TAQUERIA AMECA MARGARITA
4400 S ORANGE BLOSSOM TRL, Orlando FL 32839
Last inspected Jul 28, 2026 · 9 visits since December 2023
NOV 24
APR 25
OCT 25
APR 26
JUN 26
≈ ERRATIC
5 inspections, swinging between A and F. Consistency is the problem here, not any single visit.
Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. -3 live roaches under hand wash sink in kitchen on wood block
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined
Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →
Disciplinary actions
3 cases · $1,120
| Case | Violation date | Final order | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4--2026028350 | Apr 23, 2026 | May 14, 2026 | $800 |
| 4--2024028391 | Apr 4, 2024 | Jul 25, 2024 | $120 |
| 4--2020055790 | Oct 23, 2020 | Feb 5, 2021 | $200 |
Inspection history
9 visits, newest first
Jul 28, 2026□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority3 Intermediate8 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 11 findingsThe state's own report →
Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Towel and utensils in sink located in the kitchen. Staff removed.
Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. Shelves in walk-in cooler.
Operator is not properly tracking/marking the number of days ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite was held at refrigeration temperatures prior to freezing in order to properly date mark the food when it is thawed and held at refrigeration temperatures again. Multiple items in freezer.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
Show the remaining 7 findings ▾
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Front service counter and dry storage area.
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
Food stored on floor. Case of oil
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Freezer located in the dining area.
In-use tongs stored on equipment door handle between uses. On handle of stove, tongs and ladle. Removed from handle.
Single-service articles not stored inverted or protected from contamination. Above cook line. Staff turned over.
Jun 25, 2026Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 13 recorded.
0 High priority5 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 13 findings ▾
Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Towel and utensils in sink located in the kitchen. Staff removed.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification. Previously warned. 30 day extension.
No plan review submitted and approved for establishment previously licensed by the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Service or the Department of Health. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. rear shed area containing walk in cooler, ice machine, and outside vegetable storage not established on current approved plans. Previously warned. 30 day extension
Non-pitting surface rust on food-contact equipment. Shelves in walk-in cooler.
Operator is not properly tracking/marking the number of days ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite was held at refrigeration temperatures prior to freezing in order to properly date mark the food when it is thawed and held at refrigeration temperatures again. Multiple items in freezer.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. Front service counter and dry storage area.
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
Food stored on floor. Case of oil
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Freezer located in the dining area.
In-use tongs stored on equipment door handle between uses. On handle of stove, tongs and ladle. Removed from handle.
Single-service articles not stored inverted or protected from contamination. Above cook line. Staff turned over.
Apr 23, 2026□ Emergency Order Callback CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
1 High priority2 Intermediate8 Basic
Show 11 findings ▾
Roach excrement and/or droppings present. -in ceiling corner above 3 compartment sink on left side of AC unit
Incorrect chemical test kit provided for measuring the concentration of the sanitizer solution used in the three-compartment sink and/or dishmachine. -QUAT test kit for chlorine sanitizer
No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. -rear shed area containing walk in cooler, ice machine, and outside vegetable storage not established on current approved plans
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. -dry storage -above dish storage
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. -current displayed license shows expiration date of 2025
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -rear door
Hole in or other damage to wall. -multiple holes in walls throughout
Outer openings not protected during operation and vermin and/or environmental cross contamination present. -rear shed of establishment is not fully enclosed
Outer openings not protected with self-closing doors. -rear door
Screen in door torn/in poor repair - vermin present.
Apr 23, 2026■ Emergency order recommendedRoutine Inspection
Ordered shut on the spot. 20 violations recorded, 4 of them the tier the state says can make you ill. A reinspection is required before this kitchen may reopen.
4 High priority4 Intermediate12 Basic
Show 20 findings ▾
Live, small flying insects found -10 small flying insects in dish storage area landing on food contact surfaces -1 small flying insect at rice storage bin -1 small flying insect at trash can next to prep table, landing on clean prep table -approximately 50 small flying insects in unenclosed area behind establishment, food prep taking place in unenclosed area, flys landing on unwashed onions and peppers
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. -3 live roaches under hand wash sink in kitchen on wood block
Roach excrement and/or droppings present. -in ceiling corner above 3 compartment sink on left side of AC unit
Incorrect chemical test kit provided for measuring the concentration of the sanitizer solution used in the three-compartment sink and/or dishmachine. -QUAT test kit for chlorine sanitizer
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification.
No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. -rear shed area containing walk in cooler, ice machine, and outside vegetable storage not established on current approved plans
No sanitizer of any kind available for warewashing. Only use single-service items to serve food to customers until sanitizer is available for warewashing. -current sanitizer not for food contact surfaces
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin.
Ceiling not smooth, nonabsorbent and easily cleanable in food preparation, food storage, or warewashing areas. -dry storage -above dish storage
Clean equipment and utensils stored in a room that is not fully enclosed (open to outdoors/screened).
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed. -current displayed license shows expiration date of 2025
Dead roaches on premises. -1 dead roach under dish drying rack next to 3 compartment sink
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. -rear door
Food being prepared outside.
Food stored on floor. -oil on floor next to stand up freezer
Hole in or other damage to wall. -multiple holes in walls throughout
Outer openings not protected during operation and vermin and/or environmental cross contamination present. -rear shed of establishment is not fully enclosed
Outer openings not protected with self-closing doors. -rear door
Screen in door torn/in poor repair - vermin present.
Oct 6, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 18 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
4 High priority4 Intermediate10 Basic
Show 18 findings ▾
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw fish over multiple containers of ready to eat food in walk in cooler. Operator immediately removed
Stop Sale issued on time/temperature control for safety food due to temperature abuse. -birria (46F - Cold Holding); noodle soup (54F - Cold Holding) in walk in cooler overnight per operator. Operator immediately discarded.
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. -birria (46F - Cold Holding); noodle soup (54F - Cold Holding) in walk in cooler overnight per operator. Operator immediately discarded.
Time/temperature control for safety food identified in the written procedure as a food held using time as a public health control has no time marking. On salsa and cut cabbage At front counter
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Interior of ice bucket. Operator immediately removed to be cleaned
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. -Food debris in hand sink -employee filled container in hand sink in kitchen -knife in handsink
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. Operator needs chlorine test strips for the clorox bleach they use for sanitizer
No written procedures available for use of time as a public health control to hold time/temperature control for safety food. Provided operator with plan
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors. Both
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Portion cups used to scoop greens and pico in prep table. Operator immediately removed
Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom.
Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. On steam table
Food not stored at least 6 inches off of the floor. -pots of soups on floor in walk in cooler. -Cases of drinks on floor in outside storage. Operator immediately removed all
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. In both bathrooms
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Top of ice machine
Plumbing system in disrepair. Hot water handle in women's bathroom doesn't turn on.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Sugar, flour. Operator labeled
Apr 17, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 8 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
1 High priority2 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 8 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. -Cut lettuce in hand sink Operator filled container of water in hand sink. Advised that hand sinks should only be used for handwashing
No probe thermometer provided to measure temperature of food products.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. At steam table
Employee wearing jewelry other than a plain ring on their hands/arms while preparing food. Prep person wearing bracelet. Immediately removed
Food not stored at least 6 inches off of the floor. Crates of Onions, tomatoes, peopers on floor in storage area. Operator immediately removed
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Handles in container of dry beans and flour. Immediately removed
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Flour container. Operator immediately labeled
Nov 18, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 7 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
0 High priority1 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 7 findings ▾
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Make table cutting board,
Bowl or other container with no handle used to dispense food. Bowl in sugar.
Food stored on floor. Pots of soup in walk in cooler.
In-use knife/knives stored in cracks between pieces of equipment. In between make table.
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container.
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. Both restrooms Provide sign to operator.
Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Behind hot holding line.
Apr 4, 2024Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 10 violations recorded, 3 high priority.
3 High priority1 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 10 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. License expired April1, 2024
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. In walk in cooler. Raw fish and raw beef stored on shelf above sauces. Operator moved
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. On rear deck near ice machine. Multiple chemicals stored over onions and cutting boards
No proof of required state approved employee training provided for employee hired more than 60 days ago. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Cashiers deliver food to guests and monitor salad bar.
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors. Men's and women's restroom doors do not fully close under own weight
Cardboard used to line food-contact shelves. Lining shelves in walk in cooler
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. On make line
Food being prepared outside. Operator is cutting chicken on a prep table in rear deck area. Area is not fully enclosed. Multiple openings not protected
In-use knife/knives stored in cracks between pieces of equipment. Stored in the crack between hot and cold make tables in kitchen. Operator moved
Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. On rear deck. Raw tripe being defrosted in a large pot of standing water. Operator removed
Dec 4, 2023Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 8 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
1 High priority2 Intermediate5 Basic
Show 8 findings ▾
Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb or on fitting/splitter added to hose bibb. Hose Bibb at mop sink.
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.
Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Cleaner in kitchen.
Bathroom located inside establishment not completely enclosed with tight-fitting, self-closing doors. Both restrooms.
Equipment and utensils not properly air-dried - wet nesting. Metal pans on clean storage rack.
Food stored on floor. Pan of meat on floor in walk in cooler.
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Bulk sugar and rice container.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. Walk in cooler.
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.