Visalia Times-Delta | Tulare Advance Register

Tulare County restaurants: What health inspectors found in August

By Steve Pastis, Visalia Times-Delta,

2024-09-23

Each month, the Visalia Times-Delta lets you know which Tulare County restaurants aced inspections, as well as which ones need to make improvements.

Tulare County's best restaurant inspections

The following restaurants met all standards during their August inspections and no violations were found. Their scores are considered perfect.

El Jacalito Taqueria, 561 W. Olive Ave., Porterville
Taco Bell, 725 N. Alta Ave., Dinuba
Chinese Gourmet Express, 2031 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia
McDonald’s, 379 E. Olive Ave., Porterville
Wimpy’s Hamburger, 495 E. Tulare St., Dinuba
JD’s Taco Shop, 2020 N. Dinuba Blvd., Visalia
California Fish Grill, 2253 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia
Urbane Café, 2257 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia
Jack in the Box, 5340 W. Cypress Ave., Visalia
Bellis, 423 W. Main St., Visalia
Panda Express, 821 S. Akers St., Visalia
Subway, 1277 W. Henderson Ave., Porterville
Raising Cane’s, 3501 S. Mooney Blvd., Visalia
Starbucks, 706 W. Riggin Ave., Visalia
Subway, 134 N. Main St., Porterville

Tulare County restaurants: Inspections in Tulare County in July

Tulare County restaurants that did not pass inspection

These restaurants were found to have major or critical risk violations:

Noodle House, 1006 N. Court St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 5. Inspection Score: 79.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Food employees are unable to demonstrate food safety knowledge practices applicable to their assigned duties.
Observed sink next to three-compartment sink being used as a janitorial sink.
Observed handwashing sink being used as a food prep sink.
Handwashing sink was observed in disrepair. (Complied on 8/12.)
Food not inspected upon receipt, or as soon as practical thereafter, and prior to any use, storage or resale. (Complied on 8/12.)
Observed four clear containers (at approximately 2 pounds each) of fermented kasoy ingredient. According to operator, “friend of his mom makes it” and is not an approved vendor. (Complied on 8/12.)
Observed mold in ice chest.
Observed rice scoop in 85-degree water. Observed scoop in metal rice bin buried in rice without handle. Observed refrigerator handles and faucet handles with grease build-up. (Complied on 8/12.)
(Repeat violation) Flying insects were observed in the food facility. At least seven flies were observed in the food prep areas during inspection on food prep surfaces. (Complied on 8/12.)
An approved air curtain or fly fan not installed above delivery door.
Barrier needs to be installed between food prep sinks and three-compartment sinks.
Atosa refrigerator observed with ambient temperature of 52 degrees. (Complied on 8/12.)
Observed inaccurate digital thermometers in Atosa and True refrigerator units.
No available proper waste disposal records. (Complied on 8/12.)
Cove base throughout facility is not approved.
Observed area underneath ice bin and under three-compartment sink not being properly maintained.
A copy of the most recent health inspection report needs to be maintained at the food facility and be made available upon request. (Complied on 8/12.)
Observed no posted health permit. (Complied on 8/12.)

Jovis Mexican Restaurant, 377 E. Orange Ave., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 5. Inspection Score: 88.

Violations:

Observed two-door food preparation refrigerator with an ambient air temperature of 44 degrees.
Observed bag of rice stored on top of lid at steam table.
Observed water at three-compartment sink measuring at 112 degrees. Observed water at two-compartment sink measuring at 116 degrees. Observed water at bar three-compartment sink measuring at 114 degrees.
Observed multiple live flies throughout facility.
Observed Midea one-door undercounter refrigerator in facility. (Unit is not commercial/NSF/ANSI approved.)
Observed Ansul tag tagged with most previous maintenance date of March 2023.
Observed lack of thermometer inside the following cold-holding units: one-door upright refrigerator across from ice bin, and two-door food preparation refrigerator.
Observed one tile of base coving behind three-compartment sink.
Observed gaps on the frame of door adjacent to walk-in cooler.

Vintage Press, 216 N. Willis St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 5. Inspection Score: 82.

Violations:

Observed employees without food handler’s card.
Observed employee with a disinfectant rag in one hand and subsequently grabbing fries to cook without washing his hands in between.
Observed green hose coming from ceiling into handwashing sink.
Observed at least three refrigeration equipment with food inside not properly working in the main bar area (observed with active leak), and two refrigerators furthest from the Ansul hood at the entrance of the kitchen work line with ambient temperatures of 41 degrees or above. Observed food in the main area consisting of milk, Chobani oat milk, and two other foods in containers that require refrigeration after opening. (Operator discarded all requested items.)
Ice scoop observed over vacuum sealing machine.
Observed black mold along edges of interior panel of ice machine.
Observed two bottles of cocktail drinks being chilled by consumer ice in ice well.
Observed two live adult German-style roaches crawl over empty snail shells sitting underneath dishwasher area, two inactive roaches near the pre-rinse sink, and one live nymph German-style roach crawl over main bar three-compartment sink.
Observed grime build-up around handwashing sink, faucet handles, and equipment handles, several food containers in the main bar area, service bar, and food-prep areas behind kitchen work line.
Ice accumulation in True freezer observed with leak.
Observed lack of easily readable, readily visible thermometer affixed to the warmest part of refrigeration units.
Observed dusty vents in prep area, in the area under the cooking equipment, along cove bases of the food prep areas and bar areas, on walls behind handwashing sink, pre-rinse sink, three-compartment sink, and along food prep areas. Wet floor observed in walk-in refrigerator.

Santa Fe Station, 505 E. Center, Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 6. Inspection Score: 79.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Observed food employees unable to demonstrate food safety practices applicable to their assigned duties.
Coffee making machine observed on integral board of two-compartment sink that is being used to wash dishes and prepare foods.
Bar staff observed using spray disinfectant with cloth wipes that were not being continuously submerged in disinfectant solution.
Observed three-compartment sink in bar area being used to wash hands and to also wash dishes.
Food safety certified individual needs to properly train all other food handling staff.
Observed approximately 15 ounces container of red oily paste within clear squirt-bottle-style container without lid. (Corrected on site.)
Observed sponges used in contact with clean and sanitized or in-use food contact surfaces.
Observed minor mold build-up in the ice machine.
Observed grime build-up around the handles of food equipment and around the faucet sinks.
Observed the water of the handwashing bar of the three-compartment sink and two-compartment sink were between 97 degrees and 105 degrees. (Corrected on site.)
Observed ice scoop for ice machine over ice machine without any overhead protection or within compartmentalized unit.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed lack of test strips to periodically check levels of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution.
Observed hot holding table used to store dry food over.
Observed General Electric two-drawer refrigerator not operational and being used for employee personal items.
Observed Hisense white reach-in refrigerator not working.
Observed handwashing sink in food prep area leaking.
Wooden shelf approximately 5 feet by 8 inches, and 2 inches in thickness, meant to be used as a food prep area was observed folded downward. Item is not approved.
Observed two-compartment sink leaking at faucet.
Dust accumulation observed on vent fan cover in customer restrooms.
Observed lack of internal probe thermometer.
Observed improper storage/sanitation of wiping cloths.
Observed missing floor cap in floor drain in center of food prep area.
Wooden boards over walk-in refrigerator not approved.
In both men’s and women’s restrooms observed deteriorated tile on wall and floor, and lack of cove base around the perimeter of both restrooms.
Large pipe opening approximately 6 inches in diameter in the hallway observed with food debris rising approximately 3 inches off the floor.
Protective covering needed over large square opening in ceiling above ice machine.
Observed dust, grime, and grease accumulation in the food prep area, in particular under cooking equipment such as fryer and in between food prep areas and undershelf dry storage areas.
Ceiling of customers’ bathrooms observed with debris.

El Nuevo Tlaquepaque, 101 E. Pine St., Exeter – Routine inspection on Aug. 6. Inspection Score: 85.

Violations:

One or more food handler cards are missing from the premises.
The following potentially hazardous foods are not being stored at the required holding temperatures in the one-door food preparation refrigerator: mayonnaise (temperature measuring 54 degrees) and butter (temperature measuring 53 degrees). (Repeat violation.) Per owner, the unit will no longer be used.
Observed mold-like substance inside ice machine. (Repeat violation.)
Observed a sack of onions stored directly on the stairway floor.
Observed raw shrimp stored above prepared food in the upright two-door refrigerator. (Repeat violation.)
Observed unlabeled containers of food or ingredients removed from original packaging in the storage shelf in front of the three-compartment sink.
Observed shelf below the kitchen griddle and horizontal freezer upstairs with grime and food build-up.
Observed cardboard and milk crates being utilized for storage of food.
Observed dark build-up inside floor sink below the food preparation sink and three-compartment sink.
Observed hot water for the food preparation turned off due to faucet leakage.

El Mundo del Sabor, 475 W. Visalia Rd., Farmersville – Routine inspection on Aug. 6. Inspection Score: 77.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
One or more food handler cards are missing from the premises.
Food employees are unable to demonstrate food safety knowledge practices applicable to their assigned duties.
Observed lack of paper towels in the restroom and front handwash station.
The soap dispensers at the front and rear handwash stations are clogged.
The front handwash sink is unclean.
Observed whole and cut fruits and vegetable in the upright refrigerator showing signs of spoilage.
Operator on site was unable to provide invoices to verify that the food was purchased from an approved source. (Repeat violation.)
Prepackaged containers of food or ingredients removed from original packaging not identified with the common name of the food.
This facility has no hot water.
Observed dead vermin throughout facility.
Observed food facility lacking a dipper well for the storage of ice cream scoops.
Condensation line in the upright refrigerator not sloped to allow complete draining.
The interior thermometer is missing from the upright refrigerator.
Interior of upright refrigerator is not clean and has mold-like build-up on walls.
Equipment, food-contact surfaces, nonfood-contact surfaces, and utensils are not all clean to sight and touch.
Observed paper used as shelf liner.
Observed milk crates being used as storage racks for food, chemicals, and utensils.
Observed lack of sanitizer set-up and test strips.
Unused equipment was found throughout this facility.
Premises not kept free of litter and items that are unnecessary to the operation/maintenance of the facility.
Observed personal belongings stored in kitchen and food storage area.

Pizza Factory of Porterville, 897 W. Henderson Ave., Porterville – Routine inspection on Aug. 7. Inspection Score: 83.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Observed the following potentially hazardous food not being stored at the required holding temperature: pizza underneath heat lamp.
Observed dented canned goods in dry storage.
Observed ice scoop stored in a soiled container, which poses a risk of cross-contamination.
Observed an accumulation of dust and grime on the fan covers in the walk-in cooler.
Observed an accumulation of a black mold-like substance inside the ice machine.

Salathai Food Express, 1001 N. Court St., #3, Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 7. Inspection Score: 88.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Water was measured at less than 100 degrees at handwashing sink or below 110 degrees at manual utensil wash area.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed leaking refrigerator.
Walk-up mesh screen was observed with a hole approximately 1-inch in diameter.
Observed dust accumulation near vent cover of air hood/curtain vent.
Observed lack of metal probe thermometer for measuring food temperatures on site and in use during hours of operation.
Observed glue traps with earth-style roaches near janitorial sink.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.
Observed lack of cove base around the perimeter of the food prep area floor.

Charly Tacos, 744 W. Inyo Ave., Tulare – Routine inspection on Aug. 8. Inspection Score: 87.

Violations:

Observed internal temperature of the jalapeño at the steam table at 102 degrees.
Observed internal temperature of salsa (tomatoes and chiles) at the steam table at 112 degrees.
Observed large frozen beef pack thawing at the preparation sink.
Observed clean utensils/equipment drying inside three-compartment sink.
Observed no chlorine test strips available for sanitizing.
Observed no oil catch pan available at the mechanical exhaust hood.
Observed non-ANSI/NSF-approved wooden tortilla press used in the back kitchen preparation area.
Observed large pots that do not fit at the three-compartment sink.
Ice machine lid does not close completely.
Observed five cooking equipment and three Ansul units in the cooking area.
Observed restroom doors for employees and customers with no self-closing device.
Observed no air curtain located above delivery door.
Observed both adjacent walls at the mop sink with bare drywall only.
Observed wall by delivery door with food splatter from the trash bin.

Taqueria Guadalajara, 700 W. Inyo Ave., Tulare – Routine inspection on Aug. 8. Inspection Score: 89.

Violations:

Observed sliced tomatoes at 50 degrees at the preparation refrigerator.
Observed interior ice machine panel with build-up.
Observed flies throughout facility.
Observed metal shelf secure against the wall and used as a knife holder.
Observed accumulation of grease inside the fryer.
One hood filter located above the stove is lifting.
Observed shelves inside walk-in refrigerator severely rusted with build-up.
Observed aprons and wiping towels stored inside the restroom.
Observed water link underneath the two-compartment warewash sink.
Observed toilet paper on top of toilet.
Observed walk-in refrigerator floors with liquid spills.
Observed walk-in refrigerator walls and ceiling with black and dust build-up.
Observed northwest wall of the walk-in refrigerator with a hole opening.

Philly’s, 518 E. Main St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 8. Inspection Score: 88.

Violations:

There is a lack of requires supplies in the dispensers at the handwash stations.
The handwash sink is obstructed or inaccessible, and there was difficulty obtaining water at 100 degrees to 108 degrees, and difficulty closing as well.
Refrigerator in closet observed with an ambient temperature of 47 degrees. Per operator, only approximately 5 pounds of meat have been placed in there before this morning. (Operator voluntarily discarded meat.)
Food not inspected upon receipt, or as soon as practical thereafter, and prior to any use, storage or resale.
Observed cheesesteak dressing sauce made out of vinegar, oil, and minced garlic at room temperature.
Observed disposable container dipped in dressing sauce.
Barrier needs to be installed between three-compartment sink and handwashing sink.
Observed ice machine inoperable and being used for dry food storage, chemical storage, and prepping equipment storage.
An approved air curtain or fly fan must be installed above the delivery door.
Observed expired Ansul tag, last certified January 2024.
Observed lack of metal probe thermometer for measuring food temperatures on site and in use during hours of operation.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, near cove base around food prep area, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.
Cove base in food prep area, in bathroom, and closets where refrigeration units are being stored is not approved.

Mariscos Camaron Pelado, 1517 E. El Monte Way, Dinuba – Routine inspection on Aug. 8. Inspection Score: 75.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Observed lack of paper towels at handwash station.
Observed shrimp in bar area stored on ice.
Observed ice scoop stored in a manner that poses a risk of cross-contamination.
Observed interior of ice machine adjacent to employee lockers soiled.
Water was measured at less than 120 degrees at three-compartment sink.
Observed live cockroaches inside walk-in refrigerator.
Observed food items in walk-in refrigerator and food preparation refrigerator with no overhead protection.
Observed uncovered food and raw potentially hazardous foods stored in improper order and above ready-to-eat foods.
Observed food stored directly on the floor inside walk-in freezer.
Observed cardboard/aluminum foil used as shelf liner, and showing signs of debris and grease accumulation.
Observed food preparation refrigerator with an ambient air temperature of 60 degrees.
Door in walk-in freezer does not close properly.
Observed missing tile at entry way of walk-in freezer.

Dimples Diner, 1823 E. Main St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 13. Inspection Score: 81.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Food employees are unable to demonstrate food safety knowledge practices applicable to their assigned duties.
There is a lack of required supplies in the dispensers at the handwash stations.
Food not inspected upon receipt, or as soon as practical thereafter, and prior to any use, storage or resale.
Barbecue sauce and First Street cone syrup containers observed partially full and not under refrigeration.
Water was measured at less than 100 degrees at handwashing sink or below 110 degrees at manual utensil wash area.
Observed several nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment with an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.
Ice scoops buried in in ice or above soda machine grate.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed wooden shelving along the inside of the front kitchen deteriorated. Exposed wooden surfaces are not approved for storage.
Observed lack of fire suppression tag.
Observed lack of metal probe thermometer for measuring food temperatures on site and in use during hours of operation.
Observed improper storage/sanitation of wiping cloths.
Waste receptacles observed with food debris and grease accumulation.
Observed deteriorated flooring in front kitchen that exposes wooden sublayer underneath, and deteriorated flooring under door frame that separates the two kitchens.
Observed unclean and deteriorated ceiling tiles and one unapproved ceiling tile exposing attic above.
Observed dust accumulation on ceiling vents and lighting panels.
Observed exposed electrical outlets in front kitchen with grime and dust.
Observed peeling cove base around perimeter of women’s bathroom.
Baffle filters under hood observed with grease accumulation.

Tacos Tequila, 1766 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare – Routine inspection on Aug. 13. Inspection Score: 87.

Violations:

No safety manager certificate was available during inspection.
Observed hot water at the three-compartment sink at 94 degrees.
Observed frozen meat thawing in standing water inside the two-compartment sink. (Corrected on site.)
Observed opened bag of raw bacon stored directly in the same container as precooked ham inside the two-door preparation refrigerator.
Observed several ingredient containers with no labeling.
Observed two-door preparation refrigerator with upright two-door freezer (ice build-up on the interior by the gasket) with deteriorated gaskets.
Observed grease build-up inside on the bottom of the fryer.
Observed cups and bowls used as scoops inside ingredient containers.
Observed dust build-up on fan covers inside upright two-door refrigerator and Coca-Cola refrigerator.
Two-compartment sink is leaking water at the drain line.
Observed white freezer, pots, pans, to-go cups, and soda machine syrup station located on the exterior north of the facility under the patio. (Previous inspection stated to relocate all items inside facility.)
Observed ceiling light above two-compartment sink and kitchen preparation area with no protective cover.
Observed no Ansul fire suppression above stove located south of the cooking station.
Observed fire suppression system with an inspection tag date of Jan. 1, 2024.
Observed walls by upright two-door refrigerator with dust build-up.
Observed dust build-up on walk-in refrigerator ceiling and condenser unit.
Observed food splattered on ceiling above two-compartment sink and on wall next to upright two-door refrigerator.

Visalia Country Club, 625 N. Ranch Road, Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 13. Inspection Score: 79. (Note: Below are the results of an inspection of its Central Kitchen. Its Satellite Kitchen received a score of 93 on the same day.)

Violations:

The handwash sink is obstructed or inaccessible, and is unclean or is being used for purposes other than handwashing. (Corrected on site.)
Observed walk-in refrigerator with an ambient temperature of 47 degrees initially, and alfredo sauce and sliced white cheese with an ambient temperature of 47 degrees as well. (Corrected on site.)
Observed slices green onion chives, open red peppers from a jar, and open olives from a jar not under temperature control in bins with no ice underneath and not properly marked.
Food not inspected upon receipt, or as soon as practical thereafter, and prior to any use, storage or resale.
Observed in bar area at lease three partially full syrup containers with the words “refrigerate after opening” on container label not under refrigeration.
Water was measured at less than 100 degrees at handwashing sink or below 110 degrees at manual utensil wash area.
Observed water in servers area measured less than 100 degrees. (Corrected on site.)
Observed water in bar three-compartment sink less than 120 degrees but greater than 100 degrees. Per operator, will not use for washing dishes.
Observed scoops used for ice buried in ice or not within a compartmentalized unit.
Observed handles for scooping equipment buried in at least two food ingredient containers. (Corrected on site.)
Observed at least three boxes of frozen prepackaged shrimp and other food products on the floor of walk-in freezer.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed lack of correct test strips, and disinfectant being used is quarternary ammonium-based.
Mechanical warewashing machine used to clean dishes and utensils observed with an initial temperature at 154 degrees. (Corrected on site.)
Maintain walk-in produce refrigerator observed not maintaining food at 41 degrees or below. (Corrected on site.)
Maintain two-door Everest fridge/prep table observed not maintaining food at 41 degrees or below. (Corrected on site.)
Maintain continental prep/refrigeration unit observed with active leak.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.

China Garden, 500 E. Tulare Ave., Tulare – Routine inspection on Aug. 13. Inspection Score: 81.

Violations:

Observed expired food safety manager and food handler certificates. (Complied on 8/28/2024)
Observed lack of required supplies in the dispensers at the handwash stations.
Observed internal temperature of orange chicken at 63 degrees and internal temperature of cooked battered shrimp at 69 degrees inside of container located on the counter. (Complied on 8/20/2024)
Observed three-compartment sink with two faucets where one of the faucets does not dispense cold water, as well as a hand sink with low pressure water dispensing. (Complied on 8/28/2024)
Observed one cockroach behind white freezer, ants on the wall by the trash bin, and spider webs with spiders throughout facility (under wok station, under three-compartment sink, and by the empty boxes located behind the two-door freezer). (Complied on 8/28/2024)
Observed uncovered egg fu yung and several other vegetables inside cutoff plastic containers at the two-door preparation refrigerator.
Observed several ingredient containers with no labeling. (Complied on 8/28/2024)
Observed unapproved milk crates used as storage rack inside the walk-in refrigerator.
Observed interior two-door preparation refrigerator with excessive food debris and standing water.
Observed several cutoff plastic bottles inside two-door preparation refrigerator used for vegetable and raw meat storage.
Observed excessive grease accumulation inside of fryer.
Observed mechanical exhaust hood with excessive grease build-up.
Observed men’s restroom with no paper towels and no warm water. (Warm water corrected on site.)
Observed janitorial sink inaccessible as there are several boxes and recycled cans in the room. (Complied on 8/28/2024)
Observed excessive oil accumulation of grease on floors and wall underneath and behind cooking equipment, walls and ceiling by fire suppression bottle with black and grease build-up, food debris encrusted on the floors underneath shelves inside of walk-in refrigerator, and food splattered on walls by trash bin. (Complied on 8/28/2024)

El Jardin, 316 N. Court St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 20. Inspection Score: 80.

Violations:

The handwash sink is obstructed (by a white cutting board) and being used other than for intended purpose.
Observed lack of paper towels in paper towel dispenser.
Observed green salsa and partially open orange juice that require refrigeration after opening in temperatures above 41 degrees.
Food is not being cooled properly. Observed beans at 108 degrees in refrigerator cooked approximately, per operator, one hour before.
Observed one gallon of Worchester sauce with the statement “refrigerate after opening” not under refrigeration. (Corrected on site.)
Observed one live adult roach near the customer ordering line, and one inactive roach inside prep table refrigerator.
Observed nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment with an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and/or other debris.
Observed sponges used in contact with clean and sanitized or in-use food contact surfaces.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed unapproved residential white Frigidaire refrigerator, and beverage air refrigerator without lid cover with ambient temperature of 41 degrees.
Observed Ansul tag last recertified April 2023 on a semi-annual basis.
Observed leaking handwashing sink, broken handwashing sink splashguard, broken splashguard for food prep sink, and lack of janitorial sink.
Observed lack of metal probe thermometer for measuring food temperatures on site and in use during hours of operation.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.
Observed unapproved coving (black vinyl or rubber coving) around food prep areas with food debris residues.
Observed broken tile throughout food prep areas.

El San Marcos Mexican Restaurant, 409 N. Willis St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 20. Inspection Score: 84.

Violations:

The handwash sink is obstructed or inaccessible, and is being used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed clean dishware stacked over sink.
Observed at least two one-gallon containers of partially full Worchester sauce, tamarind syrup, and Jamaica syrup with the statement “refrigerate after opening” on the container.
Water was measured at less than 100 degrees at handwashing sink or below 110 degrees at manual utensil wash area.
Observed one nymph roach near handwashing sink.
Observed scooping utensil handle buried in unlabeled sugar container. (Corrected on site.)
Observed slight mold accumulation in ice machine.
Observed Rockstar refrigerator at 43 degrees with potentially hazardous food. (Corrected on site.)
Observed lack of metal probe thermometer for measuring food temperatures on site and in use during hours of operation.
Observed personal medication on food storage shelf in dry storage room/office area.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.
Observed food splatter over wooden sliding door, on wall next to food prep sink, and across wall next to ice machine.
Observed dust and grease accumulation over plastic bag-covered ventilation system, over fire suppression system handle, air hood outside, near black fan above air hood over delivery door entrance, underneath three-compartment and food prep sinks, behind magnetic knife-holding area, over water heater, over wooden shelf and condiments stored over it across the three-compartment sink, on the electrical plumbing in food prep areas, on the faucet handles of the food prep and three-compartment sinks, and on the walk-in refrigerator vents.
Observed deteriorated wall paint over brick component next to food prep sink and cooking equipment.
Observed metal screen delivery door not properly self-closing or self-sealing.
Observed paint deterioration on the wooden sliding delivery door entrance.

The Darling, 210 N. Court St., Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 27. Inspection Score: 83.

Violations:

There is a lack of required supplies in the dispensers at the handwash stations at bar handwashing sink, and a lack of mounted handsoap dispensers and mounted paper towel dispensers.
Several items within the two Everest food prep refrigerators were above 41 degrees. They had been left over from the night before.
Food has been removed from the temperature control (Liquid-Alchemist Almond Orgeat Syrup and several other containers) and has not been marked to indicate when it should no longer be sold.
Food is not being cooled properly.
All food prep sinks were observed at 110 degrees.
Level of sanitizer in final rinse and/or sanitizer solution is not satisfactory.
Observed lack of chlorine disinfectant in both dishwashers.
Observed leaking food prep sink.
Barriers needed between food preparation sinks and food prep tables.
Observed Everest refrigeration units with ambient temperatures of 41 degrees and above.
Observed wall damage near interior kitchen entrance. Also observed chipped tile on a stepping step in kitchen food prep area.

Masaru’s, 1509 E. Noble, Visalia – Routine inspection on Aug. 28. Inspection Score: 81.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Observed expired food handler cards for approximately 17 employees.
Observed mixed veggies under hot holding lamp at 119 degrees.
Observed “hot chili oil” container partially full with the statement “refrigerate after opening” but not properly marked for time control and on a prep table without temperature control. Also observed spicy mayo, and sticky rice in container not in good condition.
Observed in center prep table, a layer of dust/grime accumulation over multiple condiments. Also observed plastic cutting board over over continental prep table as dirty, dented, damaged, and warped.
Observed containers of rice and soy sauce directly on floor.
Observed the handles of continental refrigerator with food debris (batter accumulation), cooking equipment with grease and food debris (batter accumulation), and food debris at bottom of two-door True freezer.
Observed leaking two-compartment warewashing sink.
Observed rice strainer above food prep floor sink.
Observed missing door handles to two-door True freezer and front cover lid at bottom.
Observed dirty baffle filters.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas.
Observed dust/grime accumulation on floor next to ice machine near front register, throughout the walls in the food prep area, ceiling of food prep area, around cove base perimeter in food prep area, near janitorial sink floor, and underneath all cooking and refrigeration equipment.
Observed wall deterioration near entrance to janitorial sink room area as well as wall deterioration in both bathroom sinks next to handwashing station.

USA Food and Deli, Inc., 526 S. Kaweah Blvd., Exeter – Routine inspection on Aug. 28. Inspection Score: 74.

Violations:

Observed lack of proof that a current employee of this establishment holds a food safety manager class certificate that is no more than five years old.
Observed one or more food handler cards are missing from premises.
Observed paper towel dispenser not dispensing.
Observed barbecue wings with an internal temperature of 123 degrees and barbecue ribs with an internal temperature of 117 degrees. (Corrected on site.)
Observed brown build-up inside the ice machine.
Observed ice scoop stored in a manner that poses a risk of cross-contamination.
Observed water at the warewashing sink measuring 109 degrees.
Observed water at the food preparation sink measuring 101 degrees.
Observed water at the janitorial sink measuring 103 degrees.
Observed improper thawing of frozen chicken in the three-compartment sink.
Observed a sack of onions, a box of chicken thighs, and sugar and rice containers stored directly on the floor.
Observed unlabeled sugar container removed from original packaging.
Observed raw meat being stored above prepared food in the two-door preparation refrigerator and upright two-door freezer.
Observed improper storage/sanitation of wiping cloths.
Observed lack of test strips for measuring the sanitizing solution.
Observed beverage crates and wooden built-in shelves being used as food storage racks in storage area and walk-in refrigerator.
Observed an accumulation of dust, grime, or food residue on the following surfaces and equipment: equipment adjacent to the fryer, table below the griddle, and upright two-door freezer.
Observed grime accumulation on kitchen exhaust hood.
The metal-stemmed probe thermometer is missing from this facility.
Observed an interior thermometer missing from the two-door prep refrigerator.
The janitorial sink plumbing is leaking.
Observed food debris/trash accumulation on floors, under equipment, and in low traffic areas, specifically below kitchen cooking equipment and kitchen refrigerators.
Observed missing coving below the handwash sink, and the restroom lacks approved coving.
The current floor, coving, wooden walls, and ceiling finishes for the walk-n refrigerator are unapproved.
Mop/broom holders need to be installed at the janitorial sink.

Mi Michoacana, 220 S. Main St., Pixley – Routine inspection on Aug. 29. Inspection Score: 86.

Violations:

Observed green Jello at the front counter refrigerator with an internal temperature of 52 degrees. (Relocated to a working refrigerator.)
Observed cheesecake dessert at the front counter refrigerator with an internal temperature of 53 degrees. (Relocated to a working refrigerator.)
Observed half-cut watermelon inside the upright three-door reach in refrigerator with an internal temperature of 56 degrees. (Relocated to a working refrigerator.)
Observed a box of to-go containers and a jar of pickled pork skin located on the floor inside the unused walk-in refrigerator.
Observed an unlabeled container of sugar located on the floor next to the shaved ice machine.
No labels provided for ice cream popsicles located inside the reach-in freezer.
The bottom shelf of the stove is less than six inches from the floor.
Observed unapproved muffin machine JC-25 located next to the front counter hand sink and Vida Sana blender.
Observed ambient temperature of double-sliding-door refrigerator at front counter at 50-52 degrees. (This unit is not working.)
Observed ambient temperature of three-door reach-in refrigerator at 50 degrees. (This unit is not working.)
Observed several ice scream scoops stories in standing water.
Observed several clean containers stored in the floor next to the stove.
Observed no fire suppression inspection tag available.
Observed three-door preparation refrigerator without thermometer.
Observed no thermometer inside the front counter double-sliding-door refrigerator.
Observed drain line from preparation sink submerged into the floor sink located at the front counter.
There is a strong sewage odor by the three-compartment sink.
Observed several black trash bags and cardboard on the exterior floor south of the facility.

Restaurant inspections: Keep in mind as you read

Some of the violations noted are technical issues not directly linked to hygiene or cleanliness. Broken refrigerators, chipped tiles, or missing paperwork may be included among the violations because they can be linked to germs, injury, or awareness.

For full restaurant inspection details, visit the Tulare County Division of Environmental Health restaurant inspections score website here .

How to report Tulare County restaurant violations

If you notice violations of state standards, you can file an online complaint here .

Critical risk factors: Inspectors look for range of factors, from a demonstration of knowledge, like possessing a food handlers certificate, to protection from contamination by keeping contact surfaces sanitized and clean.

Other things inspectors look at include employee health and hygienic practices, preventing contamination by hand, time and temperature relationships, food from approved sources, and more.

Some of the items inspectors check for are weighed more heavily than others, usually anywhere between two to four points.

Disclaimer: The Tulare County Retail Food Inspection Program inspects retail food facilities to ensure safe food handling practices, proper sanitation, and compliance with the California Health and Safety Code within the county.

Please note that follow-up inspections may not be included here.

This article originally appeared on Visalia Times-Delta: Tulare County restaurants: What health inspectors found in August