EL CASTILLO RESTAURANT INC.
2300 NW 17 AVE, Miami FL 33142 · 305.635.3270
Last inspected Feb 20, 2026 · 12 visits since December 2023
JUN 24
JUL 24
JAN 25
JUL 25
FEB 26
▼ IMPROVING
5 inspections trending up, 49 points better than where it started.
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined
Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →
Inspection history
12 visits, newest first
Feb 20, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 8 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
2 High priority1 Intermediate5 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 8 findingsThe state's own report →
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed beef inside of thank you bags inside reach in freezer.
Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. Observed seasoned chicken over unwashed plantains inside reach in coolers next to ice machine. Operator placed them in proper order onsite.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed soiled microwave in kitchen area. Observed soiled cutting board on prep table.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Observed excessive cut marks on cutting board in prep area.
Show the remaining 4 findings ▾
Equipment in poor repair. Observed gasket in disrepair on reach in cooler in front of sandwich prep area.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Observed some floor tiles in disrepair throughout establishment.
Food stored on floor. Observed container of rice stored on the floor.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed soiled gaskets in reach in freezers.
Feb 20, 2026□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 4 findings ▾
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Observed excessive cut marks on cutting board on prep table by cook line.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets in disrepair on reach in freezer next to rear exit door, also on reach in cooler near cook line.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Observed floor tiles in disrepair throughout establishment.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed soiled gaskets in reach in freezer by rear exit door.
Jul 22, 2025Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 13 recorded.
0 High priority2 Intermediate11 Basic
Show 13 findings ▾
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification and no other certified food service manager employed at this location.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. Observed expired test strips from 09/22.
Ceiling tile missing. Observed missing ceiling tiles throughout establishment. As per operator they are remodeling.
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Observed soiled ceiling tiles and ceiling vents throughout establishment.
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Observed excessive cut marks on cutting board on prep table by cook line.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed gaskets in disrepair on reach in freezer next to rear exit door, also on reach in cooler near cook line.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. Observed gap at the threshold of rear exit door.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Observed floor tiles in disrepair throughout establishment.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed ice buildup up inside the 3 reach in freezers closest to employee restrooms.
No copy of latest inspection report available.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed soiled gaskets in reach in freezer by rear exit door.
Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Observed soiled walls to the right of the cook line.
Jan 28, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 13 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
3 High priority2 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 13 findings ▾
Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Observed refried beans cooling in plastic bucket. As per operator beans were cooked on 1/27/25 at 6pm, temperature taken at the time of inspection, 1/28/25, was 72°F.
Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw chicken above raw pork in reach in freezer inside office area. Also blood residue on the bottom of reach in freezer. Repeated from inspection from 2023.
Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Observed refried beans cooling since 1/27/25 around 6PM. At the time of inspection refried beans had a temperature of 72°F. Stop Sale Issued.
Certified food manager unable to answer basic Food Code questions pertaining to safe operation of establishment. Observed manager not knowing to calibrate thermometer. I informed her and we calibrated thermometer together.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed no paper towels to dry hands at hand wash sink. Operator provided paper towels.
Ceiling tile missing. Observed ceiling tiles missing in the office area. One above office and the other above reach in freezers in office area.
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. At the time of inspection, there was no license in the establishment.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Observed cutting board no longer cleanable. Operator placed it in the trash.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed reach in freezer by the restrooms in disrepair. Also racks in the reach in cooler by the entrance are in disrepair.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed excessive amount of ice build up in reach in freezer near the restrooms.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed soiled gaskets throughout reach in coolers. Observed grease accumulation on kitchen equipment. Observed excessive accumulation of dirt/debris behind 3compartment sink.
Plumbing system in disrepair. Observed faucet in restroom in disrepair.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry. Observed mop not hung to dry, stored in mop bucket. Operator hung the mop to dry.
Jan 28, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
1 High priority0 Intermediate1 Basic
Show 2 findings ▾
Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw chicken stored over raw beef in reach in freezer in office area
Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Observed ceiling in disrepair above reach in freezer across from women's bathroom.
Jan 28, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedComplaint Investigation
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 2 findings ▾
Build-up of grease on nonfood-contact surface. Between cooking equipment
Gaskets with food, debris like build-up.reach in cooler
Jul 17, 2024Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 16 violations recorded, 3 high priority.
3 High priority5 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 16 findings ▾
Establishment operating without a license from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants. Operator must obtain a public food service license from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants within 60 days. Submit a license application and payment to DBPR/Bureau of Central Intake Unit, 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-0783. To apply online or obtain an application for license visit http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/ Observed license expired October 1, 2022.
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed non food grade bag used to store chicken in reach in freezer.
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw chicken stored over vegetables in reach in cooler in kitchen.
Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification. Observed manager is Darling Duron. No manager certificate available.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. Observed establishment uses chlorine. No test kit available.
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Lilian with no proof of food handler training.
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses.
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles.
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer.
No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed cook line equipment soiled with accumulated grease and old food debris. O
Single-service articles improperly stored. Observed single service items stored in floor in storage area.
Standing water in bottom of reach-in-cooler.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed containers of sugar and spices missing labels.
Jul 17, 2024Call Back - Admin. complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 11 violations recorded, 2 high priority.
2 High priority4 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed the license has been expired since 10/01/2022.
Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. Observed raw beef over vegetables in the upright reach in cooler next to the ice machine.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths.
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Form provided via email.
Required employee training expired for all employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Lily,Sandy,and Lilian with no proof of food handler training.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Observed throughout the kitchen and storage areas.
Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Observed throughout the kitchen.
No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
Jun 13, 2024Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 19 violations recorded, 4 high priority.
4 High priority7 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 19 findings ▾
Employee dried hands on clothes/apron/soiled towel after washing. Observed a waitress take dirty dishes to the sink and wiped her hands on her pants and went to serve a guest a plate of food.
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed the license has been expired since 10/01/2022.
Raw animal food stored over or with unwashed produce. Observed raw beef over vegetables in the upright reach in cooler next to the ice machine.
Server handled soiled dishes or utensils and then picked up plated food, served food, or prepared a beverage without washing hands. Observed the waitress take dirty plates to the back and serve a customer a coffee without washing her hands.
Employee washed hands in a sink other than an approved handwash sink. Observed the cook rinse her gloved hand in the triple sink and return to cook line.
Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Form provided via email.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed in the restroom and kitchen.
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Form provided via email.
Required employee training expired for all employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Lily,Sandy,and Lilian with no proof of food handler training.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Observed throughout the kitchen and storage areas.
Ceiling tile missing. Observed over the chest freezer located by the restroom.
Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Observed throughout the kitchen.
No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted.
Opened employee beverage container in a cold holding unit with food to be served to customers. Observed a raptor sports drink in the white upright freezer
Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. Observed a case of pork chops in the triple sink. The cook turned on the cold water.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
Feb 14, 2024Call Back - Admin. complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 10 violations recorded, 1 high priority.
1 High priority4 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 10 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Form provided.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification.
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Lily,Sandy,and Lilian with no proof of food handler training.
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Form provided.
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Observed throughout the kitchen.
Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Observed across from the restroom.
No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted. Form provided.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed several plastic squeeze bottles not labeled at the cook line.
Dec 5, 2023Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 13 violations recorded, 3 high priority.
3 High priority4 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 13 findings ▾
Employee dried hands on clothes/apron/soiled towel after washing.
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
Warewashing sanitizing solution exceeding the maximum concentration allowed. Observed the chlorine sanitizer solution at 400 ppms. The cashier drained the water and refilled the sink and the chlorine strength was 200 ppms.
Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Form provided.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification.
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed Lily,Sandy,and Lilian with no proof of food handler training.
No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. Form provided.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Observed throughout the kitchen.
Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Observed across from the restroom.
No Heimlich maneuver/choking sign posted. Form provided.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed several plastic squeeze bottles not labeled at the cook line.
Dec 5, 2023Call Back - Admin. complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 7 violations recorded, 1 high priority.
1 High priority1 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 7 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233.
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors.
Ceiling/ceiling tile shows damage or is in disrepair. Observed ceiling in disrepair across from bathroom areas
Equipment in poor repair. Observed reach in freezer across from bathrooms is in disrepair.
Reach-in freezer interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed sauce bottles and seasonings with no labels.
This record follows the licence, not the owner. Restaurants change hands and the licence history normally does not, so an older entry may describe people who no longer run the place. Every inspection above links to the state's own report. Something wrong? Tell us.