Grade AMexican

El Cactus Mexican Restaurant

272 SAND LANE, Staten Island, 10305

Should you eat here?

Mostly OK — but 1 critical violation was found at the latest inspection (11 months ago). Details below.

Last inspected Aug 12, 2025 · New York City health department

What the inspector found on Aug 12, 2025

  • Raw and ready-to-eat foods were not kept separate, risking contamination.

    Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred.

    Critical
  • A paperwork or posting requirement, such as permits, certificates, or required signs.

    Current letter grade or Grade Pending card not posted

  • A cleanliness or sanitizing issue with surfaces, dishware, or the general premises.

    Anti-siphonage or back-flow prevention device not provided where required; equipment or floor not properly drained; sewage disposal system in disrepair or not functioning properly. Condensation or liquid waste improperly disposed of.

Inspection history

DateResultTypeViolations
Aug 12, 2025Grade AAdministrative Miscellaneous / Initial Inspection3 (1 critical)
Feb 9, 2024Grade BPre-permit (Operational) / Re-inspection2 (2 critical)
Jan 22, 2024Grade PendingPre-permit (Operational) / Initial Inspection7 (6 critical)

Problems that keep coming back

Issues cited at more than one inspection — a better signal than any single visit.

  • 2×An issue with how food is prepared, protected, or handled during service.

Around this address

City records for the building itself, not this restaurant’s inspection.

  • 1 rodent inspection on record, none finding rat activity.
  • 1 recent 311 complaint filed at this address.

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