Restaurant chain has 2 Boston locations shut down after inspections reveal slew of health violations

BOSTON — A local restaurant chain had two of its Boston locations temporarily shut down by the city after inspections revealed a slew of health violations, including reports of illness linked to food and unsanitary working conditions, officials said.

Los Amigos Taqueria at 366 Washington Street in Brighton had its license to operate suspended following an inspection on Thursday, according to the city.

A report published on the “Mayors Food Court” page states, “There are multiple reports of a foodborne illness from items consumed at this location.”

“All food items have been embargoed. Owner has been instructed not to handle any food items at this time without approval from the Health Division,” inspectors wrote in the report.

An inspection of interior walls and ceilings in one of the restaurant’s walk-in units also revealed “visible soils and a mold-like substance,” the report stated. Multiple wire rack shelving units also had visible rust.

The eatery was docked for having no sanitizer at work and prep stations and inspectors also ordered Los Amigos to clean the interiors of the chest freezers to remove excess ice buildup.

The “certified food managers” certificate in the restaurant was also said to be expired.

Los Amigos’ second Boston location, 1741 Centre Street in West Roxbury, also had its license to operate suspended following an inspection on Friday.

This location had no “verifiable evidence of illness policy training,” no one was monitoring food temperatures for cooking, spatulas were being stored in stagnant water, onions and salsa verde was stored on the floor, and there were no thermometers in cold holding units in front and at grill drawers, according to inspectors.

The city said that “multiple rodent droppings” were also found on pineapple cans, bags of pinto beans, single-use beverage holders, and storage tables.

Los Amigos also has locations in Brookline, Newton, and Somerville.

Boston 25 has reached out to the restaurant chain for comment, as well as health officials in the other three communities.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW

©2023 Cox Media Group