El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill
Last inspected: Mar 14, 2025
70
Score
Public records show 23 inspections at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill stretching back to 2010. El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill was last inspected on Mar 14, 2025. A medium risk rating points to a few notable findings at the last inspection, though nothing severe.
Recent inspections have turned up more issues than earlier ones, averaging around six violations lately compared to roughly three violations before.
Across the inspection history, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 10 times.
El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill's latest score of 70 falls below the Chicago average of 81. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
7
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 14, 2025
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA.MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF ICE BIN IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW ITEMS NOT ELEVATED FROM THE FLOOR IN REAR MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA AND BASEMENT. MUST ELEVATE ALL STORED ITEMS OFF THE FLOOR.
45
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLOW LEAK AT THE BOTTOM OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR DRAINS IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS AND PROVIDE COVERS. MUST REGROUT FLOOR IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REFRIGERATION UNITS IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
70
Mar 26, 2024
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MISSING BASEBOARD TILE COVING ON COOKS LINE ON THE NORTH WALL. MUST REPLACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: PEELING WALL CAULKING AT THE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND BLACKENED WALL CAULKING AT THE DISH AREA HAND WASHING SINK. MUST REMOVE/REPLACE.----TAPE BEING USED ON THE WALL AS ELECTRICAL COVERING. MUST NOT USE TAPE. MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE COVERING.----DAMAGED, PEELING CEILING AT THE BASEMENT LARGE ICE MACHINE. MUST REPAIR CEILING TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: DIRTY FOOD ENCRUSTED TABLE TOP CAN OPENER IN THE BASEMENT PREP. MUST CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: DISH MACHINE DOOR NOT CLOSING PROPERLY AND NOTED LEAKING WATER ONTO THE FLOOR. MUST REPAIR DOOR TO PROPERLY CLOSE/SEAL.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BROKEN UNUSED FREEZERS IN THE BASEMENT, ONE WITH EXPOSED INSULATION. MUST REMOVE OR REPAIR.
55
78
Feb 2, 2023
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE DOOR OF 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT AT THE KITCHEN PREP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE COOLERS AND REFRIGERATION UNITS FOOD STORED INSIDE GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED CARDBOARD BOXES USED TO LINE SHELVES AT THE BASEMENT FOOD DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD BOXES TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED MISSING PLATE AT THE BOTTOM DOOR OF THE UPRIGHT FREEZER AT THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING PLATE PANEL.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE ONE COMPARTMRNT SINK BY THE DISH WASHING MACHINE AT THE FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA SND ALSO LEAKAGE AT THE BOTTOM PIPE OF HAND WASHING SINK BY THE BATHROOM OF THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
51
78
Feb 17, 2022
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST BUILD UP ON PREP AREA REACH IN COOLERS CONDENSERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN COOLERS CONDENSERS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED ON ICE MACHINE WATER LINE. MUST PROVIDE AND MAKE VISIBLE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE FOR ICE MACHINE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE IN EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
86
Aug 25, 2021
Complaint
1 critical violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER:-FAJITAS (45.0F/48.2F), GREEN SAUCE (PROBLEMO SAUCE 45.1F)), RICE (45F/47.3F/45.9) PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NOTED UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEANED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
16
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND DINING AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE DOOR OF 3 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT AT THE KITCHEN PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
67
Sep 11, 2020
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA WITH DARK STAINS AND DEEP GROOVES. MUST DETAIL CLEAN OR REPLACE.
47
95
Jul 24, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11-OBSERVED MISSING DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AT BOTTOM OF MENU AND RAW/UNDERCOOKED FOOD ITEMS ARE NOT DISCLOSED FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AT THE BOTTOM OF MENU STATING, "THESE FOOD ITEMS ARE COOKED TO ORDER." THEN MUST PROVIDE AN ASTERIK NEXT TO THE FOOD ITEMS THAT ARE SERVED COOKED TO ORDER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12-OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA WITH DARK STAINS AND DEEP GROOVES. MUST DETAIL CLEAN OR REPLACE.
47
86
Jul 16, 2020
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM 4/10/2019, REPORT #2282923. #58- NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AT BOTTOM OF MENU AND RAW/UNDERCOOKED FOOD ITEMS ARE NOT DISCLOSED FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AT THE BOTTOM OF MENU STATING, "THESE FOOD ITEMS ARE COOKED TO ORDER." THEN MUST PROVIDE AN ASTERIK NEXT TO THE FOOD ITEMS THAT ARE SERVED COOKED TO ORDER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005.
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ACCESSIBLE HAND WASHING SINK AVAILABLE AT THE DISH WASHING AREA IN MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA ON FIRST FLOOR. MUST PROVIDE A HAND WASHING SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS WHERE EMPLOYEES CAN CONVENIENTLY WASH HANDS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE IN BOTH MEN AND WOMEN'S BATHROOMS IN THE PRIVATE ROOM AREA IN REAR. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PINK MINERAL SUBSTANCE BUILD UP INSIDE OF SODA POP MACHINE GUN AT MAIN ENTRANCE BAR AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK FOOD CONTAINERS IN BASEMENT WITHOUT A LABEL (BEANS, RICE). MUST PROVIDE THE COMMON NAME ON FOOD CONTAINER TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA WITH DARK STAINS AND DEEP GROOVES. MUST DETAIL CLEAN OR REPLACE.
47
61
Apr 10, 2019
Routine
5 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE OR REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR A VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO ACCESSIBLE HAND WASHING SINK AVAILABLE AT THE DISH WASHING AREA. MUST PROVIDE A HAND WASHING SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREPARED READY TO EAT TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABEL ALL SUCH FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NO CONSUMER ADVISORY POSTED ON MENU. MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD. MUST PROVIDE ADVISORY, DISCLOSE AND INFORM ALL SUCH ITEMS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS FOOD CONTAINERS. MUST PROVIDE WASHABLE CONTAINERS OR FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE BAGS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: PEELING CAULKING AT THE COOKS LINE STEAM TABLE. MUST REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE DUCT TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR ON THE KITCHEN HAND SINK SPLASH GUARD OR THE METAL RACK SHELVING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CRACKED/DAMAGED WALL TILES IN THE BASEMENT EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD ABOVE THE MAIN BAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST PAINT/SEAL.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MISSING LIGHT SHIELD END CAPS THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE/REPLACE.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
43
Jan 12, 2018
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: COUNTER TOP BROKEN BY THE SMALL ICE BIN IN THE KITCHEN,REPLACE SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE EXCESS ICE BUILD-UP ON VENT CONDENSER,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. MISSING LID AT KITCHEN AREA ICE BIN. MUST PROVIDE LID.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP ON WIRES ABOVE THE COLD UNIT,GREASE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN. REMOVE EXCESS ICE BUILD-UP INSIDE THE REACH-IN FREEZER IN BASEMENT AND CHEST FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN. CLEAN DEBRIS ON SHELVES THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN. INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF DISH MACHINE NOT CLEAN, ENCRUSTED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND BLACK AND GRAY SLIME. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN THE KITCHEN,NEED TO REPLACE,REPAIR REGROUT.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE. NEED TO CLEAN FLOOR ALONG BASEBOARD WALLS
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BURNED LIGHT BULBS IN THE KITCHEN DISH ROOM AND UNDER THE HOOD,REPLACE,ALSO GREASE ON LIGHT SHIELD UNDER HOOD,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: STRONG, FOUL SEWAGE ODOR AT REAR BAR AREA AND BASEMENT PREP AREA,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR ELIMINATE SOURCE OF ODOR. MIDDLE MECHANICAL DRAIN IS LEAKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,NEED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. POP GUN NOZZLE WITH MINERAL BUILD-UP,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN NO COLD WATER HANDLE PROVIDED AT FAUCET AT MOP SINK(BASEMENT).
38
78
Jan 5, 2018
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES,OBSERVED EMPLOYEE GRABBING WITH BARE HANDS AND BANDAGE ON HIS HAND,SLICED ONION TO STORE THEM INSIDE PLASTIC BAG AND WEIGH THEM, NO FOOD GLOVE USED. INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS AND USE FOOD GLOVES. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-010(A).
6
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH MACHINE UNABLE TO DISPENSE SANITIZER AT FINAL RINSE,PRESENTLY 0ppm.UNIT IN USE,OBSERVED POTS INSIDE THE UNIT.INSTRUCTED TO USE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. DISH MACHINE SERVICE ARRIVED DURING INSPECTION TO REPAIR. MACHINE DISPENSING 100 PPM AVAILABLE CHLORINE AFTER SERVICE. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030.
8
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED AT EXPOSED HAND SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA BY THE LARGE ICE MACHINE ,PREP TABLE AND OPENED FOOD,MUST PROVIDE ALSO OBSERVED TOILET BOWL WITH FECES STAINS INSIDE THE BOWL AND AT TOILET BOWL RIM.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
11
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD(ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE. WE OBSERVED BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE ON WATER RESERVOIR WERE ICE IS MADE,INSIDE THE LARGE ICE MACHINE,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. FOUND DISH RACKS USED FOR DISHES,CUPS,POTS, GLASSES ETC., WITH EXCESS ENCRUSTED BLACK SLIME ON UTENSIL CONTACT SURFACES. NEED TO REPLACE RACKS. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-005(A)
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: COUNTER TOP BROKEN BY THE SMALL ICE BIN IN THE KITCHEN,REPLACE SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE EXCESS ICE BUILD-UP ON VENT CONDENSER,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. MISSING LID AT KITCHEN AREA ICE BIN. MUST PROVIDE LID.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP ON WIRES ABOVE THE COLD UNIT,GREASE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN. REMOVE EXCESS ICE BUILD-UP INSIDE THE REACH-IN FREEZER IN BASEMENT AND CHEST FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN. CLEAN DEBRIS ON SHELVES THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN. INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF DISH MACHINE NOT CLEAN, ENCRUSTED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND BLACK AND GRAY SLIME. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN THE KITCHEN,NEED TO REPLACE,REPAIR REGROUT.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE. NEED TO CLEAN FLOOR ALONG BASEBOARD WALLS
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BURNED LIGHT BULBS IN THE KITCHEN DISH ROOMAND UNDER THE HOOD,REPLACE,ALSO GREASE ON LIGHT SHIELD UNDER HOOD,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: STRONG, FOUL SEWAGE ODOR AT REAR BAR AREA AND BASEMENT PREP AREA,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR ELIMINATE SOURCE OF ODOR. MIDDLE MECHANICAL DRAIN IS LEAKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,NEED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. POP GUN NOZZLE WITH MINERAL BUILD-UP,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN NO COLD WATER HANDLE PROVIDED AT FAUCET AT MOP SINK(BASEMENT).
38
64
Mar 20, 2017
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND EXTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLER NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND EXHAUST HOOD NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
38
90
Mar 17, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FOUND REACH IN COOLER AT MAIN KITCHEN AT 55.9F. CRITICAL VIOLATION. 7-38-005A REACH IN COOLER TAGGED.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES. FOUND 10 POUNDS RAW BEEF AT 52.0F, 5 POUNDS PORK TAMALES AT 52.8F, 1 POUND PICO DE GALLO AT 52.8F, 5 POUNDS CHEESE AT 45.6F, AND 4 POUNDS DICED TOMATOES/ONIONS/CILANTRO AT 48.4F. CRITICAL VIOLATION. 7-38-005A. DISPOSED OF APPROXIMATELY 25 POUNDS OF FOOD. MONETARY VALUE ABOUT 100 DOLLARS.
3
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND EXTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLER NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
32
86
Nov 3, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 25, 2016
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: EVIDENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL INSIDE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 40 LIVE FRUIT FLIES ON WALLS, INSIDE MOP SINK AND STORAGE SHELVING IN BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZED AFFECTED AREAS ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE PEST PROBLEM. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SPLASHGUARD NEEDED AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED NEXT TO PREP TABLE IN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT IN THE INTERIOR PANELS OF ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR TILE INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN BASEMENT IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. MUST MAINTAIN FLOOR DRY AT ALL TIMES IN BASEMENT TO PREVENT PEST BREADING. DETAIL CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS IN BASEMENT AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING NEXT TO VENTILATION HOOD AND WALLS BEHIND AND NEXT TO COOKING EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON WALLS BEHIND FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS INSIDE 3-DOOR REACH-IN COOLER. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKY FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT FOOD PREP AREA DRAINING SLOW. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS IMPROPERLY STORED. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
67
Feb 8, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA WITHOUT LIDS AND LABELS. INSTRUCTED MUST LABEL AND MAINTAIN ALL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING LIDS FOR BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON FAN COVERS IN WALK IN COOLER IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON INTERIOR OF FRYERS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLES IN CEILING OF BOILER ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON LIGHT SHIELD COVERS IN KITCHEN AND BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED LIGHTING IN BASEMENT PREP AREA IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE LIGHTS NOT WORKING TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK AT HANDLE OF HAND WASHING SINK IN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED SLOW DRAINING HANDWASHING SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
78
Jun 19, 2015
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST BE CERTIFIED WITH CERTIFICATES OF NAMES OF EMPLOYEES ON PREMISES.
45
95
Jun 12, 2015
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE NOT MAINTAINED, 0 PPM CHLORINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR DISHMACHINE, MUST SANITIZE AT 100 PPM CHLORINE. ALL MULTI-USE UTENSILS MUST BE WASHED, RINSED AND SANITIZED AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
8
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PINK/BLACK SLIME BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE DRIPPING INTO ICE, READY TO EAT FOOD. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. ALL ICE INSIDE ICE MACHINE VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM REPORT #1490599 DATED ON 07/14/14 NOT CORRECTED-#32 FOUND THE LEVERS ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK NOT PROPERLY SEALING THE DRAIN TO ALLOW THE COMPARTMENTS TO FILL WITH WATER. INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE DRAIN LEVERS OR PROVIDE STOPPERS FOR EACH COMPARTMENT OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER SAID PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION MUST BE CORRECTED BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090 NON COMPLIANCE.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND PREP AREA REACH IN COOLERS DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED/MISSING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS MUST BE PROVIDED/REPAIRED.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: DISHWASH AREA CEILING LIGHT BULBS MISSING COVERS END CAPS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL CEILING LIGHT BULBS MUST HAVE COVERS AND END CAPS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: PREP AREA EXPOSED HANDWASH BOWL FAUCET LEAKING ALSO BAR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK HOT/COLD WATER HANDLES AND FAUCET LOOSE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: PLASTIC ICE SCOOP CRACKED BY HANDLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE DAMAGED ICE SCOOP.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST BE CERTIFIED WITH CERTIFICATES OF NAMES OF EMPLOYEES ON PREMISES.
45
67
Jul 14, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE DRAIN LEVERS ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK NOT PROPERLY SEALING THE DRAIN TO ALLOW THE COMPARTMENTS TO FILL WITH WATER. INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE DRAIN LEVERS OR PROVIDE STOPPERS FOR EACH COMPARTMENT OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETIL CLEAN FLOORS IN THE BASMENT UNDER THE DRY STORAGE RACKS TO REMOVE DIRT STAINS AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP.
33
90
May 7, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE COOKED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN BASEMENT AND REACH-IN COOLER IN KITCHEN AREA IN FIRST FLOOR.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE MARGARITA REACH-IN COOLER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS INSIDE REAR REACH-IN COOLER. MUST PROVIDE.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKY FAUCET AT 2-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR.
38
82
Feb 9, 2012
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Feb 2, 2012
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING. 0 PPM CHLORINE AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. NO DISHES BEING WASHED AT TIME OF INSPECTION. NO FOODS BEING PREPARED. ESTABLISHMENT OPENS AT 5 PM. NO CITATION ISSUED. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND PROPERLY DISPENSING SANITIZER. CONTACT C.D.P.H. BY FAX REQUEST TO 312-746-4240 FOR RE-INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL.
8
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Minor violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority. PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 7-19-10 NOT CORRECTED. #32-.REPLACE BROKEN LID LINER FOR CHEST FREEZER IN BASEMENT AREA.#35-SEAL(RECAULK) WALL BEHIND 1 COMPARTMENT SINK,IN PREP AREA.#36-PROVIDE END CAPS FOR LIGHT SHIELD IN PREP AREA.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. MUST NOT USE TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING IN KITCHEN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE HOT WATER AT BAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO WASH ALL BAR GLASSWARE AT KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK UNTIL HOT WATER IS PROVIDED.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOP MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
78
Jul 19, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.REPLACE BROKEN LID LINER FOR CHEST FREEZER IN BASEMENT AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.DETAIL GREASE BUILD-UP INSIDE THE DEEP FRYERS.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.SEAL(RECAULK) WALL BEHIND 1 COMPARTMENT SINK,IN PREP AREA.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.PROVIDE END CAPS FOR LIGHT SHIELD IN PREP AREA.
36
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill on file is from Mar 14, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill.
Has El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill have averaged around six violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Mariachi Restaurant — El Mariachi Bar & Grill is inspected around two times per year on average.
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