UPDATE (5/7/25): Nehring’s Sendik’s has reopened. Says the Milwaukee Health Department: “During today’s re-inspection, MHD confirmed that all pest-related violations have been addressed. Affected areas have been cleaned and sanitized, and no new pest activity was observed. […] Sendik’s has been cooperative throughout the process and is now operating in compliance with public health standards.”
Approximately one week after the Milwaukee Health Department (MHD) temporarily closed Beans & Barley due to various storage and handling issues, another East Side institution has been forced to close its doors.
On Monday evening, a sign in the window of Nehring’s Sendik’s, located at 2643 N. Downer Ave., indicates the neighborhood grocery store and deli is temporarily closed, pending a re-inspection by MHD. “Closed early today,” reads a handwritten sign. “Sorry for the inconvenience. We will be back open tomorrow. Thank you for your understanding.” Employees could be seen cleaning and sweeping inside. (Nehring’s Sendik’s is unaffiliated with the Sendik’s Food Markets owned and operated by the Balistreri family.)
A spokesperson for MHD says the closure is due to “escalating pest activity observed during recent inspections.” Here’s the full explanation:
During a routine inspection on April 15, rodent droppings were found in a basement storage area away from food. A re-inspection on April 29 revealed expanded activity in the dry food storage area, prompting an Intent to Cease Order. MHD informed the business that any further spread, especially into food or customer areas, could lead to closure.
A follow-up inspection today found fresh mouse and rat droppings throughout the basement storage and first-floor areas, including the kitchen and retail space. Per MHD policy, an immediate Closure Order was issued.
The business has been advised to clean and sanitize all affected areas and work with a licensed pest control provider. MHD will conduct a re-inspection once the facility indicates they are ready. As outlined in MHD’s pest policy, closures remain in effect at least overnight to allow for sanitation, overnight monitoring for new activity, and to accommodate inspector scheduling without disrupting other inspections.
Photo: Milwaukee Health Department
Photo: Milwaukee Health Department
Per MHD records, other observed violations on April 15 and 29 include hand washing, cold food storage, date marking, and equipment upkeep.
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