Department of Environmental Health and Quality conducted a routine health inspection at several restaurants. Two eateries were found to have health and safety violations. As a result, both outlets are ordered closed until the violations are fixed and reinspected.
Please note that the results mentioned here are from a particular inspection conducted on April 1 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishments.
Highlights
- A routine health inspection was conducted on April 1, 2025, leading to the closure of two restaurants.
- Multiple violations and out-of-compliance procedures were observed at the Mexican outlets.
- Both restaurants will remain closed until further notice and reinspection by the department.
Restaurants in San Diego That Closed Due to Health Inspection Failures
Every now and then, health inspections are conducted at food establishments. The County of San Diego keeps a check on the food practices that are being followed. In a health inspection conducted on April 1, two restaurants were ordered closed due to food safety violations.
Cotixan Mexican Food
- Where: 538 N 2nd St, El Cajon, CA 92021
- When: April 1, 2025
Cotixan Mexican Restaurant serves Mexican cuisine and a kids’ menu to San Diego residents. In the health inspection, the restaurant was found to have two major violations. The inspecting officer noticed that food contact surfaces were not clean and sanitized. Ware washing machine temperature was improper, and food contact surfaces were contaminated. The restaurant is asked to clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces. A three-compartment sink has to be used to wash, rinse, and sanitize.
Another violation involved vermin infestation. The inspection report states that rodents and insect infestation were seen at the facility. As they could act as vectors for diseases, employees have been asked not to care for or handle animals during work hours. The entry of live animals or insects must be strictly prohibited, and premises should be kept free of vermin.
It was found that good retail practices were not in compliance with expected standards. Food items were not properly separated and protected, and nonfood contact surfaces had grease accumulation. The storage and use of equipment and utensils and the condition of floors, walls, and ceilings were observed to be out of compliance.
Panchos Mexican Grill
- Where: 777 Broadway, El Cajon, CA 92021
- When: April 1, 2025
Panchos Mexican Grill is a famous restaurant with multiple outlets. The health inspection at the El Cajon outlet revealed multiple food safety violations.
During inspection, it was observed that proper food-holding temperatures were not maintained. Food items must be maintained at or above 135°F or at or below 41°F. Vermin was another major violation that was found. The presence of rodents or insects can lead to food hazards. The facility is asked to maintain proper entry barriers and cleanliness to remain vermin-free.
The inspector observed broken floor tiles and a damaged wall behind a sink. A wall in the food preparation area with accumulated dried food debris. An open window was not covered by a screen. Employee medication was found improperly stored in a food preparation area.
Cleanliness and sanitization of equipment, utensils, and linens were found to be out of compliance. The inspector asked the employees to clean and sanitize equipment and store it in an employee locker room or pressurized cylinders that are not securely fastened to a rigid structure.
As of now, no update has been provided on the reinspection and reopening of both restaurants. The restaurants must address these violations to comply with food safety regulations. The immediate actions of the inspecting officials reveal the concern of the County of San Diego for the safety of their residents.
