This month has not been kind to Maricopa’s inspection streaks.

First, it was Arby’s on April 1. Now it’s The New HQ on Monday.

Pinal County Environmental Health inspectors conducted seven inspections across Maricopa establishments between April 6 and April 13, issuing six “excellent” ratings and one “satisfactory.” Only The New HQ missed the mark.

That adds another blemish to the record of the longtime Maricopa Road bar and restaurant, which in 2024 became one of the few in the city to ever receive a “needs improvement” rating after sewage was found flowing into the parking lot. After reopening in late 2025, it bounced back with an excellent rating.

During the April 13 visit, inspectors cited two violations:

Raw fish was stored on a pan above prepared foods, creating a cross-contamination risk. The person in charge corrected the issue during the inspection by removing the fish from above the ready-to-eat items.

Inspectors also found residue inside the ice machine above the level of the ice. Management said the machine would be cleaned in a manner that would not contaminate the ice. Both items are expected to be checked again during a future inspection.

The following establishments were rated excellent:

• Asian Seoul’s Copa Kitchen
• Burger King
  • Inspectors observed buildup and residue around the oil receptacle area outside. Management said the area would be cleaned to help prevent pests.
• Gyro Grill
• Nando’s Mexican Cafe
• Sonic Drive-In
• Taco Bell

What the ratings mean

Excellent: All priority standards are observed as compliant. Some nonpriority standards may be critiqued.

Satisfactory: One or more priority standards is out of compliance. All priority standards are corrected at the time of inspection.

Needs improvement: One or more priority standards is out of compliance and at least one violation is not corrected at the time of inspection. Once violations are corrected during a follow-up inspection, a satisfactory rating is issued.

Unacceptable: One or more violations is considered an imminent health hazard. When violations are corrected during a follow-up inspection, the rating becomes satisfactory.