A recent health inspection conducted by the Tennessee Department of Health has resulted in an unsatisfactory score for Pancho and Lefty’s Cantina, a Mexican restaurant located on 8th Avenue in Nashville, TN. The inspection, which took place on August 13, 2025, revealed multiple violations relating to food safety and sanitation, culminating in a score of 77 out of a possible 100.
During the inspection, officials noted several critical violations that must be addressed promptly to comply with health regulations. Among the issues identified were two severely dented cans of pinto beans discovered on a good can rack. Inspectors also found that the three-compartment sink and the surface sanitizer jug were empty, and there were no chlorine test strips available for verification.
Issues concerning food temperature were significant. In the grill cooler, raw chicken was found stored at 46°F, exceeding the standard storage requirement of 41°F or below. Additionally, a prep cooler was noted to be operating at 50°F, with food items inside kept at temperatures between 45°F and 48°F for two to three hours.
The inspection report highlighted further concerns, including the use of single-use condiment cups to scoop salsa and cream sauce, as well as excessive discoloration and grooving on the prep cooler cutting board surfaces. Observations also included significant grease and food debris buildup on cooking equipment, particularly on fryers, grills, and cooler components.
The warming cabinet drawers, utilized for tortilla chips, showed excessive oil accumulation, while the can opener on the prep table also had a notable amount of food buildup. Additionally, inspectors found filthy wall tiles with discolored grout lines and noted a rainwater leak entering the dry storage area in the basement.
Next Steps for Compliance
Management at Pancho and Lefty’s Cantina is required to correct these violations within 10 days to avoid the potential suspension of their permit. Should they wish to contest the findings, they have the right to request a hearing against the inspection report within the same time frame.
Addressing these food safety violations is essential for maintaining the restaurant’s operational status and ensuring the health and safety of its patrons. The swift correction of these issues is crucial for the establishment to comply with the stringent health standards set forth by the relevant authorities.
