Vallarta Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Apr 21, 2026
52
Score
Vallarta Mexican Restaurant has been inspected 17 times since 2023. Inspectors last stopped by on Apr 21, 2026. High risk usually means inspectors flagged either critical violations or a stack of smaller ones.
Recent visits have flagged more than earlier ones: around 10 violations per visit lately, up from roughly five violations before.
The pattern that stands out is “food-contact surface soiled with food debris”, which has been cited six times.
The city-wide average sits at 80, which Vallarta Mexican Restaurant's 52 doesn't quite reach. This restaurant has more on its record than most do.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
3
Major latest
7
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 21, 2026
Routine - Food
3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Interior of reach in cooler soiled with accumulated food debris. Interior of frozen drink machine nozzle soiled with black debris
22-02-4
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. On cook line and dish area hand sink. Manager refilled **Corrected On-Site**
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. Observed cooked beef, cooked chicken and cut tomatoes not dated in reach in cooler. Queso in walk in cooler made the other day
02C-02-5
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. Current copy available expired 2-1-2026. **Repeat Violation**
50-09-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Observed broken metal table in storage
14-11-5
Basic - Floor and wall junctures not coved in food preparation/storage/warewashing areas or bathroom. Throughout kitchen and dish area
36-08-4
Basic - Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Multiple broken throughout kitchen
36-17-5
Basic - Reach-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. In dry storage
14-33-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. Observed cooked beef, cooked chicken and cut tomatoes not dated in reach in cooler
08B-12-5
Basic - Walk-in cooler, reach in cooler and dish shelves have rust that has pitted the surface.
14-17-4
52
Oct 31, 2025
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw shell eggs above cooked chicken in walk in cooler, operator moved eggs to bottom shelf **Corrected On-Site**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Employee handled soiled equipment or utensils and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. Dish washer touched dirty dishes then handled clean dishes without hand washing. Discussed with operator and he washed hands properly **Corrective Action Taken**
12A-13-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards stained in kitchen. Vegetables cuter soiled with food debris on clean dishes shelf.
22-02-4
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No test kit for chlorine used in dish machine
16-37-1
Intermediate - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Cooked chicken in walk in cooler more than 24 hours no date mark. Operator marked it correctly **Corrected On-Site**
02C-02-5
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee food in drink fridge in bar. Operator moved employee food to a separate container with label on stored at bottled in walk in cooler **Corrected On-Site**
40-06-5
Basic - Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. Cups wet nesting in bar counter.
24-08-4
Basic - Food stored in a location that is exposed to splash/dust. Fried chalupas in open container on top of vertical fridge in kitchen, exposed to dust buildup ceiling. Operator removed the chalupas and cover it. **Corrected On-Site**
08B-36-4
Basic - No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted. Emailed education packet to operator.
51-13-4
Basic - Stored food not covered. Cooked chicken and plant food not covered in walk in cooler. Operator covers them with plastic wrap **Corrected On-Site**
08B-12-5
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. **Repeat Violation**
50-09-4
41
May 29, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
High Priority - Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed to go bag holding tortillas. Manager transferred to food grade bag. **Corrected On-Site**
14-31-5
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.
11-27-4
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. In dish area. Manger put roll closer to hand sink **Corrected On-Site**
31B-02-4
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. Current copy posted expired 2-1-2025
50-09-4
Basic - Ice buildup in walk-in freezer.
14-69-4
Basic - No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted.
51-13-4
Basic - No copy of latest inspection report available.
51-18-6
Basic - Stored food not covered. Frozen potato balls not covered in walk in freezer. Manager covered **Corrected On-Site**
08B-12-5
55
Aug 13, 2024
Routine - Food
No violations found.
100
Aug 1, 2024
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 6 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw chicken stored over cooked chicken in reach-in cooler. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: Still observed walk in cooler raw pork over vegetables **Time Extended**
08A-05-6
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Walk-in cooler: Cold Holding: salsa 54 F, chorizo 52 F, milk 54 F, pork tamale 54 F, liquid egg white 53 F, Queso 54 F. Ambient temperature: 54 F. Food was stored in walk-in cooler from overnight and over 4 hours, no temperatures was taken by operator from last night and prior to inspection. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: air temperature 53f stop sale liquid egg 47f milk 46 f Salsa 45 f raw beef 43 f packaged mozzarella cheese 43 f queso American cheese 43f raw beef 43 f raw chicken 43f stop sale - Cooked queso 51 f held overnight cooked around 4pm from previous day tested queso at 2:15 pm at 51f employee took temperature this morning at 40f but didn't document the temperature. Discuss with employee to ice down the foods in the walk in cooler. **Time Extended**
01B-02-5
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Walk-in cooler: Cold Holding: salsa 54 F, chorizo 52 F, milk 54 F, pork tamale 54 F, liquid egg white 53 F, Queso 54 F. Ambient temperature: 54 F. Glass door reach-in cooler at cook line: Cold Holding: sliced tomato 44 F, raw steak 45 F, raw shrimp 50 F, raw chicken 51 F. Reach-in cooler at storage area: Cold Holding: cooked pork 44 F, enchiladas sauce 45 F, buritto sauce 48 F, raw chicken 48 F. Operator starts placing ice on most of the food items in reach-in coolers. **Corrective Action Taken** **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: Cold holding: glass reach in cooler cooks line raw beef 45 f raw chicken 45 employee moved to freezer 2nd temp product held less than 4 hours. Reach in cooler back storage cook chicken 43 f hot dogs 43 f Walk in Cooler: ambient air temperature 53f stop sale liquid egg 47f milk 46 f Salsa 45 f raw beef 43 f packaged mozzarella cheese 43 f queso American cheese 43f raw beef 43 f raw chicken 43f stop sale - Cooked queso 51 f held overnight cooked around 4pm from previous day tested queso at 2:15 pm at 51f employee took temperature this morning at 40f but didn't document the temperature. Discuss with employee to ice down the foods in the walk in cooler. **Admin Complaint**
03A-02-5
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. Queso, pork tamales and various food items in walk-in cooler. Commercially processed ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food opened and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked after opening. Multiple bottles of milk opened in walk-in cooler with no date marks. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: No date marks **Time Extended**
02C-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: Still soiled **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood filter missing from automatic fire suppression/exhaust system. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-08-01: **Time Extended**
14-42-4
52
Jul 30, 2024
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 4 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Supervisor/Person in Charge Present
FL-01
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Employee Health Policies Present
FL-03
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Wiping Cloths Properly Used and Stored
FL-41
26
Mar 28, 2024
Routine - Food
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Reach in cooler gasket by mop sink. Ice machine in bar area lid in disrepair. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-28: **Time Extended**
14-11-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-28: **Time Extended**
22-20-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Food stored on floor. Pot of mozzarella on floor in kitchen. Margarita drinks in igloo coolers on floor in bar area. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-28: observed meat in pot on floor cooks line **Time Extended**
08B-38-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Throughout cooks line. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-28: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
82
Mar 27, 2024
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Supervisor/Person in Charge Present
FL-01
Employee Health Policies Present
FL-03
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
35
Jan 26, 2024
Complaint Full
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Dish area and storage area **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-26: **Time Extended**
36-37-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Reach in cooler Steam table **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-26: **Time Extended**
14-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Dish area **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-26: **Time Extended**
36-02-5
86
Jan 25, 2024
Complaint Full
1 critical violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. 22 live cockroaches in wall in door way of cook area 3 on floor by chest freezer in cooking area 1 live in hinge of 3 door cooler in storage area **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: 1 live roach on prep table by can opener. 1 live roach under reach in cooler cooks line by mop sink.1 live roach under prep table by mop sink **Time Extended**
35A-05-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Reach in cooler Steam table **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended**
14-09-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Dish area and storage area **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended**
36-37-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Dead roaches on premises. 3 dead in wall by doorway going into cook area 1 dead on floor behind keg cooler in storage 1 dead in gasket of 3 door cooler in storage area 8 dead on floor in dish area 7 dead on floor in bar area **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: 1 dead roach under the bar counter. 3 dead roaches bar area by frozen mix drinks. 8 dead roaches in trap box behind the glass beer cooler at bar . 3 dead roaches on floor by beer cooler on floor in corner. **Time Extended**
35A-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Under and behind all equipment Under dish machine **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended**
36-73-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Reach in cooler gaskets soiled - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Dish area **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2024-01-25: **Time Extended**
36-02-5
64
Jan 24, 2024
Complaint Full
3 critical violations. 2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 16 violations
High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. 22 live cockroaches in wall in door way of cook area 3 on floor by chest freezer in cooking area 1 live in hinge of 3 door cooler in storage area **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
35A-05-4
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. sour cream (57F - Cold Holding); shredded beef (55F - Cold Holding); shredded mozzarella cheese (53F - Cold Holding) **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. cut lettuce (45F - Cold Holding); sliced tomatoes (47F - Cold holding); sour cream (57F - Cold Holding); shredded beef (55F - Cold Holding); shredded mozzarella cheese (53F - Cold Holding) in reach in cooler on cook line **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Blocked by garbage can, tongs and steel scrubbie stored in hand sink on cook line, items removed **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink. No soap at hand sink in dish area **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31B-03-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Corn and salsa on floor in walk in cooler **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - Hole in or other damage to wall. Wall in doorway on cooking area is in disrepair and has hole in it Wall under three compartment sink has hole **Warning**
36-24-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Reach in cooler gaskets soiled
23-03-4
Basic - Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Dish area **Warning**
36-02-5
Basic - Dead roaches on premises. 3 dead in wall by doorway going into cook area 1 dead on floor behind keg cooler in storage 1 dead in gasket of 3 door cooler in storage area 8 dead on floor in dish area 7 dead on floor in bar area **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
35A-03-4
Basic - Employee with no beard guard/restraint while engaging in food preparation. **Warning**
13-04-4
Basic - Floor area(s) covered with standing water. All floor in dish area **Warning**
36-22-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Under and behind all equipment Under dish machine **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-73-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. **Warning**
22-20-5
Basic - Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Dish area and storage area **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
36-37-5
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Reach in cooler Steam table **Warning**
14-09-4
30
Dec 6, 2023
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 9 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Employee rubbed hands together for less than 10-15 seconds while washing hands. -Observed cook rinse hands for 4 seconds before immediately returning to cook. Discussed proper handwashing with cook **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: Observed cook rinsing hands for 5 seconds. Discussed proper hand washing with cook. Cook then properly washed his hands. **Time Extended** **Corrective Action Taken**
12A-17-4
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Employee touched face/hair and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. -Employee touched face with gloved hands and immediately returned to preparing food Discussed proper handwashing with employee **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: Discussed proper handwashing with manager on duty **Time Extended**
12A-25-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. -Cutting boards on cook line -Can opener on cook line near double door reach-in cooler -Container of shredded lettuce in double door reach-in cooler in dry storage area soiled **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: Container of shredded lettuce replaced** Corrected on Site** Can opener has been cleaned **Corrected on Site** Cutting boards soiled **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. -Large amount of Food debris present in hand washing station on cook line **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: Ice observed in hand washing station in server area, next to tea urns. Discussed with manager on duty proper hand sink practices **Time Extended**
31A-11-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. -Acoustic ceiling tiles in dishwashing area and dry storage area **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: **Time Extended**
36-37-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Condensation or other drainage not disposed of according to law. -Condensation of walk-in cooler not being properly disposed. Drains directly onto concrete into large puddles of water. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: **Time Extended**
28-02-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. -Metal hotel pans stacked while wet in dishwashing area **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: Discussed with manager on duty how to properly dry and store dishes **Time Extended**
24-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floors not constructed to be easily cleanable. Floor in walk-in cooler not smooth or easily cleanable **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: **Time Extended**
36-12-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Open dumpster lid. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-06: **Time Extended**
33-16-4
47
Dec 4, 2023
Routine - Food
8 critical violations. 5 major violations. 15 minor violations.
View 28 violations
High Priority - Employee rubbed hands together for less than 10-15 seconds while washing hands. -Observed cook rinse hands for 4 seconds before immediately returning to cook. Discussed proper handwashing with cook **Warning**
12A-17-4
High Priority - Employee touched face/hair and then engaged in food preparation, handled clean equipment or utensils, or touched unwrapped single-service items without washing hands. -Employee touched face with gloved hands and immediately returned to preparing food Discussed proper handwashing with employee **Warning**
12A-25-4
High Priority - Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. -1 fly in dry storage area, not landing on any food contact surfaces **Warning**
35A-02-6
High Priority - Presence of insects, rodents, or other pests. -1 dead insect on soap dispenser of hand washing station in dish area Employee cleaned and sanitized area **Warning**
35A-09-4
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. -Raw chicken over raw beef in reach-in cooler on cook line. Employee properly stored all products **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
08A-20-5
High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. -2 live roaches in gasket of triple door cooler in dry storage **Warning**
35A-05-4
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. -Shredded lettuce at 58F -Cut tomatoes at 55F -Cooked chicken at 53F -Beans at 59F -Flan at 56F -Cooked 54F -Mozzarella 62F All in triple door cooler in dry storage **Warning**
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -Shredded lettuce at 58F -Cut tomatoes at 55F -Cooked chicken at 53F -Beans at 59F -Flan at 56F -Cooked beef 54F -Mozzarella 62F All in triple door cooler in dry storage. Cook states food was prepared and stored 2 days ago, no temperature monitoring. See Stop Sale. **Warning**
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. -Jug of milk in double door cooler on cook line not date marked. Manager on duty states it was opened 2 days ago **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
02C-03-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. -Cutting boards on cook line -Can opener on cook line near double door reach-in cooler -Container of shredded lettuce in double door reach-in cooler in dry storage area soiled **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. -Trash can in front of hand washing station on cook line Employee removed trash can **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. -Large amount of Food debris present in hand washing station on cook line **Warning**
31A-11-4
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device or soap provided at handwash sink. -Hand washing station in dishwashing area -Hand washing station behind bar **Warning**
31B-02-4
Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. -Bowl used as scoop in beef and vegetable mix in double door reach-in cooler on back of cook line Employee removed bowl **Corrected On-Site** **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
14-01-5
Basic - Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. -Double door reach-in cooler on cook line across from steam table -Double door reach-in cooler at the back of cook line next to chest freezer **Warning**
23-24-4
Basic - Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. -Acoustic ceiling tiles in dishwashing area and dry storage area **Warning**
36-37-5
Basic - Clean glasses, cups, bowls, plates, pots and pans not stored inverted or in a protected manner. -Ice bin not inverted for protection **Warning**
24-05-4
Basic - Condensation or other drainage not disposed of according to law. -Condensation of walk-in cooler not being properly disposed. Drains directly onto concrete into large puddles of water. **Warning**
28-02-4
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. **Warning**
50-09-4
Basic - Dead roaches on premises. -2 dead under triple door cooler in dry storage -1 dead roach on floor near back door **Warning**
35A-03-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. -Employee beverage container on prep table in kitchen Employee removed and properly stored beverage **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. -Cellphone stored above prep table on cook line Employee removed cell phone **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
40-06-5
Basic - Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. -Metal hotel pans stacked while wet in dishwashing area **Warning**
24-08-4
Basic - Floors not constructed to be easily cleanable. Floor in walk-in cooler not smooth or easily cleanable **Warning**
36-12-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. -Boxes of avocados stored on floor of walk-in cooler **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. -Handwashing station behind bar Provided operator with hand washing sign to place behind bar **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31B-04-4
Basic - Open dumpster lid. **Warning**
33-16-4
Basic - Standing water in bottom of reach-in-cooler. -Double door cooler on cook line has standing water **Warning**
29-49-6
9
Jun 20, 2023
Routine - Food
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards soiled. Two door cooler shelves soiled. Bins for cut lettuce soiled. Ovens soiled. Can opener blade soiled. Interior of keg coolers. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-20: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
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. No items date marked. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-20: **Time Extended**
02C-02-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-20: **Time Extended**
16-21-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris in dish room and behind kitchen equipment. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-16: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-06-20: **Time Extended**
36-73-4
74
Jun 16, 2023
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 4 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Employee Health Policies Present
FL-03
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Food Obtained from Approved Sources
FL-11
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Potentially Hazardous Food Held at Proper Temperature
FL-16
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
41
Jun 13, 2023
Routine - Food
4 critical violations. 7 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 21 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw chicken over pico de Gallo in two door cooler in kitchen. **Warning**
08A-05-6
High Priority - Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Raw chicken over raw beef in three door cooler. **Warning**
08A-20-5
High Priority - Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Chile Rellenos 61F in cooler overnight. Manager discarded. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
01B-02-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In cooler across from steam table Chile rellenos 61F - made last night. In cooler overnight, no temperature monitoring. See stop sale. In three door cooler in kitchen bacon 54F Beef 51F Rice 53F. Manager states all items moved from walk in cooler to reach in cooler at 10am. Manager moved all items back into walk in cooler to chill. Two door cooler Beef 46F Chicken wings 46F Shredded chicken 44F Beef soup 46F. Manager put items on ice and moved other items to different cooler to chill. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03A-02-5
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink in dish room or at bar. Manager provided paper towels at sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No soap provided at handwash sink at bar. Manager provided soap at sink. **Corrected On-Site** **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. No items date marked. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
02C-02-5
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. **Warning**
11-27-4
Intermediate - Food being cooled by nonapproved method as evidenced by inadequate rate of cooling during time of inspection. Chicken wrapped in foil and set on counter to cool. Discussed proper cooling methods with manager. Manager uncovered. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
03D-15-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards soiled. Two door cooler shelves soiled. Bins for cut lettuce soiled. Ovens soiled. Can opener blade soiled. Interior of keg coolers. **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Hand sink in kitchen blocked by trash can and items inside. Manager removed items. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31A-09-4
Basic - Dead roaches on premises. 1 dead roach by exit door. 1 dead roach on floor by steam table. 2 dead roaches on floor by ovens. 1 dead roach on floor under dry storage shelves in storage room. 2 dead roaches on floor at bar by soda syrups. **Warning**
35A-03-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Manager moved drink. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Equipment and utensils dried with towel after the application of the sanitizer solution. Discussed with manager. **Corrective Action Taken** **Warning**
22-54-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris in dish room and behind kitchen equipment. **Warning**
36-73-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Pot of beans on floor. Manager moved off floor. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit in cooler across from steam table, three door cooler, or two door cooler by chest freezer. **Warning**
05-09-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gasket of cooler across from grill soiled. **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Standing water in bottom of reach-in-cooler across from steam table. **Warning**
29-49-6
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Warning**
16-21-4
Basic - Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense beef in two door cooler. **Warning**
14-01-5
17
Jan 9, 2023
Routine - Food
5 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 6 violations
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Sewage and Wastewater Properly Disposed
FL-27
Certified Food Manager Identification
FL-02
Food Obtained from Approved Sources
FL-11
Potentially Hazardous Food Held at Proper Temperature
FL-16
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
52
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Vallarta Mexican Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Vallarta Mexican Restaurant on file is from Apr 21, 2026. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Vallarta Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “food-contact surface soiled with food debris” has been cited six times, more than any other issue at Vallarta Mexican Restaurant.
How does Vallarta Mexican Restaurant compare to other restaurants in Lutz?
Vallarta Mexican Restaurant most recently scored 52 out of 100, which is lower than the Lutz average of 80.
Has Vallarta Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Vallarta Mexican Restaurant have averaged around 10 violations per visit, up from roughly five earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Vallarta 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 Vallarta Mexican Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Vallarta Mexican Restaurant is inspected around five times per year on average.
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