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Restaurant · Wake County, NC

El Pollo Rico Market

3901-173 Capital Blvd

Last inspected Jul 16, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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Score 95

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

The full inspection history

6 inspections

1 - Inspection

Jul 16, 2026

Score 95

Official score: 95 · Understand this area’s scale

9 recorded violations

notedCode 5-205.11 (B) A handwashing sink may not be used for purposes other than handwashing Pf. - Observed food handler rinse the bowl in the handwashing sink. Corrected during inspection (CDI)- educational provided. First observationHandwashing

Official wording

Handwashing sinks supplied & accessible

Inspector’s notes

5-205.11 (B) A handwashing sink may not be used for purposes other than handwashing Pf. - Observed food handler rinse the bowl in the handwashing sink. Corrected during inspection (CDI)- educational provided. First observation; no point at this time.

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
notedCode 3-501.14(A) Cooling Hot Foods (P)Cooked time/temperature control for safety (TCS) FOOD shall be cooled within 2 hours from 135F to 70F and within a total of 6 hours from 135F to 41F or less. - Display walk-in cooler: Observed a large pan containing a large quantity of baked chicken (44-45F)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling time & temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.14(A) Cooling Hot Foods (P)Cooked time/temperature control for safety (TCS) FOOD shall be cooled within 2 hours from 135F to 70F and within a total of 6 hours from 135F to 41F or less. - Display walk-in cooler: Observed a large pan containing a large quantity of baked chicken (44-45F); date-marked 7/12/26; with a temperature above 41F. The food handler stated that the baked chicken has been cooked and cooled since 7/12/26. Because a possible cooling process was not met; the operator volunteered to remove the chicken from the public service.

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
notedCode 3-501.16 (A) (2) and (B) Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) FoodFood temperature

Official wording

Proper cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16 (A) (2) and (B) Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) Food; Hot and Cold Holding (P). Maintain TCS foods in cold holding at 41F or less. -P - Observed countertop cooler/freezer food storage: several bags/containers of salsa (47F within 2 hours) and chopped cabbage mixed in vinegar-papusa (47F within 2 hours); with temperatures above 41F. CDI - the salsa and cabbage involved transferring to the walk-in cooler to cool them down. Discussed with the person in charge (PIC) that TCS food needs to be chilled to 41°F in the walk-in cooler before transfer to the countertop cooler. Repeat.

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
notedCode 3-501.15 Cooling Methods (Pf) Approved cooling methods consist of cooling under refrigeration conditionsFood temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control

Inspector’s notes

3-501.15 Cooling Methods (Pf) Approved cooling methods consist of cooling under refrigeration conditions; with a smaller shallow pan; a smaller portion; using an ice bath; or as part of the cooking process. - Observed baked chicken cooling in a large portion and a big; deep pan. CDI sees line 20 4-301.11 Cooling; Heating and Holding Capacities-Equipment. EQUIPMENT for cooling and heating FOOD; and holding cold and hot FOOD; shall be sufficient in number and capacity to provide FOOD temperatures as specified under Chapter 3. Pf - Observed pre-portioned package salsa and pupusa cooling in the countertop cooler; this equipment's capacity may not be sufficient to cool the food. CDI sees line 22.

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
majorCode —Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Thermometers provided & accurate

Inspector’s notes

4-302.12 Provide an accessible thermometer for use. Provide a thin probe thermometer for accurate measure of thin foods.-Pf . - Observed no thin probe thermometer available during the current inspection. Verification due by 7/26/26 Repeat.

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
notedCode —Contamination

Official wording

Contamination prevented during food preparation; storage & display

Inspector’s notes

3-303.12(B)(C)(D) Unpackaged food may not be stored in direct contact with undrained ice. - Observed ice for consumption stored in the undrained ice bin. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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
notedCode 4-601.11(C ) Keep non food contact surfaces of equipment clean to avoid build up of dustCleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(C ) Keep non food contact surfaces of equipment clean to avoid build up of dust; food residue or debris.4-602.13 Non food contact surfaces of equipment shall be cleaned frequently to preclude accumulation of soil residues. - Observed stains and accumulation on the equipment in this area: spray head at the dishwasher sink and blender base. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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
notedCode 5-501.113 Covering Receptacles (C) 5-501.114 Using Drain Plugs (C) 5-501.115 Discard items and litter stored in the waste areas and enclosures as they are not necessary to operation and maintenance. - Observed dumpsters with doors open and no drain plugs. - Observed 2 green dumpsters that are overflowing and not in useFacility maintenance

Official wording

Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained

Inspector’s notes

5-501.113 Covering Receptacles (C) 5-501.114 Using Drain Plugs (C) 5-501.115 Discard items and litter stored in the waste areas and enclosures as they are not necessary to operation and maintenance. - Observed dumpsters with doors open and no drain plugs. - Observed 2 green dumpsters that are overflowing and not in use; not in operation; that need to be removed from the area. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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
notedCode 6-101.11/6-201.11 FloorsCleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Physical facilities installed; maintained & clean

Inspector’s notes

6-101.11/6-201.11 Floors; walls and ceilings shall be designed; constructed; and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable. Floors shall be non-absorbent in areas subject to moisture. - Observed the ceiling tiles with absorbent material in these areas: employee restroom and dry goods storage. 6-501.12 Cleaning; Frequency and Restrictions (C)(A) PHYSICAL FACILITIES shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them clean. - Observed dust accumulation on the ceiling and vents in this area: main kitchen (mid floor); dry goods storage; dishwashing area. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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 Wake County Environmental Services, Jul 16, 2026 · Original Source

1 - Inspection

Feb 24, 2026

Score 94.5

Official score: 94.5 · Understand this area’s scale

16 recorded violations

notedCode —Handwashing

Official wording

Handwashing sinks supplied & accessible

Inspector’s notes

6-301.14 Handwashing Signage (C) Post a handwash sign at each handsink. - Observed 1 handsink with no handwashing signage. Corrected during inspection (CDI) - handwashing signage provided.

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
notedCode —Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized

Inspector’s notes

4-602.11 (E )Clean the equipment and utensils used with nonTCS foods as required to avoid contamination. - The ice machine was observed with pink and brown water stains on the ice reflector panel. CDI - the ice reflector panel cleaned.

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
notedCode 3-501.16 (A) (2) and (B) Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) FoodFood temperature

Official wording

Proper cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16 (A) (2) and (B) Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) Food; Hot and Cold Holding (P). Maintain TCS foods in cold holding at 41F or less. -P - Observed countertop cooler/freezer food storage: several bags/containers of salsa( 47F within 2 hours) and chopped cabbage mixed (47F; within 2 hours) with temperature above 41F. CDI - the salsa and cabbage involved will be used until the 4 hours are up; then discarded. PIC contacted the repair company to have the equipment repaired; no storage in this unit until fixed.

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
notedCode 3-501.17 Ready-To-Eat Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) FoodFood source and labeling

Official wording

Proper date marking & disposition

Inspector’s notes

3-501.17 Ready-To-Eat Time / Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) Food; Date Marking (Pf) Date mark/label all TCS foods that are ready-to-eat once opened or prepared and held more than 24hrs. -Pf The unpacked date count as day 1 and consumed within 7 days. 3-501.18 Discard the food requiring date labels once time/temperature window has expired; if it is not been labeled; or if the label is incorrect. -P - Observed grab-and-go section: commercially prepared sour cream; flan dessert; and soft cheese received in bulk and repacked for retail sale with no date mark after unpack and stored longer than 24 hours. PIC stated these items were repacked yesterday. CDI - the date mark on the products involved reflects yesterday's date. Educational provided.

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
notedCode 7-201.11 Store toxic materials to avoid contamination of foodChemicals

Official wording

Toxic substances properly identified stored & used

Inspector’s notes

7-201.11 Store toxic materials to avoid contamination of food; equipment; utensils; linens; and single-service/use items. -P - Dry goods storage: 3 bottles of aerosol spray cleaner stored above the coffee powder. CDI - the cleaner spray was restored on the bottom shelf.

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
majorCode —Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Thermometers provided & accurate

Inspector’s notes

4-302.12 Provide an accessible thermometer for use. Provide a thin probe thermometer for accurate measure of thin foods.-Pf . - Observed no thin probe thermometer available during the current inspection. Verification due by 3/6/26

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
notedCode 3-601.11 Standards of Identity (C) 3-602.11 (B) (1)-(4)Food packaged on premises for customer self service shall include a label with the (1) common name of the foodFood source and labeling

Official wording

Food properly labeled: original container

Inspector’s notes

3-601.11 Standards of Identity (C) 3-602.11 (B) (1)-(4)Food packaged on premises for customer self service shall include a label with the (1) common name of the food; (2) ingredients and sub ingredients in descending order; (3) quantity of contents; (4) name and place of business. - Grab-and-go section: Display freezer with in-house-made ice popsicles in multiple flavors with no required label. Also; the display cooler soft cheese; flan; and sour cream repack for grab-and-go; with on-label (see line 23). CDI - label provided. First observation no point at this time.

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
notedCode 3-307.11 Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination (C). Food shall be protected from contamination - Observed display walk-in cooler and door to the storage room with direct access from the dining roomContamination

Official wording

Contamination prevented during food preparation; storage & display

Inspector’s notes

3-307.11 Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination (C). Food shall be protected from contamination - Observed display walk-in cooler and door to the storage room with direct access from the dining room; with no effective way to prevent public access. Discussed with PIC to post the sign " Employee only" and to keep the display cooler door locked.

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
notedCode 2-303.11 Prohibition - Jewelry (C).Remove jewelry on hands and arms while preparing food. A plain ringEmployee health and hygiene

Official wording

Personal cleanliness

Inspector’s notes

2-303.11 Prohibition - Jewelry (C).Remove jewelry on hands and arms while preparing food. A plain ring; such as a wedding band; is allowed. - Observed 1 employee working in the cook area with a wristband. Educational provided.

In plain English

This covers things like hair restraints, jewelry, clean clothing, eating or drinking in food prep areas, touching ready-to-eat food with bare hands, or not having a sick-employee policy.

More about employee hygiene or health policy issues
notedCode 3-304.14 Wiping ClothsCleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

Inspector’s notes

3-304.14 Wiping Cloths; Use Limitations (D) Maintain dry wiping cloths free of visible debris and soil. Maintain sanitizer containers for in-use cloths free of visible debris and soil. (C) - Observed wiping cloth held between used in the soapy water. CDI- the in-use wiping cloth was restored in the sanitizer bucket.

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
notedCode —Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Utensils; equipment & linens: properly stored; dried & handled

Inspector’s notes

4-901.11(A) Air dry equipment and utensils after cleaning and sanitizing. - Observed wetness on stacks of clean pans. CDI - the pans restacked to allow air drying.

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
notedCode —Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Equipment; food & non-food contact surfaces approved; cleanable; properly designed; constructed & used

Inspector’s notes

4-502.11(A) Maintain utensils in good repair. - 1 Standing freezer door with a torn gasket. Discussed the matter with the PIC.

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
notedCode 4-601.11(C ) Keep non food contact surfaces of equipment clean to avoid build up of dustCleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(C ) Keep non food contact surfaces of equipment clean to avoid build up of dust; food residue or debris.4-602.13 Non food contact surfaces of equipment shall be cleaned frequently to preclude accumulation of soil residues. - Storage room: near prep table; observed accumulation and stains on the shelf that stores the cutting board. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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
notedCode —Facility maintenance

Official wording

Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained

Inspector’s notes

5-501.113 Covering Receptacles (C) 5-501.114 Using Drain Plugs (C) - Observed dumpsters with doors open and no drain plugs. CDI - dumpster doors closed.

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
notedCode 6-101.11/6-201.11 FloorsCleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Physical facilities installed; maintained & clean

Inspector’s notes

6-101.11/6-201.11 Floors; walls and ceilings shall be designed; constructed; and installed so they are smooth and easily cleanable. Floors shall be non-absorbent in areas subject to moisture. - Observed the ceiling tiles with absorbent material in these areas: employee restroom and dry goods storage. Discussed the matter with PIC.

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
notedCode 6-305.11 Designation - Dressing Areas and Lockers (C) - Observed employee jacketFacility maintenance

Official wording

Meets ventilation & lighting requirements; designated areas used

Inspector’s notes

6-305.11 Designation - Dressing Areas and Lockers (C) - Observed employee jacket; purses; and other personal belongings stored together with the dry goods supplies to the public with no adequate barrier or designated area. CDI - employee belongings restored to the designated area.

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

Official record from Wake County Environmental Services, Feb 24, 2026 · Original Source

1 - Inspection

May 30, 2025

Score 93

Official score: 93 · Understand this area’s scale

10 recorded violations

notedCode 2-103.11(O)Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

Management; food & conditional employee; knowledge; responsibilities & reporting

Inspector’s notes

2-103.11(O); Priority Foundation; PIC unable to locate Employee Health Policy. The PERMIT HOLDER shall require FOOD EMPLOYEES and CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES to report to the PERSON IN CHARGE information about their health and activities as they relate to diseases that are transmissible through FOOD. CDI- Employee Health Policy provided to PIC.

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
notedCode 3-501.16(A)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper hot holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16(A)(1); Priority; Hot-Holding: Fried chicken in hot cabinet hot-holding at too low a temperature; measured at 126-132F. Maintain hot Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods at 135F and above. Verify foods reach the proper final cook or reheat temperatures before placing in hot-holding. CDI- Product reheated to at least 165F corrective.

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
notedCode 3-501.16(A)(2) and (B)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16(A)(2) and (B); Priority; Cold-Holding: Several TCS foods in the long glass doors walk-in cooler cold-holding above 41F as shown in above grid. Several TCS foods in this cooler observed held in very large; thick plastic; tightly covered containers which is bad for cooling. In the counter top cold-hold unit; all TCS foods holding too warm. Maintain cold Temperature Control for Safety (TCS) foods at 41F and less. CDI- TCS foods exceeding 41F voluntarily discarded by PIC during inspection. TCS foods prepared within the past 2 hours moved to colder units for active cooling. Temperature to the walk-in cooler adjusted during inspection. Have the counter-top unit serviced to ensure able to hold foods cold at 41F and less. [REPEAT]

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
notedCode 3-501.15Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control

Inspector’s notes

3-501.15; Priority Foundation; Cooling Methods: Several TCS foods prepared on previous days; holding too warm in the long glass doors walk-in cooler; in very large; thick plastic; tightly covered and stacked containers. Cooling shall be accomplished in accordance with the time and temperature criteria specified in Food Code by using one or more of the following methods based on the type of FOOD being cooled: Placing the FOOD in shallow pans; Separating the FOOD into smaller or thinner portions; Using rapid cooling EQUIPMENT; Stirring the FOOD in a container placed in an ice water bath; Using containers that facilitate heat transfer (metal); Adding ice as an ingredient; or Other effective methods. When placed in cooling or cold holding EQUIPMENT; FOOD containers in which FOOD is being cooled shall be: Arranged in the EQUIPMENT to provide maximum heat transfer through the container walls; and Loosely covered; or uncovered IF protected from overhead contamination (ex.- on speed rack with top cover pan). CDI- Off-temperature products voluntarily discarded by PIC during inspection. Recommend obtaining a few speed racks for the walk-in cooler to provide a better cooling space. Temperature of the walk-in cooler also reduced during inspection. [REPEAT]

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
notedCode 3-304.12Equipment and utensils

Official wording

In-use utensils: properly stored

Inspector’s notes

3-304.12; Core; Tongs hung on low oven handles where can brush up against pants. Utensils stored in water on the grill; utensil water measured at 118F. During pauses in FOOD preparation or dispensing; FOOD preparation and dispensing UTENSILS shall be stored: in the FOOD with their handles above the top of the FOOD; or In a clean/dry; protected location; or In a container of water if the water is maintained at a temperature of at least 135F and the container is cleaned at a frequency specified in Food Code (every 4 hours); or In running water of sufficient velocity to flush particulates to the drain; if used with moist FOOD such as ice cream. CDI- Utensils returned for cleaning during inspection.

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
notedCode 4-205.10Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Equipment; food & non-food contact surfaces approved; cleanable; properly designed; constructed & used

Inspector’s notes

4-205.10; Core; Ninja blender labeled for Household Use Only. Except for toasters; stand mixers; microwave ovens; water heaters; and hoods; FOOD EQUIPMENT shall be used in accordance with the manufacturers intended use and certified or classified for sanitation by an American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-accredited certification program. Remove the blender. [REPEAT]

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
notedCode 4-302.13Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Warewashing facilities: installed; maintained & used; test strips

Inspector’s notes

4-302.13; Priority Foundation; Hi-temperature sanitizing dish machine used. PIC has incorrect testing device (180F thermal labels) to verify required 160F temperature of hot water sanitizing rise is reached at the dishes. In hot water mechanical WAREWASHING operations; an irreversible registering temperature indicator shall be provided and readily accessible for measuring the UTENSIL surface temperature. Mechanical hi-temp dish machine shall reach at least 160F at the dishes (4-703.11). CDI- PIC educated on requirement. A few 160F thermal labels provided to PIC.

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
notedCode 4-601.11(B) and (C)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(B) and (C); Core; Bins of smallwares stored as clean with debris/residue accumulation in the bins. NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust; dirt; FOOD residue; and other debris. CDI- Bins and wares returned for cleaning during inspection. [REPEAT]

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
notedCode 5-501.110Facility maintenance

Official wording

Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained

Inspector’s notes

5-501.110; Core; Side doors and top lids of dumpsters left open. Top lids totally missing on two of the dumpsters. REFUSE; recyclables; and returnables shall be stored in receptacles or waste handling units so that they are inaccessible to insects and rodents. Maintain side doors and top lids of dumpsters closed. Contact your trash service provider to have the dumpster lids replaced.

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
notedCode 6-501.11Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Physical facilities installed; maintained & clean

Inspector’s notes

6-501.11; Core; In the dish machine area; some floor tile damage and grout between floor tiles worn down with pooled water. PHYSICAL FACILITIES shall be maintained in good repair. Floors; floor coverings; walls; wall coverings; and ceilings shall be designed; constructed; and installed so they are SMOOTH and EASILY CLEANABLE. Repair and regrout the floors so smooth and 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 Wake County Environmental Services, May 30, 2025 · Original Source

1 - Inspection

Jul 17, 2024

Score 94

Official score: 94 · Understand this area’s scale

10 recorded violations

minorCode 4-601.11(B) and (C)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(B) and (C); Core; Observed soiled shelving in the walk-in coolers. Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust; dirt; food residue; and other debris. Increase cleaning in these areas.

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 2-301.14Handwashing

Official wording

Hands clean & properly washed

Inspector’s notes

2-301.14; Priority; Employee observed picking up a tortilla that fell on the floor with gloved hands but did not change gloves and wash hands afterwards. Hands shall be washed during food preparation as often as necessary to remove soil and contamination to prevent contamination when changing tasks. CDI- education given and employee washed hands and put on new gloves.

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
criticalCode 3-501.14Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling time & temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.14; Priority; Large buckets of salsa verde made yesterday at 5pm did not cool to 41F or less (see temperature chart). Tripe soup made yesterday was holding at 44F in the walk-in cooler. Cooked TCS (Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods shall be cooled within 2 hours from 135F to 70F and within a total of 6 hours from 135F to 41F or less. CDI- Food items voluntarily discarded by PIC.

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 3-501.16 (A)(2) and (B)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16 (A)(2) and (B); Priority; Tilapia; cooked pork; seafood soup; bottles of salsa and cream sauce; and beef soup were holding above 41F (see temperature chart). Bags of cut watermelon on ice (2hrs) were 55F at the tabletop area in front of the registers. TCS(Time/Temperature Control for Safety) shall be maintained at 41F or below. CDI- Food items were submerged into more ice or moved to other units of refrigeration to cool.

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 3-501.18Food source and labeling

Official wording

Proper date marking & disposition

Inspector’s notes

3-501.18; Priority; Two large containers of salsa prepared on (7/10) were being held beyond 7 days. TCS foods shall be maintained at 41F or less for a maximum of 7 days; with Day 1 being the day of preparation. CDI- salsa voluntarily discarded by PIC.

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
majorCode 7-102.11Chemicals

Official wording

Toxic substances properly identified stored & used

Inspector’s notes

7-102.11; Priority Foundation; A bottle of Clorox and degreaser outside of its original container were observed without labels. Working containers used for storing POISONOUS OR TOXIC MATERIALS such as cleaners and SANITIZERS taken from bulk supplies shall be clearly and individually identified with the common name of the material. CDI- bottles labeled.

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
majorCode 3-501.15Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control

Inspector’s notes

3-501.15; Priority Foundation; Large containers of salsa verde made yesterday did not cool down within the parameters specified ( see #20). Cooling shall be accomplished by placing food into shallow pans; separating into smaller or thinner portions; using rapid cooling equipment; or other effective methods. CDI- food items voluntarily discarded by PIC.

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 4-501.11Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Equipment; food & non-food contact surfaces approved; cleanable; properly designed; constructed & used

Inspector’s notes

4-501.11; Core; [Repeat] Observed some rusty shelves in the large walk-in cooler. Equipment shall be maintained in good repair. Replace rusty shelving.

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 4-501.14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Warewashing facilities: installed; maintained & used; test strips

Inspector’s notes

4-501.14; Core; The basin filled with sanitizer at the 3-copartment sink is soiled and in need of cleaning. The compartments of sinks; basins; or other receptacles used for washing and rinsing EQUIPMENT; UTENSILS; or raw FOODS; or laundering wiping cloths; and drainboards or other EQUIPMENT shall be cleaned throughout the day at a frequency necessary to prevent recontamination.

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 4-204.11Facility maintenance

Official wording

Meets ventilation & lighting requirements; designated areas used

Inspector’s notes

4-204.11; Core; Observed grease buildup beginning to drip along the main cooking area. Exhaust ventilation hood systems in FOOD preparation and WAREWASHING areas including components such as hoods; fans; guards; and ducting shall be designed to prevent grease or condensation from draining or dripping onto FOOD; EQUIPMENT; UTENSILS; LINENS; and SINGLE-SERVICE and SINGLE-USE ARTICLES.

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

Official record from Wake County Environmental Services, Jul 17, 2024 · Original Source

1 - Inspection

Mar 19, 2024

Score 98.5

Official score: 98.5 · Understand this area’s scale

4 recorded violations

criticalCode 3-501.16 (A)(2) and (B)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16 (A)(2) and (B); Priority; Observed container of shredded cheese not fully submerged in ice-water bath with temperature of 43F. TCS(Time/Temperature Control for Safety) shall be maintained at 41F or below. CDI-More ice was added and container of shredded cheese was submerged in ice-water.

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 7-204.11Chemicals

Official wording

Toxic substances properly identified stored & used

Inspector’s notes

7-204.11 ; Priority; Observed chlorine sanitizer in bucket in front area with concentration above 200ppm (test strip turned black). Chlorine sanitizer concentration shall be 50-200ppm. CDI-Sanitizer was diluted to appropriate concentration.

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 3-304.14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

Inspector’s notes

3-304.14; Core; Observed chlorine sanitizer in two sanitizer buckets with concentration below 50ppm. Wet wiping cloths shall be stored in chlorine sanitizer with concentration 50-200ppm. CDI-Sanitizer was re-made to appropriate concentration.

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 4-501.11Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Equipment; food & non-food contact surfaces approved; cleanable; properly designed; constructed & used

Inspector’s notes

4-501.11; Core; Observed some shelves in walk-in cooler beginning to rust. Equipment shall be maintained in good repair. Replace rusty shelving.; 4-502.11(A) and (C); Core; Observed a few white containers in dish washing area with pitted/burnt interior. Utensils shall be maintained in good repair. CDI-Containers were discarded during inspection.

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 Wake County Environmental Services, Mar 19, 2024 · Original Source

1 - Inspection

Oct 30, 2023

Score 97

Official score: 97 · Understand this area’s scale

4 recorded violations

minorCode 4-602.11Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized

Inspector’s notes

4-602.11; Core; Observed build-up of black residue on ice chute of ice machine in kitchen. In enclosed components of equipment such as ice machines must be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil or mold. Increase cleaning frequency of interior of ice machine.

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 3-501.16(A)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

Proper hot holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

3-501.16(A)(1) ; Priority; Observed fried chicken and beans in hot hold cabinet with temperatures below 135F (see temperature chart above). TCS(Time/Temperature Control for Safety) foods shall be maintained at 135F or above. CDI-Beans and fried chicken were reheated.

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
majorCode 7-102.11Chemicals

Official wording

Toxic substances properly identified stored & used

Inspector’s notes

7-102.11; Priority Foundation; Observed chlorine sanitizer in two unlabeled buckets in kitchen. Working containers used for storing poisonous or toxic materials such as cleaners and sanitizers taken from bulk supplies shall be clearly and individually identified with the common name of the material. CDI-Buckets labeled during inspection.

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 4-601.11(B) and (C)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Non-food contact surfaces clean

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(B) and (C); Core; Observed soiled shelving and dusty fan vents in walk-in cooler; and interior of bottom cooler flip top unit has small accumulation of water. Nonfood-contact surfaces of equipment shall be kept free of an accumulation of dust; dirt; food residue; and other debris. Increase cleaning in these areas.

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 Wake County Environmental Services, Oct 30, 2023 · Original Source

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