WEST CHESTER, PA — The Chester County Health Department released inspection reports for licensed food facilities across the county, detailing a range of food safety violations discovered during inspections conducted February 12, 2026.
Health officials emphasized that each inspection represents a snapshot in time and may not reflect the long-term sanitation practices of an establishment. The reports cover restaurants, schools, grocery stores, convenience stores and other food-dispensing facilities open to the public.
At Devon Preparatory School in Devon, inspectors cited the facility for failing to maintain a Chester County Health Department Certified Food Manager, an outstanding violation dating back to 2025. The school was also cited for lacking sneeze guards at certain self-service displays, accumulation of buildup on non-food contact surfaces, and damaged floor tiles in front of a three-bay sink.
In Avondale, El Mercadito discarded fish observed thawing in vacuum-sealed packaging and multiple temperature-controlled foods found above the required 41°F. Inspectors also noted expired sanitizer test strips and improper storage of cleaning supplies alongside food-contact paper products.
P.J. Whelihan’s in West Chester corrected several violations during inspection, including reheating marinara sauce to the required 165°F and sanitizing a soda gun nozzle with visible residue. Inspectors also cited improper handwashing practices, bar mixers stored above safe temperatures, mold-like growth on produce, and damaged epoxy flooring throughout the kitchen.
Taco Mar in West Chester was cited for undercooked chicken, improper food storage practices, sanitizer concentrations outside required ranges, thawing seafood at room temperature, inaccurate thermometers, and a malfunctioning dish machine that did not reach required chlorine sanitizer levels. Inspectors ordered the discontinuation of the dishwasher until repairs are completed.
Taqueria Los Juarez, operating in Avondale, discarded out-of-date meats and corrected improper storage of raw eggs above ready-to-eat foods. Inspectors also cited repeated hot water violations at the handwash sink and improper use of absorbent materials to cover dough.
Taquito Xpress Inc., also in Avondale, faced multiple serious violations. Inspectors observed temperature-controlled foods held above safe limits, foods reportedly prepared in a private home, expired sanitizer test strips, and inadequate hot water at the handwash sink. The person in charge was ordered to complete food safety training within 48 hours and a food manager course within 30 days.
World of Beer in Exton was cited for bar mixers held above 41°F, uncovered food in prep areas, spoilage of blueberries, leaking pipes outside the walk-in cooler, and improper use of ice as both coolant and drink ice. Inspectors also noted failure to post a valid Certified Food Manager certificate and slow drainage at a handwash sink.
Under Pennsylvania regulations, temperature-controlled foods must be held below 41°F or above 135°F to prevent bacterial growth. Inspectors routinely require on-site corrective actions, including food disposal and equipment repairs.
Residents who witness unsanitary conditions may file an Environmental Health Complaint at https://www.chesco.org/5843. Complaints are investigated and kept confidential. Individuals who become ill after eating at a food establishment are advised to call 610-344-6225.
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