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Santa Clara County, CA

Darbar Indian Cuisine

129 Lytton Av

Last inspected Aug 24, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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More issues recentlyThe latest inspection recorded more violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

4 inspections

Routine Inspection

Aug 24, 2026

Pass

5 recorded violations

minorCode K33Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Nonfood contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

Observed the build-up of dust and debris on the hood filters above the tandoori ovens. [CA] Clean hood filters as needed to prevent the build-up of debris. Observed the build-up of food debris behind storage shelving in the dry storage area. [CA] Floor surfaces shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust, dirt, food residue, and other debris.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K21Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Hot and cold water available

Inspector’s notes

The front dump sink at the waiter station lacks a supply of hot water. [CA] Hot water shall be supplied at a minimum temperature of at least 120°F measured from the faucet throughout facility except at handwash sinks.

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
minorCode K35Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils: Approved, in good repair, adequate capacity

Inspector’s notes

Observed the use of bricks and wood to elevate the shelving within the dry storage room and pipes below the warewashing area. [CA] Discontinue the use of wood and bricks to elevate equipment. Use approved legs or casters. Observed the re-use of single use garlic, yogurt, etc, containers. [CA] Food containers intended for single use shall not be reused.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
minorCode K30Other

Official wording

Food storage: food storage containers identified

Inspector’s notes

Chicken boxes stored on the floor of the kitchen. [CA] Food shall be stored at least 6 inches above the floor to prevent contamination.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K09Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling methods

Inspector’s notes

Measured curry at 56 F within two large plastic containers stored within the 3 door upright refrigerator. Cook stated that the curry was removed from cooking 3 hours prior. Measured cooked vegetables at 93 F within a deep lexan container. Cook stated the dish was removed from cooking 1.5 hours prior. [CA] After heating or hot holding, Potentially Hazardous Foods (PHFs) shall be cooled rapidly from 135°F to 70°F within 2 hours and from 70°F to 41°F within 4 hours. Approved cooling methods include: 1) Placing the food in shallow pans 2) Separating the food into thinner or smaller portions. 3) Using rapid cooling equipment (Ex. blast chiller) 4) Using containers that facilitate heat transfer (ex. stainless steel) 5) Adding ice as an ingredient. 6) Using ice paddles 7) Using an ice bath and stirring frequently 8) Accordance with a HACCP plan. Cooling foods shall have enough space around the containers for cold air to circulate, be loosely covered, or uncovered and stirred as frequently needed to evenly cool. [COS] Ice wand added to the curry. Cooked vegetables placed within shallow metal containers to allow for rapid cooling.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Aug 24, 2026 · Original Source

Follow-Up Inspection

Jul 2, 2025

Pass

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jul 2, 2025 · Original Source

Routine Inspection

Jun 30, 2025

Closed

The health department recorded a closure at this inspection.

22 recorded violations

minorCode K26Food temperature

Official wording

Approved thawing methods used; frozen food

Inspector’s notes

In the prep sink: Frozen chicken observed to be thawing. Chicken measured 39F. [CA] Frozen potentially hazardous food shall only be thawed in one of the following ways: 1) under refrigeration that maintains the food temperature at 41°F or below, 2) completely submerged under potable running water for a period not to exceed two hours at a water temperature of 70°F or below, and with sufficient water velocity to agitate and flush off loose particles into the sink drain, 3) in a microwave oven if immediately followed by immediate preparation, 4) as part of a cooking process.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
minorCode K31Contamination

Official wording

Consumer self service does prevent contamination

Inspector’s notes

At the consumer self-service buffet: Sneeze guards are too high to prevent potential contamination of food dish. [CA] Food available for consumer self-service shall be protected from potential airborne contamination.

In plain English

Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.

More about food not protected from contamination
minorCode K36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils, linens: Proper storage and use

Inspector’s notes

Cardboard is being used to line the floor in front of the cook line. [CA] Discontinue the use of cardboard to line the floor. Nonfood contact surfaces shall be smooth, cleanable, and nonabsorbent.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
criticalCode K06Handwashing

Official wording

Adequate handwash facilities supplied, accessible

Inspector’s notes

Only hand sink in the kitchen observed to be completely obstructed and thus completely unusable owing to the following: - Large counter unit + trash can in front blocking access - Cardboard box placed directly on top of the sink basin, thus preventing use [CA] Handwashing facilities shall be left unobstructed so that they are available for use at all times. [COS] PIC removed obstructions.

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
minorCode K42Facility maintenance

Official wording

Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained

Inspector’s notes

Two cans of garbage, stacked on top of one another, are being stored in the facility. Upper garbage can is stored over a food preparation area. [CA] Store garbage outside of facility. Garbage shall not be stored above or adjacent to food, or food preparation surfaces.

In plain English

Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.

More about building upkeep issues
minorCode K27Other

Official wording

Food separated and protected

Inspector’s notes

In the storage room: Observed 4+ containers of powder with lids partially off. [CA] Food shall be kept covered to prevent potential contamination. This is especially important owing to the presence of cockroaches inside the facility.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K29Chemicals

Official wording

Toxic substances properly identified, stored, used

Inspector’s notes

Chemicals are being stored above the dishwashing area. [CA] Store chemicals separate and away from the storage and preparation of food or food contact surfaces and linens.

In plain English

Cleaning products, pesticides, or other chemicals were stored or labeled in a way that could let them get into food. This is serious because chemical contamination can make people sick quickly.

More about chemicals stored or used unsafely
minorCode K08Other

Official wording

Time as a public health control; procedures & records

Inspector’s notes

Written procedures for TPHC are not available. [CA] Provide written procedures and time marking for PHFs utilizing time as a public health control (TPHC).

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K43Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, cleaned

Inspector’s notes

Toilet paper rolls are being stored outside of dispensers in the restroom. [CA] Toilet paper rolls shall be stored inside dispensers to prevent potential contamination.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K45Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Floor, walls, ceilings: built,maintained, clean

Inspector’s notes

Observed broken tiles in the following locations: - Food storage room - Food prep area in front of the ice machine Observed chipped/loose caulking where the wall meets the dishwashing sink [CA] Repair floor tiles and caulking so that they are smooth, nonabsorbent, and easily cleanable, and so that they do not provide potential harborage for vermin. Observed general buildup of food in the following locations: - On the wall behind the 2 compartment sink - On the floor underneath the prep unit [CA] Repair the wall with a durable, smooth, nonabsorbent, and easily cleanable surface. In the ceiling of the storage room: Observed hole to the attic, in which various items are being stored. [CA] Cover opening to the attic and discontinue storage of items in the aforementioned space.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K01Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

Demonstration of knowledge; food safety certification

Inspector’s notes

Employees were not aware of proper cooling thresholds (time/temperature) and correct sanitizer concentrations as it relates to dishwashing. [CA] All food employees shall have adequate knowledge of, and shall be properly trained in, food safety as it relates to their assigned duties.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
minorCode K33Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Nonfood contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

In the bathroom, ventilation fan is dirty. [CA] Ventilation shall be kept clean.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K35Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils: Approved, in good repair, adequate capacity

Inspector’s notes

In the storage room: Observed multiple single-use milk/yogurt containers being reused to store food. [CA] Discontinue the utilization of single-use, non food-grade containers. The following refrigeration unit gaskets are in disrepair: - 2 door unit in the storage room - both sides of the prep cooler unit across from the cook-line [CA] Repair/replace gaskets so that they are able to provide adequate sealing for refrigeration units.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
criticalCode K07Food temperature

Official wording

Proper hot and cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

In the upper inserts of the prep unit: Orange sauce measured 55F, cut tomatoes measured 60F, and dark sauce (bidalov) measured 52F. Per the PIC, they had been in cold holding since 9:00 AM this morning (> 4 hours at time of inspection). [CA] Potentially hazardous food shall be held at or below 41F. [COS] Orange sauce, cut tomatoes, and dark sauce (bidalov) were VC&D. See VC&D report.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
minorCode K21Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Hot and cold water available

Inspector’s notes

In the front area adjacent to the coffeemaker: Dump sink is capable of outputting water at 56F. [CA] Dump sink shall be capable of outputting water at 120F.

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
minorCode K30Other

Official wording

Food storage: food storage containers identified

Inspector’s notes

A container of rice is being stored on the floor in the food storage room. [CA] Food shall be stored at least 6 inches above the floor to prevent contamination.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K44Pests

Official wording

Premises clean, in good repair; Personal/chemical storage; Adequate vermin-proofing

Inspector’s notes

In the storage room: Observed multiple jackets hanging over food. [CA] No person shall store clothing or personal effects in any area used for the storage and preparation of food or food contact surfaces. Store jackets in adjacent locker intended for storage of personal belongings. Observed gaps on the outside of screen that are > 1/4 inch. [CA] Seal or replace screen to prevent the intrusion of vermin. Large number of unused cardboard boxes stored throughout the kitchen area/storage room. [CA] Equipment that is not in use shall be removed from the premises to prevent the potential harborage of vermin.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
minorCode K47Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

Signs posted; last inspection report available

Inspector’s notes

Restroom is missing a sign over hand sink stating that "Employees must wash hands prior to returning to work". [CA] A sign or poster that notifies food employees to wash their hands shall be posted at all handwashing stations used by food employees.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
criticalCode K09Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling methods

Inspector’s notes

In the 2 door upright reach in near the back-screen door: Mint sauce observed to be cooling in a 5 gallon plastic bucket. Mint sauce measured 51F. Per the PIC, sauce had been cooling since yesterday. [CA] After heating or hot holding, Potentially Hazardous Foods (PHFs) shall be cooled rapidly from 135°F to 70°F within 2 hours and from 70°F to 41°F within 4 hours. Approved cooling methods include: 1) Placing the food in shallow pans 2) Separating the food into thinner or smaller portions. 3) Using rapid cooling equipment (Ex. blast chiller) 4) Using containers that facilitate heat transfer (ex. stainless steel) 5) Adding ice as an ingredient. 6) Using ice paddles 7) Using an ice bath and stirring frequently 8) Accordance with a HACCP plan. Cooling foods shall have enough space around the containers for cold air to circulate, be loosely covered, or uncovered and stirred as frequently needed to evenly cool. Properly cool PHF's using shallow containers, using no more than 2 inches for solid foods and no more than 3 inches for liquids. Cool foods using approved containers which facilitate heat transfer, such as metal. [COS] Mint sauce was VC&D owing to improper cooling. See VC&D report.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
criticalCode K14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food contact surfaces clean, sanitized

Inspector’s notes

Dishwashing machine chlorine concentration measured 0 ppm. [CA] Mechanical sanitization shall be accomplished via contact with 50 ppm chlorine for 15 seconds. [COS] Employees were instructed to use bleach (chlorine) as a sanitizing step after running utensils through the dishwasher. __________ Minor violation: Brown buildup on the back wall of ice machine. [CA] Clean and sanitize regularly to prevent buildup and potential contamination of ice.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
criticalCode K23Pests

Official wording

No rodents, insects, birds, or animals

Inspector’s notes

1. Observed Vermin: Documented in the following areas - 2+ live roaches in electrical outlet socket in food storage area - 1 dead roach in the food storage area, underneath shelving units - 1 live nymph on the cover of a food storage container in the food storage area - 5+ dead roaches in a sticky trap behind the door to the kitchen - 1 live roach on top of a sticky trap behind the door to the kitchen - 2 dead roaches underneath the 3 compartment sink - 3+ live roaches (2 nymphs) behind the shelving - 1 live nymph and 2 live adults on the wires underneath the prep unit across from the cook-line - 5+ live roaches in the wiring where there is a rectangular opening in the prep unit - 1 live roach on a tray next to the dump sink - 1 dead roach in the sticky trap in the women's restroom 2. Photographs: Taken for documentation purposes. 3. Supervisor Notified. 4. Notification: The person in charge during inspection, Mandeep Singh, has been informed that the facility must close immediately. [CA]: The premises of each food facility must be maintained free of vermin. A facility cannot operate if there is a vermin infestation that leads to contamination of food contact surfaces, packaging, utensils, food equipment, or adulteration of food. The facility is required to cease operations immediately and must remain closed until all corrective actions on the provided checklist are completed. Requirements Before Reopening: 1. Email the signed and completed Reopening Checklist to the assigned inspector. 2. Submit a copy of the pest control report from a licensed provider.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
minorCode K40Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Wiping cloths: properly used, stored

Inspector’s notes

Observed multiple soiled wiping cloths on counters. [CA] Dry or wet cloths that are used with raw foods of animal origin shall be kept separate from cloths used for other purposes, and wet cloths used with raw foods of animal origin shall be kept in a separate sanitizing solution.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jun 30, 2025 · Original Source

Routine Inspection

Dec 9, 2024

Pass

7 recorded violations

minorCode K38Facility maintenance

Official wording

Adequate ventilation/lighting; designated areas, use

Inspector’s notes

The tandoor oven at the cook line extends past the ventilation hood. [CA] There shall be a minimum of 6 inches overhang of ventilation hood over cooking equipment.

In plain English

Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.

More about building upkeep issues
minorCode K44Pests

Official wording

Premises clean, in good repair; Personal/chemical storage; Adequate vermin-proofing

Inspector’s notes

Observed personal jackets stored on bulk food containers within the dry storage room. [CA] Employee's personal effects (cell phone, car keys, and jackets) shall be stored in employee lockers or other designated areas for employee storage.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
minorCode K31Contamination

Official wording

Consumer self service does prevent contamination

Inspector’s notes

Food at the buffet line extends past the sneeze guards. [CA] Rearrange food so that it is fully covered by the sneeze guards. Food on display shall be protected from cross-contamination, by the use of an approved sneeze guard that intercept a direct line between the consumer's mouth and the food being displayed.

In plain English

Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.

More about food not protected from contamination
minorCode K06Handwashing

Official wording

Adequate handwash facilities supplied, accessible

Inspector’s notes

The hand wash sink was partially blocked by a food preparation table. [CA] Handwashing facility shall be clean, unobstructed, and fully accessible at all times. Relocate food preparation table.

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
minorCode K36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils, linens: Proper storage and use

Inspector’s notes

Observed bowls used to scoop dry product within bulk dry storage containers. [CA] Use approved utensils such as scoops or spoons with handles to ensure hands do not come in direct contact with food.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
minorCode K30Other

Official wording

Food storage: food storage containers identified

Inspector’s notes

Observed open bulk flour, rice, etc, bags stored within the dry storage room. [CA] Store open bulk foods in approved NSF containers with tight fitting lids.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K45Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Floor, walls, ceilings: built,maintained, clean

Inspector’s notes

The floor tiles are in disrepair below cooking equipment at the cook line. [CA] Replace broken floor tiles with a smooth and of durable construction and nonabsorbent material that is easily cleanable.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Dec 9, 2024 · Original Source

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