Keeping It Clean: A Look Inside San Antonio’s Restaurant Health Inspections

In San Antonio, food safety isn’t just a matter of taste—it’s a vital concern for residents. Recently, a couple of local taquerias found themselves in hot water after health inspections revealed troubling violations. Let’s dive into what happened, what the inspectors found, and what it means for the community.

The Trouble at Taqueria Los Dos Laredos

Picture this: You walk into your favorite taqueria, eager for a plate of sizzling tacos. What if, just behind the kitchen door, a grim discovery awaits? That’s exactly what happened at Taqueria Los Dos Laredos, located at 414 S. New Braunfels. Back in December 2025, health inspectors had to step in after food safety violations came to light.

According to the inspection records reviewed by KSAT Investigates, the restaurant was shut down for four days following a December 19 check. What did the inspectors find? A staggering 17 violations, including rodent droppings smeared across food, shelves, and floors. Yikes! The inspections scored the establishment a dismal 72, indicating a need for immediate action.

Metro Health mandated a deep clean to address the infestation. They found cracks and gaps in the walls that made perfect hiding spots for rodents. Food containers weren’t secure either, raising even more red flags.

When a KSAT crew visited the taqueria days after the shutdown, they encountered an employee who wasn’t keen on discussing recent events. Though the employee asserted that the restaurant had been cleaned and fumigated, they declined to allow cameras into the kitchen. It leaves one wondering: How thoroughly can pests be eradicated?

A Peek into La Cabana De Jalisco

Just around the corner, another restaurant faced similar scrutiny. La Cabana De Jalisco was also cited for serious issues during a December 16 inspection, which revealed 12 violations. Inspectors found a significant crack in the wall that served as a portal for unwanted pests—rodents leaving droppings on food ingredients like flour and sugar.

The management at La Cabana, however, took a more proactive approach. When KSAT reached out, the manager invited reporters into the kitchen to show off the repairs made since the inspection. The crack in the wall had been sealed from the outside and patched from the inside, a promising step toward ensuring food safety.

Their inspection score? An 83, which still wasn’t good enough to avoid follow-up scrutiny. The manager expressed hopes of scoring a perfect 100 in their next inspection and plans to invite KSAT back for confirmation—a commendable way to regain customer trust.

The Bigger Picture: Why Inspection Scores Matter

Restaurant inspections can feel like just another bureaucratic hurdle, but they directly affect your dining experience. These evaluations help maintain health standards vital for public safety. While a range of scores exists—from “A” for very good to “C” for poor—seeing a high number of violations can be alarming.

During the week of December 14 to December 20, several restaurants in San Antonio excelled in their inspections. Chill-n Ice Cream, Firehouse Subs, Lenny’s Sub Shop, Press Coffee, and Abuela’s Mexican Restaurant all scored a solid 100, proving that many establishments prioritize cleanliness and food safety. These scores not only reassure customers but also show a commitment to quality.

How Scores Break Down

• 100-90: A (Very Good to Acceptable)
• 89-80: B (Acceptable to Marginal)
• 79 or lower: C (Marginal to Poor)

Knowing this breakdown can help you make informed choices about where to grab a bite. For instance, an “A”-grade restaurant should inspire more confidence than one with a “C” grade, especially in a city where food culture is rich and vibrant.

What Residents Should Do

So, what does this mean for residents? Firstly, keep an eye on the scores posted at your favorite eateries. Don’t hesitate to ask about recent inspection results—most reputable restaurants will share this information. Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to making decisions about where to eat out.

Additionally, it’s worth staying tuned to investigative reports like those from KSAT. Their “Behind the Kitchen Door” series sheds light on concerning issues that may slip under the radar. Knowing which restaurants have faced severe violations may alter your dining choices.

Reflections on Food Safety

It’s easy to overlook the importance of health inspections, especially when many restaurants appear clean and inviting. However, as these recent incidents show, not everything is as it seems behind closed doors. These stories remind us that maintaining food safety is a shared responsibility, not just for restaurant owners but for the diners who frequent them.

When we choose to support local businesses, we also put our trust in their operations. It’s important to hold these establishments accountable while encouraging higher standards across the board.

Restaurants can only thrive when they prioritize health and safety, and as consumers, we have a role in demanding the best. Let’s continue to enjoy San Antonio’s culinary delights while keeping health standards top of mind. Knowledge, it turns out, might just be one of the most delicious ingredients in the city’s dining scene.

As the saying goes, “You are what you eat.” So let’s make sure we’re eating clean, safe food, one taco at a time.