An Indian takeaway where the same cutting board was being used for raw and cooked foods “without adequate cleaning” in between has been handed a one-star hygiene rating.

Bombay Chilli, on Belasis Avenue, was told that major improvement was necessary after a food hygiene inspection on August 6. 

The popular venue - which has previously been praised for its “amazing” food - was rated “improvement necessary” for both its hygienic food handling and cleanliness and condition of the facilities and building. 

It was rated “major improvement necessary” in terms of management of food safety, which looks at whether food sold is safe to eat and staff food safety knowledge.

Stockton Council has now released the full food hygiene report for the inspection, which highlighted “inadequate” food hygiene awareness and “dirty” food storage containers, fridges, freezers and equipment in the food preparation area.

The standard of cleaning to the structure of the kitchen - including the work surfaces - was also described as “generally poor”, with a “thorough deep clean” being required. 

A major find during the inspection was that the same cutting board was being used for raw and cooked/ready-to-eat foods, without adequate cleaning and disinfection between uses.

The heavy-duty can opener was also described as “dirty”, with inspectors warning this could cause contamination of the food. 

The main double fridge in the food preparation area was also found to be “dirty and rusty” inside, with the shelving also being rusty and damaged. 

The wash hand basin was “not in regular use” and the sink in the food preparation area was “difficult to access and was obstructed by skewers”. 

The taps to the main sinks, some food storage containers and hand contact points in the food preparation area were also described as dirty.

Several other areas were also identified as dirty by inspectors: 

  • The cladded wall covering in the food preparation area
  • The painted ceiling in the food preparation area
  • The shelving under the food preparation bench in the food preparation area
  • The shelving in the dry goods storage area in the storeroom

Other issues raised included a “damaged” edging strip to laminate shelving in the food preparation area and a “cracked” tiled floor covering in the rear lobby. 

Bombay Chilli is known for serving up a range of classic Indian dishes, including a range of curries, Biriyani, Tandoori and Balti as well as naans, wraps, and other sides. 

It currently boasts a 3.5 star rating on Google Reviews, with happy customers saying they were "amazed by the quality of the food."

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One reviewer said: "A fantastic Indian takeaway that just keeps getting better. We tried a couple of others while it was closed and they really don't compare."

Another added: "Ordered from here a few times now. I have purposely waited before I leave a review and I must say I have never been disappointed. The food is really tasty and authentic."

The Northern Echo has contacted Bombay Chilli for comment but they have not responded.