Public Health ordered the closure of Bolani Place operating inside the LoveCityLove community space last week. According to the inspection report, the closure was triggered by a series of violations including operating without a valid permit and a lack of approved plans to ensure safe food handling and storage. Inspectors also cited an “imminent health hazard” due to the establishment operating without handwashing facilities.
CHS talked last month with Malali Popalzai about her hopes of growing the business into a full restaurant.
The pop-up had recently gained attention for its authentic Afghan bolani — savory, thin-crust flatbreads — offering a unique addition to the Capitol Hill food scene. Bolani Place occupied a corner of the LoveCityLove space, which has served as a rotating hub for artists, boutiques, and community gatherings on a block of 15th Ave E destined for eventual redevelopment.
While many Capitol Hill pop-ups operate with a scrappy ethos, King County regulations require even temporary food installations to maintain strict safety standards, including dedicated plumbing for handwashing and pre-approved equipment layouts.
Health inspectors have also increased focus on un-permitted food and drink vendors who proliferate around the Pike/Pine nightlife district and on busy corners across the city. CHS reported on the crackdown last May that has continued into this year. Friday, inspectors nailed the Seattle Dawgs stand set-up on Nagle Place near Cal Anderson. That’s the same spot, by the way, Tacos Cometa used to claim before moving into its new brick and mortar taqueria on Broadway in March.
Getting busted is hoped to do more than penalize. County officials told CHS last year they are stepping up efforts to help people start permitted businesses including outreach to community-based organizations “to help vendors navigate the permitting process with culturally and linguistically relevant strategies.” Vendors can also schedule one-on-one help over the phone by calling 206-263-9566.
The process requires multiple meetings and inspections and the permit fees remain steep, running around $600 to more than $1,000 a year depending on the type of mobile service planned.
The health department notes that closures typically remain in effect until the operator can demonstrate that all violations have been corrected and a permit has been officially granted. As of this week, the site remains listed as “closed” on the King County food safety portal.
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