El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Mar 4, 2026
39
Score
Inspectors have visited El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant 17 times, with records going back to 2022. Inspectors last stopped by on Mar 4, 2026. Diners may want to take note: high risk reflects issues that a health inspector considered important.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around 15 violations to closer to 12 violations per visit.
Looking across the full record, “floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair” is the recurring theme, flagged 14 times.
El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant's latest score of 39 falls below the Lady Lake average of 79. Taken together, the history suggests a facility that has struggled with consistency.
17
Inspections
2
Critical latest
1
Major latest
11
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 4, 2026
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. -Raw chicken over refried beans. -Raw chicken over cheese. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. -Cologne and lotion over toilet paper. **Corrected On-Site**
41-10-4
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. -Blue spray bottle on floor by dish machine. **Repeat Violation**
41-17-4
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
16-21-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils.
12B-07-4
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. -Employee jacket stored on straws in dry storage.
40-06-5
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. -Back side of kitchen.
36-22-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. -Under dish machine.
36-73-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. **Repeat Violation**
36-17-5
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. -Behind margarita machine at bar.
36-24-5
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. -At wait station. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
10-08-5
Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. -Cooler under neath vegetables on make line.
22-16-4
Basic - Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover. -Under clean plates on cook line.
14-20-4
Basic - Unwashed fruits/vegetables stored with ready-to-eat food. -Unwashed avocados over cut lettuce.
08B-17-4
39
Sep 12, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. -Enchiladas 88f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to reheat. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: -Enchiladas 115f **Time Extended**
03B-01-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. -Blue spray bottle. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: **Time Extended**
41-17-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions. -No date on filter by ice machine. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: **Time Extended**
29-28-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Food stored on floor. -Can goods and cooking oil. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: **Time Extended**
08B-38-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Food-contact surface not smooth and easily cleanable. -Sponge at bar used as salt applicator. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-09-12: **Time Extended**
14-13-4
61
Sep 10, 2025
Routine - Food
6 critical violations. 3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 16 violations
High Priority - Dented/rusted cans present. See stop sale. -#10 of tomato paste. **Warning**
01B-01-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. -Raw beef over pineapples. **Warning**
08A-04-5
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. -Raw beef and chicken over cooked potatoes. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Beef patties 52f, Chorizo 54f, Ham 58f, Beef 53f, Chicken 54f. Held over 4 hours. **Warning**
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -Beef patties 52f, Chorizo 54f, Ham 58f, Beef 53f, Chicken 54f. Over 4 hours. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. -Enchiladas 88f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to reheat. **Warning**
03B-01-6
Intermediate - Commercially processed ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food opened and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked after opening. -Open gallon of milk. **Warning**
02C-03-5
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. -Blue spray bottle. **Warning**
41-17-4
Intermediate - Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions. -No date on filter by ice machine. **Warning**
29-28-4
Basic - Ceiling tile missing. -Over ware wash. **Warning**
36-36-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Can goods and cooking oil. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Food-contact surface not smooth and easily cleanable. -Sponge at bar used as salt applicator. **Warning**
14-13-4
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. -At wait station. **Warning**
10-08-5
Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. -In white refrigerator. **Warning**
05-09-4
Basic - Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover. -Under prep table on cook line. **Warning**
14-20-4
21
Apr 3, 2025
Routine - Food
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. -No chlorine test kit. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-04-03: **Time Extended**
16-37-1
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment or utensils not designed or constructed in a durable manner. -Double door freezer gasket torn. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-04-03: **Time Extended**
14-10-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Side exit door. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-04-03: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2025-04-03: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
78
Mar 26, 2025
Routine - Food
6 critical violations. 4 major violations. 14 minor violations.
View 24 violations
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. -0 ppm. **Warning**
22-41-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored in top portion of make table over ready-to-eat food in bottom portion of make table - no complete physical barrier between top and bottom. -Raw chicken over vegetables. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08A-13-5
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with ready-to-eat food in a freezer - not all products commercially packaged. -Raw beef not separate from peppers. **Warning**
08A-02-6
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. -Raw shrimp over guacamole. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. -Cook sprayed off dishes and continued to cook line working with food. **Warning**
12A-09-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -Beef 47f, Chicken 46f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to rapid chill. Manager added ice. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. -By ware wash. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
27-16-4
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. -No chlorine test kit. **Warning**
16-37-1
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. -By warewash. **Warning**
31B-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, cooked chicken, tamales. **Warning**
02C-02-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. -In kitchen. **Warning**
36-34-5
Basic - Dead roaches on premises. -1 dead by ice machine. **Warning**
35A-03-4
Basic - Drain cover(s) missing. -By side prep area. **Warning**
29-18-4
Basic - Equipment or utensils not designed or constructed in a durable manner. -Double door freezer gasket torn. **Warning**
14-10-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Side exit door. **Warning**
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Cooking oil in dry storage. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. -Under wait station hand sink. **Warning**
36-24-5
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. -Reach in chest freezer. **Warning**
14-69-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -Hood filters. -Under flat grill. -Dish cart. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. -Plastic container on shelf by ice machine. **Warning**
16-46-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. -Standing water in prep cooler under grill. **Warning**
22-16-4
Basic - Sanitizer bucket stored with food, equipment, utensils, linens, single-service, or single-use articles. -Stored over silverware at wait station. **Warning**
21-44-1
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
24-18-4
14
Oct 1, 2024
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 17 violations
High Priority - Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. -Fabuloso over clean silverware.
41-10-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. -Raw beef over salsa in double door refrigerator. -Raw chicken over cut vegetables.
08A-05-6
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -Chicken 49f, Beef 49f. -Beans 71f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to rapid chill. **Repeat Violation**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Commercially processed ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food opened and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked after opening. -Open gallon of milk.
02C-03-5
Intermediate - Employee washed hands in a sink other than an approved handwash sink. -Cook washed hands in three compartment sink.
12A-03-4
Intermediate - Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. -In warewash.
27-16-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. -At soda station ice bin. -Main ice machine.
22-20-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. -In kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-34-5
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
50-09-4
Basic - Equipment or utensils not designed or constructed in a durable manner. -Reach in double door freezer gasket torn.
14-10-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Cooking oil in dry storage. **Repeat Violation**
08B-38-4
Basic - Food-contact surface not smooth and easily cleanable. -Large plastic container cracked, by ice machine.
14-13-4
Basic - Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. -At soda station.
10-08-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -Interior of fryer cabinet. -Bottom right of oven.
23-03-4
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. -In dry storage. **Repeat Violation**
24-18-4
Basic - Unwashed fruits/vegetables stored with ready-to-eat food. -Unwashed avocados over cut lettuce.
08B-17-4
27
Jun 27, 2024
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw chicken over peppers. **Corrected On-Site**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Beef 48f, Chicken 50f. Less than 4 hours. Cook added ice. **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. -By dish machine. **Repeat Violation**
31B-03-4
Basic - Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean.
21-09-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair.
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Soda syrup boxes. **Repeat Violation**
08B-38-4
Basic - In-use knife/knives stored in cracks between pieces of equipment. -Between prep table and wall in rear prep area.
10-17-4
Basic - Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover.
14-20-4
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up.
24-18-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. -Peppers in chest freezer. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
08B-12-5
Basic - Wet wiping cloth not stored in sanitizing solution between uses.
21-12-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. -Multiple bulk containers of seasonings.
02D-01-5
41
Mar 8, 2024
Routine - Food
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
95
Mar 7, 2024
Routine - Food
5 critical violations. 3 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 19 violations
High Priority - Employee touching ready-to-eat food with their bare hands - food was not being heated as a sole ingredient to 145 degrees F or immediately added to other ingredients to be cooked/heated to the minimum required temperature to allow bare hand contact. Establishment has no approved Alternative Operating Procedure. -Cook topping tacos with bare hands. Advised to wear gloves. Cook put on gloves. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
09-01-4
High Priority - Employee washed hands with no soap. **Warning**
12A-20-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw beef over cheese in walk in cooler. **Warning**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. -Observed employee use wiping cloth to clean table and then continue working with food. **Warning**
12A-09-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -Cooked chiles 75f, less than 4 hours. Advised to rapid chill. -Rice 68f. Less than 4 hours. Manager placed in cooler. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Employee washed hands in a sink other than an approved handwash sink. -Employee washed hands in three compartment sink. **Warning**
12A-03-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. -Warewash. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. -Multiple cooked items in walk in cooler. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
02C-02-5
Basic - Ceiling tile missing. -Above bathroom. **Warning**
36-36-4
Basic - Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. **Warning**
24-08-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout. **Warning**
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Cooking oil. **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. -In men's bathroom. **Warning**
36-24-5
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. -Reach in chest freezer. **Warning**
14-69-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -Ice machine lid. -Top of oven. **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. -In dry storage. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
24-18-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. -Chiles in reach in chest freezer. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-12-5
Basic - Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. -Shrimp in standing water. **Warning**
06-01-5
Basic - Unwashed fruits/vegetables stored with ready-to-eat food. Unwashed avocado over cheese in walk in cooler. **Warning**
08B-17-4
20
Feb 5, 2024
Routine - Food
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-02-05: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-02-05: **Time Extended**
50-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. On cookline. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-02-05: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Dry storage. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-02-05: **Time Extended**
38-07-4
82
Jan 16, 2024
Routine - Food
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: Spoke with operator. Classes are scheduled for this Friday. **Time Extended**
53B-01-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended**
50-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. On cookline. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Dry storage. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-16: **Time Extended**
38-07-4
74
Jan 9, 2024
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
53B-01-5
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Cooked beef. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
02C-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
50-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. On cookline. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Dry storage. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-09: **Time Extended**
38-07-4
64
Nov 9, 2023
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
53B-01-5
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Cooked beef. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
02C-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
50-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. Rear exit door. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. On cookline. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Dry storage. - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
38-07-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2023-11-09: **Time Extended**
24-18-4
58
Nov 2, 2023
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 17 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw beef over cheese in walk in cooler.
08A-05-6
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken 65f, Beef 52f. Less than 4 hours. Cook added ice. **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. -Can opener blade. -Red and blue cutting boards. -Soda gun at bar. -Interior of hopper on margarita machine.
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 proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233.
53B-01-5
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. -By dish machine. **Repeat Violation**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Cooked beef.
02C-02-5
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
22-20-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
16-21-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
36-34-5
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
50-09-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. Rear exit door. **Repeat Violation**
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. On cookline.
36-17-5
Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Dry storage.
38-07-4
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. **Repeat Violation**
24-18-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. -Taco shells.
08B-12-5
Basic - Straws provided for customer self-service not individually wrapped or in an approved dispenser.
25-27-4
27
Mar 1, 2023
Routine - Food
5 critical violations. 3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 12 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : 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. 0 ppm. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: 0 ppm. **Time Extended**
22-41-4
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Nonfood-grade containers used for food storage - direct contact with food. Enchiladas stored in plastic carry out bags. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
14-15-4
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. -Raw chorizo over parsley in walk in cooler. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
08A-04-5
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Enchiladas 118f. Less than 2 hours. Advised to reheat to 165f within 2 hours. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01:
03B-01-6
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. -Sanitizer over gloves. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
41-10-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. -By warewash. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. -By warewash. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions. -No date on filter by ice machine. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
29-28-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Side exit door. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
35B-01-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-03-01: **Time Extended**
24-18-4
29
Feb 28, 2023
Routine - Food
7 critical violations. 5 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 22 violations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Beef 66f, Chicken 64f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to rapid chill. Shrimp 51f. Cook added ice to product. A "Please be aware repeat High Priority Violations could result in Administrative Action on your next routine inspection" **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Enchiladas 118f. Less than 2 hours. Advised to reheat to 165f within 2 hours. **Warning**
03B-01-6
High Priority - Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. -Sanitizer over gloves. **Warning**
41-10-4
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. 0 ppm. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
22-41-4
High Priority - Employee failed to wash hands before putting on gloves to initiate a task working with food. -Waitress scooping chips put on gloves without washing hands first. **Warning**
12A-07-5
High Priority - Nonfood-grade containers used for food storage - direct contact with food. Enchiladas stored in plastic carry out bags. **Warning**
14-15-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. -Raw chorizo over parsley in walk in cooler. **Warning**
08A-04-5
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/ **Warning**
53A-05-6
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. -By warewash. **Warning**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. -By warewash. **Warning**
31B-03-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Multiple cooked items in walk in cooler. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
02C-02-5
Intermediate - Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions. -No date on filter by ice machine. **Warning**
29-28-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Side exit door. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. Rear prep area. **Warning**
36-22-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Cooking oil in kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Single-service articles improperly stored. To go containers on floor in dry storage. **Warning**
25-05-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. -Multiple seasoning buckets in side prep area. **Warning**
08B-12-5
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. **Warning**
24-18-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. **Warning**
22-20-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
16-21-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-34-5
13
Sep 22, 2022
Routine - Food
5 critical violations. 4 major violations. 19 minor violations.
View 28 violations
High Priority - Dented/rusted cans present. Can of whole peeled tomatoes. Not dented at seam. **Warning**
01B-01-4
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. 0 ppm. **Warning**
22-41-4
High Priority - Employee touching ready-to-eat food with their bare hands - food was not being heated as a sole ingredient to 145 degrees F or immediately added to other ingredients to be cooked/heated to the minimum required temperature to allow bare hand contact. Establishment has no approved Alternative Operating Procedure. Observed cook top a taco with lettuce with bare hands. **Warning**
09-01-4
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. -Raw shell eggs over cut lettuce in walk in cooler. **Warning**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken 60f, Beef 60f. Less than 4 hours. Advised to rapid chill. Cheese 54f. Manager added ice to product. A "Please be aware repeat High Priority Violations could result in Administrative Action on your next routine inspection" **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. -Cutting board on prep cooler. -Can opener blade. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Mixer stored in handsink by dish machine. **Warning**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. All cooked items. **Warning**
02C-02-5
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. -Purple spray bottles under shelf by dish machine. **Warning**
41-17-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. -At soda station. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
22-20-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Warning**
16-21-4
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. -Handle on Avantco double door refrigerator in kitchen. **Warning**
23-24-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. In kitchen. **Warning**
36-34-5
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Green cutting board in side prep area on speed cart. **Warning**
14-09-4
Basic - Drain cover(s) missing. In rear of kitchen. **Warning**
29-18-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. -Over clean dishes on rack by main ice machine. **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. Cook. **Warning**
13-03-4
Basic - Equipment or utensils not designed or constructed in a durable manner. Reach in cooler gaskets torn. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
14-10-4
Basic - Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -Side exit door. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
35B-01-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. -Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored on floor. Cooking oil. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Food-contact surface not smooth and easily cleanable. -Sponge used as salt applicator at bar. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
14-13-4
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. Under handsink in wait station area. **Warning**
36-24-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. -Walk in cooler fan covers. -Hood filters. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. -Standing water in beer keg cooler. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
22-16-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. Taco bowls. **Warning**
08B-12-5
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. -Behind cookline. **Warning**
36-27-5
Basic - Wet wiping cloth not stored in sanitizing solution between uses. At wait station. **Warning**
21-12-4
12
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant on file is from Mar 4, 2026. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant.
How does El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant compare to other restaurants in Lady Lake?
El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant most recently scored 39 out of 100, which is lower than the Lady Lake average of 79.
Has El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant have averaged around 12 violations per visit, down from roughly 15 earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Ranchito Mexican Restaurant is inspected around five times per year on average.
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