The Philadelphia Department of Health conducted routine inspections of city eateries on May 22 and found major food safety violations at a Mexican and a chicken restaurant. Both establishments were asked to take corrective actions.
Please note that the report discussed here are from a particular inspection conducted on May 22 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishments.
Highlights
- George’s Wings and El Fuerte were found to be in non-compliance with the food safety regulations of the Philadelphia Department of Health on May 22.
- Food debris, rusted utensils, and missing dates on food items were some violations at George’s Wings.
- El Fuerte was found to have cleanliness issues in food preparation areas and temperature control violations.
Two Philadelphia Restaurants Failed Health Inspection
George’s Wings and El Fuerte were two Philadelphia-based food establishments with unsatisfactory results in their routine inspections. The test, which was undertaken by the Philadelphia Department of Health reflected violations, including food debris, improper handwashing measures, insect activity, etc.
George’s Wings
Spicy chicken dish at George’s Wings (Source: Google Reviews)
- Where: 3818 Morrell Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19114, United States
- When: May 22, 2025
The restaurant offers a variety of chicken-focused menu items, including wings, salads, and fried chicken. With a spicy flavor and juicy texture, George’s Wings offers mouthwatering chicken eats. Menu highlights include buffalo wings, crispy fried chicken, green salad with chicken, etc.
However, George’s Wings could not make it through an inspection by the Philadelphia Department of Health on Thursday. Food inspectors have asked the chicken food facility to take corrective actions based on its inspection report.
The report first highlighted that the slicer at the Philadelphia food establishment had accumulated food residue as it was not washed, rinsed, and sanitized every four hours. A can opener was also found to have the same issue.
Food inspectors then noted that there was only one sink stopper at George’s Wings. The tortilla pack was stored along with ready-to-eat foods, which violated the guidelines of the Philadelphia Department of Health. Additionally, the chicken place was using an unapproved nasal attachment.
Date labels were missing from ready-to-eat foods stored for more than 48 hours, violating time-temperature controls. Labeling was missing on bulk food storage containers as well.
Food inspectors stated in the report that raw fruits and vegetables were not cooked and the ready-to-eat food was not washed at George’s Wings. Cutting boards were observed to have deep scratches at the Philadelphia food establishment. Plus, the shelving units were rusted.
The inspection report then focused on the issue of food debris in the food prep area at George’s Wings. The floors, inner surface of the refrigeration unit, microwave oven, and exhaust hood were covered in dust and debris.
El Fuerte
Delicious Mexican item at El Fuerte (Source: Google Reviews)
- Where: 1412 S 5th St, Philadelphia, PA 19147, United States
- When: May 22, 2025
The restaurant’s menu includes traditional Mexican offerings such as Huevos Rancheros, avocado toast, and chilaquiles. Its brunch options make El Fuerte a favorite of residents looking for feasts with their families. Menu options include Huevos Rancheros, oysters, half dozen, avocado toast, Philly French toast, green chilaquiles with steak, etc.
The Philadelphia Department of Health found that El Fuerte was violating many of its health guidelines in an inspection on May 22. The food inspectors prepared a detailed report describing the violations so that the Mexican eatery would take corrective action accordingly.
The report first shed light on the unavailability of the person in charge during the inspection. Food inspectors then found an employee’s beverage container in the food prep area at El Fuerte.
The handwash sink was improperly used for storing utensils and dishes. The paper towel dispenser was empty and soaps were missing at the kitchen’s handwash sink. Splash guards were also not there in the sink.
Food was left uncovered on the hot holding unit at the Mexican food establishment. Sauces and potatoes were kept at the wrong temperature at El Fuerte. Additionally, date labels were missing on ready-to-eat foods that were potentially hazardous.
Inspectors of the Philadelphia Department of Health reported insect activity in El Fuerte’s kitchen area. Plus, insect control devices were found in the kitchen, which could contaminate food and utensils at the Philadelphia food facility.
The staff at El Fuerte was not wearing gloves. Cutting boards were found to have deep scratches. Sanitizer strips were missing as well. Food debris was observed along the rails of the closed display case.
The inspection report further highlighted the cleanliness issue on the floors and walls in the kitchen area at El Fuerte. The food establishment license and operation changes at the Mexican food facility required review by the Philadelphia Department of Health.
Based on the nature of violations observed at both the Philadelphia food facilities, inspectors of the Philadelphia Department of Health have advised corrective actions. Failure to do so might result in further problems for George’s Wings and El Fuerte.
