[Editor’s note: The report referenced in this article reflects conditions observed during an inspection conducted on August 18. Reinspection is scheduled for August 28, and conditions at the establishment may change. This report does not convey the present or future status of the establishment.]
The GNR Public Health Department conducted a routine health inspection at El Paso Tacos & Tequila on August 18. The restaurant received a score of 69 U and was cited for multiple health code violations.
The violations identified during the inspection included improper storage of food items like raw eggs and chorizo, uncovered food items, and unsanitary conditions.
WhatNow has reached out to the restaurant for comment and will update the story upon receiving a response.
El Paso Tacos & Tequila
When: August 18, 2026
Where: 4300 Stone Mountain Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047, United States
Score: 69 U
El Paso Tacos & Tequila is a Mexican restaurant serving Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. According to the inspection report, the violations noted were:
- The person in charge of the restaurant was unable to explain employee illness symptoms or reporting requirements. The health inspectors reviewed the employee health policy with the PIC.
- The restaurant is required to report any information about the employees’ health, activities, and other relevant details to the Certified Food Safety Manager (CFSM) and Person-in-Charge.
- The report noted that raw shell eggs were stored above tortillas and raw chorizo was stored above cooked foods. The food items were rearranged during the inspection to prevent potential cross-contamination.
- Multiple uncovered food items were stored in a walk-in freezer and a reach-in cooler. The staff was advised to cover all the food items to protect them from contamination. Food items must be stored in packages, covered containers, or wrappings.
- The inspection report also stated that several food items were removed from original containers and had no labels. The staff must correct this and label all the containers by August 28.
- The restaurant was thawing shrimp in stagnant water. The water was turned on to continuously run over the thawing shrimp. The staff was advised to use proper thawing procedures as per guidelines.
- Cut avocados were observed during the inspection with stickers still on them. The avocados were discarded during the inspection. The staff was instructed to thoroughly wash raw fruits and vegetables in water in the designated sink.
- Several scoops with handles were touching the food items. All the items were removed from the food containers.
- A foil lining was found on multiple shelves and cooking equipment. The staff was instructed to keep utensils and food-contact surfaces of equipment clean, and should be made of durable, corrosion-resistant, and nonabsorbent material.
- Multiple employees’ personal items, like pre-workout and protein powder, were stored above food service items. The staff was recommended to store personal items away from food and kitchen equipment to prevent contamination.
A detailed inspection report is available here.
Follow-Up Inspection
Due to its unsatisfactory condition and repeat violations, the inspectors issued a low score of 69 U to the restaurant. A follow-up inspection will be conducted within 10 days (August 28) to verify compliance.
The restaurant is required to correct the cited violations before the reinspection, according to the inspection report. The report also states that an additional routine inspection will be conducted within 12 months.
