BOSTON – A local restaurant chain temporarily closed two of its Boston locations in the city after inspections revealed a series of health violations, including reports of food-related illnesses and unsanitary working conditions, officials said. .
Los Amigos Taqueria, at 366 Washington St. in Brighton, had its license to operate suspended after an inspection Thursday, according to the city.
A report posted on the “Mayors Food Court” page states: “There are several reports of a foodborne illness from items consumed at this location.”
“All food has been seized. The owner has been instructed not to handle any food at this time without approval from the Health Division,” inspectors wrote in the report.
An inspection of the interior walls and ceilings of one of the restaurant’s walk-in units also revealed “visible soiling and a mold-like substance,” the report said. Several wire shelves also had visible rust.
The restaurant was docked for not having sanitizer at work and prep stations and inspectors also ordered Los Amigos to clean the inside of chest freezers to remove excess ice build-up.
The restaurant’s “certified food handlers” certificate was also said to have expired.
Los Amigos’ second Boston location, 1741 Center Street in West Roxbury, also had its license to operate suspended after an inspection on Friday.
This location had “no verifiable evidence of illness policy training,” no one monitored the temperature of food being cooked, spatulas were stored in standing water, onions and salsa verde were stored on the floor, and there were no thermometers in cold storage units in the front and in the grill drawers, according to inspectors.
The city said “multiple rodent droppings” were also found on cans of pineapple, bags of pinto beans, disposable drink holders and storage tables.
Friends also has locations in Brookline, Newton and Somerville.
The Newton location currently remains open and is unaffected by reports of foodborne illness, Boston 25 has learned.
Boston 25 has reached out to the restaurant chain for comment, as well as health officials in Brookline and Somerville.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.
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