Taqueria La Esquinita
Last inspected: Apr 27, 2026
78
Score
Going back to 2014, Taqueria La Esquinita has 19 inspections in the public record. The newest entry in the record is dated Apr 27, 2026. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around four violations each.
Across the inspection history, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 14 times.
The city-wide average sits at 81, which Taqueria La Esquinita's 78 doesn't quite reach. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
19
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 27, 2026
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED PAINT AND ROTTED WOOD ON STORAGE RACK ABOVE THE DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE THE SHELF AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN FREEZER. MUST USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNUSED FIVE DOOR COOLER IN THE REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REMOVE FROM THE PREMISES AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD/FILTERS TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES.MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.
57
78
Feb 10, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON THE FLOORS, ALONG WALLS, AND IN CORNERS THROUGHOUT FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN UNDER ALL SHELVING UNITS, INTERIOR OF PREP DISH AREA, AROUND DISH MACHINE, PREP TABLES AND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE SPILLS, FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT BUILDUP AND/OR GREASE AND MAINTAIN.
55
95
Oct 7, 2024
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES IN KITCHEN STORED UP. INSTRUCTED TO STORE INVERTED.
44
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE OF COOKING FRYERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
86
Apr 6, 2023
License
No violations found.
100
Mar 17, 2023
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED COOKED PIG INTESTINES WITH A DATE LABELED 3/9/2023. OBSERVED EXPIRED COOKED CHICHARRONES WITH A DATE LABEL 2/28/23, COOKED SOUP WITH A DATE LABEL 3/9/23, COOKED PORK RIBS WITH NO DATE, MOLE VERDE WITH A DATE LABEL 3/7/23. COOKED FOOD CAN BE HELD FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PREPARATION DAY COUNTS AS DAY 1. EMPLOYEE VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED FOOD. FOOD WEIGHING APPROXIMATELY 20 LBS AT A COST OF $75.00. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM 9/1/2022, REPORT #2563150. #58--NOTED A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGERS MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DARK STAINS ON CUTTING BOARD AT PREP LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
74
Sep 1, 2022
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: EQUIPMENT NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE. NOTED TEMPERATURE OF THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER ON THE COOKS LINE TO BE IMPROPER AT 52.0 F. UNIT TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND MAY NOT BE USED UNTIL RE-INSPECTED BY CDPH AND MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND COLD TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES INSIDE THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER. RAW BEEF, CHORIZO, CUT TOMATOES, SHREDDED LETTACE, SOUR CREAM, EGGS, AND COOKED NOPALES FOUND AT TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 48F TO 54F. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND DENATURE SAID TCS FOODS AND ALWAYS MAINTAIN ALL COLD HOLDING TCS FOODS AT OR BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED. FOOD DISCARDED.
22
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN INCOMPLETE CONSUMER ADVISORY FOR RAW/UNDERCOOKED FOODS - THE ADVISORY IS MISSING A DISCLOSURE STATEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO ADD A DISCLOSURE STATEMENT TO THE CURRENT ADVISORY THAT SAYS "ITEMS CAN BE SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED OR CONTAIN UNDERCOOKED INGREDIENTS". PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. MANAGEMENT ADDED DISCLOSURE STATEMENT TO MENUS AT TIME OF INSPECTION.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PAPER TOWELS AND ALUMINUM FOIL BEING USED AS SHELF LINER ON THE CLEAN DISH RACKS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SO SURFACE IS NON-ABSORBENT AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED BROKEN GASKETS INSIDE THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND HEAVY ICE BUILD UP INSIDE THE CHEST FREEZER. NOTED HEAVY GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE FRYER. OBSERVED HEAVY FOOD AND GRIME BUILD UP ON THE GASKETS AND SHELVING INSIDE THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO DEFROST, REMOVE ICE, AND CLEAN THE CHEST FREEZER, AND TO CLEAN ALL OTHER SAID NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR MATS IN THE REAR PREP AND DISH AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE FLOOR COVERINGS THAT ARE A NON-ABSORBENT, NON-CORROSIVE, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF OLD FOOD SPLATTERS ON THE WALLS NEAR THE COOKS LINE AND DISH AREA. ALSO OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF BLACK DIRT/DEBRIS ON THE BASEBOARDS IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGERS MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE.
58
50
Jul 26, 2021
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN KITCEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AN UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REMOVE CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE. MUST USE APPROVED SHELVING FOR PRODUCT ELEVATION.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE AND DIRT BUILD UP ON FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHING COOKING EQUIMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Jul 16, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION#2453457 ON 10/16/2020. #53 OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. #56 OBSERVED DIM LIGHTING AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES. #56 OBSERVED MISSING END-CAPS AT LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE THE KITCHEN COOKING EQUIPMENTS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN END-CAPS ON LIGHT SHIELD PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-060.
60
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN KITCEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AN UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REMOVE CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE. MUST USE APPROVED SHELVING FOR PRODUCT ELEVATION.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE AND DIRT BUILD UP ON FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHING COOKING EQUIMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Oct 16, 2020
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIM LIGHTING AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING END-CAPS AT LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE THE KITCHEN COOKING EQUIPMENTS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN END-CAPS ON LIGHT SHIELD.
56
86
Sep 15, 2020
Complaint
4 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 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: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 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
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU OR MENU BOARD FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DESCRIBE AND DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MENU BOARD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF THE PREP TABLES AND COOLERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL WET WIPING CLOTHS IN A CONTAINER OF SANITIZER WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF THE 3 DOOR PREP COOLER AND WIRE STORAGE RACKS, STOVE, GRILL, AND INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING OF THE FOOD PREP AREA.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
55
Dec 3, 2019
Reinspection
4 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 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: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 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
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU OR MENU BOARD FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DESCRIBE AND DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MENU BOARD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF THE PREP TABLES AND COOLERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL WET WIPING CLOTHS IN A CONTAINER OF SANITIZER WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF THE 3 DOOR PREP COOLER AND WIRE STORAGE RACKS, STOVE, GRILL, AND INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING OF THE FOOD PREP AREA.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
55
Nov 19, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 5 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS IN THE PREP COOLERS. OBSERVED EGGS AT 44.6F, BEEF AT 44.6F, COOKED BEANS AT 78.2F, COOKED RICE AT 44.1F, PORK AT 45.5F, AND SALSA AT 44.2F. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 60# OF FOOD WORTH $300. PRIORITY 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 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
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
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU OR MENU BOARD FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DESCRIBE AND DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MENU BOARD. 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. CITATION ISSUED.
36
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF THE PREP TABLES AND COOLERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL WET WIPING CLOTHS IN A CONTAINER OF SANITIZER WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF THE 3 DOOR PREP COOLER AND WIRE STORAGE RACKS, STOVE, GRILL, AND INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. CLEAN THE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING OF THE FOOD PREP AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE EXCESSIVE GREASE ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
41
Oct 16, 2018
Routine
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N): NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11: NO VOMITOUS AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT CLEAN UP POLICY 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: MUST PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION OF REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11: MUST PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE, AND REMINDER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12: MUST PROVIDE IDENTIFYING LABELS FOR ALL FOODS NOT IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-202.16: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING IN THE PREP AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS A NON-POROUS, CORROSION-RESISTANT, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF THE FRYER CABINET ENCRUSTED WITH AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST REMOVE DEBRIS, DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FOOD DEBRIS/DIRT ON THE FLOOR BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASES AND IN THE DISH WASHING ROOM. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.13: OBSERVED FLOOR COVING THROUGHOUT FACILITY WORN AND WITH PEELING PAINT. MUST REPAINT WITH A HIGH GLOSS PAINT OR REPLACE COVING TO PROVIDE A NONPOROUS, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11: OBSERVED BROKEN FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT. MUST REPLACE. OBSERVED BROKEN EQUIPMENT (COOLER, OVEN) ON SITE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN OR REMOVED ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT FROM PREMISE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14: OBSERVED AN ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILDUP ON THE KITCHEN VENTILATION HOOD. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367: MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
45
Apr 4, 2017
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Found food items not properly dated in coolers in kitchen prep area, must properly date food items in coolers in kitchen prep area.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Reach in cooler shelving/racks that had peeling paint/rust, shall be repaired/replaced. Caulk around exposed hand sink in state of disrepair, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Reach in cooler shelving/racks not clean, had excess food debris accumulation, needs detailed cleaning(crevices). Prep table lower shelving not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors in kitchen prep area that were damaged/broken shall be repaired/replaced.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Ceiling in kitchen prep area had peeling paint, shall be repaired/sealed.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Damaged/broken light shield in kitchen prep area by exhaust canopy, shall be repaired/replaced.
36
74
Nov 16, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE COOLERS AND FREEZERS, MUST INVEST IN FOOD GRADE BAGS, HANDLE TO FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR, BROKEN INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE,
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND INTERIOR SURFACE OF UNUSED PIZZA OVEN NOT, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN,
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR NOT CLEAN UNDER AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN,
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT OUT IN KITCHEN AND DISH AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND PROVIDE MORE LIGHT,
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES AND CLUTTER IN REAR STORAGE AREA TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
78
May 16, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: CONTINUED NON COMPLIANCE ON PREVIOUS ORDER ISSUED, DATED 02/03/2015, REPORT #: 1522584, VIOLATION LISTED BELOW: 45 FOUND NO PROOF OF EMPLOYEE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. SERIOUS CITATION: 7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND EXTERIOR SURFACE OF UNUSED PIZZA OVEN NOT, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN,
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR NOT CLEAN UNDER AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN,
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT OUT IN KITCHEN AND DISH AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR,
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKING FAUCET AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR,
38
78
Feb 3, 2015
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE COOLERS AND FREEZERS.--------MUST REPLACE OR RESURFACE CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP SEAMS IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO SEAL GAP/OPENING BETWEEN WALL AND EXPOSED HAND SINK IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA.---------MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER WITH EXCESSIVE DUST BUILD-UP INSIDE WASHROOM.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT FIXTURE MUST BE SHIELDED OR PROVIDE SHATTERPROOF LIGHT BULB INSIDE TORTILLA CHIPS CABINET.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES AND CLUTTER IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND NO PROOF OF EMPLOYEE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
45
78
Nov 25, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED FOODS INSIDE THE STAND UP 2 DOOR COOLERS MUST BE LABELED/DATED AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SEAL RAW WOODEN SHELVINGS IN THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA AND CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES MUST BE SANDED/BLEACHED OR REPLACED.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING ITEMS REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING INTERIORS/EXTERIORS OF COOLERS,MANUAL CAN OPENER AND HOUSING ATTACHED,SHELVINGS THROUGHOUT THE PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
33
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETER INSIDE THE PREP 2 DOOR COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A VISIBLE THERMOMETER AND MAINTAIN.
40
82
Apr 17, 2014
License
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO SEAL OR PAINT RAW WOOD SHELVES IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA.---------MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP SEAMS ON TOP OF PREP COOLER.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING AND BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN PREP AREA.-------MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS ESPECIALLY UNDER AND BEHIND REACH-IN COOLERS.---------MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS WITH DRIED FOOD SPILLAGE AROUND FOOD PREP AREA AND/OR REPAINT.---------MUST SEAL HOLES ON WALLS THROUGHOUT PREP AREA AND HOLE ON WALL UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK IN FRONT SERVICE AREA.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING SELF-CLOSING DEVICE AT WASHROOM DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 3 WORKING DRAINS STOPPERS AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND CLUTTER STORED IN BASEMENT TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING.
41
74
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Taqueria La Esquinita last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Taqueria La Esquinita on file is from Apr 27, 2026. The public record contains 19 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Taqueria La Esquinita?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Taqueria La Esquinita.
Has Taqueria La Esquinita's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Taqueria La Esquinita have averaged around four violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Taqueria La Esquinita 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 La Esquinita inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Taqueria La Esquinita is inspected around two times per year on average.
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