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

You walk into your favorite taqueria, eager for a plate of tacos. Behind the kitchen door, a serious discovery was made. That 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 inspection records, the restaurant was shut down for four days following a December 19 check. Inspectors found 17 violations, including rodent droppings smeared across food, shelves, and floors. The inspections scored the establishment a 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 could serve as hiding spots for rodents. Food containers weren’t secure either, raising concerns.

Days after the shutdown, an employee said the restaurant had been cleaned and fumigated but refused to allow cameras into the kitchen. This raises the question: 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 an entry point for pests—rodents leaving droppings on food ingredients like flour and sugar.

Management at La Cabana took a more proactive approach. When contacted, the manager invited reporters into the kitchen to show the repairs made since the inspection. The crack in the wall had been sealed from the outside and patched from the inside, a 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 officials back for confirmation, a step toward regaining customer trust.

The Bigger Picture: Why Inspection Scores Matter

Restaurant inspections can seem routine, 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 concerning.

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. It’s important to stay informed, especially when making decisions about where to eat out.

Additionally, it’s worth staying informed about investigative reports that shed light on 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 visible 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. Staying informed is important, and knowledge is one of the most valuable 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