In March 2025, the Kansas Department of Agriculture conducted routine inspections across Shawnee County, focusing on food safety and lodging standards. A significant number of service establishments successfully met these regulatory requirements, showcasing their commitment to maintaining high health standards. Out of the total 86 inspected locations in Topeka, 80 passed with either no violations or minor infractions. The remaining seven establishments did not pass. This report highlights various businesses that complied fully with the regulations, including schools, hotels, fast-food chains, and local eateries.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture oversees the regulation of food establishments, processing plants, and lodging facilities within Shawnee County. During March, inspectors visited numerous locations for routine checks, follow-ups, complaint investigations, and licensing purposes. Among the compliant establishments were BP Gas Station-Amoco Oak Mart at 2518 N.E. Seward Ave., Unique Treats located at 5021 S.E. 7th St., and The Forgotten Grain found in Auburn at 841 N. Washington St., Suite B. Educational institutions like Jay Shideler Elementary School also adhered to the set guidelines.
Additional establishments that demonstrated compliance include M2 Smokin Q BBQ situated at 13347 S.W. 77th Street in Auburn, Bradley’s Corner Cafe at 844 N. Kansas Ave., Cooks American Grill located at 1936 S.W. Gage Blvd., and Indian Hills Elementary School found at 7445 S.W. 29th St. Other notable mentions are Subway at 4731 Hunters Ridge Circle, Suite D, Tacos El Mexicano positioned at 2002 S.E. California Ave., and Topeka Education Center School located at 1900 Hope.
Among the lodging facilities, Ramada Hotel at 420 S.E. 6th St., Hilton Garden Inn found at 1351 S.W. Arvonia Place, Holiday Inn Express & Suites located at 601 N.W. US-24 highway, and Homewood Suites by Hilton at 1519 Arrowhead Road all achieved satisfactory results during inspections. Fast-food chains such as Jimmy John’s at two different locations—2007 N.W. Topeka Blvd., Suite B and 1025 S.W. Wanamaker Road—and Burger King at 6002 S.W. 10th St. also maintained compliance.
Various educational institutions ensured adherence to food safety protocols, including Cair Paravel Latin School at 635 Clay St., Chase Middle School / State Street Elementary School found at 2250 State, Elmont School located at 6432 N.W. Elmont Road, Jardine Middle School / Jardine Elementary School at 2600 S.W. 33rd St., Marjorie French Middle School found at 5257 W. 33rd, Mathes Early Learning Center at 2032 N. Kansas Ave., and Potwin Drug Store located at 124 N.W. Fillmore St.
While most establishments passed the inspections, those that failed faced necessary corrective actions. These inspections underscore the importance of upholding stringent health and safety standards in both food and lodging sectors. The diligence shown by these establishments ensures a safer environment for residents and visitors alike in Shawnee County.