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Cincinnati, OH

The Arepa Place

131 W Elder St

Last inspected Sep 8, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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

The full inspection history

9 inspections

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Sep 8, 2026

Approved - Violations Abated

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Sep 8, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Sep 1, 2026

Not In Compliance

4 recorded violations

notedCode 3.5(C)(2)(e)Food source and labeling

Official wording

3.5(C)(2)(e) - Food Labeling - Allergens

Inspector’s notes

A food label did not include the name of the food source of each major food allergen contained in a food unless the food source is already part of the common or usual name of the respective ingredient.

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 5.1(C)(1)Handwashing

Official wording

5.1(C)(1) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Handwashing facility - Installation

Inspector’s notes

Handwashing sink does not provide water at least 85° F.

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 4.4(A)(2)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.4(A)(2) - Equipment - Good Repair and Proper Adjustment

Inspector’s notes

Equipment components were not intact, tight or properly adjusted. Repair/Replace sandwich block cooler to maintain temperatures at 40 degrees F

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 3.4(G)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(G)(1) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Ready-to-eat, TCS - date marking

Inspector’s notes

Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, TCS food that is prepared in the food facility and held refrigerated for more than 24 hours is not properly date marked. Observed Flan with no Discard Date. PIC to assure all prepared TCS foods have a Discard Date

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 Cincinnati Health Department, Sep 1, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Aug 13, 2026

Not In Compliance

11 recorded violations

notedCode 3.5(C)(2)(e)Food source and labeling

Official wording

3.5(C)(2)(e) - Food Labeling - Allergens

Inspector’s notes

A food label did not include the name of the food source of each major food allergen contained in a food unless the food source is already part of the common or usual name of the respective ingredient. (Pecan bars, empanadas, Flan, Tres Leches, Banco salsa etc.)

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 7.0(B)Chemicals

Official wording

7.0(B) - X. Chemical - Working Containers - Common Name

Inspector’s notes

Working containers of poisonous/toxic materials are not labeled. ID label all chemical spray bottles

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
notedCode 5.1(O)(2)Handwashing

Official wording

5.1(O)(2) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Using a handwashing sink - Operation and Maintenance

Inspector’s notes

Handwashing facility is being used for purposes other than handwashing. Discontinue storing utensils, chemicals etc in hand sink. Hand sink to be used for handwashing only

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 4.1(LL)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.1(LL) - Food equipment - certification and classification

Inspector’s notes

Food equipment was not commercially approvable by an recognized testing agency. Non-commercial rice cooker

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 4.4(B)Other

Official wording

4.4(B) - Cutting surfaces.

Inspector’s notes

Cutting surface(s) unable to be effectively cleaned and sanitized.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
notedCode 5.1(C)(1)Handwashing

Official wording

5.1(C)(1) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Handwashing facility - Installation

Inspector’s notes

Handwashing sink does not provide water at least 85° F. Front Hand sink

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 4.8(E)(1)(3)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.8(E)(1)(3) - Single-Service Articles and Single-Use Articles - Storage

Inspector’s notes

Single-service and single-use articles were not stored in the original protective package or were stored by means that did not protect them from contamination. Observed boxes of disposable food containers and cups stored on floor in basement

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 2.4(A)(3)Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

2.4(A)(3) - IV. Demonstration of Knowledge - Certified Manager

Inspector’s notes

No manager had Ohio manager certification in food protection. The state of Ohio requires someone to be present during all hours of operation with a minimum of level I food safety training. (Faviosa has this). Management is required to have level II certification

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 3.4(G)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(G)(1) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Ready-to-eat, TCS - date marking

Inspector’s notes

Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, TCS food that is prepared in the food facility and held refrigerated for more than 24 hours is not properly date marked. observed no discard date on flan custards, fruit drinks etc

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 4.4(A)(2)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.4(A)(2) - Equipment - Good Repair and Proper Adjustment

Inspector’s notes

Equipment components were not intact, tight or properly adjusted. Observed Ice build up on compressor in small cooler. Holding temperature at 50 degrees F--Thaw. Discontinue using until temperature is maintained at 40 degrees F

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 4.8(G)(2)Other

Official wording

4.8(G)(2) - Kitchenware and Tableware - Handling

Inspector’s notes

Knives, forks, and spoons that are not prewrapped were not presented so that only the handles are touched by employees or consumers. Store plastic forks etc inverted/handles up

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 Cincinnati Health Department, Aug 13, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Feb 12, 2026

Approved - Violations Abated

1 recorded violation

notedCode 3701-21-25 (K)Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

3701-21-25 (K) - Person in Charge Certification in Food Protection FSO

Inspector’s notes

No person in charge certified in food protection was at the FSO where it is needed.

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

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Feb 12, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Jan 22, 2026

Not In Compliance

11 recorded violations

notedCode 4.4(B)Other

Official wording

4.4(B) - Cutting surfaces.

Inspector’s notes

Cutting surface(s) unable to be effectively cleaned and sanitized.

In plain English

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

More about other finding
notedCode 3.5(A)Other

Official wording

3.5(A) - Standards of Identity

Inspector’s notes

Food product labels are not in compliance with identity requirements. ID label all grab and go pre-packaged juices, dips, cakes, chips etc.). The following information is required: ID label, statement of responsibility, ingredient and sub-ingredient listing, Net weight, and use by dates

In plain English

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

More about other finding
notedCode 5.1(S)(2)Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

5.1(S)(2) - Plumbing System- Maintained in Good Repair

Inspector’s notes

Plumbing system is not maintained in good repair. Faucet and base of faucet at three compartment sink is leaking--Repair. Clogged drain at faucet in kitchen--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
notedCode 2.1(A)Employee health and hygiene

Official wording

2.1(A) - I. Employee Health - Management and Personnel - Employee Health

Inspector’s notes

License holder did not ensure food employee(s) report certain diseases, symptoms or high risk situations as obligated by law including providing necessary additional information. Implement and maintain Employee Health Policy-information 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 7.0(B)Chemicals

Official wording

7.0(B) - X. Chemical - Working Containers - Common Name

Inspector’s notes

Working containers of poisonous/toxic materials are not labeled. ID label chemical spray bottles

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
notedCode 2.4(C)(18)Employee health and hygiene

Official wording

2.4(C)(18) - I. Employee Health - Written Procedures for Cleaning Up Vomiting and Diarrheal Events

Inspector’s notes

No/inadequate written procedures for response to vomiting/diarrheal events.

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 5.1(O)(2)Handwashing

Official wording

5.1(O)(2) - III. Preventing Contamination by Hands - Using a handwashing sink - Operation and Maintenance

Inspector’s notes

Handwashing facility is being used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed container of utensils, spices etc. stored in hand sink

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 3.4(G)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(G)(1) - VI. Time/Temperature Controlled Safety Food - Ready-to-eat, TCS - date marking

Inspector’s notes

Refrigerated, ready-to-eat, TCS food that is prepared in the food facility and held refrigerated for more than 24 hours is not properly date marked. PIC to assure all prepared TCS foods (i.e. dips, drinks cooked chicken etc.) held > 24 hours have a DISCARD DATE. Best practice is to document both open/prep and use by dates on each item. Re-date frozen foods when moved from freezer to cooler

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 3.2(Q)Contamination

Official wording

3.2(Q) - Food Storage: Preventing Contamination from the Premises

Inspector’s notes

Food items are not protected from contamination during storage. Discontinue storing containers of food directly on floor (peppers, etc)

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 4.1(LL)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.1(LL) - Food equipment - certification and classification

Inspector’s notes

Food equipment was not commercially approvable by an recognized testing agency. Non-commercial Rice cooker

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 3701-21-25 (K)Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

3701-21-25 (K) - Person in Charge Certification in Food Protection FSO

Inspector’s notes

No person in charge certified in food protection was at the FSO where it is needed. The state of OHIO requires someone to be present during all hours of operation with a minimum of Level I Food Safety training. Training may be done on-line @ Statefoodsafety.com

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

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jan 22, 2026 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Sep 30, 2025

Approved - Minor Violations

4 recorded violations

notedCode 3.4(C)Food temperature

Official wording

3.4(C) - Thawing TCS

Inspector’s notes

TCS food was improperly thawed. Observed frozen foods thawing at room temperature. Discontinue practice.

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 2.3(A)Contamination

Official wording

2.3(A) - II. Good Hygienic Practices - Food Contamination Prevention - Eating, Drinking, or Using Tobacco Products

Inspector’s notes

Employees were eating, drinking or using tobacco in non-designated areas.

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 4.1(Z)Food temperature

Official wording

4.1(Z) - Temperature Measuring Device - Functionality

Inspector’s notes

Temperature measuring devices are missing, not correctly placed, not readable, or of improper design. Observed various pieces of TCS food storage equipment without internal ambient air thermometers. PIC to provide thermometers for equipment.

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 4.4(A)(2)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.4(A)(2) - Equipment - Good Repair and Proper Adjustment

Inspector’s notes

Equipment components were not intact, tight or properly adjusted. Observed prep sink drain overflow when draining. Provide necessary repairs.

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

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Sep 30, 2025 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Jan 10, 2025

Approved - Minor Violations

4 recorded violations

notedCode 7.0(B)Chemicals

Official wording

7.0(B) - X. Chemical - Poisonous/toxic material

Inspector’s notes

Working containers of poisonous/toxic materials are not 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
notedCode 3.2(M)(2)(a)Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

3.2(M)(2)(a) - Wiping cloths

Inspector’s notes

Wet wiping cloth was not maintained in a sanitizer solution between uses.

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 4.2(G)(1)Food temperature

Official wording

4.2(G)(1) - Food temperature measuring devices.

Inspector’s notes

The operator did not have a food thermometer readily accessible.

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 4.8(A)(1)Equipment and utensils

Official wording

4.8(A)(1) - Equipment and utensils - air-drying required

Inspector’s notes

Equipment and utensils are not being air dried or allowed to drain adequately after sanitizing.

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

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jan 10, 2025 · Original Source

ROUTINE - CRITICAL CONTROL POINT

Jun 26, 2024

Approved - Minor Violations

2 recorded violations

notedCode 3.2(J)Contamination

Official wording

3.2(J) - VII. Protection from Contamination - Food Contact with equipment and utensils

Inspector’s notes

Food is contacting an unclean surface. received food stored on the floor by the black door. store foods away appropriately immediately upon receiving

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 6.4(E)Handwashing

Official wording

6.4(E) - Facilities: Food/Ware/Handwash sink: Improper use

Inspector’s notes

Food preparation sink, utensil washing sink, or the service sink was set up as a handwashing sink. food prep sink is being used for purposes like disposal of liquids and handwashing. limit use of food prep sink for prepping foods only.

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

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Jun 26, 2024 · Original Source

ROUTINE - STANDARD INSPECTION

Dec 7, 2023

CLOS-NO - No Violations Found

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Cincinnati Health Department, Dec 7, 2023 · Original Source

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