La Cuchara Restaurant
PASSFriday, September 5, 2025 at 2:58 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 in the front service unit with an elevated temperature of 47F. 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.
590.004/4-302.14-PF
Sanitizing Solutions Testing Devices (Pf)
Sanitizer in the red bucket registering at well over the required 50-100ppm. Address and ensure all staff have been properly trained om how to set up and test sanitizer.
Why This Matters
This violation supports conditions that may lead to foodborne illness
Code Requirements
Immediate correction required. Follow health code section 105 CMR 590.004. Implement proper cleaning & sanitization procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.006/6-501.111-PF
Controlling Pests (Pf)
Evidence of fruit fly activity observed in the restroom. Address.
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.
590.003/3-304.14-C
Wiping Cloths Use Limitation (C)
Soiled wiping cloths observed being left out on counter tops. Disocntinue and provide a proper sanitizing solution. Buckets were set up during the course of the inspection.
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.
590.003/3-307.11-C
Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination (C)
Peeled plantaines observed being stored in the same water has soiled utensils. Discontinue and ensure all foods are being stored 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 food safety procedures. Train all staff. Document corrective actions taken.
590.003/3-501.15-C
(B) Cooling Methods (C)
Pans filled with breakfast foods observed being cooled at room temperature (124F). Discontinue and ensure proper cooling methods are in place.
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.
590.004/4-202.16-C
Nonfood-Contact Surfaces (C)
Home style stove observed being used in the main kitchen area. Discontinue use and provide commercial grade equipment for the restaurant.
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)
Portions of flooring in the main kitchen area damaged and sagging. Addres and make any necessary repairs.
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