In May, 1996, a dramatic increase in Salmonella Enteritidis infections was observed in Waycross, Ware County, Georgia. A case-control study found a statistically significant association between Salmonella Enteritidis infection and eating at one, unidentified restaurant. A second-case control study involving persons who had developed Salmonella Enteritidis and who were known to have eaten at the restaurant showed that eating Chile Relleno, an egg-based dish, or eating any egg dish, or eating fried tortillas, were associated with Salmonella Enteritidis infection. The environmental investigation revealed poor food storage practices and cooking temperatures. Cross contamination of foods was likely. Food and environmental sampling yielded Salmonella Enteritidis strains, including samples of chile rellenos. Phage type 34 was identified in seven samples that were submitted for testing. The eggs used by the restaurant originated in South Carolina. Salmonella Enteritidis, phage type 34, was identified in an environmental culture from one of the farms that had supplied the eggs.