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Home/Fort Myers/MONARCAS AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE BAR & GRILL

MONARCAS AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE BAR & GRILL

4125 CLEVELAND AVE STE 1485B, Fort Myers FL 33901 · 239-560-4251

Last inspected Aug 5, 2026 · 10 visits since September 2023

Licence typeRestaurant
Seats270
Risk levelRisk Level 2
LicenceSEA4607187
Grade history
JUL 24
JAN 25
AUG 25
MAR 26
AUG 26
≈ ERRATIC

5 inspections, swinging between A and D. Consistency is the problem here, not any single visit.

Worst finding on record
Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. Observed approximately 15 live small flying insects on shelf in ware washing area.
High priority/35A-02-6/Warning
Badges — none earned
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined

Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →

Disciplinary actions

2 cases · $800

CaseViolation dateFinal orderAmount
7--2023017757Feb 28, 2023Apr 10, 2023$400
7--2021032676Jul 12, 2021Aug 11, 2021$400

Inspection history

10 visits, newest first

Aug 5, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 15 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

2 High priority5 Intermediate8 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 16 findings
Stop Sale issued. Fish reduced oxygen packaged on premises, or commercially processed reduced oxygen packaged fish labeled with instructions to remain frozen until time of use, not held frozen. Observed 2 snapper fillet fully thawed in reduced oxygen packaged fish bearing a label indicating that it is to remain frozen until time of use.
High priority/01B-40-1
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed cheese (58F - Cold Holding) in reach in cooler at front line, the operator relocated to walk in cooler. Observed red salsa (52F - Cold Holding) at salsa station. The operator added ice to salsa.
High priority/03A-02-5/Corrective Action Taken
Equipment drain line draining into handwash sink. Observed line from tea maker in handwash sink, the operator removed the line.
Intermediate/31A-10-4/Corrected On-Site
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed a gallon jug stored in handwash sink at cook line, the operator removed the item.
Intermediate/31A-11-4/Corrected On-Site
Show the remaining 12 findings ▾
Multiuse food-contact surface not smooth, free of breaks/cracks/chips/pits/crevices. Observed citrus squeezer coating peeling. The operator discarded.
Intermediate/14-16-4/Corrected On-Site/Repeat Violation
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink on cook line.
Intermediate/31B-02-4
No soap provided at handwash sink on cook line.
Intermediate/31B-03-4
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin near 3 compartment sink. The operator cleaned the machine.
Basic/22-20-5/Corrected On-Site
Commercially processed reduced oxygen packaged fish bearing a label indicating that it is to remain frozen until time of use no longer frozen and not removed from reduced oxygen package. See stop sale. Observed 2 snapper fillet fully thawed in reduced oxygen packaged fish bearing a label indicating that it is to remain frozen until time of use.
Basic/06-09-2
Door interior for walk in cooler in disrepair/has exposed insulation.
Basic/14-36-5
Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. Observed old label for pork on a container of fresh cooked rice, the operator removed the old label.
Basic/16-46-4/Corrected On-Site
Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up at salsa station, the operator corrected the items.
Basic/24-18-4/Corrected On-Site
Single-service articles improperly stored. Observed single service cups store on floor in dry storage, the operator relocated the item.
Basic/25-05-4/Corrected On-Site
Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. Observed pork thawing on 3 compartment sink, reviewed proper methods for thawing. Operator placed under cold running water.
Basic/06-01-5/Corrected On-Site
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
Basic/42-01-4
Marked exit/path to marked exit blocked. For reporting purposes only. Observed rear exit blocked with ladders and equipment, the operator cleared a path to the exit.
/46-01-4/Corrected On-Site
The state's own report →
Mar 18, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 10 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

2 High priority4 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 10 findings ▾
Raw animal food stored over or with ready-to-eat food in a freezer - not all products commercially packaged. Carton of eggs stored over salsa in walk in cooler, the operator relocated the eggs.
High priority/08A-02-6/Corrected On-Site
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed cut leafy greens (53F - Cold Holding); cheese (51F - Cold Holding) on front line. The operator relocated items to the walk in cooler, states reach in cooler lid had been open during lunch rush.
High priority/03A-02-5/Corrected On-Site
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Handwash sink on cook line used to store washcloths.
Intermediate/31A-11-4
Multiuse food-contact surface not smooth, free of breaks/cracks/chips/pits/crevices. Observed citrus squeezer coating peeling.
Intermediate/14-16-4
Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled at host station and on bus cart.
Intermediate/41-17-4
Water treatment device has not been inspected or serviced according to manufacturer's instructions, change date 10/24.
Intermediate/29-28-4
Food stored on floor. Margarita drink mix in buckets stored on floor of dry storage, the operator relocated the buckets.
Basic/08B-38-4/Corrected On-Site
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Observed spoon handle in salt at prep area.
Basic/10-01-5
Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. Observed container of rice made today with date marking for pork. The operator correctly labeled rice.
Basic/16-46-4/Corrected On-Site
One out of four Carbon dioxide/helium tanks not adequately secured near beverage walk in cooler.
Basic/51-11-4
Oct 13, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority3 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 9 findings ▾
Handwash sink does not have enough water pressure to properly wash hands. Observed hot water at handwashing sink on cook line and women's restroom shut off.
Intermediate/27-19-4/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Observed handwash sink on cook line has hot water, women's restroom does not. Time Extended
No soap provided at handwash sink.
Intermediate/31B-03-4/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. Observed hot water at handwashing sink on cook line and women's restroom shut off.
Intermediate/27-16-4/Repeat Violation/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Observed handwash sink on cook line has hot water, women's restroom does not. Time Extended
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
Basic/36-34-5/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
Equipment in poor repair. Observed walk-in cooler gasket tire.
Basic/14-11-5/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
Ice scoop handle in contact with ice in bar.
Basic/10-08-5/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container of rice.
Basic/10-01-5/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
Light shield damaged/in disrepair In dishwashing area.
Basic/38-01-4/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees In dishwashing area and cook line.
Basic/31B-04-4/Warning/Return visit Oct 13, 2025 · Time Extended
Aug 14, 2025Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection

Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 19 recorded, 2 high priority.

2 High priority8 Intermediate9 Basic
Show 19 findings ▾
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed beef (48F - Cold Holding) in walk-in cooler. The operator discarded beef in walk-in cooler.
High priority/03A-02-5/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed alcohol on prep table in kitchen. The operator removed the bottle of alcohol from prep table.
High priority/41-10-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
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. Printed out Clean Up of Vomiting and Diarrheal Events DBPR Form HR 5030-204 for Operator. The operator posted form during inspection.
Intermediate/11-27-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Handwash sink does not have enough water pressure to properly wash hands. Observed hot water at handwashing sink on cook line and women's restroom shut off.
Intermediate/27-19-4/Warning
Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Observed handwashing sink in kitchen blocked by dishes. The operator removed the dishes from handwashing sink.
Intermediate/31A-09-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink on cook line.
Intermediate/31B-02-4/Warning
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. Printed out Employee Reporting Form HR 5030-203 for Operator. The operator filled out form during inspection.
Intermediate/11-26-1/Corrected On-Site/Warning
No soap provided at handwash sink.
Intermediate/31B-03-4/Warning
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.
Intermediate/53B-05-5/Warning
Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. Observed hot water at handwashing sink on cook line and women's restroom shut off.
Intermediate/27-16-4/Repeat Violation/Warning
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance.
Basic/36-34-5/Warning
Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Observed cell phone on prep table in kitchen. The operator removed cell phone from prep table.
Basic/40-06-5/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Equipment in poor repair. Observed walk-in cooler gasket tire.
Basic/14-11-5/Warning
Ice scoop handle in contact with ice in bar.
Basic/10-08-5/Warning
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container of rice.
Basic/10-01-5/Warning
In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board.
Basic/21-04-4/Warning
Light shield damaged/in disrepair In dishwashing area.
Basic/38-01-4/Warning
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees In dishwashing area and cook line.
Basic/31B-04-4/Warning
Old labels stuck to food containers after cleaning. Observed ribs in walk-in cooler with wrong date mark. The operator placed correct date on ribs.
Basic/16-46-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Jan 8, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 2 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

0 High priority1 Intermediate1 Basic
Show 2 findings ▾
Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. Observed one hand wash sink in kitchen with water at 71F.
Intermediate/27-16-4
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed ice buildup around door frame in walk in freezer.
Basic/14-69-4
Jul 16, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection

Met inspection standards. 2 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.

1 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 2 findings ▾
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in front cooler in drink station: milk (49F - Cold Holding).
High priority/03A-02-5/Repeat Violation
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed soiled gasket on ice cream freezer on cook line.
Intermediate/22-02-4
Oct 3, 2023□ Call Back - CompliedComplaint Investigation

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
Oct 2, 2023Warning IssuedComplaint Investigation

Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 11 recorded, 6 high priority.

6 High priority1 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Nonfood-grade bags used in direct contact with food. Observed trash bag in direct contact with black beans in prep kitchen, and in direct contact with chips in bar area. Also observed non food grade boxes in use in walk in cooler.
High priority/14-31-5/Warning
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food marked with a date that exceeds 7 days after opening/preparation. See stop sale. Observed multiple items with date marks past 7 days. Items include: Salsa verde, caldo mores, salsa de La Diablo, black beans and refried beans.
High priority/02C-01-5/Warning
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food not consumed/sold within 7 days after opening/preparation. See stop sale. Observed multiple items with date marks past 7 days. Items include: Salsa verde, caldo mores, salsa de La Diablo, black beans and refried beans.
High priority/01B-24-5/Warning
Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in reach in cooler under counter near drink station : white milk (50F - Cold Holding); ranch (49F - Cold Holding). Items were held in cooler overnight.
High priority/01B-02-5/Warning
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed in reach in cooler under counter near drink station : white milk (50F - Cold Holding); ranch (49F - Cold Holding). Items were held in cooler overnight. See stop sale.
High priority/03A-02-5/Warning
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed pesticide stored above spices in prep area. Operator moved item for proper storage.
High priority/41-10-4/Corrected On-Site/Warning
No soap provided at handwash sink. Observed no soap at hand wash sink near dessert freezer.
Intermediate/31B-03-4/Warning
Cloth used as a food-contact surface. Observed wet cloth in direct contact with tortilla dough. Operator removed cloth.
Basic/21-05-5/Corrected On-Site/Warning
Food storage container/container lid cracked or broken. Observed broken lid on chip container.
Basic/14-38-4/Warning
Ice scoop handle in contact with ice. Observed ice scoop handle in ice. Operator moved item for proper storage.
Basic/10-08-5/Warning
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed soiled gaskets on walk in cooler, and soiled handles on bulk rice and pinto beans containers.
Basic/23-03-4/Warning
Oct 2, 2023□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection

A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.

0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
Sep 21, 2023Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection

Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 5 recorded, 1 high priority.

1 High priority2 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. Observed approximately 15 live small flying insects on shelf in ware washing area.
High priority/35A-02-6/Warning
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. Emailed to operator.
Intermediate/11-27-4/Warning
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. Emailed to operator.
Intermediate/11-26-1/Warning
Food stored on floor. Observed multiple cases of food stored on floor of walk in freezer.
Basic/08B-38-4/Warning
Worn, torn and/or soiled floors/carpeting. Observed floors soiled in dry storage room under shelves.
Basic/36-10-4/Warning

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.