El Rey Del Pollo Restautant
FAILFriday, October 17, 2025 at 5:51 PM
Violations Cited
590.003/3-501.16-P
(A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Pasta salad inside of the small front service cold holding unit at 51F. Discontinue and ensure all TCS foods are being maintained at below 41F.
Why This Matters
RAPID BACTERIAL GROWTH: At 50°F, E. coli doubles every 30 minutes. At 70°F, it doubles every 20 minutes. After 4 hours above 41°F, bacteria can reach dangerous levels causing severe illness. Common result: 24-72 hours of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, potential hospitalization.
Code Requirements
Immediately discard foods held above 41°F for over 4 hours. Rapidly cool foods above 41°F if less than 2 hours. Check ALL cooler temps every 2 hours with calibrated thermometer. Repair/adjust refrigeration immediately. Never store food in non-refrigerated areas.
590.003/3-501.16-P1
(A)(1) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P)
Cooked pork inside of the single glass door hot holding unit at 88F. Discontinue and ensure all TCS foods are being maintained at 135F and above. Foods to be reheated to 165F to ensure no bacterial growth.
Why This Matters
RAPID BACTERIAL GROWTH: At 50°F, E. coli doubles every 30 minutes. At 70°F, it doubles every 20 minutes. After 4 hours above 41°F, bacteria can reach dangerous levels causing severe illness. Common result: 24-72 hours of diarrhea, vomiting, fever, potential hospitalization.
Code Requirements
Immediately discard foods held above 41°F for over 4 hours. Rapidly cool foods above 41°F if less than 2 hours. Check ALL cooler temps every 2 hours with calibrated thermometer. Repair/adjust refrigeration immediately. Never store food in non-refrigerated areas.
590.006/6-501.111-PF
Controlling Pests (Pf)
Evidence of live roach activity in the main kitchen area. Fruit fly activity noted in the side preparation room with the ban saw. Address and provide a detailed IPM report for the re-inspection.
Why This Matters
SEVERE CONTAMINATION: Rodent droppings carry 35+ diseases including Hantavirus (36% mortality rate), Salmonella (20% of cases from rodents), Leptospirosis (kidney/liver failure). Mice contaminate 10 times more food than they eat through urine and droppings.
Code Requirements
IMMEDIATE ACTION: Clean/sanitize all affected areas with 10% bleach solution. Discard ALL exposed food. Seal holes over 1/4 inch (mice) or 1/2 inch (rats). Remove food sources. Install bait stations. Professional extermination within 24 hours.
590.003/3-302.12-C
Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food (C)
Squeeze bottles filled with sauces and dressing with no labels. Provide.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-304.12-C
In-Use Utensils Between-Use Storage (C)
Knives observed being stored in between knife holder and soiled wall. Discontinue and store all knives in a clean and protected manner.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper equipment procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-304.14-C
Wiping Cloths Use Limitation (C)
Soiled wiping cloths observed being left out on counter tops. Discontinue and provide a proper sanitizing solution.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-305.12-C
Food Storage Prohibited Areas (C)
Containers of meats and other foods observed being stored on the ground of the walk-in cooler. Discontinue and store all foods elevated a minimum of 6 inches offf the ground.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.003. Implement proper food storage procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-501.13-C
Thawing (C)
Box of raw frozen chicken observed being thawed at room temperature. Discontinue and ensure proper thawing methods.
Why This Matters
SURFACE CONTAMINATION: Room temperature thawing allows surface to reach 70°F+ while interior frozen. Bacteria multiply 7-fold every hour. Creates perfect conditions for Salmonella, Campylobacter growth. Major factor in poultry-related illnesses.
Code Requirements
Approved thawing methods ONLY: Under refrigeration (best), Under cold running water (70°F) in sink, In microwave if cooking immediately, As part of cooking process. NEVER at room temperature. Plan ahead for slow thawing.
590.004/4-202.16-C
Nonfood-Contact Surfaces (C)
Gasket around the 3 door cooler on the cooking line damaged/torn. Address and replace.
Why This Matters
This violation affects overall sanitation and food safety
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.006/6-201.11-C
Floors Walls and Ceilings-Cleanability (C)
Hood and Ventilation tags with a past expiration date from Sept. 2025. Address and provide up to date tags.
Why This Matters
Poor facility maintenance can harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning
Code Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Properly sloped to drains; No gaps or cracks; Maintained clean