A pizza restaurant was hit with a zero-star food hygiene rating after inspectors discovered it was infested with rats.

Mario’s Pizza in Upper Bridge Street, Canterbury, was awarded the lowest score possible following an eye-opening visit that also uncovered mouldy kitchen appliances.

Bosses were ordered to make major improvements to address a catalogue of issues, and have now secured a four-star rating following a reinspection.

The initial probe took place on April 2, when officials uncovered “an active rat infestation on the ground floor and basement of the business”.

Rat droppings were also found “littered throughout” the establishment.

Food hygiene scores are published online, but not specific details of how ratings have been decided.

KentOnline asked Canterbury City Council for the inspection report at the start of May, and it was shared with us this week.

In it, inspectors warned bosses at Mario’s about the rats issue, writing: “You must call out an approved pest control contract to help [address] the problem.”

The inspection also uncovered issues with mould, with fridges and freezers in the basement “supporting” the growth of fungi.

Pizza boxes were being made up downstairs, with officers advising the takeaway to dispose of any boxes left in the basement in case of cross-contamination with rats.

“Keep the boxes in sealed containers to minimise contamination,” said the inspector.

The wash hand basin was obstructed by a freezer and not stocked up with soaps or hand towels.

A Safer Food, Better Business diary was not on site, with officers warning the need to provide and complete one is a legal requirement.

Food handlers were told they should attend a level two food hygiene course within two weeks of the inspection.

Officers told Mario’s Pizza bosses: “The entire premises must be cleaned thoroughly and sanitised/disinfected.

The condition and cleanliness of the premises needs major improvement...

"The condition and cleanliness of the premises needs major improvement.

“You must clean and maintain a clean condition at all times.”

A revisit 13 days later on April 15 found a formal pest control procedure had not been created, but bosses at the pizzeria had set up their own baits and were monitoring the situation daily.

The firm’s records showed they had no current issues with pests, but they were advised if the rodents returned they must bring in professionals.

The pizzeria has since been reinspected and obtained a score of four - the second highest possible.

Inspectors at the premises on May 14 found the cleanliness and condition of the building and hygienic food handling to be good, while management of food safety was generally satisfactory.

Mario’s Pizza was contacted for comment.

Opening in 2020, Mario’s Pizza filled the gap left by Canterbury Fish Bar, and the site was also once a Chinese takeaway.