El Nuevo Mexicano
Last inspected: Sep 2, 2025
74
Score
Going back to 2010, El Nuevo Mexicano has 26 inspections in the public record. The latest inspection on file is from Sep 2, 2025. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near five violations per visit.
The pattern that stands out is “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed”, which has been cited 10 times.
By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting El Nuevo Mexicano on the weaker side. Taken together, the history looks like that of a busy facility working through the usual inspection cycle.
26
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Sep 2, 2025
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HAND WASHING SINKS IN FOOD PREP AREA, BAR, AND REAR COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED BULK FOOD ITEMS STORED INSIDE CONTAINERS AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN REAR FOOD 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 BINS IN FRONT BAR AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE BINS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR INSIDE LIQUOR ROOM LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL ITEMS 6INCHES OFF THE FLOOR
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BIG OPENING AND WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES ABOVE UPRIGHT REFRIGERATOR ON BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST SEAL OPENINGS AND MAINTAIN FACILITY IN A GOOD REPAIR. OBSERVED MISSING AND DAMGED WALL TILES BEHIND LAW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE.MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
Feb 9, 2024
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: SOME COOLERS MISSING THERMOMETERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE WORKING THEMOMETERS FOR ALL COOLERS.
36
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DIRT/FOOD BUILD UP ON WALLS BEHIND/UNDER DISHMACHINE. MUST CLEAN WALLS THROUGHOUT DISHMACHINE ROOM AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BASEMENT FLOOR CLUTTERED ALONG EAST WALL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST ELEVATE ALL ITEMS OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE ITEMS.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATES HAVE EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST UPDATE ALL EXPIRED FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATES OF ALL CURRENT FOOD HANDLERS.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.
58
78
Jan 13, 2023
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: FOUND DIVIDED INDIVIDUALLY WRAPPED RAW SHRIMPS IN PLASTIC SARAN WRAP AND RAW BEEF(SAME WAY WRAPPED) STORED TOGHETER IN THE SAME CONTAINER INSIDE THE REACH-IN COOLER. OBSERVED SOME OF THE PACKED SHRIMP HAD FOOD LIQUID(BLOOD) FROM RAW BEEF JUICE LEAKING FROM THE WRAPPES. INSTRUCTED PRODUCTS MUST BE SEPARETED DUE TO DIFFERENT COOKING TEMPERATURE. MANAGER DISCARDED FOOD. POUNDS 10.VALUE 200. PRIORITY VIOLATION:7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED
15
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: TCS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE: COOKED SPANISH RICE STORED INSIDE TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER AT TEMP OF 44.7F TO 45F.MANAGER STATED FOOD WAS COOKED THE DAY BEFORE.COLD FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 41F AND BELOW.FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED.POUND 5,VALUE 10. PRIORITY VIOLATION: 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED
22
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: DRY FOOD IN STORAGE MUST BE LABELED WITH A COMMON NAME:FLOUR,ETC.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN PREP AREAS IN SANITIZER BUCKET BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
67
Oct 26, 2022
Recent Inspection
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT TO BE IMPROPER:-BEANS 52.8F, RICE 51, BEEF 44.2F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 55 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $100.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREPARED TCS FOODS ITEMS INSIDE THE SERVICE COOLER AND 2-DOOR COOLER STORED FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS WITHOUT PROPER DATE MARKING. BEEF (NO DATE), CEVICHE(NO DATE), PORK TACO (9/24), VEGAN TACO (NO DATE) ETC. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 130 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $100 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. INSTRUCTED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND DINING NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A SLIMY AND GREY SUBSTANCE INSIDE THE SODA GUN DISPENSER AT THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED CLUTTER AT THE FAR END OF BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE ON SHELVES, FLOORS INSIDE UNUSED EQUIPMENT, AND IN STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PESTS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE BELONGINGS ON SHELVES AT THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AND PREP AREA WITH FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO STORE THEIR BELONGINGS.
56
64
Oct 7, 2022
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT TO BE IMPROPER:-BEANS 52.8F, RICE 51, BEEF 44.2F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 55 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $100.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREPARED TCS FOODS ITEMS INSIDE THE SERVICE COOLER AND 2-DOOR COOLER STORED FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS WITHOUT PROPER DATE MARKING. BEEF (NO DATE), CEVICHE(NO DATE), PORK TACO (9/24), VEGAN TACO (NO DATE) ETC. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 130 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $100 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. INSTRUCTED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND DINING NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A SLIMY AND GREY SUBSTANCE INSIDE THE SODA GUN DISPENSER AT THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED CLUTTER AT THE FAR END OF BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE ON SHELVES, FLOORS INSIDE UNUSED EQUIPMENT, AND IN STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PESTS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE BELONGINGS ON SHELVES AT THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AND PREP AREA WITH FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO STORE THEIR BELONGINGS.
56
64
Apr 19, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM 10-24-19 REPORT #2320444 REMAINS .#58- NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
60
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-903.11(A;C)- ALL STORED ITEMS UNDER THE BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE REAR DINING ROOM SERVER STATION MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS. FLOORS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE FOR CLEANING AND MONITORING AT ALL TIMES.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)- INTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE TALL REACH-IN FREEZER WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11- FLOORS UNDER THE KITCHEN METAL RACK SHELVING WITH DIRT/DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 6-201.11- NOTED ROUGH AND UNFINISHED BRICK WALLS BEHIND LIQUOR BOTTLES AND THE GARBAGE CAN OF THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH WALLS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE
55
78
Apr 9, 2021
Routine
2 critical violations. 4 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cooling time and temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COOLING OF TCS COOKED RICE. APPROXIMATELY 15 LBS COOKED RICE INSIDE A TIGHTLY CLOSED PLASTIC SHOPPING BAG IN THE COOKS LINE TALL REACH-IN COOLER AT 58.6F. RICE DISCARDED. REVIEWED PROPER COOLING METHODS AND COOLING TIMES TO 70 F WITHIN 2 HOURS THEN TO 41 F WITHIN 4 HOURS.NO TIME/TEMPERATURE LOGS ON SITE. PRIORITY VIOLATION SEE VIOLATION #22 FOR CITATION.
20
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF TCS COOKED RICE. APPROXIMATELY 15 LBS COOKED RICE INSIDE A TIGHTLY CLOSED PLASTIC SHOPPING BAG IN THE COOKS LINE TALL REACH-IN COOLER AT 58.6F. RICE DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS TCS FOODS SUCH AS SHREDDED CHEESE, COOKED STUFFED PEPPERS, COOKED TAMALES, READY TO EACH CEVICHE THROUGHOUT VARIOUS COOLERS WITH NO DATE LABELING OR PREPARATION DATES ONLY. REVIEWED ALL PREPARED READY TO EAT TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU ITEM CEVICHE WITH SALMON, SHRIMP, AND SCALLOPS NOT REMINDED/DISCLOSED ON THE MENU AS BEING A RAW ITEM. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY REMIND/DISCLOSE ALL SUCH FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 10-24-19 REPORT #2320444 NOT CORRECTED. #37-: NOTED BULK FOOD ITEMS STORED INSIDE CONTAINERS AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH PRODUCT NAME.#55- NOTED ROUGH AND UNFINISHED BRICK WALLS BEHIND SOME SECTION OF THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH WALLS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.#58- NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED
60
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS UNDER THE BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE REAR DINING ROOM SERVER STATION MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS. FLOORS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE FOR CLEANING AND MONITORING AT ALL TIMES.
45
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE COOK WASHING HIS HANDS WEARING SOILED GLOVES. INSTRUCTED TO CHANGE GLOVES AS NEEDED. NOT TO WASH GLOVED HANDS THEN RE-USE.
46
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PAPER AS LINER FOR SHELVING.----MUST NOT USE RAW WOOD AS SHELVING INSIDE BASEMENT COOLER. MUST BE SMOOTH, CLEANABLE SURFACE.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE TALL REACH-IN FREEZER WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER THE KITCHEN METAL RACK SHELVING WITH DIRT/DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
39
Oct 24, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL READY TO EAT FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME AND USED BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005(A). NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NOTED ESTABLISHMENT SERVING UNDER COOKED FOOD ITEMS (STEAK/CEVICHE) WITH NO CONSUMER ADVISORY, DISCLOSURE OR REMINDERS TO THE CUSTOMERS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CONSUMER ADVISORY ON THE MENU WITH A DISCLOSURE NOTICE AND REMINDER STATEMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY
25
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY
5
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED BULK FOOD ITEMS STORED INSIDE CONTAINERS AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES AT THE DINING TABLE AND PREP AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES AT THE DINNING TABLES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED WASH ROOMS ON PREMISE WITH GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND NO LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASH ROOMS AND UNISEX WASH ROOMS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY CLUTTER AT THE REAR OF BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE ON SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED ROUGH AND UNFINISHED BRICK WALLS BEHIND SOME SECTION OF THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH WALLS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEES AT WORK WITH NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES AND ONE MONTH (30 DAYS) GRACE PERIOD FOR NEW HIRES
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION
58
47
Jun 26, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 18, 2018
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: FOUND PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT DATED 11-2-17 INSPECTION # 2103089. VIOLATION 32. MUST NOT STORE FOOD (SODA, BEVERAGES, DRY GOODS) IN BASEMENT UNDER EXPOSED SEWER LINES. MUST PROVIDE GUTTER SYSTEM ON EXPOSED SEWER LINES OR RELOCATE FOOD SO IT IS NOT DIRECTLY BELOW EXPOSED LINES. VIOLATION 34. MUST INSTALL COVING ALONG WALL UNDER MAIN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND THROUGHOUT DISH ROOM. MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOOR IN BASEMENT SODA/BEVERAGE ROOM. MUST STORE ALL ITEMS STORED AT THE SIDE OF THE BASEMENT STAIRS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. VIOLATION 35. OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN BASEMENT WHERE CEILING IS UNFINISHED AND WALLS ARE MADE OF COARSE BRICK. IN FOOD STORAGE AREAS, MUST PROVIDE WALLS AND CEILINGS THAT ARE FINISHED TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-42-090.
29
95
Nov 2, 2017
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PAINT/SEAL RAW WOODEN HANDLE ON BAR REACH IN COOLER. MUST NOT STORE FOOD (SODA, BEVERAGES, DRY GOODS) IN BASEMENT UNDER EXPOSED SEWER LINES. MUST PROVIDE GUTTER SYSTEM ON EXPOSED SEWER LINES OR RELOCATE FOOD SO IT IS NOT DIRECTLY BELOW EXPOSED LINES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN OIL ACCUMULATION FROM LOWER INTERIOR COMPARTMENT OF FRYERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL COVING ALONG WALL UNDER MAIN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND THROUGHOUT DISH ROOM. MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOOR IN BASEMENT SODA/BEVERAGE ROOM. MUST STORE ALL ITEMS STORED AT THE SIDE OF THE BASEMENT STAIRS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. MUST REPAIR BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF BAR BEER COOLER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN BASEMENT WHERE CEILING IS UNFINISHED AND WALLS ARE MADE OF COARSE BRICK. IN FOOD STORAGE AREAS, MUST PROVIDE WALLS AND CEILINGS THAT ARE FINISHED TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE INOPERABLE LIGHTING IN BASEMENT JANITOR ROOM.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST ELIMINATE CLUTTER UNDER REAR (NON-FUNCTIONING) STAIRS IN REAR OF BASEMENT, WHERE MAINTENANCE MATERIALS, OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND OTHER ITEMS ARE STORED. MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY OBJECTS AND STORE REMAINDER AT LEAST 6 INCHES OF THE FLOOR, SO AREA CAN BE ACCESSED FOR PEST CONTROL AND CLEANING.
41
74
Oct 26, 2017
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROX. 60 SMALL FLIES IN BASEMENT PRODUCE STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY AND RECOMMENDED SERVICE BY LICENSED PEST CONTROL. SERIOUS VIOLATION: 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PAINT/SEAL RAW WOODEN HANDLE ON BAR REACH IN COOLER. MUST NOT STORE FOOD (SODA, BEVERAGES, DRY GOODS) IN BASEMENT UNDER EXPOSED SEWER LINES. MUST PROVIDE GUTTER SYSTEM ON EXPOSED SEWER LINES OR RELOCATE FOOD SO IT IS NOT DIRECTLY BELOW EXPOSED LINES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN OIL ACCUMULATION FROM LOWER INTERIOR COMPARTMENT OF FRYERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL COVING ALONG WALL UNDER MAIN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND THROUGHOUT DISH ROOM. MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOOR IN BASEMENT SODA/BEVERAGE ROOM. MUST STORE ALL ITEMS STORED AT THE SIDE OF THE BASEMENT STAIRS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. MUST REPAIR BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF BAR BEER COOLER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN BASEMENT WHERE CEILING IS UNFINISHED AND WALLS ARE MADE OF COARSE BRICK. IN FOOD STORAGE AREAS, MUST PROVIDE WALLS AND CEILINGS THAT ARE FINISHED TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE INOPERABLE LIGHTING IN BASEMENT JANITOR ROOM.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST ELIMINATE CLUTTER UNDER REAR (NON-FUNCTIONING) STAIRS IN REAR OF BASEMENT, WHERE MAINTENANCE MATERIALS, OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND OTHER ITEMS ARE STORED. MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY OBJECTS AND STORE REMAINDER AT LEAST 6 INCHES OF THE FLOOR, SO AREA CAN BE ACCESSED FOR PEST CONTROL AND CLEANING.
41
70
Jul 26, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRACKED PLASTIC DRAWERS REPAIRED WITH TAPE IN THE BASEMENT WHITE UPRIGHT COOLER. MUST REPLACE DRAWERS TO BE SMOOTH, DURABLE, AND EASILY CLEANABLE. OBSERVED ABSORBENT, COARSE, WICKER BASKETS BEING USED TO SERVE TORTILLA CHIPS. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD EQUIPMENT MUST BE SMOOTH, NON-ABSORBENT AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COVING DETACHING FROM WALL NEAR COFFEE STATION. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE ALL MOPS AND BROOMS INVERTED OR AT LEAST 6 INCHES ABOVE THE FLOOR.
41
86
Jul 5, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 24, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND FRUIT FLY ACTIVITY AT PREMISES. OBSERVED ABOUT 30 FRUIT FLIES AT PREMISES ON WALLS BY DISHMACHINE AND AT BASEMENT. SERIOUS VIOLATION. CITAITON ISSUED. MUST NOTIFY PEST CONTROL OPERATOR.7-38-020.
18
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT DATED 10-26-15. INSPECTION # 1506766. MUST PROVIDE FOODHANDLERS LIST FOR NEXT ROUTINE INSPECTION. FOUND FOODHANDLERS AT PREMISES WITH NO FOODHANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES. SERIOUS VIOLATION . CITATION ISSUED. 7-42-090.
29
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT FOLLOWING AREAS: DISHWASHING AREAS, BASEMENT, MAIN KITCHEN AND BAR AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL MENTIONED AREAS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT BAR AREAS. MUST PROVIDE.
38
82
Oct 26, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Caulk around exposed hand sink and bathroom sink in state of disrepair, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Cooler shelving/racks not clean, need detailed detailed cleaning, reach in cooler shelving, and reach in freezer shelving/racks not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors under heavy equipment, cooking equipment not clean, need detailed cleaning(corners), floors in bsmt storage areas under heavy equipment, shelving not clean, need detailed cleaning(corners).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Walls that had peeling paint by 2 compartment sink in kitchen prep area, shall be repaired/sealed.
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Must provide food handlers list for next routine inspection.
45
78
Oct 22, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN BASEMENT.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN BASEMENT AND RUSTY INTERIOR BOTTOM SURFACE OF UPRIGHT COOLERS AND FREEZERS IN BASEMENT. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE. CHIPS CONTAINERS IN REAR STORAGE ROOM WITH BROKEN LIDS. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. REMOVE DIRT AND GREASE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKY FAUCET HANDLE AT THE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR/MAINTAIN.
38
82
Jun 6, 2014
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL COOKED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE PREP COOLERS.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FROZEN MEATS STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS INSIDE FREEZERS IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO USE A FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOLERS AND FREEZERS IN BASEMENT WITH DIRT AND DEBRIS IN THE INTERIOR BOTTOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED AND PEELING PAINT ON WALLS BEHIND DISHMACHINE IN FIRST FLOOR. MUST SCRAPE AND REPAINT.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKY FAUCET BASE AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT THE EXPOSND HANDWASH SINK IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR/MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MISSING THERMOMETER AT UPRIGHT COOLER IN BASEMENT. MUST PROVIDE.
40
74
May 7, 2013
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK FOOD NOT LABELED.(BEANS,RICE,ETC.)
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY ON SHELVING UNITS.(MUST STORE INVERTED)
31
90
Jan 8, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND SHELVING UNITS BY DISHMACHINE NOT CLEAN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND CLUTTER AT BASEMENT THAT MUST BE REMOVED.(OLD BOXES ETC.)
41
86
Jul 5, 2012
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT KITCHEN PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK AND REAR SERVER STATION EXPOSED HAND SINK WHILE KITCHEN STAFF WAS COOKING AND PREPARING FOODS. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
12
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY.(MUST STORE INVERTED)
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLERS NOT CLEAN AT BASEMENT
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT DISH WASHING AREAS.
34
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE INTERNAL THERMOMETER FOR BASEMENT FREEZER CONTAINING FROZEN FISH.
40
78
May 18, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY.(MUST STORE INVERTED)
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLERS NOT CLEAN AT BASEMENT.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT DISWASHING AREAS.
34
86
Jan 26, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. BULK CHIP CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED.
30
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 COOKING EQUIPMENT. METAL SIDE OF COOKS LINE BROILER NEXT TO DEEP FRYER IN POOR REPAIR WITH HOLES ACCUMULATING GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. PARTIALLY REPAIRED WITH A PLASTIC SUBSTANCE THAT IS PEELING. MUST PROPERLY REPAIR WITH METAL AND A WELDED SEAL. NO PLASTIC AND MUST MAKE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
32
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. ALL LIGHTS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT DRY FOOD AND REFRIGERATION STORAGE MUST BE SHIELDED OR PROVIDE SHATTER PROOF BULBS.
36
86
Jan 25, 2010
Consultation
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
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 CLEAN AND DEFROST THE INTERIOR OF THE BASEMENT FREEZERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. REPAIR THE LOOSE FLOOR TILES IN THE HALLWAY OUTSIDE OF THE RESTROOMS. REPLACE THE BROKEN FLOOR TILE BEHIND THE BAR.
34
90
Jan 19, 2010
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
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 CLEAN AND DEFROST THE INTERIOR OF THE BASEMENT FREEZERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. REPAIR THE LOOSE FLOOR TILES IN THE HALLWAY OUTSIDE OF THE RESTROOMS. REPLACE THE BROKEN FLOOR TILE BEHIND THE BAR.
34
90
Jan 11, 2010
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines. OBSERVED OVER 30 LIVE FRUIT FLIES IN THE BASEMENT WHERE FOOD (POTATOES, ONIONS, CHILES, ETC.) IS STORED. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE ALL PEST ACTIVITY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. OBSERVED SEVERAL FOODS IN THE COOLERS THAT ARE NOT LABELED AND DATED. MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL PREPARED FOODS.
30
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 CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: DUST ON WIRE STORAGE RACKS NEXT TO THE OVEN, BASEMENT FREEZERS AND THE GREASE TRAPS AND DRAIN LINES WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. REPAIR THE LOOSE FLOOR TILES IN THE HALLWAY OUTSIDE OF THE RESTROOMS. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR BENEATH THE STOVE TOP. REPLACE THE BROKEN FLOOR TILE BEHIND THE BAR.
34
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS OF THE PREP AREA WITH GREASE, DUST AND FOOD DEBRIS.
35
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Nuevo Mexicano last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Nuevo Mexicano on file is from Sep 2, 2025. The public record contains 26 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Nuevo Mexicano?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at El Nuevo Mexicano.
Has El Nuevo Mexicano's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at El Nuevo Mexicano have averaged around five violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at El Nuevo Mexicano 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 Nuevo Mexicano inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Nuevo Mexicano is inspected around two times per year on average.
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