Merla's Kitchen
Last inspected: Jul 28, 2023
95
Score
The health department has logged 18 inspections at Merla's Kitchen, the earliest from 2012. Merla's Kitchen was last inspected on Jul 28, 2023. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit. No fresh inspection data is available: the latest entry for Merla's Kitchen dates to Jul 28, 2023.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around seven violations to closer to five violations per visit.
“Insects, rodents, & animals not present” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing seven times across the record.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Merla's Kitchen is doing better than most peers. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
18
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 28, 2023
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.
58
95
Jul 25, 2023
Reinspection
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED WITHIN SPECIFIED TIMEFRAME. REPORT #2578685 DATED JULY 17TH 2023 INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO #36 PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR MEASURING HOT AND COLD FOODS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
59
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: 2-101.11 OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE UPON ARRVAL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION.
1
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.
58
70
Jul 17, 2023
Routine
3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD THERMOMETER ON SITE FOR MEASURING COLD FOODS. ALL FOOD THERMOMETERS ON SITE START AT 100 F AND UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR MEASURING HOT AND COLD FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF AT LEAST 2 PEST CONTROL SERVICES WITHIN THE PAST YEAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROOF OF PEST CONTROL SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C) CITATION ISSUED.
38
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY UPON ARRIVAL WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED,HANDLED AND SERVED SUCH AS (CHICKEN) MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012)(CITATION ISSUED)
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE UPON ARRVAL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION.
1
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FISH BEING THAWED BY STAYING IN STAGNANT WATER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE THAT FOOD IS THAWED UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER.
35
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS BEING UTILIZED TO STORE FOOD IN FREEZER CHEST. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE WITH FOOD GRADE BAGS.
47
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.
58
58
Jan 18, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS (CHICKEN, PORK, BEEF ETC) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE, A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHEN HANDLING TCS FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED
2
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF BOTTOM OF 2 FRONT DOORS AND SIDE DOORS (IN DINING AREA).
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: (3) TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLES MUST BE COVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA AND IN REAR STORAGE AREA. FOOD AND NON FOOD ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING. MUST REMOVE SODA CRATES.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CERTIFED FOOD MANAGER WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
58
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: FOUND NO WRITTEN PROTOCOL AVAILABLE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A WRITTEN RECORD DESCRIBING PROTOCOL FOR CHECKING PROOF OF VACCINATION IN PUBLIC PLACES. VIOLATION 2-112-340 NO CITATION ISSUED
64
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO RECORDS RELATING TO EMPLOYEE VACCINATION STATUS AND TESTING AT COVERED LOCATIONS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. VIOLATION 2-112-340 NO CITATION ISSUED
64
55
Feb 22, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: 8-304.11(A) OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B). NO CITATION ISSUED.
61
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FREEZER, 2 DOOR PREP COOLER, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP AND THE WIRE STORAGE RACK NEXT TO THE STOVE.
49
86
Feb 10, 2021
Routine
6 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 8 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
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 OR 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
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENT ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 40 MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR OF THE REAR STORAGE AREA BEHIND THE CHEST FREEZER AND UNDER THE STORAGE SHELVES. ALSO OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 20 RAT DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR NEXT TO THE REAR EXIT DOOR OF THE STORAGE AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL RODENT DROPPINGS FROM ALL AFFECTED AREAS. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2355854 ON 12/23/19 NOT CORRECTED: 53 - OBSERVED THAT PUBLIC TOILET ROOM DOOR ARE NOT CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE. TOILET ROOM DOOR MUST REMAIN CLOSED EXCEPT DURING CLEANING OPERATIONS. 53 - MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN EMPLOYEES AND PUBLIC BATHROOM. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. NO CITATION ISSUED.
60
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B). NO CITATION ISSUED.
61
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FREEZER, 2 DOOR PREP COOLER, MICROWAVES AND EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP AND THE WIRE STORAGE RACK NEXT TO THE STOVE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE CLUTTER AND ITEMS STORED INSIDE OF THE ROOM NEXT TO THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE STORAGE AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ITEMS TO ELIMINATE PEST HARBORAGE CONDITIONS.
55
50
Dec 23, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN-UP OF VOMITING AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE AND CLEAN-UP KIT ON PREMISES DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SAID PROCEDURE ALONG WITH REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR CLEAN-UP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN, PORK) NOT PROPERLY DATED , STORED LONGER THAN 24 HOURS IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DATE MARKING WITH DISPOSITION DATE FOR RTE FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD OVER 24 HOURS IN COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICY.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION-7-38.010-NO CITATION ISSUED)
3
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT EMPLOYEE WORE WATCHES ON HANDS WHILE WORKING WITH FOOD.MUST REMOVE ALL JEWELRY EXCEPT PLAIN WEDDING BAND FROM HANDS WHILE WORKING WITH EXPOSED FOOD
40
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT UTENSILS IN USE ARE STORED IN WARM WATER TEMP 85 F ,MUST STORED UTENSILS UNDER RUNNING COLD WATER, UNDER HOT WATER (135 F AND ABOVE),IN FOOD HANDLE NOT TOUCHING FOOD AND IN CLEAN PLACE PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR TO REACH IN COOLER AND FREEZER IN FRONT PREP AREA COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT PUBLIC TOILET ROOM DOOR ARE NOT CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.TOILET ROOM DOOR MUST REMAIN CLOSED EXCEPT DURING CLEANING OPERATIONS.
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN EMPLOYEES AND PUBLIC BATHROOM
53
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
55
Apr 10, 2018
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE DINING AREA. MUST SCRAPE PEELING PAINT AND RE PAINT. WALLS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE AND DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. HOOD WITH GREASE BUILD-UP. MUST REMOVE GREASE AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES,CHOPPING BOARD MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE FOR THE TWO FOOD HANDLERS EMPLOYEE. MUST PROVIDE.
45
86
Apr 3, 2018
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE DINING AREA. MUST SCRAPE PEELING PAINT AND RE PAINT. WALLS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE AND DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. HOOD WITH CREASE BUILD-UP. MUST REMOVE GREASE AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES HELPING PREPARE FOOD IN THE PREP AREA MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT TO CONFINE THE HAIR.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES,CHOPPING BOARD MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE FOR THE TWO FOOD HANDLERS EMPLOYEE. MUST PROVIDE.
45
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2049369 DATED 4/27/17. #36-OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN. #41- OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE ITEMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF BOTH MICROWAVE AND MAINTAIN. DETAIL CLEAN ALL EXTERIOR OF THE DRY BULK FOOD CONTAINERS AND EXTERIOR SIDES/TOP OF THE COOKING STOVE AND GRILL AND MAINTAIN. DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE THE BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN.
33
74
Apr 27, 2017
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAKS AND MAINTAIN.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE IREMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.
41
86
Apr 18, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD-UP ON GREASE TRAP BENEATH THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,EXTERIOR OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENT STOVE AREA.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL AND MAINTAIN.
33
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT ON SITE AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CHEMICAL TEST KIT FOR THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND SANITIZING BUCKETS AS REQUIRED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
22
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS OUT OF ORIGINAL CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED AND MAINTAINED.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY FLOORS BENEATH THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS IN DETAIL THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES AND MAINTAIN.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAKS AND MAINTAIN.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE IREMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.
41
70
Jun 14, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL AND SANITIZE INTERIOR OF MICROWAVE, INTERIOR BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE REACH IN FREEZER(WITH FOOD CRUMBS/DEBRIS)AND MAINTAIN, CLEAN INSIDE THE CABINET UNDER THE EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE FRONT AREA AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE SCREEN DOOR OF THE EXIT DOOR WITH DUST ACCUMULATED AND MAINTAIN.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE TABLES, CHOPPING BOARD ,PREP COOLER MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
86
Jun 8, 2015
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE KITCHEN PREP COOLER, NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR ALONG WALL BASE AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS.
38
86
Dec 19, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOODS INSIDE COOLER NOT LABELED OR DATED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND DATE ALL FOODS NOT IN ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOO ALONG WALLBASE AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILIONG NOT MAINTAINED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND/OR REPAINT.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: UTILITY SINK REMOVED FROM PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL UTILITY SINK. SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS.
38
82
Jul 23, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: STORAGE SHELVES UNDER COUNTERS, PREP TABLE, SINKS, AND STORAGE SHELVES NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR BEHIND EQUIPMENT AND ALONG WALL BASE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: LIGHT COVERS IN PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND REMOVE DEBRIS.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP TOILET ROOM CLOSED AT ALL TIMES.
37
82
Apr 29, 2013
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 22, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES; OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLER HANDLING RAW MEAT, PLACING PLASTIC CONTAINER FROM SAME MEAT INSIDE THE GARBAGE TOUCHED SOILED GARBAGE BAG, HANDLED SOILED TOWEL AND RETURNING TO PREP TABLE AND HANDLE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS, HOWEVER NOT WASHING HER HANDS BETWEEN ACTIVITIES. (MAKING EMPANADAS). INSTRUCTED HANDS MUST BE WASHED AFTER ANY CONTAMINATING CONDITION INSIDE EXPOSED SINK WITH WARM WATER AND SOAP. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED, 7-38-010(A).
6
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #1188329, DATED 8-29-12; VIOLATIONS #30, MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS THAT IS NOT THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER WITH READY TO EAT FOODS. ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH SUGAR, FLOUR,RICE ETC. MUST HAVE A LABEL ALSO. #32, MUST REPAIR RIPPED OFF RUBBER GASKET ALONG THE DOOR OF THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AND MAINTAIN. #33, MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL ALL LID AND EXTERIOR OF THE BULK CONTAINERS, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE, EXTERIOR AND DOORS OF ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN. MUST ORGANIZE AND CLEAN BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN. #34, MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER AND BEHIND THE STOVE, UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK UNDER THE PREP TABLES, BEHIND THE WATER HEATER AND MAINTAIN. #35,: WALLS THRU OUT THE PREP AREA, KITCHEN WASHROOM NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING. CRACKED WALLS INSIDE THE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. #37,MUST RE ADJUST THE SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE WASHROOM,(NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY). #41,CLUTTER UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT AND UNDER THE MOP SINK. EMPTY BOTTLES, BOXES, CONTAINERS ETC. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND DISCARD ANY ITEMS/ARTICLES NOT BEING USE TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED, 7-42-090.
29
90
Aug 29, 2012
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER SUCH AS STEAM BUN AT 48.3F, RICE PUDDING AT 45.4F, MILK FLAN AT 47.6F. DISPLAY COOLER TEMPERATURE AT 41.2F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL COLD POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST MAINTAIN A TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW DURING STORAGE INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER. CITATION ISSUED CRITICAL 7-38-005(A). MANAGER DISCARDED THE SAID PRODUCT WORTH $65.00,TOTAL 15LBS.
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS THAT IS NOT THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER WITH READY TO EAT FOODS. ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH SUGAR, FLOUR,RICE ETC. MUST HAVE A LABEL ALSO.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR RIPPED OFF RUBBER GASKET ALONG THE DOOR OF THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL ALL LID AND EXTERIOR OF THE BULK CONTAINERS, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE, EXTERIOR AND DOORS OF ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN. MUST ORGANIZE AND CLEAN BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER AND BEHIND THE STOVE, UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK UNDER THE PREP TABLES, BEHIND THE WATER HEATER AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THRU OUT THE PREP AREA, KITCHEN WASHROOM NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING. CRACKED WALLS INSIDE THE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST RE ADJUST THE SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE WASHROOM,(NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY).
37
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: CLUTTER UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT AND UNDER THE MOP SINK. EMPTY BOTTLES, BOXES, CONTAINERS ETC. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND DISCARD ANY ITEMS/ARTICLES NOT BEING USE TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE.
41
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Merla's Kitchen last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Merla's Kitchen on file is from Jul 28, 2023. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Merla's Kitchen?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Merla's Kitchen.
Has Merla's Kitchen's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Merla's Kitchen have averaged around five violations per visit, down from roughly seven earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Merla's Kitchen means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
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