Several food establishments in San Diego were inspected on Tuesday. During the inspection, two Mexican restaurants were cited for operational violations. It was a reinspection for one of them, and a routine inspection for the other. Both establishments were ordered to temporarily close and address the violations.
Please note that the reports mentioned here are from an inspection and a reinspection conducted on May 27 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the establishments.
Highlights
- Cocina De Barrio failed the reinspection on May 27, 2025, due to vermin infestation.
- En Fuego Cantina performed unsatisfactorily in a routine health inspection; multiple violations were observed.
- The restaurants have been ordered closed until the compliance status is reassessed.
Health Inspection Update of Two Restaurants in San Diego
All food establishments must comply with safety regulations set by the Department of Environmental Health and Quality. Violations may lead to consequences for the business, including closure.
To ensure compliance, health inspections are conducted periodically at restaurants and food outlets in the County of San Diego. Below are the inspection findings for two restaurants that failed to meet required standards.
Cocina De Barrio
- Where: 3707 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92104
- When: May 27, 2025
Cocina De Barrio is a Mexican restaurant with several locations in San Diego. The restaurant is operated by Chef Jose J. Flores and is known for its creative Mexican meals and Tequila/Mezcal Bar.
The Hillcrest location of this restaurant underwent a second reinspection in May. Earlier, a routine inspection and reinspection were conducted at this outlet on May 8. On May 27, another reinspection revealed a major violation at the restaurant, leading to its closure.
Inspectors found evidence of an active rodent infestation. As this could lead to contamination of food and food contact surfaces, the inspecting officer ordered a temporary closure for the restaurant. As a corrective measure, the facility must implement pest control measures.
En Fuego Cantina
- Where: 1342 Camino Del Mar, Del Mar, CA 92014
- When: May 27, 2025
En Fuego Cantina specializes in coastal-style Mexican cuisine. Established in the 1900s, this restaurant offers bookings for private parties as well. A routine health inspection was conducted at this Del Mar restaurant to ensure compliance with the food safety code.
The health inspection unveiled multiple violations, which are listed below. The health inspector ordered the restaurant to temporarily close due to the violations.
- Vermin infestation in the facility.
- Unclean nonfood contact surfaces.
- Storage of hazardous materials next to food and utensils.
- Inadequate washing facilities.
- The condition of the floors and walls violated health codes.
Both food establishments are temporarily closed, and there is no current update regarding a reinspection. Both restaurants will be allowed to reopen once they pass reinspection.
