Unpermitted taco stand in Burien closed by Public Health – Seattle and King County officials

An unpermitted taco stand operating at Des Moines Memorial Drive and South 120th Street in Burien was shut down by Public Health – Seattle & King County on Thursday, July 10, 2025, due to multiple imminent health hazards.

According to health officials, the stand was operating without a valid permit, and inspectors cited insufficient refrigeration to keep food safe and a lack of handwashing facilities—both classified as serious risks to public health.

The closure was ordered at 3:30 p.m. Thursday and remains in effect.

Officials said the stand will not be allowed to reopen until it meets all regulatory requirements and is re-inspected by Public Health staff.

“Food safety regulations exist to protect the public from serious health risks,” said a Public Health spokesperson. “Operating without refrigeration or handwashing facilities puts customers at significant risk for foodborne illnesses.”

The agency reminds the public to verify that food vendors are permitted and compliant with health codes before purchasing food.

According to their website:

“Public Health lists the reason(s) the establishment was closed. Reasons for closing an establishment may be due to food code violations and failure to follow the permitting process. Depending on the type of closure, additional information may include the date the facility was shut down, whether the establishment has reopened, the date it reopened, and additional notes.

“Information for restaurants closed by Public Health will remain online for a minimum of 7 days after the establishment is reopened.”