On August 22, 2025, the Philadelphia Department of Health conducted an inspection at Monica Restaurant. Inspectors found the establishment out of compliance with the city’s health codes. After the inspection, the restaurant agreed to close voluntarily. Officials instructed the facility to correct the violations before requesting a follow-up inspection.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from an inspection conducted on August 22 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the food establishment.
Highlights
- Monica Restaurant was found to be out of compliance with the health standards on August 22, 2025.
- The establishment agreed to close voluntarily until the department authorizes resumption of operations.
- To resume operations and request a reinspection, the facility should address the citations.
Monica Restaurant
- Where: 5501 Vine St, Philadelphia, PA 19139
- When: August 22, 2025 (09:00 AM to 10:50 AM)
The report detailed four violations related to food safety. The supply of hot water at the recommended temperature of 100°F was unavailable at the hand sinks. The deli case refrigerator showed holding temperatures above the recommended temperature of 41°F or lower.
The walk-in cooler was found holding food at 42-44.4°F, exceeding the recommended limit. Cooked food was not cooled quickly or labeled with preparation times. The rear door was not equipped to protect against the entry of insects, rodents, and other animals.
Moist wiping cloths were not stored in a sanitizing solution. Inspectors noted that cutting boards could not be effectively cleaned and sanitized. The three-compartment sink did not provide hot water at the required 110°F.
Inspectors found grease and dust on the exhaust hood and filters. Accumulated dust was found on the vent surfaces inside the walk-in cooler. Inspectors reported there was no hot water available anywhere on the premises. The report is posted here.
Follow-up Inspection
Officials determined at the conclusion of the inspection that the facility was not in satisfactory compliance. After making corrections, the facility can request a reinspection.
The business agreed to suspend food service because of the violations identified. The restaurant will not resume service until cleared by the department. If violations are not corrected, the restaurant’s health permit could be revoked.
