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Restaurant · Minneapolis, MN

Northeast Tea House

224 Hennepin Ave E

Last inspected May 13, 2025 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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ImprovingThe latest inspection recorded fewer violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

3 inspections

Follow-Up

May 13, 2025

Complete

Official score: 98 · Understand this area’s scale

12 recorded violations

minorCode MN Rule 4626.0435AFood source and labeling

Official wording

Label all food packages as required by the law.

Inspector’s notes

Bulk tea offered for self service does not contain ingredient labels. Labels must be affixed to the product and contain: 1) Name and address of supplier or packer 2) Ingredients in descending order 3) Net weight or quantity 4) Name of product 5) Major food allergens Discussed options to sell in ways that are not for self service. Provide labeling or do not offer for self service.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0495Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces of equipment must be made of materials which are corrosion-resistant, non-absorbent, and smooth. Remove equipment with non-food contact surfaces made of other materials.

Inspector’s notes

Laminate wooden board with raw wood beneath is being used as a counter. Owner stated that a stainless steel table had been ordered and arrived today. Remove unapproved equipment.

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 MCO 204.30AOther

Official wording

Provide containers for food or beverages prepared for takeout or to be eaten immediately. Containers must be reuseable, recyclable or compostable.

Inspector’s notes

Owner is working on obtaining the approved to go containers. Previous unapproved coffee lids have been replaced. The PE lined (plastic lined) cups are still on site. Discussed approved options with owner.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1040BWater, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Keep the plumbing system in good repair.

Inspector’s notes

Plumbing is leaking at the three compartment sink below the sanitizer compartment. Plumbing in basement is leaking. Repair.

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 MN Rule 4626.0235A(4)Contamination

Official wording

Protect food from cross-contamination by using packages or covered containers.

Inspector’s notes

Observed food stored in refrigerator without being covered. Keep food covered. Discussed with owner who stated he would remind staff to cover food.

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 MN Rule 4626.0845EContamination

Official wording

Clean surfaces contacting non-TCS foods: • When surfaces may have been contaminated • At least once every 24 hours for consumer self-service utensils • Before restocking consumer self-service equipment and utensils • As often as needed to keep surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

Baffle of ice machine contains mold build up. Clean and sanitize. Container holding utensils contains debris. Clean and sanitize.

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 MN Rule 4626.0275ECleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Store food preparation or dispensing utensils that are used with non-TCS foods, such as ice, in a clean, protected location.

Inspector’s notes

Observed ice scoop on top of ice machine. Owner has installed an ice scoop holder for the large ice scoop, but the smaller ice scoop is still being stored on top of machine. Discussed storing the small ice scoop in the ice with the handle up or in a clean container on top of the machine. If stored in a container on top of machine ensure the container is routinely washed, rinsed and sanitized.

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 MN Rule 4626.0855Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Keep non-food contact equipment surfaces clean.

Inspector’s notes

Observed: -interior of refrigerator to be heavily soiled and contain mold growth -shelving in kitchen to contained debris -shelving and counter space to contain excess of unorganized items Storage of equipment and food must be organized to the extent that the areas can cleaned and monitored for pests.

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 MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.

Inspector’s notes

Observed floors, especially in kitchen, to contain debris and mouse droppings. There has been an improvement since the routine inspection in that some floor areas have been swept, but cleaning does not appear to have be done (or done thoroughly). Clean floors and sanitize any areas with mouse droppings.

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 MN Rule 4626.0750Contamination

Official wording

Clean the warewashing machine; compartments of sinks, basins, or other receptacles used for washing and rinsing equipment, utensils, raw foods, or wiping cloths; drainboards or equipment used for drainboards, before use and as often as necessary throughout the day to prevent contamination of equipment and utensils, and at least once every 24 hours.

Inspector’s notes

Basins of three compartment and food prep sinks contain build-up. Clean.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.1565CPests

Official wording

Use approved trapping devices or other means of pest control when pests are found.

Inspector’s notes

Observed mouse droppings in kitchen along floor/wall juncture and in basement along floor and on counter surfaces. There is a pest control service that comes every two weeks. Provide invoices of pest control to inspector.

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 MN Rule 4626.1565ABDPests

Official wording

Provide control of pests by routinely: • Inspecting incoming food shipments • Inspecting the premises for evidence of pests • Eliminating conditions that attract pests

Inspector’s notes

Observed large amount of unorganized equipment in kitchen and basement. Basement contains large amount of garbage and cardboard boxes. This presents a harborage condition for pests. Remove unnecessary items, discard or recycle waste and clean and sanitize. Discussed with owner who state staff are scheduled to come in to clean.

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

Official record from Minneapolis Health Department, May 13, 2025 · Original Source

Routine

Apr 24, 2025

Complete

Official score: 90 · Understand this area’s scale

17 recorded violations

majorCode MN Rule 4626.1440Handwashing

Official wording

Have hand soap at all handwashing sinks.

Inspector’s notes

Both hand wash sinks lacked hand soap. There was no hand soap on site to re-stock. Per inspector request dish soap was used until hand soap could be purchased. Instructed staff that hand soap had to be purchased and stocked as soon as possible. This is repeated violation, future violations may result in citations.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.1445Handwashing

Official wording

Keep at each handwashing sink or group of adjacent handwashing sinks one of: • A supply of disposable towels • A continuous towel system • An approved air temperature hand drying device

Inspector’s notes

Towels were not stocked at front hand wash sink. Per inspector instruction towels from kitchen hand sink were used. Provide towels at all hand wash sinks during all hours of operation. This is repeated violation, future violations may result in citations.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.0030BCQPermits, training, and postings

Official wording

The person in charge must be able to explain: • Their responsibility for preventing the spread of foodborne illness by a food worker • The symptoms associated with a foodborne illness • How food workers must report illness symptoms and diseases • When a food worker must be excluded from work or restricted from working with food • When a food worker can return to work

Inspector’s notes

This was not observed at this inspection and will be reassessed at follow-up inspection.

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 MN Rule 4626.0435AFood source and labeling

Official wording

Label all food packages as required by the law.

Inspector’s notes

Bulk tea is sold for self-service without ingredient labels. Provide ingredient labels or discontinue supply tea for self-service.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0495Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces of equipment must be made of materials which are corrosion-resistant, non-absorbent, and smooth. Remove equipment with non-food contact surfaces made of other materials.

Inspector’s notes

A laminated wooden board is being used as a counter. Beneath the board is raw wood. This is not approved equipment, remove.

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 MCO 204.30AOther

Official wording

Provide containers for food or beverages prepared for takeout or to be eaten immediately. Containers must be reuseable, recyclable or compostable.

Inspector’s notes

Observed #6 cup lids and PE (plastic) lined cups. These are not recyclable or compostable. This is repeated violation, future violations may result in citations.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
minorCode MCO 204.30BOther

Official wording

GREEN TO GO RECYCLING/ORGANICS SYSTEM. Provide consumers with an opportunity to recycle and/or appropriately manage compostable plastics and utilize a qualified recycling and/or organics management system. This ordinance shall take effect April 22, 2015. (89-Or-060,§ 1, 3-31-89; 96-Or-059, ? 3, 6-28-96; 2014-Or-023, ? 3, 5-23-14)

Inspector’s notes

Observed #7 plastics and no waste hauler to remove for processing. These plastics require commercial processing for composting. Provide a waste hauler that processes compost or discontinue use. This is repeated violation, future violations may result in citations.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
minorCode MN Rule 4626.1040BWater, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Keep the plumbing system in good repair.

Inspector’s notes

Ceiling plumbing in basement is leaking onto floor. Repair.

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 MN Rule 4626.0235A(4)Contamination

Official wording

Protect food from cross-contamination by using packages or covered containers.

Inspector’s notes

Observed multiple food dishes in refrigerator stored without being covered. Discussed covering food with staff. Comply with above rule.

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 MN Rule 4626.0845EContamination

Official wording

Clean surfaces contacting non-TCS foods: • When surfaces may have been contaminated • At least once every 24 hours for consumer self-service utensils • Before restocking consumer self-service equipment and utensils • As often as needed to keep surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

Ice machine baffle contains pink and black microbial growth. Fully wash, rinse and sanitize interior of ice machine.

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 MN Rule 4626.0275ECleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Store food preparation or dispensing utensils that are used with non-TCS foods, such as ice, in a clean, protected location.

Inspector’s notes

Observed ice scoops on top of ice machine. The top of ice machine is not a cleaned and sanitized location to store food utensils. Per inspector request scoops were washed and sanitized. Discussed approved locations, such as a clean pan on top of the machine, to store ice scoops. Tray holding silverware contains debris and grime build-up. Clean and maintain 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 MN Rule 4626.0855Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Keep non-food contact equipment surfaces clean.

Inspector’s notes

Observed: -interior of refrigerator to be heavily soiled and contain mold growth -shelving in kitchen to contain debris -shelving and counter space to contain an excess of unorganized items Storage of equipment and food must be organized to the extent that the areas can be cleaned and monitored for pests. Clean and sanitize surfaces.

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 MN Rule 4626.1520ACleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Clean all physical facilities (floors, walls, ceilings). Keep them clean.

Inspector’s notes

Observed floors, especially in kitchen, contain debris, build-up and mouse droppings. Clean floors throughout. Sanitize any areas containing mouse droppings.

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 MN Rule 4626.0750Contamination

Official wording

Clean the warewashing machine; compartments of sinks, basins, or other receptacles used for washing and rinsing equipment, utensils, raw foods, or wiping cloths; drainboards or equipment used for drainboards, before use and as often as necessary throughout the day to prevent contamination of equipment and utensils, and at least once every 24 hours.

Inspector’s notes

Basins of three compartment and food prep sinks contain grime build-up. Clean and maintain clean.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.1565CPests

Official wording

Use approved trapping devices or other means of pest control when pests are found.

Inspector’s notes

Observed mouse droppings on floor in kitchen and on shelving and floors in basement. Observed dead mouse beneath three compartment sink. Management not on site during inspection, inspector will work with management to determine if professional pest control is in place and/or servicing needs to be increased.

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 MN Rule 4626.1565ABDPests

Official wording

Provide control of pests by routinely: • Inspecting incoming food shipments • Inspecting the premises for evidence of pests • Eliminating conditions that attract pests

Inspector’s notes

Observed large amount unorganized equipment in kitchen, in cabinets of front area and in basement. The quantity and the lack of organization provides harborage conditions for pests and prevent routine cleaning. Pests were also observed to be present. Remove unnecessary items, discard or recycle waste, and clean and sanitize to prevent harborage conditions.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.0400AFood source and labeling

Official wording

Use an effective method to date mark refrigerated, ready-to-eat, TCS food prepared and held for more than 24 hours. Day one is the day the food was made.

Inspector’s notes

Observed prepared cheesecakes without date mark. Date mark all TCS foods prepared in the facility.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems

Official record from Minneapolis Health Department, Apr 24, 2025 · Original Source

Routine

Oct 27, 2023

Complete

Official score: 94 · Understand this area’s scale

8 recorded violations

minorCode MN Rule 4626.1457Handwashing

Official wording

Post a sign at all handwashing sinks used by employees to remind them to wash their hands.

Inspector’s notes

Signage missing from bathroom hand sinks. Provide.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.1440Handwashing

Official wording

Have hand soap at all handwashing sinks.

Inspector’s notes

Soap missing from kitchen hand sink. Provide soap at all hand sinks.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.1445Handwashing

Official wording

Keep at each handwashing sink or group of adjacent handwashing sinks one of: • A supply of disposable towels • A continuous towel system • An approved air temperature hand drying device

Inspector’s notes

Paper towels missing from kitchen hand sink. Provide paper towels for all hand sinks.

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
majorCode MN Rule 4626.0030BCQPermits, training, and postings

Official wording

The person in charge must be able to explain: • Their responsibility for preventing the spread of foodborne illness by a food worker • The symptoms associated with a foodborne illness • How food workers must report illness symptoms and diseases • When a food worker must be excluded from work or restricted from working with food • When a food worker can return to work

Inspector’s notes

There is no solid employee health policy. Discussed health policy requirements. Guidance documents provided with report. Develop a health policy and train employees on policy.

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 MN Rule 4626.0435AFood source and labeling

Official wording

Label all food packages as required by the law.

Inspector’s notes

Tea is available for self service and contain no labels. Discussed labeling options. Guidance document provided with report. Provide labels for self service items.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
minorCode MN Rule 4626.0495Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces of equipment must be made of materials which are corrosion-resistant, non-absorbent, and smooth. Remove equipment with non-food contact surfaces made of other materials.

Inspector’s notes

A laminated wooden board with raw wood beneath is used as a table top in kitchen. Raw wood is absorbent, provide a non-absorbent surface or new equipment.

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 MCO 204.30AOther

Official wording

Provide containers for food or beverages prepared for takeout or to be eaten immediately. Containers must be reuseable, recyclable or compostable.

Inspector’s notes

Observed #6 coffee lids. These are no recyclable or compostable. Discussed Green to Go ordinance requirements. Guidance documents provided with report.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
minorCode MCO 204.30BOther

Official wording

GREEN TO GO RECYCLING/ORGANICS SYSTEM. Provide consumers with an opportunity to recycle and/or appropriately manage compostable plastics and utilize a qualified recycling and/or organics management system. This ordinance shall take effect April 22, 2015. (89-Or-060,§ 1, 3-31-89; 96-Or-059, ? 3, 6-28-96; 2014-Or-023, ? 3, 5-23-14)

Inspector’s notes

Observed compostable plastic cups and there is no system in place to manage compostable. Provide organics waste service for compostable plastics or discontinue using.

In plain English

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

More about other finding

Official record from Minneapolis Health Department, Oct 27, 2023 · Original Source

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