Dogs, cats, roaches and rats found inside bar kitchen

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In this week’s Food 4 Thought, is the tale of two bars: one has a dog, cats, rats and roaches. The smell almost had the bar manager and Food Patrol throwing up.

The other is a Top Performer and one of Brownsville’s best-kept secrets with a speakeasy-type atmosphere.

We visited one of the most unique kitchens and bars, El Camino Social Club located at 2233 Central Blvd.

El Camino is this week’s Top Performer for passing its Brownsville inspection report. Manager Mack Guerra is the first face you will see.

“I greet everybody," said Guerra. "I know every face who walks in here."

Past Guerra and through some velvet curtains is a spot so chill, you will need to be warmed by the mood lights.

El Camino’s vibe is one thing and the menu is a vibe all itself with aged steaks, smoked meats and cocktails.

Now, strap in for the wildest bar report we have seen in years.

We visited Charlie’s Bar and Grill located at 2602 E 14th St in Brownsville who failed its inspection report with a score of 41. That means there were 59 health code violations.

They have food temperature problems, pest problems, roaches, rats and even cats.

The inspector wrote, “Cat can’t be inside.” However, while they got the cat out, a big dog was walking in to take its place.

“He don’t bite," said the workers.

Totally normal stuff at Charlie’s.

The bar manager did not do anything about the roach we spotted getting eaten alive by ants that was in plain view beside her.

Going into the kitchen is a nightmare for anyone who may have eaten there, with conditions such as:

• Stacked pots and pans
• Toothbrush and toothpaste sitting on a rag with rodent droppings
• A range hood covered in grease and hair

When the bar manager Margarita was asked if she would eat there knowing the conditions, she responded, "Of course not."

Nothing could have prepared Margarita, our camera operator or the Food Patrol for the stench coming from the new fridge.

When we opened it Margarita said, "The smell just got to me."

She tells us she will bring all this to the attention of the owner.

And that’s Food 4 Thought.

You’re part of the Food Patrol! When you see dirty habits, please send us photos/videos and a copy of the complaint you filed to your local health department to News@KVEO.COM.