PlateScore

Salt & Lime Modern Mexican Grill

C°

28260 N Tatum Blvd, Cave Creek 85331-6302

Food Establishment - Eating & Drinking · Permit FD-83813

Score based on 8 scored inspections on record, weighted toward recent visits (one-year half-life). How scoring works

County record last checked Sep 21, 2026.

77
Good

Cave Creek restaurant avg: 95

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Score over time

1000602023202420252026Dec 4, 2023 — Routine — score 100 (0 priority, 0 foundation, 0 core)Feb 12, 2024 — Routine — score 80 (1 priority, 1 foundation, 0 core)Jul 2, 2024 — Routine — score 80 (1 priority, 1 foundation, 0 core)Sep 24, 2024 — Routine — score 70 (2 priority, 0 foundation, 0 core)Jan 30, 2025 — Routine — score 70 (2 priority, 0 foundation, 0 core)May 6, 2025 — Routine — score 98 (0 priority, 0 foundation, 2 core)Oct 29, 2025 — Routine — score 79 (1 priority, 1 foundation, 1 core)Apr 7, 2026 — Routine — score 65 (2 priority, 1 foundation, 0 core)65
Score per routine inspection and re-inspection; dashed line marks the “Poor” threshold (60).

Inspection history9 on record

2026

Aug 3, 2026Advisorynot scoredclean
Apr 7, 2026Routine2 priority1 foundationall corrected on siteC°

No County legal action will result from this inspection.Please update seafood distributor's parasite compliance letter to current year, 2026. Discussed cooling and reheating procedures. Inspector emailed Dog Friendly Patio guidance document.

#16 — Food-Contact Surfaces: Cleaned and SanitizedPriority4-703.11

Inspector's notes

At the in-use kitchen mechanical dishwasher, observed maximum temperatures of 155F, 154F, and 155F after three runs. When food-contact surfaces are being sanitized with hot water in a dish machine, the surface temperature must reach at least 160°F as measured by an irreversible registering temperature measuring device to destroy pathogens that may remain on such surfaces after cleaning. Use the available three compartment sink until the high temperature dish machine is repaired and sanitizing correctly. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-4-703.11 - Priority: Hot Water and Chemical-Methods; Sanitizing Food Contact Surfaces. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4574/AMC-Toolbox---Food-Contact-Surfaces.

#33 — Proper Cooling Methods Used; Adequate Equipment for Temperature ControlPriority foundation3-501.15

Inspector's notes

In the walk-in cooler, observed salsa/70F in a container over 12 inches deep. Per staff, the salsa was just prepared and was within safe cooling time parameters. TCS foods must be cooled in: uncovered/loosely covered, shallow containers less than 4 inches deep, in equipment designed to rapidly cool, by using an ice bath, by using ice as an ingredient, or another effective means. Staff spread the salsa thinner and placed it in an ice water bath to facilitate cooling. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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3-501.15 (A) - Priority Foundation: Cooling Methods. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4617/AMC-Toolbox---Cooling.

#39 — Contamination Prevented during Food Preparation, Storage and DisplayPriority3-303.11

Inspector's notes

Observed a water bottle in the large ice maker bin. Ice used as an exterior coolant may not be used as an ingredient in any food/drinks. The water bottle was immediately removed. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-303.11 - Priority: Ice Used as Exterior Coolant, Prohibited as Ingredient. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4621/AMC-Toolbox---Cross-Contamination.

2025

Oct 29, 2025Routine1 priority1 foundation1 coreall corrected on siteB°

Predefined Comment: No County legal action will result from this inspection.

#10 — Adequate Handwashing Sinks, Properly Supplied and AccessiblePriority foundation5-205.11

Inspector's notes

Observed handwash sink with a knife inside and cardboard blocking the front. Handwash sink basin must be free of any objects and accessible to promote handwashing. PIC relocated all items blocking handwash sink at time of inspection. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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5-205.11 - Priority Foundation: Using a Handwashing Sink-Operation and Maintenance. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4573/AMC-Toolbox: Handwashing.

#16 — Food-Contact Surfaces: Cleaned and SanitizedCore4-602.11

Inspector's notes

Observed soda guns at the bar growing black organic matter and dirt inside of the nozzle. All food-contact surfaces must be cleaned to sight and touch. PIC will have employee wash the soda guns. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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4-602.11 (E) - Core: Equipment Food - Contact Surfaces and Utensils-Frequency; Non-TCS. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4574/AMC-Toolbox---Food-Contact-Surfaces.

#23 — Proper Date Marking and DispositionPriority3-501.18

Inspector's notes

Observed roasted potatoes in a reach in fridge on the cookline and Barbacoa in the walk-in both kept past 7 days from their marked date. RTE/TCS foods requiring date marking must be date marked within 24 hours and sold or discarded after 7 days (including the day it was made as day 1). All RTE/TCS foods past 7 days of preparation were discarded by PIC at the time of inspection. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-501.18 - Priority: Ready-To-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Disposition. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4125/Food-SafetyOperator-Resources.

May 6, 2025Routine2 coreA

No County legal action will result from this inspection.

#16 — Food-Contact Surfaces: Cleaned and SanitizedCore4-602.11

Inspector's notes

Observed buildup of black matter around the inside lip of both drink nozzles at the bar. Spoke to PIC about keeping a proper cleaning routine to preclude accumulation of soil or mold. PIC agreed to have the bar nozzles cleaned every night with the other drink nozzles. Corrective Action: Correct prior to next routine inspection.

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4-602.11 (E) - Core: Equipment Food - Contact Surfaces and Utensils-Frequency; Non-TCS. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4574/AMC-Toolbox---Food-Contact-Surfaces.

#35 — Approved Thawing Methods UsedCore3-501.13

Inspector's notes

Observed thawed salmon in its unopened ROP packaging in the reach-in fridge on the cookline. All ROP fish labeled "Keep Frozen" must be removed completely from reduced oxygen packaging (ROP) prior to thawing under refrigeration or immediately after thawing under cold running water. Spoke to the PIC about following the proper procedures stamped on the ROP packaging. All ROP fish was removed from ROP packaging at time of inspection. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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3-501.13 - Core: Thawing

Jan 30, 2025Routine2 priorityall corrected on siteC°

Predefined Comment: No County legal action will result from this inspection.Reviewed dish machine operation

#8 — Hands Clean and Properly WashedPriority2-301.14

Inspector's notes

Observed employee work with dirty dishes, wipe face with hands places on new gloves then began to work with prep cook in back of kitchen.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-2-301.14 - Priority: When to Wash. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4573/AMC-Toolbox: Handwashing. Predefined Comment: Discussed the importance of proper hand washing procedures with the person-in-charge (PIC). Proper handwashing procedure is to rinse hands with warm water, scrub with soap for 10-15 seconds, rinse with warm water, dry with approved drying provision, and turn off in a manner to prevent re-contamination of hands. Entire process should take approximately 20 seconds for full and proper handwashing to prevent spread of pathogens and contamination. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

#15 — Food Separated and ProtectedPriority3-302.11

Inspector's notes

Observed partially cooked beef stored on speed rack above refried beans at time of inspection. Person in charge informed partially cooked products shall be treated as raw.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-302.11 (A1-2) - Priority: Packaged and Unpackaged Food-Separation, Packaging, and Segregation; Protection from Cross Contamination. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4621/AMC-Toolbox---Cross-Contamination. Predefined Comment: All raw animal proteins must be stored below ready-to-eat (RTE) foods and stored according to cooking temperature at all times to prevent cross contamination. PIC properly stored all raw animal proteins according to the final cooking temperature based on the cooking parameters in § 3-401.11 of the Food Code. Person in charge will discontinue partial cooking. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

2024

Sep 24, 2024Routine2 priorityall corrected on siteC°

Predefined Comment: No County legal action will result from this inspection."A pattern of non-compliance is developing for Priority violation # [15 ], [3-302.11], which has been noted during this inspection. An Active Managerial Control Intervention Visit was offered to the person in charge. Failure to correct repeat violations may result in legal action."

#15 — Food Separated and ProtectedPriority3-302.11

Inspector's notes

Observed pooled raw eggs and raw whole shelled eggs stored above beef consume and pickles onions.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-302.11 (A1-2) - Priority: Packaged and Unpackaged Food-Separation, Packaging, and Segregation; Protection from Cross Contamination. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4621/AMC-Toolbox---Cross-Contamination. Predefined Comment: All raw animal proteins must be stored below ready-to-eat (RTE) foods and stored according to cooking temperature at all times to prevent cross contamination. PIC properly stored all raw animal proteins according to the final cooking temperature based on the cooking parameters in § 3-401.11 of the Food Code. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection. 2nd consecutive violation

#23 — Proper Date Marking and DispositionPriority3-501.18

Inspector's notes

Observed hot salsa with a date marking of 9/15, brisket 9/16, mild salsa 9/16, chicken tinga 9/17, carnitas 9/15 and tomato paste in plastic container 9/10.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-501.18 - Priority: Ready-To-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Disposition. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4125/Food-SafetyOperator-Resources. Predefined Comment: All RTE/TCS foods past 7 days of preparation were discarded by PIC at the time of inspection. Predefined Comment: RTE/TCS foods requiring date marking must be date marked within 24 hours and sold or discarded after 7 days (including the day it was made as day 1). Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

Jul 2, 2024Routine1 priority1 foundationall corrected on siteB°

Predefined Comment: No County legal action will result from this inspection.

#16 — Food-Contact Surfaces: Cleaned and SanitizedPriority foundation4-601.11

Inspector's notes

Observed large plastic container with food debris on container, food debris on lids and 2 squeeze bottles with food debris on the inside of containers. All items were stored as clean. Person in charge informed equipment food contact surfaces and utensils shall be clean to sight and touch. Person in charge brought items to dish machine to wash rinse and sanitize again. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

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4-601.11(A) - Priority Foundation: Equipment, Food-Contact Surfaces, Nonfood-Contact Surfaces, and Utensils. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4574/AMC-Toolbox---Food-Contact-Surfaces.

#23 — Proper Date Marking and DispositionPriority3-501.18

Inspector's notes

Observed chile verde pork with a date marking of 6/19 and an out date of 6/30 and re-fried beans with a date marking of 6/21.

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PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-501.18 - Priority: Ready-To-Eat Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food, Disposition. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4125/Food-SafetyOperator-Resources. Predefined Comment: RTE/TCS foods requiring date marking must be date marked within 24 hours and sold or discarded after 7 days (including the day it was made as day 1). Predefined Comment: All RTE/TCS foods past 7 days of preparation were discarded by PIC at the time of inspection. Corrective Action: Corrected at time of inspection.

Feb 12, 2024Routine1 priority1 foundationall corrected on siteB°

This establishment is not participating in the award program at this time and had 1 Priority, 1 Priority Foundation violations on this inspection.No County legal action will result from this inspection.Report emailed at time of inspection On July 1st, 2023, the Environmental Services Department started emailing permit card(s) and permit invoice(s) to permittees. We need a current and accurate email address on file to ensure you receive a copy of your permit card and invoice(s) upon renewal. If you are unsure whether your email address is accurate, you may: • Contact your inspector using the phone number or email on your last inspection report to review, or • Contact the Department using the email addresses below, o Envquickservicerestaurants@maricopa.gov (facilities such as fast-food) o Envfullservicerestaurants@maricopa.gov (facilities that are full-service restaurants) o Envretailgrocery@maricopa.gov (facilities like grocery stores or retail food markets) o Envspecialtyprograms@maricopa.gov (mobile food/special events/plan review) If you need to update your email address and/or other contact information, please submit an administrative change request form at the below website https://www.maricopa.gov/FormCenter/Environmental-Services-16/Administrative-Change-Request-Form-181.Award: Not Participating,Signer: Brett Miller

#10 — Adequate Handwashing Sinks, Properly Supplied and AccessiblePriority foundation5-205.11

Priority Foundation-5-205.11, Pf: Using a Handwashing Sink-Operation and Maintenance. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4573/AMC-Toolbox---Handwashing.... Observed bar tender washing lemons and limes in hand sink at time of inspection. Person in charge informed hand washing sink shall remain accessible at all times. Person in charge moved lemon and limes at time of inspection. Correct By: Corrected At Time Of Inspection

#15 — Food Separated and ProtectedPriority3-302.11

PRIORITY VIOLATION-3-302.11 (A1-2), P: Packaged and Unpackaged Food-Separation, Packaging, and Segregation; Protection From Cross Contamination. For a permanent fix to this violation, check out these simple tools in our Active Managerial Control Toolbox, made especially for you. https://www.maricopa.gov/4621/AMC-Toolbox---Cross-Contamination.... Observed raw chicken over raw beef and under the raw products ready to eat cooked foods on the speed rack. Person in charge informed raw chicken shall be stored below raw beef and raw products shall be stored below ready to eat products at all times. Person in charge moved raw products off of speed rack an placed on lowest shelf in walk in cooler. Correct By: Corrected At Time Of Inspection

2023

Dec 4, 2023RoutinecleanA°

This establishment is not participating in the award program at this time and had 0 Priority, 0 Priority Foundation violations on this inspection.No County legal action will result from this inspection.Report Emailed at time of inspection On July 1st, 2023, the Environmental Services Department started emailing permit card(s) and permit invoice(s) to permittees. We need a current and accurate email address on file to ensure you receive a copy of your permit card and invoice(s) upon renewal. If you are unsure whether your email address is accurate, you may: • Contact your inspector using the phone number or email on your last inspection report to review, or • Contact the Department using the email addresses below, o Envquickservicerestaurants@maricopa.gov (facilities such as fast-food) o Envfullservicerestaurants@maricopa.gov (facilities that are full-service restaurants) o Envretailgrocery@maricopa.gov (facilities like grocery stores or retail food markets) o Envspecialtyprograms@maricopa.gov (mobile food/special events/plan review) If you need to update your email address and/or other contact information, please submit an administrative change request form at the below website https://www.maricopa.gov/FormCenter/Environmental-Services-16/Administrative-Change-Request-Form-181.Award: Not Participating,Signer: Brett Miller

Nearby restaurants

Other places to eat within a short walk, with their current scores.

Data from Maricopa County Environmental Services public records, last checked Sep 21, 2026. Grades marked with ° are computed equivalents for establishments not participating in the county's voluntary grading program. View official county records →