Did MALA HOT POT pass their NYC health inspection on February 11, 2026?

MALA HOT POT underwent inspection on February 11, 2026 with a score of 21 points. The inspection found 2 violation(s).

What critical violations did MALA HOT POT have?

MALA HOT POT had 2 critical violation(s) during their inspection. Critical violations directly contribute to foodborne illness and must be corrected immediately. These include issues with temperature control, hand washing, cross-contamination, and pest infestations.

What does violation code 09B mean in NYC restaurant inspections?

NYC violation 09B (Thawing procedure improper) is a major violation. Frozen foods must be thawed using approved methods to prevent bacterial growth Improper thawing allows surface bacteria to multiply while interior remains frozen

MALA HOT POT

SCORE: 21 POINTS

Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Overview

MALA HOT POT in Midtown Times Square underwent a NYC health inspection on February 11, 2026 and scored 21 points. The inspection found 2 violations, including 2 critical.

Address

35 WEST 36 STREET

Manhattan, NY 10018

Cuisine

Chinese

Inspection Type

Cycle Inspection / Initial Inspection

Violations

2 total

⚠ 2 critical

Facility History

2 inspections

Violations Cited

⚠ CRITICAL 09B

Thawing procedure improper

Thawing procedure improper.

⚠️ Why This Matters

Improper thawing allows surface bacteria to multiply while interior remains frozen

📋 Code Requirements

Thaw under refrigeration, under cold running water, in microwave, or as part of cooking

CDC Risk Factor: Improper Holding/Time & Temperature

NYC Health Code Article 81, Section 81.09

📖 NYC Health Code 📚 FDA Food Code 🎓 CDC Info

⚠ CRITICAL 06F

Wiping Cloths Not Stored in Sanitizer

Wiping cloths not stored clean and dry, or in a sanitizing solution, between uses.

⚠️ Why This Matters

CONTAMINATION SPREAD: Dirty wiping cloths spread millions of bacteria across every surface wiped. Bacteria double every 20 minutes on damp cloths. One contaminated cloth can spread pathogens to 30+ surfaces, causing facility-wide contamination.

📋 Code Requirements

Store wiping cloths in sanitizer AT ALL TIMES between uses: 50-100ppm chlorine or 200-400ppm quaternary ammonium. Change solution when visibly dirty or every 4 hours. Use separate cloths for food contact vs non-food contact. Test sanitizer concentration every 2 hours.

CDC Risk Factor: Contaminated Equipment

NYC Health Code Article 81, Section 81.21

📖 NYC Health Code 📚 FDA Food Code 🎓 CDC Info

Inspector's Action:

Violations were cited in the following area(s).

View Facility Profile →

MALA HOT POT — Inspection Questions

Did MALA HOT POT pass their NYC health inspection on February 11, 2026?: MALA HOT POT underwent inspection on February 11, 2026 with a score of 21 points. The inspection found 2 violation(s).
What critical violations did MALA HOT POT have?: MALA HOT POT had 2 critical violation(s) during their inspection. Critical violations directly contribute to foodborne illness and must be corrected immediately. These include issues with temperature control, hand washing, cross-contamination, and pest infestations.
What does violation code 09B mean in NYC restaurant inspections?: NYC violation 09B (Thawing procedure improper) is a major violation. Frozen foods must be thawed using approved methods to prevent bacterial growth Improper thawing allows surface bacteria to multiply while interior remains frozen
What does violation code 06F mean in NYC restaurant inspections?: NYC violation 06F (Wiping Cloths Not Stored in Sanitizer) is a critical violation. Wiping cloths used on food contact surfaces not stored in sanitizing solution between uses. CONTAMINATION SPREAD: Dirty wiping cloths spread millions of bacteria across every surface wiped. Bacteria double every 20 minutes on damp cloths. One contaminated cloth can spread pathogens to 30+ surfaces, causing facility-wide contamination.