Queens, NY — Shirazi Karahi, a Pakistani restaurant located at 259-17 Hillside Avenue, received a score of 36 points during a health inspection conducted on March 9, 2026, resulting in a Grade C rating. The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) documented one critical violation and two non-critical violations during the inspection. Data from this inspection was released to the public on March 12, 2026.

What Inspectors Found

The critical violation documented at Shirazi Karahi involved the absence of a Food Protection Certificate holder managing or supervising food operations. Under NYC Health Code Article 81, every food service establishment must have at least one supervisor or manager who holds a valid Food Protection Certificate on duty during all hours of operation. This certification demonstrates that supervisory staff have completed training in food safety principles, including proper food handling, temperature control, and contamination prevention.

Inspectors also noted two non-critical violations related to grade posting requirements. The establishment failed to display its current letter grade or Grade Pending card in a location visible to the public. NYC regulations require restaurants to prominently post their most recent inspection grade in their front window or near the entrance, allowing customers to make informed decisions about where to dine.

Food Safety Context

The Food Protection Certificate requirement exists to ensure that every food service establishment has trained personnel who understand critical food safety protocols. According to the FDA Food Code, which forms the basis for NYC's food safety regulations, certified food managers serve as the primary line of defense against foodborne illness. These individuals are responsible for monitoring food temperatures, ensuring proper hand washing, preventing cross-contamination, and maintaining sanitary conditions.

Operating without a certified supervisor on duty increases the risk of food safety errors that can lead to foodborne illness outbreaks. The absence of trained oversight means that basic food safety practices—such as maintaining proper cooking temperatures, preventing cross-contamination between raw and cooked foods, and ensuring adequate hand washing—may not be consistently enforced.

Grade posting requirements serve a public health purpose by providing transparency. When restaurants display their inspection grades, consumers can assess food safety performance before entering the establishment.

Inspection History

Shirazi Karahi has undergone multiple inspections in recent months, with varying results:

  • August 21, 2025: Score 4 (Grade Z)
  • August 19, 2025: Score 14, Closed by DOHMH
  • August 14, 2025: Score 37, Closed by DOHMH
  • August 5, 2025: Score 102, Closed by DOHMH

The establishment's inspection record shows significant fluctuation in food safety compliance. The August 2025 inspections resulted in three closures due to accumulated violations, with scores ranging from 14 to 102 points. Following corrective actions, the restaurant achieved a score of 4 points on August 21, 2025, indicating substantial improvement. The current inspection score of 36 represents a decline from that improved performance.

Understanding NYC Restaurant Grades

New York City assigns letter grades based on points accumulated during health inspections. Fewer points indicate better food safety compliance:

  • Grade A: 0-13 points
  • Grade B: 14-27 points
  • Grade C: 28 or more points

Inspections evaluate compliance with NYC Health Code Article 81, which covers food temperature control, personal hygiene, facility sanitation, pest control, and proper food sourcing. Critical violations—such as the Food Protection Certificate violation documented at Shirazi Karahi—pose immediate risks to public health and carry higher point values.

Restaurants receiving Grade B or C must undergo re-inspection. Establishments have the right to request a hearing before the Health Tribunal if they wish to contest violations.

Public Health Resources

The DOHMH maintains a searchable database of restaurant inspection results at nyc.gov/health. Consumers can review current and historical inspection data for any food service establishment in the five boroughs. The department also provides guidance on recognizing signs of food safety compliance and reporting potential health code violations.

Individuals who believe they have experienced food poisoning after dining at any restaurant should report their illness to the DOHMH by calling 311 or filing a complaint online.

More About This Restaurant

View the full inspection history for Shirazi Karahi including all past inspections, violations, and grade changes.