Philadelphia Department of Health inspectors conducted routine checks at two restaurants on May 21, 2025. Both establishments received failing scores during inspections, with several serious violations requiring prompt correction, per health guidelines.
Highlights
- The two restaurants lacked the mandatory Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificates.
- Inspectors detected evidence of pest infestation and poor hygiene practices.
- Some equipment malfunctions and maintenance problems were seen in both locations.
Two Philadelphia Restaurants Face Critical Health Code Violations
Two restaurants in Philadelphia recently were cited for multiple health code violations during inspections by the Philadelphia Department of Health. Both locations are required to rectify issues such as food safety certification requirements and facility maintenance.
Don Panchito Halal Mexican Grill
- Where: 3180 Grant Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19114
- When: May 21, 2025 (11:40 AM – 1:40 PM)
Don Panchito Halal Mexican Grill had 2 risk factor violations and was issued four corrective actions. The most critical violation was the lack of an individual with an active Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate while in operation. Food safety violations noted were incorrect date marking of beef and chicken cooked on-site and stored for more than 48 hours in the reach-in refrigerator.
Pest activity was noted in the inspection report, with fly activity seen in the kitchen and front service areas. Employees were observed without proper hair restraints.
Additional issues included ice accumulation in the chest freezer and debris around the cooking equipment. The facility had a damaged ceiling in the front counter area. Ventilation problems included dust and grease buildup on hood filters across the kitchen.
Coffee Cream & Dreams
- Where: 1436 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19130
- When: May 21, 2025 (10:30 AM – 12:25 PM)
Coffee Cream and Dreams was reported to have two risk factor deviations and on-site corrections. The food facility did not have the mandatory Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificate, but inspectors noted corrective steps were initiated on site when an application was sent to the facility during inspection. Handwashing facility violations showed hand soap at the rinse sink instead of at the handwashing station, which was corrected on site.
The pest control issues were linked to the front door being left open. Storage infractions included beverages not stored a minimum of 6 inches above floor level in storage and prep areas. Personal cleanliness issues such as food workers not wearing the required hair restraints were also noted.
The facility had numerous maintenance problems, such as a non-self-closing toilet room door. Inspectors also noted the presence of a bare wood platform under the serving counter, bare drywall and exposed wooden studs in the storage room, and floor and wall gaps.
Follow-Up Requirements
The two facilities will be required to file applications for Food Establishment Personnel Food Safety Certificates within 30 days of inspection. Intent to cease operations orders will be issued in the event of non-compliance. All violations should be corrected according to Philadelphia Health Code Section 6-502. Failure to comply may result in the revocation of health licenses and further legal action.
Both facilities should take corrective measures on an immediate basis to rectify health code violations. Compliance will be verified through follow-up inspections by the Philadelphia Department of Health.
