On August 29, Sacramento County conducted a routine inspection at Esmeralda’s Cafe and cited several violations, including improper handwashing practices and food stored at unsafe temperatures. Due to these violations, the restaurant received a yellow card and will have to reapply for inspection.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from an inspection conducted on August 29 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the food establishment.
Highlights
- A routine inspection was conducted at Esmeralda’s Cafe in Sacramento County on August 29, 2025.
- The restaurant received a yellow card because of multiple health and safety violations.
- To pass and receive a green card, the restaurant must correct all violations and reapply for re-inspection.
Esmeralda’s Cafe
- Where: 5825 Madison Ave #2 Sacramento, CA 95841
- When: August 29, 2025
Esmeralda’s Cafe features a menu of American and Mexican breakfast and lunch dishes. Sacramento County cited major health and safety code violations during the inspection at Esmeralda’s Cafe. The official report cited handwashing issues, such as a lack of paper towels at the kitchen handwash sink, and sinks were also blocked by trash bins and spray bottles.
During the inspection, a large covered pot of cooked beans was also found cooling at 48–51°F in a walk-in cooler. Inspectors also found that raw beef, chorizo, shredded cheese, sliced ham, tomatoes, baked potatoes, and queso fresco were stored at 51–53°F inside a cooler reaching 55°F, well above the required 41°F.
The report also mentioned brown slime residue on the white panel inside the ice machine, and unclean utensils, including spatulas and knives, were left on countertops overnight. Heavy residue buildup was also observed inside the microwave oven.
As a result of the violations, Esmeralda’s Cafe received a yellow placard, meaning the restaurant was given a conditional pass and will require a reinspection to ensure health and safety code compliance.
The report directed the restaurant to make handwashing supplies available and ensure staff comply with sanitation practices. The food storage must be at/below 41°F to ensure that the food is stored and cooled properly. The microwave oven, ice machine, and utensils, including knives, must be cleaned and sanitized thoroughly before being used again. The official report is available here.
Follow-Up Inspection
The restaurant must correct all the major violations to qualify for a Green card. A reinspection will be conducted within 24 to 72 hours, and additional fees will apply. The yellow card must always remain visible and should not be blocked or moved.
Esmeralda’s Cafe must follow all the codes and sanitation requirements; failure to comply will result in the immediate closure of the food facility.
