Sycamore Shuts Down Flower Shop And Food Court After Failed Health Inspections

DITMAS PARK, BROOKLYN — Sycamore in Ditmas Park, a combination bar and flower shop that hosted a food court on its back patio has shut down the latter two portions of its business following two failed inspections by the city's Department of Health that found fruit flies, dead roaches and unsanitary conditions and the location.

"We are working with our elected officials, Small Business Services, FDC, Community Board, and others in a concerted effort to reopen the flower shop," Sycamore said in a statement sent to Patch. "It's been part of our identity since we opened in 2008, and we'll diligently pursue all available resources and collaborate with authorities in hopes of making Sycamore whole again."

According to a Department of Health spokeswoman, Sycamore applied for a restaurant permit and had an initial inspection on June 26.

That inspection found 62 live fruit flies, an illegal sink in the backyard and full garbage cans in the basement with no lids, according to DOH. The flowers also shared a refrigerator with food and drink, which is against city code, DOH said.

DOH recommended that Sycamore use separate fridges for flowers and food.

Instead, Sycamore decided to move out its Stems Brooklyn flower operation altogether and shut down its backyard food court, which brought in local food vendors to serve bar patrons.

A follow-up inspection by DOH two days later found seven live fruit flies and four dead roaches, DOH said. But Sycamore implemented proper pest control measures and passed a subsequent inspection.

"Sycamore bar is grateful to be open for business after working around the clock to comply with the Department of Health's Monday inspection that immediately resulted in a 48-hour closure. The report of fruit flies (primarily in and around our basement trash room) has been addressed," Sycamore's statement said.

"Also, we have complied with DOH's demand to remove our garden area bar sink and tap system as to render the space for seating only. Unfortunately, this will cause us to discontinue our beloved Flatbush Food Court until further notice.

"We thank the fabulous pop-up food vendors who have become good friends while bringing amazing, diverse food offerings to Ditmas Park!"

Sycamore said Stems has moved to a studio location and is planning to open a second location in Prospect Heights.

Image via Yelp.