Taqueria El Palmar
Last inspected: Sep 26, 2025
78
Score
Across the available record, Taqueria El Palmar has 24 inspections on file, the first dated 2010. Inspectors last stopped by on Sep 26, 2025. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
Violation counts have ticked up lately, averaging around six violations per visit versus roughly four violations earlier in the record.
Across the inspection history, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded eight times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. Taken together, the history looks like that of a busy facility working through the usual inspection cycle.
24
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Sep 26, 2025
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUCKETS OF FOOD STORED ON FLOOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST ELEVATE ITEMS OF THE FLOOR TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF COOKING EQUIPMENT AND PREP TABLES IN REAR KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVING.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING ABOVE PREP COOLERS IN REAR KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. ALSO OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP INSIDE CEILING LIGHSHILEDS COVERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON CEILING ABOVE REAR FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN REAR KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA NEAR REAR EXIT DOOR. MUST REPAINT AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Oct 22, 2024
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR THE GREASE TRAP, AS MATTING UNDER THE MICROWAVE OVEN OR CARDBOARD BOXES AS STORAGE CONTAINERS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORING.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: UNUSED BROKEN EQUIPMENT ie: FLAT TOP GRILL AT FRONT PREP, MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES TO PREVENT PEST HARBORING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES THROUGHOUT THE FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES PERSONAL BELONGINGS STORED INSIDE THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE A DESIGNATED NON-FOOD CONTACT AREA FOR EMPLOYEES BELONGINGS.
56
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOODS NOT STORED IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: MUST NOT STORE HANGING CLEAN UTENSILS, POTS, PANS ABOVE THE DIRTY WASH BASIN OF THE DISH THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS FOOD CONTAINERS IN COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MUST USE FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE BAGS OR WASHABLE CONTAINERS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD USED AS LINER UNDER THE ICE MACHINE MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED, NON-ABSORBENT.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE ICE BUILD UP ON THE INTERIOR OF THE WALK IN COOLER AND FREEZER NEAR THE FREEZER DOOR AND ON THE WALL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL ICE BUILD UP AND MAINTAIN FREE OF SIGNIFICANT ICE BUILD UP.
49
64
Sep 18, 2024
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTS AND EMPTY FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR PREPARATION AREA NEAR THE EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL EQUIPMENT AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM FLOOR.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE RIGHT SIDE SHELF OF THE REACH IN COOLER IN THE FRONT SERVICE/PREPARATION AREA TO BE RUSTED AND NOT EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE SHELF TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH EASILY CLEANABLE, AND SORROSIVE-RESISTANT MATERIAL.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE ICE BUILD UP ON THE INTERIOR OF THE WALK IN COOLER AND FREEZER NEAR THE FREEZER DOOR AND ON THE WALL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL ICE BUILD UP AND MAINTAIN FREE OF SIGNIFICANT ICE BUILD UP.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNISEX BATHROOM TO HAVE A TRASH CAN WITH NO LID. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE TRASH CAN WITH LID/COVER IN UNISEX/WOMEN'S BATHROOMS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR IN WALK IN COOLER HEAVILY SOILED WITH SPILLAGE AND FOOD DEBRIS IN CORNERS AND IN CENTER OF WALK IN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND DETAIL CLEAN ALL FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLAGE.
55
78
Jun 12, 2023
Complaint
1 critical violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WHILE WEARING GLOVES WASHED HANDS AT THE PREP SINK WITH GLOVES ON, WIPED THEM WITH PAPER TOWELS AND WENT BACK TO THE PREP TABLE TO CONTINUE PREPARING FOOD; WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES. .DISCUSSED WITH MANAGEMENT THAT GLOVES MUST BE CHANGED AND HANDS WASHED BETWEEN EACH TASK AND MUST WASH HANDS AFTER CHANGING GLOVES. PRIORITY VIOLATION VIOLATION#7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED
8
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES DRINKING AND PREPARING FOOD AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO DRINK AND EAT AND NOT AT THE PREP AREAS.
6
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON FLOOR IN PREP, STORAGE AND WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZERS. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF FLOOR.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED INDIVIDUAL TO-GO DISPOSABLE CONTAINERS AND BOWLS WITH NO HANDLE USED FOR SCOOPING SERVING FOOD AT THE SERVICE PREP COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TONGS, SERVING SPOONS, OR LADLE FOR SCOOPING FOOD.
39
74
Aug 11, 2022
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE ESTABLISHMENT NOT STORED IN CORRECT FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS. OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN COUNTRYSIDE CREAMERY HOMESTYLE SPREAD CONTAINERS. INSTRUCTED TO STORE FOOD IN FOOD-GRADE STORAGE CONTAINERS PROPERLY.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KITCHENWARE(PANS AND POTS) STORED IN MILK CRATES IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. ALSO OBSERVED A CUTTING BOARD STORED NEAR THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE SAID KITCHENWARE AND MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER NOT ELEVATED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY ELEVATE FOOD ITEMS ON SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN DOWN CARDBOARD BOXES USED TO LINE SHELVING UNITS AND ON THE FLOOR THROUGHOUT THE ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL BROKEN DOWN CARDBOARD BOXES TO ELIMINATE POTENTIAL HARBORAGE POINTS FOR RODENTS AND PEST.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED THE MANAGER TO HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS RETAKE THE COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS OF THE CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE FOR THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE. INSTRUCTED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER THAT ONLY CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
74
Mar 25, 2021
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE
41
95
Aug 4, 2020
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN OR POSTER NEAR HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED INSIDE ICE MACHINE. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED AT THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MECHANICAL VENTILATION NOT WORKING INSIDE WOMEN'S WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIIN.
56
82
Aug 1, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW ANIMAL ORIGIN FOODS STORED ABOVE PREPARED READY TO EAT FOODS IN THREE SEPARATE COOLERS SUCH AS RAW EGGS STORED ON TOP OF CHOPPED TOMATO, SHREDDED LETTUCE AND CHEESE IN THE UPPER PORTION OF THE COOKS LINE REACH-IN COOLER AND RAW CHICKEN BEING STORED ABOVE COOKED POTATOES AND SAUCES IN THE TALL REACH-IN COOLER. FOODS REMOVED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
15
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE ALL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT AND A DISINFECTANT EFFECTIVE FOR NOROVIRUS FOR THE WRITTEN VOMITING AND DIARRHEA CLEANING PROCEDURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD. MUST PROVIDE A CONSUMER ADVISORY THAT DISCLOSES AND REMINDS CUSTOMERS OF FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK SUGAR, COFFEE AND TORTILLA CHIP CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH PRODUCT NAME.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: COOKS LINE WET WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
41
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTS TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK TO ENABLE ADEQUATE WASHING, RINSING AND SANITIZING. MUST PROVIDE SMALLER POTS, A LARGER THREE COMPARTMENT SINK OR AN APPROVED ALTERNATIVE WASHING METHOD TO REMOVE FOOD PARTICLE ACCUMULATION AND SANITIZE.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE GREASE DRIPPING FROM INTERIOR OF THE EXHAUST HOOD ABOVE THE COOKS LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.----MUST NOT USE TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FOOD PREP AREAS. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS. MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE OR WASHABLE MATTING.
55
50
Aug 20, 2018
Routine
5 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGERS WITHOUT REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NO CITATION ISSUED
58
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(A)-OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT CLEAN UP POLICY IN PLACE AND KIT ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17(A) ALL PREPARED FOODS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER MUST BE PROPERLY LABELED WITH PRODUCT NAME, PREPARATION DATE AND EXPIRATION DATE WITHIN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
23
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: 5-103.11 METERED HAND WASHING SINK AT FIRST WASHROOM FOR MAINTAINS 85.4F.HAND WASHING SINK SHALL BE EQUIPPED TO PROVIDE WATER AT TEMP OF AT LEAST 100F THROUGH A MIXING VALVE OR COMBINATION FAUCET PRIORITY FOUNDATION-38-030(C).NO CITATION ISSUED
50
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-305.13 FOOD REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL CONTAINERS, MUST BE LABELED WITH COMMON NAME
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.11(A) MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS FOOD CONTAINERS IN COOLERS. MUST USE FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE BAGS OR WASHABLE CONTAINERS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11 C GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE THE DEEP FRYER IN PREP AREA ,CLEAN AND MANTAIN
49
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.113 NO COVERING PROVIDED AT RECEPTACLE STORED OUTSIDE BY THE REAR DOOR,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
54
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-303.11 INSUFFICIENT LIGHTING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER . MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING. -
56
47
Dec 8, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 1, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: FOUND PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT DATED 3-27-17 INSPECTION # 2009334. VIOLATION 38. FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-42-090. MUST PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE.
29
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND FOODHANDLER AT PREMISES WITH NO FOODHANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE.
45
90
Mar 27, 2017
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE. FOUND EXHAUST HOOD NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN DEGREASE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND MOPS AND BROOMS NOT STORED PROPERLY(NEXT TO 3 COMP SINK). MUST RELOCATE.
41
90
Oct 21, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL PREPARED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD-UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ITEMS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER NOT ELEVATED 6INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. MUST ELEVATE AND MAINTAIN.
41
86
Jan 14, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE. OBSERVED TINT FOIL ON FOOD CONTACT SURFACES IN KITCHEN PREP AREA.MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN INTERIOR PANELS OF ICE MACHINE LOCATED AT FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REMOVE DIRT.
33
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHES DTORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORED WIPING CLOTHES IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
86
May 1, 2015
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOODS NOT LABELED OR DATED INSIDE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL/DATE FOODS IN WALK IN COOLER (FIRST IN FIRST OUT).
30
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETER INSIDE REACH IN PREP COOLER ALONG COOKLINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER FOR COOLER.
40
90
Sep 10, 2014
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: NO SANITZING SOLUTION USED AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WASHING AND RINSING FOOD EQUIPMENT AND FOOD CONTAINERS AND THEN PLACING THEM DIRECTLY IN A CLEAN STORAGE RACK. 3-COMPARTMENT SINK WAS PROPERLY SET UP FOLLOWING MY REQUEST (WASH,RINSE,SANITIZE 100PPM).
8
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND MEAT IN THE REFRIGERATOR STORED IN GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO STORE FOOD IN FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS AT ALL TIMES.
30
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND A CONTAINER OF CACTUS STORED DIRECTLY NEXT TO THE DUMP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO RELOCATE FOOD ITEMS AWAY FROM DUMP SINK TO AVOID CROSS CONTAMINATION.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND BLOOD ON THE FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
82
Feb 18, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE CUTTING BOARDS ARE STAINED, SCRUB THE BOARDS AND SANITIZE THEM.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: A SMALL HOLE IS IN THE CORNER BEHIND THE BAR FREEZER, FILL IN THE HOLE.
34
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: THE WIPING CLOTHS NEED TO BE STORED IN A CONTAINER OF SANITIZING SOLUTION WHICH IS CHECKED AND CHANGED THROUGHOUT THE DAY.
43
86
Mar 6, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FAN INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. REMOVED DIRT AND DUST.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD MISSING INSIDE FRONT PREP REFRIGERATOR. MUST PROVIDE.
36
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOP STORE ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
43
86
Aug 15, 2012
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TINFOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING INSIDE COOLER OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR STORAGE SHELVING. RAW WOODEN SHELVING ON TOP OF GREASE TRAP MUST BE PAINTED OR SEALED, SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
32
95
Jul 14, 2011
Tag Removal
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE UNTHREAD FAUCET AT EXPOSED HAND SINK
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: KEEP OUTSIDE WASTE OIL CONTAINER CLEAN,FREE FROM WASTE OIL
41
90
Jul 12, 2011
Tag Removal
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE UNTHREAD FAUCET AT EXPOSED HAND SINK
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: KEEP OUTSIDE WASTE OIL CONTAINER CLEAN,FREE FROM WASTE OIL
41
90
Jul 11, 2011
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Source sound condition, no spoilage, foods properly labeled, shellfish tags in place
Inspector notes: Shellfish shall be obtained from an approved source and kept in their original package until sold. OBSERVED IN A WALK-IN COOLER A BUCKET FULL OF FRESH OYSTERS A SHELL FISH TAG WITH IT(QUANTITY OF 100),HOWEVER IN THE BUCKETS WERE 111 OYSTERS. OYSTERS WERE COMMINGLED.FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED. COUNT,VALUE 44. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-005(B2) H000073302-17
1
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities. DISPLAY PREP COOLER NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE:AIR TEMP OF 55.7F OWN THERMOMETER SHOWED 54F.DOORS IN POOR REPAIR, DOOR GASKET BROKEN AND NOT COMPLETELY ABLE TO CLOSE DOOR(GAPS BOTTOM AND TOP OF THE DOORS).TAGGED UNIT" HELD FOR INSPECTION" DO NOT USE UNIT. INSTRUCTED TO USE ICE IN CONTAINER AND STORE FOOD THAT IS NEEDED TO BE PREPARED,MINIMIZE FOOD PREPARATION.WALK-IN COOLER IS INSIDE THE PREP AREA. ALSO INSTRUCTED TO MONITOR FOOD STORED IN ICE,CHANGE ICE OFTEN.A TIME AND TEMPERATURE LOG GIVEN AND EXPLAINED.OWNER CALLE A TECHNICIAN WILL REPORT ON PREMISES BETWEEN 4P AND 6P.INSTUCTED TO FAX A LETTER WHEN UNIT IS REPAIRED(FAX #312-746-4240) CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-005(A) H000073302-17
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less. FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE STORED FROM INSIDE THE DISPLAY PREP COOLER:COOKED CHICKEN AT TEMP 54.6F; SOUR CREAM AT TEMP OF 57F; TRIPS, POLPO, PASTOR (PORK); GROUND BEEF, TONGUE, MUSHROOM RICE ALL A TEMP OF 48F TO 50F,ALL FOOD WAS DISCARDED AND DENATURED BY THE OWNER POUNDS 10, VALUE 100.COLD FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 40F AND BELOW. CRITICAL VIOLATION: 7-38-005(A) H000073303-18
3
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. PROVIDE UNTHREAD FAUCET AT EXPOSED HAND SINK.
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. KEEP OUTSIDE WASTE OIL CONTAINER CLEAN,FREE FROM WASTE OIL.
41
78
Jan 19, 2011
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. ADDITIONAL THRESHOLD IS NEEDED AT BOTTOM OF FRONT DOOR(1ST MAIN DOOR).
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. KEEP OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA FREE OF FOOD DEBRIS ON GROUND.ADDITIONAL CLEANNING IS NEEDED.
41
90
Mar 23, 2010
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: Equipment and utensils should get proper exposure to the sanitizing solution during the rinse cycle. Bactericidal treatment shall consist of exposure of all dish and utensil surfaces to a rinse of clean water at a temperature of not less than 180F.SANITAZING SOLUTION NOT USED AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.OBSERVED DISHES ,POTS, AND UTENSILS BEEN WASHED AND RINSED, WITHOUT SANITIZING SOLUTION. SINK SET UP (WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE 100 PPM).CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030 HOOOO59437
8
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.PROVIDE A WOODEN SPOON /FORK WITH A LONG HANDLE TO USE FOR DEEP POTS.DO NOT USE BROKEN WOOD STICK.
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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 MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF DEEP FRYER, AND UNDER THE GRILL(EXCESS BUILD UP OF GREASE AND BURNED FOOD .
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Taqueria El Palmar last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Taqueria El Palmar on file is from Sep 26, 2025. The public record contains 24 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Taqueria El Palmar?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been cited eight times, more than any other issue at Taqueria El Palmar.
Has Taqueria El Palmar's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Taqueria El Palmar have averaged around six violations per visit, up from roughly four earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Taqueria El Palmar 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 Taqueria El Palmar inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Taqueria El Palmar is inspected around two times per year on average.
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