El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Jan 7, 2026
55
Score
Public records show 14 inspections at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant stretching back to 2022. On Jan 7, 2026, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
Things have been moving the wrong way, with the rolling count rising from around 13 violations to closer to 21 violations per visit.
The most common issue across all inspections has been “exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens”, showing up eight times.
That's lower than the typical Mount Dora restaurant, which scores around 69. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
14
Inspections
0
Critical latest
2
Major latest
8
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 7, 2026
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Long white cutting board on prep table. Fryer baskets soiled. Can opener soiled. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Blocked with trash can. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site** - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
31A-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. In sugar container. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site** - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
14-01-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Employee with no beard guard/restraint while engaging in food preparation. Cook at cook line. - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
13-04-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. In white chest freezer at front counter. - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
14-69-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. In ice bin at front counter. - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
10-08-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Upright white freezer gaskets at the end of cook line. Reach in cooler gaskets at cook line. Fan guards in walk in cooler. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. Upright reach in white freezer at the end of cook line. Reach in coolers at cook line. Reach in cooler shelves soiled. - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
22-16-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Sugar in grey container. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2026-01-07: **Time Extended**
02D-01-5
55
Jan 6, 2026
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 15 minor violations.
View 20 violations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Per operator less than four hours. Moved to freezer for quick cooling. Per operator less than four hours. Operator moved to freezer for quick cooling. Pico De Gallo (52F - Cold Holding); Guacamole with tomatoes (60F - Cold Holding); Diced tomatoes (60F - Cold Holding); Cut lettuce (60F - Cold Holding) Cooked Chicken (54F - Cold Holding)**Corrective Action Taken** **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Long white cutting board on prep table. Fryer baskets soiled. Can opener soiled. **Repeat Violation**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Blocked with trash can. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Used to store pans. **Repeat Violation**
31A-11-4
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Bottle with orange liquid on rack a three compartment sink. Operator labeled. **Corrected On-Site**
41-17-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
22-20-5
Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. In sugar container. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site**
14-01-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Ceiling tiles in kitchen area. Vents in kitchen and dishwashing area. **Repeat Violation**
36-34-5
Basic - Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
32-12-6
Basic - Employee with no beard guard/restraint while engaging in food preparation. Cook at cook line.
13-04-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. **Repeat Violation**
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor and wall junctures not coved in food preparation/storage/warewashing areas or bathroom. In the kitchen and dish areas. **Repeat Violation**
36-08-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Floor at cook line soiled. Floor in walk in cooler soiled.
36-73-4
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. In white chest freezer at front counter.
14-69-4
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. In ice bin at front counter.
10-08-5
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. At hand washing sink next to three comp sink. **Repeat Violation**
31B-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Upright white freezer gaskets at the end of cook line. Reach in cooler gaskets at cook line. Fan guards in walk in cooler. **Repeat Violation**
23-03-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. Upright reach in white freezer at the end of cook line. Reach in coolers at cook line. Reach in cooler shelves soiled.
22-16-4
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall at dish washer and hand washing sink.
36-27-5
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Sugar in grey container. **Repeat Violation**
02D-01-5
27
Jul 9, 2025
Routine - Food
5 critical violations. 3 major violations. 26 minor violations.
View 34 violations
High Priority - Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. Employee went outside back door with gloves on and recentered the kitchen with same gloves and touched clean utensils
12A-09-4
High Priority - Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Per operator from last night black beans (47F - Cooling)
03D-02-5
High Priority - Dishmachine chlorine sanitizer not at proper minimum strength. Discontinue use of dishmachine for sanitizing and set up manual sanitization until dishmachine is repaired and sanitizing properly. 0ppm 50ppm **Corrected On-Site**
22-41-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Chicken and beef in drawer under grill **Corrected On-Site**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Per operator from last night black beans (47F - Cooling)
01B-02-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards in kitchen Interior all reach in coolers Can opener blade Meat shredder Ice machine interior Soda nozzles in bar soiled
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing bumped water
31A-11-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink in prep area
31B-03-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance in kitchen
36-34-5
Basic - Cleaned and sanitized equipment or utensils not properly stored. Ice bucket not inverted **Corrected On-Site**
24-07-4
Basic - Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
32-12-6
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. **Corrected On-Site**
12B-07-4
Basic - Employee dumping mop water or other wastewater on street outside the back door
28-04-5
Basic - Employee wearing jewelry other than a plain ring on their hands/arms while preparing food.
13-07-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Gaskets in reach in across from oven
14-11-5
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor and wall junctures not coved in food preparation/storage/warewashing areas or bathroom. Near walk in cooler
36-08-4
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water near back door
36-22-4
Basic - Floors not constructed to be easily cleanable. Behind kitchen equipment
36-12-4
Basic - Food stored on floor in kitchen and walk in cooler
08B-38-4
Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle.
33-20-4
Basic - In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container in sugar **Corrected On-Site**
10-01-5
Basic - In-use utensil stored in standing water less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. **Corrected On-Site**
10-07-4
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris.p located in kitchen
22-08-4
Basic - Light not functioning in hood
36-62-4
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees next to chips
31B-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Hood system in kitchen Fan guards and shelves walk in cooler soiled.
23-03-4
Basic - Outer openings not protected with self-closing doors.
35B-03-4
Basic - Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover under oven in kitchen
14-20-4
Basic - Single-service articles not stored inverted or protected from contamination. Aluminum pans in rack in kitchen not inverted **Corrected On-Site**
25-06-4
Basic - Straws provided for customer self-service not individually wrapped or in an approved dispenser on the bar
25-27-4
Basic - Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
42-01-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name in blue container in kitchen
02D-01-5
Basic - soiled floors throughout kitchen .
36-10-4
10
Apr 21, 2025
Complaint Partial
No violations found.
100
Feb 27, 2025
Routine - Food
3 major violations. 15 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. - white cutting boards on cooks line. - interior of fryer and baskets - can opener - dicer - small white cutting board at front bar - soda gun nozzle at front bar. - frozen drink nozzles at front bar. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
53A-05-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - walk-in cooler - drink cooler in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
22-31-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. - all cold holding units in kitchen and storage areas. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. - all cutting boards on line and storage **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
14-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. -Lids on cold holding unit on cooks line. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. - back door in kitchen - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. - floor under all equipment in entire kitchen area. - walk-in floor - dry storage floor - under coolers in dry storage. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Food stored on floor. - several food items stored in walk-in cooler. - several food items stored in walk-in freezer - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
08B-38-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
33-20-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. -US Range stove on cooks line. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. - all gaskets on all cold holding units in kitchen. - hood filters - all floor drains. - exterior of cooking equipment - exterior of ice machine. - coolers in storage area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. - reach in cooler on cooks line. - low boy coolers **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
22-16-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Storage area not maintained clean and organized. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
33-34-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
14-17-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. - wall behind cooking equipment. - walls in kitchen area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
36-27-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. - bulk salt. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-27: **Admin Complaint**
02D-01-5
35
Feb 13, 2025
Routine - Food
3 major violations. 18 minor violations.
View 21 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. - white cutting boards on cooks line. - interior of fryer and baskets - can opener - dicer - small white cutting board at front bar - soda gun nozzle at front bar. - frozen drink nozzles at front bar. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
53A-05-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - walk-in cooler - drink cooler in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
22-31-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
16-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. - all cold holding units in kitchen and storage areas. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. - all cutting boards on line and storage **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
14-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. -Lids on cold holding unit on cooks line. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. - back door in kitchen - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. - main kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
36-22-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. - floor under all equipment in entire kitchen area. - walk-in floor - dry storage floor - under coolers in dry storage. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Food stored on floor. - several food items stored in walk-in cooler. - several food items stored in walk-in freezer - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
08B-38-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
33-20-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. -US Range stove on cooks line. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. - all gaskets on all cold holding units in kitchen. - hood filters - all floor drains. - exterior of cooking equipment - exterior of ice machine. - coolers in storage area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. - reach in cooler on cooks line. - low boy coolers **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
22-16-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Storage area not maintained clean and organized. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
33-34-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
14-17-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. - wall behind cooking equipment. - walls in kitchen area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. - bulk salt. - From follow-up inspection 2025-02-13: **Time Extended**
02D-01-5
30
Feb 5, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Employee Health Policies Present
FL-03
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Adequate Handwashing Facilities Supplied and Accessible
FL-10
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Potentially Hazardous Food Held at Proper Temperature
FL-16
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Proper Sanitizer Contact Time and Concentration
FL-33
Equipment, Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Approved
FL-35
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
Toilet Rooms Maintained
FL-53
21
Oct 17, 2024
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - walk-in shelving. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
22-31-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. - can opener - tomato slicer - tomato dicer - white cutting boards on line. - blue and red cutting boards - Soda nozzles at front bar - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: -white cutting boards on line - can opener **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
16-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. - all equipment in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. - white cutting board on line - green, blue,cutting board - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
14-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. - both back doors - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. -throughout the entire kitchen and dish areas - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
36-22-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. -Under all cooking equipment in kitchen area. - walk-in cooler - dry storage area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. - kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
33-20-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -exterior of all cooking equipment in kitchen area. -exterior of Ice machine. - gaskets on reach in and low boy coolers in kitchen - floor drains in kitchen **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: - gaskets on reach in and low boy coolers in kitchen - floor drains in kitchen **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. - reach-ins on cooks line. - lowboys at grill area **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
22-16-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. - all walls in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-10-17: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
45
Aug 16, 2024
Routine - Food
4 major violations. 16 minor violations.
View 20 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Tomas Rios Mendoza 6/5/19 **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. - can opener - tomato slicer - tomato dicer - white cutting boards on line. - blue and red cutting boards - Soda nozzles at front bar - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: -white cutting boards on line - can opener **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
53A-05-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - walk-in shelving. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
22-31-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
16-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. - all equipment in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. - kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-32-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. - vents at entrance of kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. - both back doors - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. -throughout the entire kitchen and dish areas - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-22-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. -Under all cooking equipment in kitchen area. - walk-in cooler - dry storage area. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. - kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
33-20-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Light not functioning. - hood lights - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-62-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. - reach-in cooler on cooks line. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
05-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -exterior of all cooking equipment in kitchen area. -exterior of Ice machine. - gaskets on reach in and low boy coolers in kitchen - floor drains in kitchen **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: - gaskets on reach in and low boy coolers in kitchen - floor drains in kitchen **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. - reach-ins on cooks line. - lowboys at grill area **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
22-16-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. - all walls in kitchen area. - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. - white cutting board on line - green, blue,cutting board - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-16: **Time Extended**
14-09-4
30
Aug 7, 2024
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 6 major violations. 28 minor violations.
View 35 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. - raw shell eggs stored over gallon milk , raw fish stored over queso and cooked chicken wings in walk-in cooler. **Repeat Violation**
08A-05-6
Intermediate - Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ Tomas Rios Mendoza 6/5/19 **Warning**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. - can opener - tomato slicer - tomato dicer - white cutting boards on line. - blue and red cutting boards - Soda nozzles at front bar
22-02-4
Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/
53A-05-6
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. - hand sink across expo
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. - hand sink across expo
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - walk-in shelving.
22-31-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
22-20-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation**
16-03-4
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation**
16-21-4
Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. - bulk salt, black beans, rice. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
14-01-5
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. - all equipment in kitchen area.
23-24-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. - kitchen area.
36-32-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. - vents at entrance of kitchen area.
36-34-5
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. - white cutting board on line - green, blue,cutting board
14-09-4
Basic - Dry storage area not maintained clean and organized.
33-34-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. - both back doors
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. -throughout the entire kitchen and dish areas
36-22-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. -Under all cooking equipment in kitchen area. - walk-in cooler - dry storage area. **Repeat Violation**
36-73-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. - kitchen area.
36-17-5
Basic - Fly sticky tape hanging over food/food preparation area/food-contact equipment. **Corrected On-Site**
35B-08-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. - shrimp in walk-in freezer - queso and red sauce in walk-in cooler**Repeat Violation** **Repeat Violation**
08B-38-4
Basic - Grease on the ground and/or pad around grease receptacle.
33-20-4
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. - soda ice bin on front line. - ice machine in front bar area.
10-08-5
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. - microwave on line. - interior of fryers
22-08-4
Basic - Light not functioning. - hood lights
36-62-4
Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. - reach-in cooler on cooks line.
05-09-4
Basic - No copy of latest inspection report available.
51-18-6
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. - hand sink at bar.
31B-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -exterior of all cooking equipment in kitchen area. -exterior of Ice machine. - gaskets on reach in and low boy coolers in kitchen - floor drains in kitchen **Repeat Violation**
23-03-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. - reach-ins on cooks line. - lowboys at grill area **Repeat Violation**
22-16-4
Basic - Unwashed fruits/vegetables stored with ready-to-eat food. **Repeat Violation**
08B-17-4
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. - all walls in kitchen area.
36-27-5
Basic - Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
42-01-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. - bulk salt **Repeat Violation**
02D-01-5
12
Apr 9, 2024
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
Wiping Cloths Properly Used and Stored
FL-41
Potentially Hazardous Food Held at Proper Temperature
FL-16
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
33
Nov 1, 2023
Routine - Food
5 major violations. 14 minor violations.
View 19 violations
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. -white cutting board on cooks line
22-02-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. - cooked beef, chicken, diced tomatoes, shredded beef. -Per operator all items was prepared Monday or Tuesday, not sure.
02C-02-5
Intermediate - No currently certified food service manager on duty with four or more employees engaged in food preparation/handling. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/ **Repeat Violation**
53A-05-6
Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. -4 new hires **Repeat Violation**
11-26-1
Intermediate - Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. - wire shelving behind steam table.
22-31-4
Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation**
16-03-4
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation**
16-21-4
Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. - bulk salt , Black beans
14-01-5
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. **Repeat Violation**
50-09-4
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. White cutting board on cooks line.
14-09-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. - 3 drinks stored next to clean bowls at server station
12B-07-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Double back door
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. -Under fryer
36-73-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. - cooking oil in kitchen area. - raw shrimp in walk-in cooler.
08B-38-4
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. - front bar
10-08-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. - Hood filters - Exterior of Fryers - top of white freezer **Repeat Violation**
23-03-4
Basic - Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. **Repeat Violation**
16-46-4
Basic - Walk-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. **Repeat Violation**
22-16-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. -Bulk beans, rice,salt
02D-01-5
30
Jan 11, 2023
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 3 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Adequate Handwashing Facilities Supplied and Accessible
FL-10
Food Obtained from Approved Sources
FL-11
Supervisor/Person in Charge Present
FL-01
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Potentially Hazardous Food Held at Proper Temperature
FL-16
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Warewashing Facilities Maintained and Used
FL-24
Plumbing Installed; Proper Backflow Devices
FL-28
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Proper Sanitizer Contact Time and Concentration
FL-33
Wiping Cloths Properly Used and Stored
FL-41
Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Designed and Constructed
FL-50
Plumbing Maintained; Sewage Disposal
FL-51
Toilet Rooms Maintained
FL-53
11
Oct 25, 2022
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Equipment Adequate to Maintain Product Temperature
FL-29
Toxic Substances Properly Identified, Stored, Used
FL-32
Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Designed and Constructed
FL-50
70
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant on file is from Jan 7, 2026. The public record contains 14 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens” has been cited eight times, more than any other issue at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant.
How does El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant compare to other restaurants in Mount Dora?
El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant most recently scored 55 out of 100, which is lower than the Mount Dora average of 69.
Has El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant have averaged around 21 violations per visit, up from roughly 13 earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Mezcal Mexican Restaurant is inspected around four times per year on average.
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