TROPICAL CAFETERIA
652 EAST 9 ST, Hialeah FL 33010 · (305)887-5556
Last inspected Aug 8, 2026 · 12 visits since September 2023
JUL 24
JAN 25
SEP 25
FEB 26
AUG 26
▲ GETTING WORSE
5 inspections, one direction. The current grade is the worst on record.
Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Observed roach crawling on the floor under hand wash sink next to three compartment sink at kitchen area.
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined
Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →
Disciplinary actions
1 case · $400
| Case | Violation date | Final order | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1--2017032707 | Jul 7, 2017 | Aug 3, 2017 | $400 |
Inspection history
12 visits, newest first
Aug 8, 2026Call Back - Extension given, pendingLicensing Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
1 High priority2 Intermediate13 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 16 findingsThe state's own report →
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 https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/ Observed establishment operating and serving customer without a license.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. Observed no chlorine test kit available at the time of inspection.
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- Observed large shipping container stored behind property filled with restaurant equipment.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Observed ice machine interior soiled at front counter.
Show the remaining 12 findings ▾
Cardboard used on floor as anti-slip measure not replaced every day or when heavily soiled, whichever comes first. Observed in the floor next to fryer at kitchen area.
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Observed ceiling and vents soiled with accumulation of dust and grease all around kitchen area and back storage area. Also observed ceiling soiled with accumulation of grease over grill press at front counter.
Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. Observed several employees engaged in food preparation with no hair restraint all around kitchen area.
Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Observed accumulation of grease when the walls all around kitchen area.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed microwave interior soiled over preparation grill at kitchen area. Also observed oven interior soiled next to dishwasher machine at kitchen area.
No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. Observed no ambient thermometer inside walk in coolers at kitchen area.
No container installed for catching grease from hood drip tray. Observed no drip tray on hood systems all around kitchen area.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed gasket soiled with mold like substance under toaster machines at front counter. Also observed three compartment sink nuzzle hole with accumulation of mold like substance at kitchen area.
Openings to the outside for equipment, such as ventilation fans, not screened or otherwise protected when the equipment is not in operation. Observed not screen on fan over the back door next to fryer at back kitchen area.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Observed all around kitchen area.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. Observed walk in coolers shelves with accumulation of rust at kitchen area.
Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Observed grease accumulation on the walls all around kitchen area.
Aug 7, 2026Administrative complaint recommendedLicensing Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 40 violations recorded, 10 high priority.
10 High priority6 Intermediate24 Basic
Show 40 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 https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/ Observed establishment operating and serving customer without a license.
Live, small flying insects found. Observed approximately 1 flying insect landing on sliced ham and slice pork inside reach in cooler next to ice machine at front counter. Also observed approximately 6 flying insects flying in back kitchen above preparation tables and clean equipments. Also observed 1 flying insect landing on clean metal container on shelf in front of big oven at kitchen area.
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw pork and raw beef stored over cooked pork on shelf inside walk in cooler in front of three compartment sink at kitchen area. Also observed raw shell eggs stored over cooked beef on shelf inside walk in cooler in front of three compartment sink at kitchen area.
Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw beef stored over raw pork on shelf inside walk in cooler in front of three compartment sink at kitchen area.
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food marked with a date that exceeds 7 days after opening/preparation. Observed no date marked on milk inside reach in cooler next to ice machine at front counter.
Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Observed roach crawling on the floor under hand wash sink next to three compartment sink at kitchen area.
Stop Sale issued due to food not being in a wholesome, sound condition. Observed approximately 1 flying insect landing on sliced ham and slice pork inside reach in cooler next to ice machine at front counter.
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed Sliced ham (52F - Cold Holding); Sliced pork (52F - Cold Holding) inside cold holding unit at front counter next to sandwich station. As per operator for less than 1 hour.
Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed Pork chops (125F - Hot Holding) inside steam table at front counter. As per operator for less than 2 hours. Also observed Rice (122F - Hot Holding); Chicken stew (114F - Hot Holding) inside hold holding equipment next to oven at back kitchen area. As per operator for less than 2 hours. Also observed Cooked onions (103F - Hot Holding) in shelf over stove in front of dishwasher machine at kitchen area. As per employee for less than 1 hour. Also observed Black beans (87F - Hot Holding); Chicken Soup (91F - Hot Holding) over preparation table in front of big oven at back kitchen area. As per operator for less than 2 hours.
Vacuum breaker missing at mop sink faucet or on fitting/splitter added to mop sink faucet. Observed at kitchen area.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed soiled can opener on preparation tables next to seafood chest freezer at kitchen area.
Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Observed food debris inside hand wash sink at kitchen area.
No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. Observed no chlorine test kit available at the time of inspection.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed in front of pork belly hot holding unit at front counter.
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- Observed large shipping container stored behind property filled with restaurant equipment.
Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Observed spray bottle not identified in shelf located next to walk in cooler at back kitchen area.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Observed ice machine interior soiled at front counter.
Cardboard used on floor as anti-slip measure not replaced every day or when heavily soiled, whichever comes first. Observed in the floor next to fryer at kitchen area.
Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Observed ceiling and vents soiled with accumulation of dust and grease all around kitchen area and back storage area. Also observed ceiling soiled with accumulation of grease over grill press at front counter.
Clean utensils stored between equipment and wall. Observed clean spatulas between wall and three compartment sink in front of walk in cooler at kitchen area.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Observed several grooved cutting boards on top of preparation tables all around kitchen area.
Dead roaches on premises. Observed 1 dead roach under three compartment sink at kitchen area. Also observed approximately 3 dead roaches on trap under reach in freezer located in front of ice unit at kitchen area. Also observed approximately 1 dead roach under shelf located outside of office at break room area.
Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. Observed several employees engaged in food preparation with no hair restraint all around kitchen area.
Food stored on floor. Observed several food container stored on the floor inside walk in cooler in front of three compartment sink at kitchen area.
Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Observed accumulation of grease when the walls all around kitchen area.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Observed inside reach in cooler at break room.
In-use ice scoop stored on soiled surface between uses. Observed ice scoop stored over dirty container next to ice machine located next to break room at kitchen area.
In-use utensil in non-time/temperature control for safety food not stored with handle above top of food within a closed container. Observed sugar scoop handle touching sugar inside container at back storage shelf in front of walk in cooler at kitchen area.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Observed microwave interior soiled over preparation grill at kitchen area. Also observed oven interior soiled next to dishwasher machine at kitchen area.
No conspicuously located ambient air temperature thermometer in holding unit. Observed no ambient thermometer inside walk in coolers at kitchen area.
No container installed for catching grease from hood drip tray. Observed no drip tray on hood systems all around kitchen area.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed gasket soiled with mold like substance under toaster machines at front counter. Also observed three compartment sink nuzzle hole with accumulation of mold like substance at kitchen area.
Openings to the outside for equipment, such as ventilation fans, not screened or otherwise protected when the equipment is not in operation. Observed not screen on fan over the back door next to fryer at back kitchen area.
Reuse of single-service or single-use articles. Observed several reuse single service under preparation table next to three compartment sink at kitchen area.
Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. Observed clean utensils stored upright inside container next to grill in front of dishwasher machine at kitchen area.
Unsealed concrete floor in food preparation, food storage, warewashing area or bathroom. Observed all around kitchen area.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. Observed walk in coolers shelves with accumulation of rust at kitchen area.
Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Observed grease accumulation on the walls all around kitchen area.
Wet wiping cloth not stored in sanitizing solution between uses. Observed wet wiping cloth on top of preparation tables all around kitchen area not stored in sanitizing solution.
Working containers of food removed from original container not identified by common name. Observed sugar container not identified under counter next to ice cream unit at front counter.
Feb 13, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 16 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
2 High priority3 Intermediate11 Basic
Show 16 findings ▾
Glass stem/sensor thermometer in use with no shatterproof coating.
Single-use gloves not changed as needed after changing tasks or when damaged or soiled. Kitchen cooks.
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.
Food thermometer(s) not calibrated according to manufacturer's specifications.
Probe thermometer not used to ensure proper food temperatures of cooked time/temperature control for safety food.
Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Walk in cooler door handles with food debris.
Clean glasses, cups, bowls, plates, pots and pans not stored inverted or in a protected manner.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Observed employees cell phones on top of kitchen work tables.
Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Underneath kitchen oven, fryer, and stove top.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Kitchen oven accumulation of food debris inside.
Soiled dry wiping cloth in use.
Time/temperature control for safety food thawed in an improper manner. Observed frozen fish, being thawed in standing water. Kitchen area.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean.
Sep 4, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 19 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
2 High priority3 Intermediate14 Basic
Show 19 findings ▾
Employee failed to wash hands before putting on gloves to initiate a task working with food. Kitchen workers
Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Soup 120 f beans 127 f pork 129 stem table Cook, Reheat the food to 165 f
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed Food debris throughout kitchen slicer. And Kitchen can opener.
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.
Probe thermometer not used to ensure proper food temperatures of cooked time/temperature control for safety food.
Accumulation of debris in three-compartment sink.
Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
Buildup of food debris/soil residue on equipment door handles. Walk in cooler door handle, and kitchen shelves for Encrusted, food debris.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Employee eating in a food preparation or other restricted area. Observed Kitchen employee, eating in the food preparation area.
Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Observed Employee personal cell phones on top of food, preparation, area kitchen.
Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Clean underneath all kitchen equipment from food debris.
Stored food not covered. Observed most cooked foods in the walk in not covered.
Utensils in poor condition. Observed Most kitchen pots, and pans with heavy encrusted grease throughout.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
Wet wiping cloth not stored in sanitizing solution between uses.
Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean.
Apr 11, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
Mar 31, 2025Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate3 Basic
Show 4 findings ▾
Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/. Observed Martha Lopez, 11/26/2019.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable, located at cooking line.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. By the walk in cooler.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer, located at front counter, near the entrance.
Jan 27, 2025Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 12 recorded, 1 high priority.
1 High priority1 Intermediate10 Basic
Show 12 findings ▾
Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Observed raw chicken over cooked malanga stored in walk in cooler. During the inspection employee removed items and placed them correctly.
Food manager certification expired. A list of accredited food manager certification examination providers can be found at https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/food-lodging/food-manager/. Observed Martha Lopez, 11/26/2019.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin, located at front counter.
Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable, located at cooking line.
Equipment in poor repair. Observed ice machine not working properly, located at dry storage area.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. By the walk in cooler.
Ice buildup in reach-in freezer, located at front counter, near the entrance.
In-use tongs stored on equipment door handle between uses, located at cooking line.
Interior of omicrowave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris, located at cooking line.
Reach-in cooler interior/shelves have accumulation of soil residues. Observed 2 standing reach in freezer interiors soiled, located at dry storage area.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry.
Sep 5, 2024□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate1 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
Walk-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Jul 9, 2024Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate4 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
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.
Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
Observed all cutting boards has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Walk-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Jul 8, 2024Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 16 recorded.
0 High priority3 Intermediate13 Basic
Show 16 findings ▾
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed can opener blade soiled.
No probe thermometer provided to measure temperature of food products.
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.
Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin, located near the manager office.
Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
Carbon dioxide/helium tanks not adequately secured. During the routine inspection operator secured CO2 tanks.
Dishmachine not washing/rinsing properly. Must wash, rinse and sanitize all dishware, equipment and utensils in three-compartment sink until dishmachine is functioning properly. Observed Dishwashers machine, located at front counter and back kitchen (Chlorine 0ppm). Operator set up Triple Sink (Chlorine 100ppm).
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside.
Ice buildup in chest-in freezer, located at front counter.
In-use utensil stored in standing water less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed kitchen utensils stored in water at 99°F. Employee discarded water.
Interior of microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris, located at cooking line.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed walk in cooler fans guard soiled. Observed hood system soiled.
Observed all cutting boards has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
Reach-in cooler interior have accumulation of soil residues, located at front counter.
Walk-in cooler shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Feb 20, 2024Inspection Completed - No Further ActionComplaint Investigation
Met inspection standards. 13 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
1 High priority3 Intermediate9 Basic
Show 13 findings ▾
Container of medicine improperly stored. Observed prescription medication on top of kitchen shelves.
Certified Food Manager or person in charge lacks knowledge of foodborne illnesses and symptoms of illness that would prevent an employee from working with food, clean equipment and utensils, and single-service items.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Kitchen can opener. observed kitchen slicer soiled.
Probe thermometer not used to ensure proper food temperatures.
Accumulation of debris inside warewashing machine.
Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Most kitchen cutting board throughout.
Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. Most kitchen employees.
Floor tiles missing and/or in disrepair. Repair were needed.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. All kitchen shelves throughout.
Soiled dry wiping cloth in use.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface.
Wet wiping cloth not stored in sanitizing solution between uses.
Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean.
Sep 20, 2023Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 5 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
2 High priority1 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
Raw animal foods not properly separated from each other in holding unit based upon minimum required cooking temperature. Observed raw shell eggs over raw bacon inside reach in cooler. Operator properly stored it.
Time/temperature control for safety food, other than whole meat roast, hot held at less than 135 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed Moro (116°F - Hot Holding) cooked chicken (122°F - Hot Holding); inside the steam table, for less than 4 hours as per operator. Operator increased steam table temperature.
Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food prepared onsite and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked. Observed flan, cooked beef inside walk in cooler, was cooked from more than 24 hours as per operator. Operator properly labeled it.
Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed hood soiled.
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.