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El Jefe's Taqueria of Boston Common

FAIL

Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at 5:12 PM

Address
139 TREMONT ST
Back Bay, MA 02116
Category
FT
Violations
5 total
⚠️ 1 critical
⚠ 2 major
Facility History
4 inspections
2 failures

Violations Cited

⚠️ CRITICAL 590.002/2-301.12-P

Cleaning Procedure (P)

Staff not washing hands upon arrival due to portable handsink not in working order. Corrected on site.

Why This Matters

This violation directly contributes to foodborne illness risk

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.002. Implement proper cleaning & sanitization procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.002 | FDA Code: Section 2
⚠ MAJOR 590.002(B)/2-102.11-PF

(A) (B) and (C)(1) (4)-(16) Demonstration (Pf)

Priority violations cited. Provide active managerial control.

Why This Matters

This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.002(B). Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.002(B) | FDA Code: Section 2
⚠ MAJOR 590.005/5-202.12-PF

Handwashing Sinks Installation (Pf)

Handsink was not plugged in upon arrival when tested not reaching 100F. Make all necessary repairs. Ensure the unit is fully operational during all hours of operation.

Why This Matters

WITHOUT HOT WATER: Bacteria removal drops by 75%. Studies show proper handwashing with hot water and soap removes 99.9% of bacteria, while cold water only removes 25%. This dramatically increases risk of spreading E. coli, Salmonella, and Norovirus - responsible for 89% of foodborne illness outbreaks.

Code Requirements

Immediate action required: Provide hot water (100-120°F) at ALL handwashing sinks. Install water heater if needed. Temporary solution: heat water for handwashing until repairs complete. Staff must wash hands every 30 minutes, after touching face/hair, handling raw foods, using restroom.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.005 | FDA Code: Section 5
• MINOR 590.005/5-501.113-C

Covering Receptacles (C)

Several uncovered trash receptacles in dining area. Provide covered pest proof trash containers.

Why This Matters

This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety

Code Requirements

Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.005. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.005 | FDA Code: Section 5
• MINOR 590.006/6-202.15-C

Outer Openings Protected (C)

Visible gaps under shipping container style establisment. Consult pest control company seal with pest proof materials to avoid potential harborage.

Why This Matters

PEST INVASION: Open doors allow entry of flies (carry 100+ pathogens), rodents (35+ diseases), and airborne contaminants. One fly can contaminate entire prep area in minutes, landing on 30+ surfaces spreading E. coli, Salmonella.

Code Requirements

Install self-closing devices on ALL exterior doors immediately. Doors must close completely within 3 seconds. No gaps over 1/4 inch. Consider air curtains for frequently used doors. Keep doors closed when not in active use.

Mass. Code: 105 CMR 590.006 | FDA Code: Section 6
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Data sourced directly from Boston Inspectional Services Department