After social media hype and long lines for its opening in mid January, just a little over a month later, the Mochinut location in Reno has gone dark, due to a failed inspection.
On the Washoe Eats App, four critical violations are noted, from staff not washing hands or changing gloves to date markings missing in refrigeration units. There are several non-critical violations as well, including the operator not being aware of "proper reporting procedures for communicable disease,” and both clean items and dirty dishes being stored on the ground.
The Suite 213 Mochinut at 5150 Mae Anne Ave. now has a sign on the main door indicating “Not taking cash! Sorry !!” and another with “We are renovating the kitchen layout to reduce customers’ wait time. The contruction is expected to be completed by next week but we will continue to provide updates on the progress.”
It does not say it failed to pass the inspection on February 20th.
Mochinuts are a combination of American donuts and Japanese mochi. The franchise is also known for its Korean rice hot dogs and coconut jelly pudding. As of late 2023, there were about 150 Mochinut locations across the United States, with an aggressive push to add more.