Browne Dining Hall Operations

All Caltech dining facilities are subject to regular inspection by the Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD). These inspections are unannounced and typically happen quarterly, and inspection results are publicly available on the PPHD web site (search for Caltech). The most recent inspection of Browne Dining Hall on May 26, 2026, yielded a number of minor violations that require corrective action and cumulatively resulted in a health score of 84. It is important to make clear that there has been some confusion around the most recent inspection and the health score for the facility; Pasadena Public Health Department notified Caltech today that their initial score of 72 was erroneous.

We are closely reviewing the details of the report and all operational practices as staff members immediately work to address any concerns. None of the findings are indicative of a risk to the health and safety of the Caltech community, and according to PPHD's policy there was no evidence of an imminent health hazard.

PPHD has issued a conditional pass, with a follow-up inspection scheduled to take place sometime before June 15, 2026. Dining staff are documenting all corrective actions taken, and the department is also undertaking a thorough review of all practices and procedures to ensure Caltech's standards are properly met.

Community members with questions on the health rating or facility operations can email [email protected].