Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales
Last inspected: Nov 14, 2025
47
Score
The health department has logged 19 inspections at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales, the earliest from 2014. The latest inspection on file is from Nov 14, 2025. The high risk label is a heads-up that the most recent visit didn't go well.
Recent visits have flagged more than earlier ones: around nine violations per visit lately, up from roughly three violations before.
When inspectors have written things up, “approved thawing methods used” has been the most frequent reason, cited nine times.
Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales' latest score of 47 falls below the Chicago average of 81. Taken together, the history suggests a facility that has struggled with consistency.
19
Inspections
2
Critical latest
1
Major latest
7
Minor latest
Inspection History
Nov 14, 2025
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOOD STORED IN FRONT PREP COOLER AT IMPROPER COLD HOLD TEMPERATURE RANGE OF 58F-60F. THE FOLLOWING COLD HOLD ITEMS OBSERVED AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING; SLICED TOMATOES, CHOPPED BEEF, SHREDDED CHICKEN, DICED TOMATOES, COOKED CHORIZO. PIC VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 10LBS OF DENATURED FOOD AT A COST OF $100. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COLD HOLD UNIT IN FRONT PREP AREA AT 61F. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL COLD HOLD UNITS MUST BE HELD AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED. COOLER IS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION BY CDPH AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT NO TCS FOODS MAY BE STORED IN UNIT UNTIL RE-INSPECTION.
33
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT CERTIFIED MANAGER AS WELL AS VALID ORIGINAL CERTIFICATE MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED (BEANS, RICE, CHICKEN, STEAK). PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO PERSON ON SITE WITH FOODSERVICE MANAGER TRAINING.
1
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1/4IN GAP IN BOTTOM CORNER OF REAR EXTERIOR DOOR. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR DOOR TO BE TIGHT FITTING AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON TWO DOOR COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREP TABLE IN REAR USED FOR STORAGE WITH EXCESSIVE RUST ON BOTTOM. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR OR REPLACE.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN LID ON COVERED RECEPTACLE IN RESTROOM. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS AND LITTER UNDER AND AROUND DUMPSTER. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LITTER AND FOOD DEBRIS UNDER SHELVING AND ALONG WALL BEHIND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
47
Oct 7, 2024
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATES MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. MUST REMOVE CRATES FROM PREMISES AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS FREE OF UNNECESSARY CREVICES AND DESIGNED/CONSTRUCTED TO BE EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN THE WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED MOP HEADS NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO HANG MOP HEADS TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS ON FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
70
Jun 5, 2024
Routine
2 critical violations. 9 minor violations.
View 11 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER TOUCH READY-TO-EAT FOOD TORTILLA WITH BARE HANDS AND ADD TO ONIONS IN KITCHEN AT FOOD LINE. FOOD EMPLOYEES? MAY NOT CONTACT EXPOSED, READY-TO-EAT FOOD WITH THEIR BARE HANDS. MUST USE SUITABLE UTENSILS SUCH AS DELI TISSUE, SPATULAS, TONGS, SINGLE-USE GLOVES, OR DISPENSING EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
9
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BEEF AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 70.2F IN PREP AREA. FOOD HAS BEEN DISCARDED VOLUNTARILY. FOOD WEIGHING APPROXIMATELY 20 LBS AT A COST OF $100.00. TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 41.0F OR BELOW INSIDE OF A COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN/DAMAGED RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR OF THE 2 DOOR COOLER IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKET.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE FREEZER UNIT WITH FOOD STORED INSIDE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS
47
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN MEAT THAWING IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO THAW TCS FOODS UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER, IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR IN THE MICROWAVE AS PART OF A CONTINUOUS COOKING PROCESS.
35
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR EXIT DOOR NOT COMPLETELY RODENT PROOFED AS REQUIRED. MUST COMPLETELY RODENT PROOF DOOR BY SEALING 1/4 GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A HEAVY ACCUMULATION OF DIRT, DUST, GREASE, FOOD SPLATTER AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE WALLS AND FLOORS ESPECIALLY ALONG THE HOT FOOD SERVICE LINE UNDER AND AROUND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND NON COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE BURNT OUT LIGHT BULB IN THE MAIN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATES MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
47
May 18, 2023
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
95
May 9, 2023
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHORIZO AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 59.2F IN COLD HOLDING UNIT. ALSO OBSERVED NUMEROUS OF TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE SUCH AS EGGS, STEAK, CHICKEN, SOUR CREAM, CHEESE, SLICED TOMATOES ALL RANGING FROM 55-62.0F. FOOD HAS BEEN DISCARDED VOLUNTARILY. FOOD WEIGHING APPROXIMATELY 75 LBS AT A COST OF $400.00. TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 41.0F OR BELOW INSIDE OF A COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF PREP COOLER AT 55.4F. AMBIENT TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF A COLD HOLDING UNIT MUST BE AT 41.0F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
70
May 9, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON THE PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS (EGGS, STEAK) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REMOVE OR REPAIR THE DAMAGED AND PEELING PLASTIC BOARD BEING USED AS A SHELF LOCATED ON TOP OF THE GREASE TRAP.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. MUST REMOVE CRATES FROM PREMISES AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS FREE OF UNNECESSARY CREVICES AND DESIGNED/CONSTRUCTED TO BE EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND HEAVY ICE BUILD UP INSIDE THE GLASS TOP CHEST FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO DEFROST, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN THE WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND HEAVY DIRT BUILD UP ON THE FLOOR NEAR THE GREASE TRAP AND UNDERNEATH THE PREP TABLE LOCATED NEXT TO THE BOILER. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO DETAIL CLEAN SAID AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
55
70
May 18, 2021
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES ABOVE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER IN FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REGROUT FLOOR IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA AND REAR STORAGE AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOODS AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN VENTILATION HOODS AND FILTERS AND MUST MAINTAIN.
56
74
Nov 12, 2019
Routine
5 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE AND DESCRIBE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO METAL STEM PROBE THERMOMETER ON THE PREMISES TO TAKE FOOD TEMPERATURES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
36
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE AND SUPPLIES ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BOTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS REFRIGERATED OVER 24 HOURS NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE CONSUMED OR DISCARDED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DATE MARK ALL APPLICABLE FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA TO BE SLOW DRAINING. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SO THAT THE SINK DRAINS PROPERLY.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN THE WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST HAVE A VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
50
Jul 9, 2018
Recent Inspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 27, 2018
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Observed chef's knife stored inside front food prep table while not in use. Must store all multi-use utensils away from food and food contact surfaces while not in use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed foil being used as shelf liner. Must remove. Observed rusty shelf on the bottom of the prep table in the rear prep area. Must remove.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Observed slight debris accumulation inside ice machine. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Observed excess food debris on floor under rear prep table by the rear entrance door. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain area.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Observed stained ceiling tiles in the rear prep area by the ventilation hood. Must replace. Observed hand sink in front prep area loose from wall. Must reattach, and maintain. Observed gas pipe behind hood equipment encrusted with a thick layer of food debris. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Observed no lighting in rear prep cooler. Must provide
36
74
Jun 20, 2018
Routine
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 evidence of pest activity on premise during inspection. Observed aprox 50 rodent droppings on floor along wall bases throughout rear prep area. Observed aprox 20 live small flies in the rear prep area. Observed aprox 10 live ants on the floor of the rear prep area. Must remove pests/evidence, clean, sanitize, and maintain areas. Observed a 1/4" gap along the bottom threshold of the front entrance door. Must provide a pest proof tight fitting seal for all entryways. Serious Violation# 7-38-020
18
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Observed chef's knife stored inside front food prep table while not in use. Must store all multi-use utensils away from food and food contact surfaces while not in use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed foil being used as shelf liner. Must remove. Observed rusty shelf on the bottom of the prep table in the rear prep area. Must remove.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Observed slight debris accumulation inside ice machine. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Observed excess food debris on floor under rear prep table by the rear entrance door. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain area.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Observed stained ceiling tiles in the rear prep area by the ventilation hood. Must replace. Observed hand sink in front prep area loose from wall. Must reattach, and maintain. Observed gas pipe behind hood equipment encrusted with a thick layer of food debris. Must remove debris, clean, and maintain.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Observed no lighting in rear prep cooler. Must provide.
36
70
May 11, 2017
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 3- DOOR PREP COOLER AND 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM GRILL TABLE,FRYER CABINET,WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM FLOOR IN REAR AREA BEHIND COOLERS AND FREEZER
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE MISSING WALL TILES AT MOP SINK,STAINED CEILING TILES IN DINING AREA.MUST ADJUST THRESHOLD AT FRONT DOOR.MUST CLEAN DUST BUILD UP FROM VENTILATION VENTS .MUST CLEAN GREASE FROM FILTERS AT HOOD
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST PLACE 2- EYE STOVE UNDER VENTILATION HOOD IN REAR PREP AREA.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION
43
74
May 4, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER LID NOT MAINTAINED.OBSERVED LID BENT AND ROD ON BACK OF DUMPSTER BROKEN LEAVING LID WITH A GAP APPX."12-18" IN UPRIGHT POSTION NOT ABLE TO CLOSE TO BE TIGHT FITTING.MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LID TO BE TIGHT FITTING.(SERIOUS 7-38-020)
19
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 3- DOOR PREP COOLER AND 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM GRILL TABLE,FRYER CABINET,WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM FLOOR IN REAR AREA BEHIND COOLERS AND FREEZER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE MISSING WALL TILES AT MOP SINK,STAINED CEILING TILES IN DINING AREA.MUST ADJUST THRESHOLD AT FRONT DOOR.MUST CLEAN DUST BUILD UP FROM VENTILATION VENTS .MUST CLEAN GREASE FROM FILTERS AT HOOD.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PLACE 2- EYE STOVE UNDER VENTILATION HOOD IN REAR PREP AREA
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION
43
70
Aug 31, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR CUTTING BOARD NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE. ALSO CLEAN FRONT JET SPRAY MACHINE DRIP TRAYS.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE LIGHT OUT OVER THE TWO BURNER STOVE, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
36
90
Mar 18, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRESH MASA STORED IN GROCERY BAGS FROM TORTILLERIA LOS GAMAS, INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN A PROPER FOOD GRADE CONTAINER,OR FOOD GRADE BAG IE. BAGGIES/ZIPLOC. NEED TO PROVIDE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN #10 CAN OPENER, REAR PREP COUNTER, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE. ALSO CLEAN INTERIOR OF MICROWAVE, FRYER DOOR, AND STOVE TOP.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALLS IN REAR PREP AREA NOT CLEAN, WITH FOOD SPLASHES, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN. ALSO REPLACE ALL WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR 3 COMPARTMENT NOZZLE LEAKING COLD WATER AT THIS TIME, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
38
82
Mar 25, 2015
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE FOOD HANDLER'S TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
45
95
Mar 18, 2015
Complaint
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: FOUND REAR BOTTOM OF EXIT DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF WITH ONE INCH GAP/OPENING. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF BOTTOM OF THE SAID DOOR. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS WITH DRIED FOOD DEBRIS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS THROUGHOUT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WALL WITH FOOD SPILLAGE AROUND REAR PREP AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER RAISED SHELVES 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING (NOTED BOXES AND MILK CRATES USED AS STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE FOOD HANDLER'S TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
45
78
Nov 19, 2014
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST PROVIDE SIGN FOR TOILET ROOM DOOR.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST SEAL ALL GAPS AT BRICKS AND FRONT WINDOWS IN DINING AREA.MUST APPLY A SEALANT ON BRICK WALL IN DINING AREA.MUST FINISH WALL BEHIND PREP COOLER IN FRONT PREP AREA.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST PROVIDE PROBE THERMOMETER FOR FOOD TEMPS.
40
86
Nov 12, 2014
License
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT PREP AREA PREP COOLER NOT WORKING.MUST MAINTAIN AT 40.0F OR BELOW.
2
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT AND REAR DOORS NOT TIGHT FITTING TO PREVENT RODENT ENTRY.MUST RODENT PROOF DOORS.
18
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3- COMPARTMENT SINK FAR LEFT COMPARTMENT LEAKING FROM SINK BASIN MUST WELD AND MAINTAIN.
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SIGN FOR TOILET ROOM DOOR.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL ALL GAPS AT BRICKS AND FRONT WINDOWS IN DINING AREA,GAP IN WALL IN WALK IN COOLER & REAR STORAGE AREA,WALL AT EQUIPMENT IN FRONT PREP AREA.MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES AND WIRES IN TOILET ROOM AND OFFICE.MUST APPLY A SEALANT ON BRICK WALL IN DINING AREA.MUST FINISH WALL BEHIND PREP COOLER IN FRONT PREP AREA.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY PIPE AT HAND SINK IN REAR PREP/DISH AREA.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROBE THERMOMETER FOR FOOD TEMPS.
40
70
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales on file is from Nov 14, 2025. The public record contains 19 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales?
Across the inspection record, “approved thawing methods used” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales.
Has Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales' inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales have averaged around nine violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Mago's Tamales & Taqueria — Mago's Tacos & Tamales is inspected around two times per year on average.
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