Inspectors shut down Bradenton taco truck with pest problems for second time in months

Florida’s Division of Hotels and Restaurants routinely inspects restaurants, food trucks and other food service establishments for public health and cleanliness issues.

The reports are public information.

During recent inspections, a taco truck in Bradenton was temporarily shut down after inspectors found signs of rodent and fly activity. The business was temporarily shut down for similar violations in November.

Taqueria Mi Reina, 1880 63rd Ave. E., Bradenton (food truck) — Inspected and temporarily shut down Thursday, Feb. 6

• High priority: An inspector observed approximately five live, flying insects inside of the food truck.
• High priority: An inspector observed 10 rodent droppings throughout the food truck.
• High priority: The business was operating with no potable running water.
• High priority: The business was operating with an expired license from the Division of Hotels and Restaurants.
• Intermediate: Soiled dishes were stored in an employee handwash sink.
• Basic: An inspector noted an objectionable odor inside of the food truck.
• Basic: The food truck’s doors and a service window were kept open during service.
• The food truck met inspection standards during a follow-up visit on Feb. 7 and was allowed to reopen.

Editor’s Note: According to the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulation, these reports are a “snapshot” of the conditions present at the time of the inspection and are public record. The agency is required to inspect every licensed restaurant at least once per year, but new and “high-risk” establishments tend to be inspected more frequently.

When an emergency shutdown order is given by an inspector, it must first be reviewed and approved by agency supervisors. In order for a business to reopen, an inspector will continue visiting the establishment daily until compliance is met. Some citations may include a financial penalty. Inspectors may also respond to complaints, which can be filed at www.myfloridalicense.com.