The Zoo Cafe
Inspection Scores
Lower scores indicate better performance. 0 = best, 25/30 = worst.
The Zoo Cafe is a restaurant/cafe/canteen located at 81 Babbacombe Road Torquay, TQ1 3SR, in the Torbay local authority area. Following its most recent inspection on 22 October 2025, it received a food hygiene rating of 1 (Major Improvement Necessary). The inspection assessed three categories: hygienic food handling (scored 10 — good), structural compliance (scored 10 — good), and confidence in management (scored 20 — improvement needed). In the FHRS scoring system, lower numbers indicate better performance, with 0 being the best possible score in each category. Torbay oversees 1,540 registered food businesses, of which 70% hold a rating of Good (4) or Very Good (5). The average food hygiene rating in Torbay is 4.6 out of 5. As a restaurant or cafe, this business is assessed on how food is prepared and cooked on the premises, the cleanliness of the kitchen and dining areas, and whether staff follow proper hand-washing and cross-contamination prevention procedures. Food businesses in the UK are inspected by local authority environmental health officers. The frequency of inspections depends on the risk category — higher-risk businesses are inspected more frequently, typically every 6 to 12 months, while lower-risk establishments may be inspected every 2 to 3 years. Businesses that are not satisfied with their rating can request a re-inspection from their local authority or apply for a right to reply, which is published alongside the rating on the FSA website.
Location
Nearby Businesses
- The George Inn Exempt
- The Mare And Foal Sanctuary Exempt
- Bengal Cottage 4
- William Hill - 75 Babbacombe Road Exempt
- Best-one Babbacombe 4
- Lovell's Chocolate Box Exempt
- Babbacombe Deli 5
- Daisy's Cafe 5
- I Am Thai Takeaway 5
- Babbacombe Bakery 3
Related Pages
FAQ
What is the food hygiene rating of The Zoo Cafe?
The Zoo Cafe has a food hygiene rating of 1 out of 5, as assessed by Torbay.
What does a food hygiene rating of 1 mean for a restaurant/cafe/canteen?
A rating of 1 means major improvement is necessary. Significant problems were found during the inspection across one or more categories. The local authority will follow up to ensure improvements are made.
When was The Zoo Cafe last inspected?
The Zoo Cafe was last inspected on 2025-10-22. Food businesses in the UK are typically re-inspected every 6 months to 3 years, depending on their risk category and previous rating.
How can The Zoo Cafe improve its rating?
Businesses can improve their food hygiene rating by addressing the issues identified in their inspection report. Common areas for improvement include better temperature control, improved cleaning schedules, and stronger documentation of food safety procedures. Businesses can request a re-inspection from their local authority once improvements have been made, or apply for a right to reply.
Where is The Zoo Cafe located?
The Zoo Cafe is located at 81 Babbacombe Road Torquay , TQ1 3SR, in the Torbay local authority area. You can view other food businesses in the TQ1 postcode area.