DORCHESTER, MA - Health department officials identified compliance issues at MERENGUE RESTAURANT in an inspection dated 08/11/2025.
The facility operates from 156 BLUE HILL AV in Dorchester, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.
The inspection identified 4 distinct violations requiring correction. Health inspectors document such issues to ensure establishments take corrective action promptly.
The first violation concerned temperature control. Inspectors documented: (A)(2) and (B) Time/Temperature Control for Safety Food Hot and Cold Holding (P). The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating.
The second violation related to equipment maintenance. Inspectors documented: Equipment and Utensils-Durability and Strength (C). Malfunctioning refrigeration equipment can allow foods to enter the danger zone.
The third violation concerned food temperatures. Inspectors documented: Temperature Measuring Devices-Functionality (C). The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating.
The fourth violation concerned food equipment. Inspectors documented: Good Repair and Proper Adjustment-Equipment (C). Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils.
The correction of health violations is monitored through follow-up inspections and documentation requirements. Establishments must demonstrate that they have addressed the root causes of violations, not just the immediate symptoms.
This inspection data is provided by Boston Public Health Commission. The establishment had violations identified during the 08/11/2025 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Boston Public Health Commission. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Massachusetts Food Code. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.
This inspection was conducted on August 21, 2025.
Local Health Department
The establishment was cited for health code violations during the inspection. See the full article for detailed violation information.
Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating. Pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus can produce toxins in improperly stored food that are not destroyed by reheating. Worn dishwasher components may not properly sanitize dishes and utensils.
This inspection data is sourced directly from Boston Public Health Commission. For the most current information, please visit the official health department website.
Federal Guidelines: Our reporting follows standards established by the FDA Food Code, CDC Food Safety Guidelines, and USDA Food Safety Standards.
📖 Food Safety Codes: Reference the specific regulations that govern this establishment: Massachusetts Food Code (105 CMR 590), FDA Food Code 2022
⚠️ Important Note: Restaurant conditions can change rapidly. This inspection represents a snapshot in time and may not reflect current conditions. For the most up-to-date information, consider checking recent reviews or contacting the establishment directly.
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