Poncitlan #5

3400 N Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60641
Mexican / Latin
Last inspected: Jan 15, 2026
100
Score
Low Risk

Going back to 2010, Poncitlan #5 has 27 inspections in the public record. On Jan 15, 2026, the health department conducted the most recent visit. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.

Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near two violations each time.

“Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” comes up most often, recorded eight times in the inspection record.

The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting Poncitlan #5 on the better side of that line. Overall, the inspection record reads well.

27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 15, 2026
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 12, 2026
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. FOUND TEMPERATURE AT 94-97.1F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK MUST BE MAINTAINED AT LEAST 110.0F DURING ALL TIMES OF OPERATION TO PROPERLY WASH UTENSILS AND EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
48
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, SHELVING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1 FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
78
Jan 7, 2026
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. FOUND TEMPERATURE AT 99-100F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK MUST BE AT LEAST 110.0F TO PROPERLY WASH UTENSILS AND EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
48
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, SHELVING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
78
Jul 28, 2025
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP OF ICE INSIDE 2 DOOR FREEZER LOCATED IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO THAW AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
47
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 OF 4 CERTIFIED MANAGERS WITHOUT ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
90
Mar 12, 2025
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORTILLA CHIPS AT HEAT LAMP STATION STORED DIRECTLY BENEATH PAPER TOWEL DISPENSER AT THE FRONT PREP AREA HANDWASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO RELOCATE TORTILLA CHIPS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION FROM SPLASH OR DRIP FROM FOOD EMPLOYEES WASHING HANDS AND MAINTAIN ALL FOOD STORED OUTSIDE OF PROHIBITED AREAS.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL WIPING CLOTH BUCKETS THROUGHOUT MAIN COOK LINE AREA STORED WITH WIPING CLOTHS IN STILL WATER WITHOUT ADEQUATE SANITIZER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN WIPING CLOTHES IN AN ADEQUATE SANITIZER SOLUTION BETWEEN USES OR MAINTAINED DRY.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE TO BE SOILED WITH DUST AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE AND OTHER FOOD EQUIPMENT AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF SOIL AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLOSED EMPLOYEE BEVERAGE CONTAINERS STORED ABOVE MICROWAVE AT THE MAIN COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO RELOCATE EMPLOYEE BEVERAGE CONTAINERS AND PROVIDE DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEE BEVERAGE AND PERSONAL ITEM STORAGE THAT DOES NOT POSE RISK OF CONTAMINATION FOR FOOD, UTENSILS, OR CLEAN EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PERSON-IN-CHARGE WITH CITY OF CHICAGO CERTFIED FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE WITHOUT ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING OR CERTIFICATE ON-SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITH ADDITIONAL ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING AND MAINTAIN CERTIFICATE(S) ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES FOR INSPECTOR REVIEW.
58
78
Jul 23, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SALT AND SUGAR OUT OF THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINERS IN PLASTIC INGREDIENT BINS IN REAR DRY STORAGE AREA WITHOUT LABELS. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO LABEL ALL FOODS AND SPICES WITH COMMON NAME THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS AND MAINTAIN.
39
90
Apr 14, 2023
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITH AN EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST HAVE A VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.
57
95
Oct 11, 2022
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE BIN AND INTERIOR GUARD WITH SOME DIRT, NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOIL BEING USED AS LINER ON SHELVING UNIT IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD FROM SHELVING UNITS. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
90
Nov 5, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 29, 2021
Routine
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY FROM (03/24/2020) WAS NOT DISPLAYED FOR THE PUBLIC TO VIEW.TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY WAS ISSUED AND MUST BE DISPLAYED AND VISIBLE TO THE PUBLIC AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010 (B).
61
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2366267 DATED:03/24/2020 #38--EXIT DOOR WITH 1/3 OF AN INCH GAP ON THE LEFT BOTTOM CORNER OF THE DOOR AND THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR ALSO. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT/INSECTS PROOFED THE DOOR. Jun 24, 2020 #53--WASTE RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE UNISEX WASHROOM MUST HAVE A LID/COVER FOR FEMININE ITEMS. Jun 24, 2020 #55--FLOOR BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE ACCUMULATED. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. Jun 24, 2020 #56--MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE CEILING VENT COVER INSIDE THE UNISEX WASHROOM( WITH DUST BUILD UP) AND MAINTAIN. Jun 24, 2020 INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT NOTED VIOLATIONS AND MAINTAIN BY 11/5/2021. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK LOCATED AT FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIGHT DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ENCRUSTED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE.MUST REMOVE DEBRIS, DETAIL CLEAN INSIDE ICE MACHINE/HAVE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABELS FOR LARGE BULK FOOD CONTAINERS/BINS IDENTIFIED WITH COMMON NAME (SALT, SUGAR, FLOUR ETC).
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST ON THE STORAGE RACK WHERE CUTTING BOARDS ARE STORED.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST AND REPAINT OR REPLACE THE STORAGE RACK AND MAINTAIN.
47
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN CURRENT FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE.INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ON SITE.
58
61
Mar 24, 2020
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: EXIT DOOR WITH 1/3 OF AN INCH GAP ON THE LEFT BOTTOM CORNER OF THE DOOR AND THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR ALSO. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT/INSECTS PROOFED THE DOOR.
38
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: WASTE RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE UNISEX WASHROOM MUST HAVE A LID/COVER FOR FEMININE ITEMS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE ACCUMULATED. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE CEILING VENT COVER INSIDE THE UNISEX WASHROOM( WITH DUST BUILD UP) AND MAINTAIN.
56
82
Jul 25, 2019
Complaint
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER OF RAW AND UNDER COOKED FOODS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION-NO CITATION ISSUED) STATEMENT THAT EATING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND INVERT POTS/PANS STORED ON SHELF ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE AND TO MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT PLASTIC LINING INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLER IS BROKEN. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
47
82
Jul 5, 2019
Complaint
3 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 4 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TIME FOR TEMPERATURE SAFETY FOR CONTROL FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATED AND MARKED STORED IN WALK IN COOLER. (COOKED GROUND BEEF 3.00 LBS 25.00, COW TANG 1.0 LBS VALUE &15.00) IN WALK IN COOLER . 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. CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005 MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 4.0 LBS VALUE & 40.00 .
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER OF RAW AND UNDER COOKED FOODS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION-NO CITATION ISSUED) STATEMENT THAT EATING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT PLASTIC LINING INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLER IS BROKEN. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
47
70
Sep 27, 2018
Complaint
4 major violations. 13 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N)-NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-30-010 NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11- NO CLEAN UP POLICY FOR VOMITING AND DIARRHEA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-202.12(A)- NO HAND WASHING SINK IN THE FRONT SERVING STATION AREA WITH COFFEE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL WITH OT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE AND PROVIDE HAND SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17- ALL READY TO EAT TCS FOOD INSIDE TE WALK IN COOLER AND REACH IN COOLER MUST BE PROPERLY LABELED AND DATED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12(C)-ALL DRY FOOD CONTAINER IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA MUST BE LABELED WITH COMMON NAME.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11(C)-ALL EMPLOYEES IN THE PREP AREA HELPING PREPARE FOOD MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT TO CONFINE THE HAIR.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14- ALL WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES, CHOPPING BOARD, MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION IN BETWEEN USES.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-201.11-FOUND GROCERY BAG BEING USED TO STORE FROZEN FOOD. MUST REPLACE WITH FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAG.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11- RUBBER GASKET ON THE DOOR OF THE WALK IN CCOLER RIPPED OFF. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-202.16- WOOD SHELVINGS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WORN OUT. MUST RE REPAINT AND MAINTAIN.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-204.119- MISSING DRAIN STOPPERS FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK (ESTABLISHMENT IS USING ROLLED PLASTIC AS A DRAIN STOPPER). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.17-CEILING VENT COVER IN THE WASHROOM WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11-DAMAGED, STAINED CEILING PANELS ABOVE THE AND SINK IN THE PREP AREA AND IN THE COOK LINE. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.13- COVING(BASEBOARD) IN THE REAR PREP AREA BY THE PREP TABLE,NOT IN GOOD REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 4-202.18(C)-VENTILATION HOOD,FILTER WITH GREASE BUILD-UP. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE GREASE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-202.11(C)- MISSING SOLID LIGHT SHIELD IN THE REAR PREP AREA ABOVE THE REACH IN FREEZER. MUST PROVIDE.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367-NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE.100-0367-
58
35
Mar 14, 2018
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN FRONT AND IN REAR PREP AREA ESPECIALLY FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND BEHIND GREASE BOX WITH POOLED WATER TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE INOPERABLE LIGHT BULBS ABOVE FRONT PREP/COOKING AREA TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL LIGHTING.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REORGANIZE REAR PREP/STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS (FOOD AND NON FOOD) MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING.---------CLEANING EQUIPMENT (MOPS, BROOMS ETC) MUST BE STORED OFF THE FLOOR.
41
86
Mar 23, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 16, 2017
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT # 1779411 DATED 5/9/16. #38- Found faucet on mop sink without back flow device. Instructed must install back flow device on utility faucet. Must maintain. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BREAD ALL STORED ON A GROCERY BAG IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BAG WITH FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAG.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DUST BUILD-UP ON THE FAN GUARD OF THE REACH IN COOLER IN THE FRONT AREA. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MISSING DRAIN STOPPERS FOR THE 3 COMPT SINK(ESTABLISHMENT IS USING PLASTIC AS A DRAIN STOPPERS). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE DRAIN STOPPERS FOR THE 3 COMPT SINK.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES, CHOPPING BOARDS MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION(NOT ALL OVER THE CHOPPING BOARD AND PREP TABLE).
43
78
May 9, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Found several prepped items without labels. Instructed must label all prepared or prepackaged potentially hazardous foods with proper label (if holding more that 24 hrs-must have date).
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Found bowls stored upright, on shelf near cooking line. Instructed must invert all multi-use items during storage to prevent contamination. Must maintain.
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Found missing floor tiles near front door. Instructed to repair and maintain.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Found 1 light out in kitchen over cooking line. Instructed must provide adequate lighting throughout. Must maintain.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Found faucet on mop sink without backflow device. Instructed must install back flow device on utility faucet. Must maintain.
38
78
Oct 5, 2015
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOK HANDLE READY TO EAT TORTILLAS FROM THE GRILL AND FRESH CILANTRO FOR THE FOOD BEING ASSEMBLED WITH BARE HANDS. REVIEWED NO BARE HANDS WITH READY TO EAT FOODS AGAIN AND INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS AND USE GLOVES ON SITE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-010(A)
6
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT THE COOKS LINE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK. MUST PROVIDE AT THE SINK, ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATIN 7-38-030.
12
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST NOT STORE DIRTY KNIVES BETWEEN THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND THE CLEAN FOOD PREP TABLE.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR COOKING EQUIPMENT.
32
82
May 15, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED READY TO EAT SALSA MUST BE LABELED AND DATED.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MUST PROVIDE FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE BAGS OR WASHABLE CONTAINERS.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINES UPPER WATER RESERVOIR WITH SOME DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INOPERABLE CEILING VENTILATION IN THE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE. MUST PROVIDE PROPER STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: COOKS LINE WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE STORED IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: NO IDPH FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE OR PROOF OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
45
70
Oct 17, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP ABOVE FRONT PREP AREA.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REPLACE SOME CRACKED LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE REAR PREP AREA.
36
90
May 13, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTED WALLS BEHIND PREP TABLE IN REAR (ACROSS 1 COMP SINK) IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO FIX OR INSTALL FRP SHEET. MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN.----------MUST SEAL HOLE AROUND PIPE ON WALL BEHIND MOP SINK.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REORGANIZE REAR STORAGE SHELVES, MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
90
Aug 23, 2013
License
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK INGREDIENT CONTAINERS NOT LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME. MUST PROPERLY LABEL CONTAINERS.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: WOOD SHELVES IN REAR PREP AND STORAGE AREAS ARE UNCLEAN AND HAVE PEELING PAINT. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE SHELVES AND MAINTAIN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICES INSTALLED AT WATER SUPPLIES TO ICE MAKER OR COFFEE MACHINE. NO AIR GAP AT DRAIN FOR ICE MAKER. MUST INSTALL BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AND CREATE AIR GAP BETWEEN DRAIN TUBE AND FLOOR DRAIN AT ICE MAKER.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: REACH-IN COOLERS MISSING CONSPICUOUSLY PLACED INTERNAL THERMOMETERS. MUST PROVIDE SAME.
40
82
Jun 14, 2013
Complaint
No violations found.
100
May 7, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: BOTH UPRIGHT FREEZERS IN PREP AREA HAVE INTERIOR GRIME/ DRIED BLOOD . MUST DETAIL CLEAN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: VENT COVERS IN WALK COOLER HAVE BUILD UP OF DUST. MUST DETAIL CLEAN.
38
90
Apr 26, 2011
Routine
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. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR PREP COOLER
33
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. BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD AND LIGHT FIXTURES UNCLEAN,MUST REPLACE BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN LIGHT FIXTURES
36
90
Nov 12, 2010
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Foods in coolers not properly labeled. Instructed to label all foods not in original containers.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not properly stored. Instructed to invert utensils to prevent contamination before use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ice machine panel not removable. Instructed to have proper tools for removal of ice machine cover. Gaskets on prep cooler not maintained. Instructed to replace worn gaskets to properly seal cooler doors.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Can opener, cooking equipment, fan covers and interior panel of ice machine not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floor along wallbase, prep area and behind equipment not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Light and ventilation covers through out not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean covers. Ceiling tile damaged in areas. Instructed to replace any damaged ceiling tile.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Cold water not supplied at utility sink. Instructed to have cold running water under city pressure.
38
70

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Poncitlan #5 last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Poncitlan #5 on file is from Jan 15, 2026. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Poncitlan #5?

Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited eight times, more than any other issue at Poncitlan #5.

Has Poncitlan #5's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Poncitlan #5 have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Poncitlan #5 means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.

How often is Poncitlan #5 inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Poncitlan #5 is inspected around two times per year on average.