Merkado 31
Last inspected: Aug 13, 2025
78
Score
Across the available record, Merkado 31 has 10 inspections on file, the first dated 2022. Merkado 31 was last inspected on Aug 13, 2025. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.
The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around nine violations, down from roughly 11 violations earlier in the record.
“Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing six times across the record.
Restaurants in North Miami Beach average 72, so Merkado 31 is doing better than most peers. The file should reassure diners considering a visit.
10
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Aug 13, 2025
Routine - Food
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling tile missing. In the kitchen over the hood system. - From follow-up inspection 2025-08-13: Ceiling tile missing. In the kitchen over the hood system. **Time Extended**
36-36-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. In the kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2025-08-13: Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. In the kitchen. **Time Extended**
36-32-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed ceviche reach in cooler gaskets torn. - From follow-up inspection 2025-08-13: Observed ceviche reach in cooler gaskets torn. **Time Extended**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2025-08-13: Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Time Extended**
14-33-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. - From follow-up inspection 2025-08-13: Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Time Extended**
14-17-4
78
Aug 12, 2025
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 14 violations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed chocol (49F - Cooling); sweet potatoes (51F - Cold Holding); shrimp (50F - Cold Holding); seafood mix (53F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler for less than 4 hours as per operator. Advised operator to place items under ice until unit is fixed. **Repeat Violation**
03A-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. Observed Dishwasher (Chlorine 10ppm), owner set up 3 compartment sink until unit is fixed.
22-41-4
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw chicken over seafood mix in the walk in cooler. Operator stored properly. **Corrected On-Site**
08A-20-5
Intermediate - Packaged food not labeled as specified by law. Observed rice, corn, and sugar with no name label. Operator placed names. **Corrected On-Site**
02D-02-4
Basic - Ceiling tile missing. In the kitchen over the hood system.
36-36-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. In the kitchen.
36-32-5
Basic - Cold holding equipment not maintained in good repair. Observed ceviche station reach in cooler with ambient temperature of 66F, checked 20 minutes later and temperature is at 45F.
14-74-7
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed ceviche reach in cooler gaskets torn.
14-11-5
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer.
14-69-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed hood filters with heavy grease. **Repeat Violation**
23-03-4
Basic - Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. On top of the 3 compartment sink.
16-46-4
Basic - Plumbing system in disrepair. In the hand washing sink
29-08-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. **Repeat Violation**
14-33-4
Basic - Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
14-17-4
35
Feb 4, 2025
Routine - Food
1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed walk in cooler shelves with accumulated dust.
22-02-4
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Observed reach in cooler door handles soiled.
23-24-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets torn in the ceviche reach in cooler.
14-11-5
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. Observed walk in cooler floor with standing water.
36-22-4
Basic - In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
21-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed fan covers in the walk in cooler soiled.
23-03-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
14-33-4
Basic - Worn, torn and/or soiled floors/carpeting. Observed kitchen floor soiled.
36-10-4
64
Aug 19, 2024
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed tuna salad (63F - Cold Holding); chicken salad (58F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler over night, as per operator.
03A-02-5
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw chicken over raw fish in the reach in cooler. Operator stored properly. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
08A-20-5
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed tuna salad (63F - Cold Holding); chicken salad (58F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler over night, as per operator.
01B-02-5
Basic - Food storage container/container lid cracked or broken. Observed multiple containers that are cracked in the kitchen.
14-38-4
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed ice buildup up in stand up reach in freezer.
14-69-4
Basic - Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
14-33-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed MSG and salt with no name label, operator placed names. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
02D-01-5
Basic - Worn, torn and/or soiled floors/carpeting. Observed walk in cooler and walk in freezer floor soiled.
36-10-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. In the storage room.
36-32-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Observed ceiling vents in the kitchen soiled.
36-34-5
Basic - Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. Observed metal containers wet nesting over the 3 compartment sink, operator stored properly to air dry. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
24-08-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed reach in cooler gaskets torn.
14-11-5
41
Nov 15, 2023
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. Walk in cooler: raw fish stored above whole peppers. Discussed with the operator, operator placed the raw fish in another location, properly stored. Provided the handout for the proper storage of food. **Corrected On-Site**
08A-04-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Throughout the kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-34-5
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets torn in the reach in cooler next to dishwasher machine. Ice machine in disrepair. **Repeat Violation**
14-11-5
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-17-5
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. By the service window in the kitchen, grease on the walls. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board. By the service window, on a prep table. **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation**
21-04-4
Basic - Lights in food preparation, food storage or warewashing area missing the proper shield, sleeve coatings or covers. Observed light shield in the kitchen missing. **Repeat Violation**
38-07-4
64
Nov 14, 2023
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed at ceviche station: corvina (45F - Cold Holding); Swai (47F - Cold Holding); octopus (49F - Cold Holding); chicken salad (50F - Cold Holding); seafood salad (49F - Cold Holding); tuna salad (51F - Cold Holding); shrimp (51F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler over night, as per operator.
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed chimichurry (86F - Cold Holding)stored at the front counter reach in cooler for less than 2 hours as per operator. Operator placed item in walk in cooler. Discussed time as a public health control as an option. Observed at ceviche station: corvina (45F - Cold Holding); Swai (47F - Cold Holding); octopus (49F - Cold Holding); chicken salad (50F - Cold Holding); seafood salad (49F - Cold Holding); tuna salad (51F - Cold Holding); shrimp (51F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler over night, as per operator. **Corrective Action Taken**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from one another based upon minimum required cooking temperature when stored in a freezer - not all products commercially packaged. Observed raw beef over raw fish in the reach in cooler. Operator stored correctly. **Corrected On-Site**
08A-17-6
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Observed walk in cooler door handle soiled.
23-24-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Throughout the kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-34-5
Basic - Clean glasses, cups, bowls, plates, pots and pans not stored inverted or in a protected manner. Observed plates and metal pans stored on the rack by dishwasher, not inverted.
24-05-4
Basic - Cold holding equipment not maintained in good repair. Do not store time/temperature control for safety food in this unit until the unit is repaired. Observed ceviche station at ambient temperature 51F-54F.
14-74-7
Basic - Commercially processed reduced oxygen packaged fish bearing a label indicating that it is to remain frozen until time of use no longer frozen and not removed from reduced oxygen package. Observed raw tuna in reduced oxygen packaged not frozen. Advised operator to cut the package or remove food item from vacuum bag before thawing. Observed employee slit the bags with the raw tuna during the inspection. **Corrective Action Taken**
06-09-1
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets torn in the reach in cooler next to dishwasher machine. Ice machine in disrepair.
14-11-5
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Inside the walk in cooler and walk in freezer. **Repeat Violation**
36-73-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Throughout kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-17-5
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling by the service window in the kitchen. By the service window in the kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - Light shield damaged/in disrepair. Observed light shield in the kitchen missing.
38-01-4
Basic - Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed soy sauce, oil, and vinegar in squeeze bottles at the kitchen with no name label.
02D-01-5
37
Sep 14, 2023
Complaint Full
2 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 14 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/ Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23; - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Food manager certification expired. Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23; **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Food manager certification expired. Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23 **Time Extended**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training. **Time Extended**
53B-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Kitchen. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the filter of the ice machine/bin in the Kitchen. **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. All equipment handles. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Walk in cooler door handles with buildup of food/soil residue. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Walk in cooler door handles with buildup of food/soil residue. **Time Extended**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen and next to the water heater. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen and next to the water heater. **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. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Dead roaches on premises. Observed 1 dead roach in the floor by the hand washing sink in the kitchen and 2 dead roaches by the ice machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: At the time of the callback inspection, observed 2 dead roaches under the grill, 1 dead roach under the stove unit, 5 dead roaches under the reach in cooler in the kitchen next to the fryers and 1 dead roach by the service window. Operator cleaned up all dead roaches. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: At the time of the callback inspection observed 3 dead roaches in the front counter at the hand washing, observed 4 dead roaches under the grill and stove in the kitchen, and 1 dead roach by the service window. Operator cleaned.
35A-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle. **Time Extended**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, underneath the prep tables.and all drains. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris inside the walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, and drains. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris inside the walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, and drains. **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler. **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. Throughout the kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Hole in the wall by the ice machine and by water heater. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Hole in the wall by the ice machine and by water heater. **Time Extended**
36-24-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. By the cook line. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Hood system clean, but not walls next to the hood has grease accumulation. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Hood system clean, but not walls next to the hood has grease accumulation. **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: At the time of the callback inspection observed interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation. **Time Extended**
14-36-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-14: Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line. **Time Extended**
36-27-5
45
Sep 13, 2023
Complaint Full
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 16 minor violations.
View 19 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Observed 1 live roach crawling up the wall above the hand washing sink in the kitchen, 1 live roach crawling on the floor underneath the prep table nearby the hand washing sink, pull-out drawers underneath burner/grill: 15+ live roaches crawling inside and outside drawers, 1 live roach resting on the floor by the ice machine, and 1 live roach crawling on the wall above the three compartment sink into a hole. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: At the time of the callback inspection , observed 1 live roach crawling on the side of the stove in the kitchen and 1 live roach upside down under the grill. Operator killed both live roaches. **Time Extended**
35A-05-4
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/ Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23; - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Food manager certification expired. Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23; **Time Extended**
53A-03-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training. **Time Extended**
53B-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Kitchen. **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. All equipment handles. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Walk in cooler door handles with buildup of food/soil residue. **Time Extended**
23-24-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen and next to the water heater. **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. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. **Time Extended**
36-34-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cold holding equipment not maintained in good repair. Do not store time/temperature control for safety food in this unit until the unit is repaired. Observed the flip top reach in coolers in the kitchen not working properly, ambient temperature 59-69F. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: New reach in cooler was installed no time/temperature control for safety food in the unit. **Time Extended**
14-74-7
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Dead roaches on premises. Observed 1 dead roach in the floor by the hand washing sink in the kitchen and 2 dead roaches by the ice machine. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: At the time of the callback inspection, observed 2 dead roaches under the grill, 1 dead roach under the stove unit, 5 dead roaches under the reach in cooler in the kitchen next to the fryers and 1 dead roach by the service window. Operator cleaned up all dead roaches. **Time Extended**
35A-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle. **Time Extended**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, underneath the prep tables.and all drains. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris inside the walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, and drains. **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler. **Time Extended**
36-17-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. Throughout the kitchen. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Hole in the wall by the ice machine and by water heater. **Time Extended**
36-24-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. By the cook line. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Hood system clean, but not walls next to the hood has grease accumulation. **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation. **Time Extended**
14-36-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven and microwaves have accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Microwave clean, oven has debris inside. **Time Extended**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. Observed no ambient thermometer in the 3 reach in coolers and walk in cooler. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Observed no ambient thermometer in the 3 reach in coolers and walk in cooler. **Time Extended**
05-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Observed equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Equipment and utensils wet nesting on a rack above the three compartment sink. **Time Extended**
24-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line. - From follow-up inspection 2023-09-13: Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line. **Time Extended**
36-27-5
32
Sep 12, 2023
Complaint Full
9 critical violations. 8 major violations. 29 minor violations.
View 46 violations
High Priority - Container of medicine improperly stored. Shelf in front of the ware wash area: omega vitamins and liquid chloriform stored on a rack ne rot to seasonings. **Corrected On-Site**
41-07-4
High Priority - Food placed in soiled container/equipment. Prep table in the kitchen: sweet potatoes, potatoes, and onions stored inside soiled containers.
08B-27-4
High Priority - Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. Kitchen, 8+live small flying insects landing on unpeeled onions and potatoes, 2 live flies resting on the wall above the mop sink.
35A-02-6
High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Observed 1 live roach crawling up the wall above the hand washing sink in the kitchen, 1 live roach crawling on the floor underneath the prep table nearby the hand washing sink, pull-out drawers underneath burner/grill: 15+ live roaches crawling inside and outside drawers, 1 live roach resting on the floor by the ice machine, and 1 live roach crawling on the wall above the three compartment sink into a hole.
35A-05-4
High Priority - Shell eggs not stored at an ambient air temperature of 45 degrees Fahrenheit or less. Observed raw shell eggs (77F - Ambient Temperature) stored outside by the service window. For more than 4 hours as per operator.
03A-03-5
High Priority - Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Walk in cooler: bucket with purple corn juice (chicha) stored on the floor underneath boxes of marinated chicken. Observed liquid from the marinated chicken dripping into the hole on top of the container. Operator discarded.
01B-13-4
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed heavy cream (80F - Cold Holding); stored on top of the reach in cooler for more than 4 hours, as per operator. Observed inside the walk in cooler, cream cheese (45F - Cold Holding); cooked chicken (46F - Cold Holding); mashed potatoes (46F - Cold Holding); cooked pasta thick noodles (47F - Cold Holding); as per operator, stores inside the walk in cooler overnight.
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed heavy cream (80F - Cold Holding) stored on top of the reach in cooler by the service window more than 4 hours. Also observed cheese (55F - Cold Holding); cooked rice (46F - Cold Holding) stored in the reach in cooler by the service window. chicken salad (59F - Cold Holding); diced tomatoes (52F - Cold Holding); crab salad (68F - Cold Holding); tuna salad (67F - Cold Holding); cooked noodles (50F - Cold Holding); in the reach in cooler by the three compartment sink. As per operator took out 3 hours before the inspection started. Advised to put the items in the walk in freezer. Observed inside the walk in cooler, cream cheese (45F - Cold Holding); cooked chicken (46F - Cold Holding); mashed potatoes (46F - Cold Holding); cooked pasta thick noodles (47F - Cold Holding); as per operator, stores inside the walk in cooler overnight. **Corrective Action Taken**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Igloo cooler stored by the service window: cooked chicken (127F - Hot Holding). As per operator. Cooked less than 2 hours. Operator placed in the oven, reheated over 165F.
03B-01-6
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. **Corrective Action Taken**
11-26-1
Intermediate - Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. **Corrected On-Site**
11-27-4
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/ Prometric: Ursula Demontreuil, expired 5/8/23;
53A-03-7
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed can opener bolted to the prep table with heavy soil of grease.
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Bar area: container with pulp stoppered inside the sink. **Corrected On-Site**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Inadequate number/capacity of hot holding units to maintain time/temperature control for safety food at proper temperatures. Igloo cooler stored by the service window: cooked chicken (127F - Hot Holding). Discussed with operator to keep cooked food stored inside the oven or on the cook line with the temperature of 135F or higher.
04-09-4
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Both hand wash sink. **Corrected On-Site**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Luis, Marcelino, Angelica, Aquiles, Heriberto and Carmen hired more than 60 days with no employee training.
53B-02-5
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Kitchen.
22-20-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
16-03-4
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
16-21-4
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. All equipment handles.
23-24-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Entire kitchen.
36-32-5
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
36-34-5
Basic - Clean equipment and utensils not separated from soiled equipment and utensils at warewashing area. Operator placed all clean and dirty plates and containers into the dishwasher. **Corrective Action Taken**
24-03-4
Basic - Clean utensils or equipment stored in dirty drawer or rack.
24-06-4
Basic - Cold holding equipment not maintained in good repair. Do not store time/temperature control for safety food in this unit until the unit is repaired. Observed the flip top reach in coolers in the kitchen not working properly, ambient temperature 59-69F.
14-74-7
Basic - Dead roaches on premises. Observed 1 dead roach in the floor by the hand washing sink in the kitchen and 2 dead roaches by the ice machine.
35A-03-4
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Kitchen area: cell phone and speaker/radio stored shelf above the seafood reach in cooler.
40-06-5
Basic - Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. Kitchen: employee cutting peppers without hair restraint.
13-03-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Walk in cooler door not closing properly. Walk in freezer missing door handle.
14-11-5
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Walk in cooler, walk in freezer, grease buildup by the cook line and equipment, underneath the prep tables.and all drains.
36-73-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Kitchen, in front of the walk in cooler.
36-17-5
Basic - Food stored in a location that is exposed to splash/dust. Walk in cooler: bucket with purple corn juice (chicha) stored on the floor underneath boxes of marinated chicken. Observed liquid from the marinated chicken dripping into the hole on top of the container. Operator discarded.
08B-36-4
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. Throughout the kitchen.
36-24-5
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. By the cook line.
36-68-5
Basic - In-use knife/knives stored in cracks between pieces of equipment. Observed knife between equipment in the front counter. Operator removed. **Corrected On-Site**
10-17-4
Basic - In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board. **Repeat Violation**
21-04-4
Basic - Interior and exterior doors walk in cooler and walk in freezer in disrepair/has exposed insulation.
14-36-5
Basic - Interior of oven and microwaves have accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris.
22-08-4
Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. Observed no ambient thermometer in the 3 reach in coolers and walk in cooler.
05-09-4
Basic - Observed 3 Reach-in cooler interior and shelves with accumulation of soiled debris, also observed cook line pull out drawers reach in cooler under the grill with heavy soil.
22-16-4
Basic - Observed equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting.
24-08-4
Basic - Observed in-use tongs stored on oven door handle between uses.
10-20-4
Basic - Walk-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
14-17-4
Basic - Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry. Observed wet mop stored on the floor by the walk in cooler.
42-01-4
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Walk in cooler with dust and by the cook line.
36-27-5
3
Jul 11, 2022
Routine - Food
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Observed in kitchen area.
36-32-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed reach in cooler gasket is torn.
23-03-4
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Merkado 31 last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Merkado 31 on file is from Aug 13, 2025. The public record contains 10 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Merkado 31?
Across the inspection record, “ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled” has been cited six times, more than any other issue at Merkado 31.
How does Merkado 31 compare to other restaurants in North Miami Beach?
Merkado 31 most recently scored 78 out of 100, which is higher than the North Miami Beach average of 72.
Has Merkado 31's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Merkado 31 have averaged around nine violations per visit, down from roughly 11 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Merkado 31 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 Merkado 31 inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Merkado 31 is inspected around three times per year on average.
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