A Japanese restaurant has been told major improvement is needed after a recent food hygiene inspection.

Hanako, Unit 4, Faircross House, 116 The Parade High Street, Watford, received a score of 1/5 when it was inspected on January 26.

The restaurant’s management of food safety was found to be its worst area and was graded as “major improvement necessary”.

Watford Observer: HanakoHanako (Image: Google Street View)

In this category, inspectors assess if there are systems or checks in place to ensure that food sold or served is safe to eat.

An inspector will also expect to see evidence that staff know about food safety and that standards will be maintained in the future.

Watford Observer: Food Standards Agency screenshot of Hanako's ratingFood Standards Agency screenshot of Hanako's rating (Image: Food Standards Agency screenshot)

The inspector has said that “improvement is necessary” regarding hygienic handling of food, including preparation, cooking, re-heating, cooling and storage.

Improvement is also needed in the cleanliness and condition of facilities in the building to enable good food hygiene.

Under this category, having an appropriate layout, ventilation, handwashing facilities and pest control, are reviewed.

Hanako’s manager declined to comment when approached.