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Food Service Operators

Preventing Cyclosporiasis

New York City is seeing an increase in cases of cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. Cyclosporiasis typically causes watery diarrhea and is typically linked to contaminated fresh produce. Investigations are ongoing to identify potential food sources and prevent additional illnesses.

Food service establishments should continue to follow food safety requirements to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. To help prevent cyclosporiasis, in particular:

  • Make sure workers are properly washing hands before and after handling food
  • Wash all fresh fruits and vegetables thoroughly under clean, running water
  • Strongly recommend cooking food whenever possible. Heating food to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (70 degrees Celsius) or higher kills Cyclospora.

To learn more about cyclosporiasis, including prevention measures, symptoms, and current case information, visit Cyclosporiasis.


Whether you work in a restaurant, soup kitchen or other food service establishment, the Health Department has important information about operating a clean, safe, healthy and legal business. Use the links provided on the left to find the guidance and information you need.

Business Owner's Bill of Rights

Customer Service Office

The Customer Service Office for food establishments, temporary food service establishments and mobile food vendors is open to walk-ins and by appointment.

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. 4 p.m., and Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: 125 Worth Street, Room 1020, Manhattan

To schedule an appointment:

New or renewal permitting services are not offered at this location. To find out how to apply for or renew a permit, visit Food Establishment Permits.

Services Offered:

  • Information about compliance with health code regulations
    • Food safety
    • Letter grading
    • Smoke free air act
    • Menu posting requirements (calorie labeling, sodium warning)
    • Consultative inspections
  • Guidance regarding applying for or renewing a permit or license
  • Reopening guidance and recommendations
  • Plan review
  • Replace a letter grade card
  • Provide required signs, posters and other educational materials
  • Review and approval of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans
  • Provide inspection history reports
  • Meet with Ombudsperson (by appointment only)

Update Contact Information for Your Food Service Establishment Permit

You must ensure that the Health Department has your current mailing address and email address on file. We will use these addresses for official communication about your permit or license.

Food service establishments can update contact information, including email addresses, by completing and submitting an Amendment Form for a Health Department Permit or License. You can also update your contact information when you renew your permit online at nyc.gov/dohmhpermits.

Inspection History Report of Repeat Violations for Your Restaurant

Operators may request a 3-year inspection history report for their food service establishment. The report includes a list of your establishment’s repeat violations and information about how they can be avoided.

Food Safety Workshop Presentations

Additional Resources