The Clubhouse Cafe @ Elmwood, a popular Colorado restaurant and bar inside a Pueblo golf facility, was cited for numerous food safety violations on September 23. Inspectors with the Pueblo County Health Department issued a score of 57, which requires a mandatory reinspection.
Among the most alarming discoveries was a half ham covered in visible mold, which was condemned and discarded on the spot. Inspectors also threw out green chile that had been sitting at unsafe temperatures of 117 degrees Fahrenheit for more than two hours, far below the required 165°F for reheating and 135°F for hot holding. Additional items, including mashed potatoes, heavy cream, brisket mix, beans, and various deli meats, were all discarded after being held too long or stored at unsafe temperatures.
Other violations included improper date marking of ready-to-eat foods, containers without labels, food stored directly on the floor, and buildup of sauce and debris in refrigeration units and the ice machine. Inspectors also noted a bug trap above a food prep area, a risk for contamination, which was relocated during the inspection.
The Clubhouse, known locally for hearty American fare, bar service, and a golf course setting that by all accounts is highly regarded, now faces a reinspection before it can be cleared.
Despite the health department’s findings, reviews of the restaurant have long been divided. Some diners praise the steaks, chicken parmesan, and service staff, while others recount burned pancakes, overcooked sausage, forgotten meals, and what one guest called “horrible” green chile. Reports of long waits and understaffing have also surfaced, leaving many patrons frustrated. These mixed experiences highlight a restaurant where community reputation and guest expectations clash with the stark deficiencies inspectors found in the kitchen.
Follow-Up Inspection
The Pueblo County Health Department will return for a reinspection. The score of 57 will remain on record until the establishment demonstrates compliance with food safety standards. Let’s hope The Clubhouse Grill & Cafe can turn things around, as its Facebook page notes that the establishment is under new management and shouldn’t be making these sorts of errors.
