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Credit: Inside the MagicDisney World guests were saddened to hear that a restaurant had shut down due to toxic substances and countless other violations.
Disney World Guests Impacted by Sudden Closure of Restaurant Due To Numerous Health Code Violations
It’s every traveler’s nightmare: you’ve just spent a magical day at Disney World, the fireworks are still echoing in your mind, and all you want is a hearty meal before heading back to your hotel. But what happens when the restaurant you choose has just been forced to close its doors because of serious health violations?
On September 15, 2025, that nightmare became a reality for one Disney-area eatery. State inspectors documented 15 separate violations, four of which were high-priority health risks, leading to an immediate shutdown. Guests who often turn to off-site dining spots like this one may now be wondering: Is it safe to eat outside the Disney bubble?
This article breaks down what happened, what guests should know about dining off-property, and insider tips to help you make safer, smarter dining decisions when vacationing near Disney World.
What Happened at Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews
The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation inspected Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews, located at 7640 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway—just minutes from Disney World. Their September 15 inspection uncovered multiple issues:
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Employee failed to wash hands before handling food
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Rodent activity inside the facility
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Toxic substance improperly stored
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Improper time/temperature food storage
Other “basic” violations included sticky fly tape hanging over a food prep area, standing water inside a cooler, and grease buildup in cooking equipment.
The restaurant was temporarily closed that same day. A follow-up inspection conducted later revealed 11 violations, three of which were high-priority. After corrective action—including employee retraining, equipment cleaning, and safe food storage practices—the restaurant was deemed to have “met inspection standards” and has since reopened.
What Guests Should Do When Dining Near Disney
If you’re planning to eat off-property, you don’t need to panic—but awareness is key. Here are practical tips for staying safe and informed:
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Check health inspections: Florida inspection records are public. A quick search before dining can reveal if a restaurant has repeat issues.
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Look for red flags: Sticky floors, dirty restrooms, and cluttered dining areas often reflect what’s happening in the kitchen.
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Stick to busy spots: Restaurants with steady traffic often have higher accountability and fresher food turnover.
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Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to inquire about food preparation or allergen handling—especially if you have dietary restrictions.
Insider Tips From Frequent Disney Visitors
Locals and seasoned visitors often share the same advice: stay inside the Disney “bubble” for the most reliable dining experience. While off-site restaurants can be cheaper, Disney maintains extremely strict standards for food safety that third-party spots may not always match.
That said, some locals note that dining off-property can still be worthwhile if you:
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Opt for chain restaurants with strong reputations
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Explore newly opened eateries (fresh kitchens, stricter early inspections)
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Use review apps where recent guests flag cleanliness concerns in real time
Why This Matters for Disney World Guests
Dining is an essential part of any Disney vacation, and moments like this underscore why guests care deeply about where their food comes from. For many, Disney trips are not just vacations—they’re once-in-a-lifetime experiences. No one wants foodborne illness or unsanitary conditions to ruin their memories.
Social media reactions showed a mix of shock and relief. Some fans vowed never to eat off-property again, while others appreciated the transparency of Florida’s inspection process. In the bigger picture, this case highlights why Disney’s tightly controlled standards often become a safety net for families visiting from around the globe.
For now, Sickies Garage Burgers & Brews is open and operating under compliance—but the story serves as a reminder that being an informed guest can make your vacation smoother, safer, and a lot less stressful.
Final Thoughts
If you’re heading to Disney World, remember: the magic shouldn’t end when you sit down to eat. While off-property dining offers variety and affordability, staying vigilant can help ensure your meal is a highlight—not a hazard.