On June 9, 2025, the Tennessee Department of Health conducted a routine food service inspection at El Parian Mexican Restaurant, located at 2565 Genesis Rd., Crossville, TN, resulting in a score of 71 and the establishment’s temporary closure.

The restaurant had received a failing health score of 69 in December of last year.

The inspection revealed multiple critical violations, including a lack of control by management due to numerous issues, a blocked handwashing sink, and approximately 10 pounds of spoiled lettuce embargoed. Temperature violations were significant, with hot-held foods like rice, beans, and queso cheese found below safe temperatures, and the walk-in cooler registering 48°F, leading to the embargo of 357 pounds of food, including queso, chicken, and beef.

The cooler had known issues since May 27, 2025, and, due to the lack of alternative cold holding options, the restaurant was closed at 11:45 AM until repairs are made and verified. Additional violations included improper date marking, unlabeled chemical spray bottles, food and utensil storage issues, a torn freezer gasket, a malfunctioning women’s restroom toilet with a septic smell, and cracked floor tiles.

While some areas, such as food sourcing and handwashing practices, were compliant, the severity of the violations necessitates follow-up inspections to ensure corrective actions are implemented before reopening.

Those interested in reading the full report can do so at: https://inspections.myhealthdepartment.com/tennessee/inspection/?inspectionID=5EA8C82A-25DB-4B7D-B560-0420B023B60F