheduled.

When reached Monday, McCray’s Backyard BBQ and Seafood owner Derrick McCray confirmed inspectors had visited the restaurant, but disputed whether it had been forced to close for part of the day.

“We were only shut down for 15 minutes,” he said.

Ten other Palm Beach County establishments had perfect inspections for the week ending Aug. 19.