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Restaurant · Chicago, IL

Peeples Taco's

5944 W Chicago Ave

Last inspected Aug 11, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

The department’s records list this business as closed or out of business.

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More issues recentlyThe latest inspection recorded more violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

12 inspections

Complaint

Aug 11, 2026

Pass

4 recorded violations

notedCode 35Food temperature

Official wording

APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING BEING DONE ON FROZEN CHICKEN.THAWING MUST OCCUR WITH FOOD BEING PLACED IN THE REFRIGERATION UNIT OVER NIGHT, OR UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CORRECT THAWING PROCEDURES.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE FROZEN MEATS IN REACH-IN-FREEZER AND USE ONLY FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE MANUAL CAN OPENER AND HOUSING ATTACHED TO THE PREP TABLE LOCATED AT REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA TO REMOVE THE DRIED-UP/DEBRIS BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED PEELING PAINT DEBRIS HANGING ON CEILING NEAR THE REAR PREP TABLE.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT DEBRIS AND REPAIR/MAINTAIN TO SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 11, 2026 · Original Source

Short Form Complaint

Apr 2, 2026

Pass

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Apr 2, 2026 · Original Source

Canvass Re-Inspection

Mar 18, 2026

Pass

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Mar 18, 2026 · Original Source

Canvass

Feb 25, 2026

Fail

11 recorded violations

notedCode 10Handwashing

Official wording

ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

Inspector’s notes

SOAP AND DISPOSABLE TOWELS STOCKED AT UTILITY/MOP SINK IN WASHROOM. MUST REMOVE HAND WASHING AIDS FROM UTILITY/MOP SINK.

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
notedCode 21Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED COOKED BEEF AND COOKED CHICKEN AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF 60.6F-109.7F INSIDE OF THE HOT HOLDING STEAM TABLE AT FRONT PREP AREA.MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 10#'S OF FOOD WORTH $450.00.INSTRUCTED MANAGER, (TCS FOODS) MUST MAINTAIN COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 41.0F OR COLDER AND HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 135F OR HOTTER AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 35Food temperature

Official wording

APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING BEING DONE ON FROZEN CHICKEN.THAWING MUST OCCUR WITH FOOD BEING PLACED IN THE COOLER OVER NIGHT, OR UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CORRECT THAWING PROCEDURES.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED PEST INFESTATION IN THE PREMISES. AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION OBSERVED OVER 200 RODENT (MICE) DROPPINGS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS OF THE KITCHEN PREP AREA, AND REAR PREP/DISHWASHING/STORAGE AREA ON THE BOTTOM OF STORAGE RACKS, IN THE INTERIORS OF MOTOR HOUSINGS OF THE REFRIGERATION UNITS ON TOP AND AROUND THE REAR FURNACE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL RODENT (MICE) DROPPINGS AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-020(A), CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARD ON TOP OF THE REAR TABLE IN THE REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN KITCHEN STORAGE RACKS, PREP TABLES, FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS, TOPS/BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES AND PREP COOLERS, COOKING GRILL STATION, INTERIOR BOTTOM COMPARTMENT OF THE DEEP FRYER. REMOVE ALL GREASE, FOOD DEBRIS ETC.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 51Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED WATER LEAK AT DRAINPIPE UNDERNEATH THE DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAK AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
notedCode 52Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

SEWAGE & WASTE WATER PROPERLY DISPOSED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED WASTEWATER BACKING UP AT THE DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK WHEN THE WATER IS RELEASED, OR RUN, FROM MIDDLE COMPARTMENT, WATER BACKS UP INTO THE LEFT AND RIGHT COMPARTMENTS OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND WATER SLOWLY DRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING ISSUE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C), CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TAPED (ATTACHED) GLUE BOARDS ON WALLS ALONG THE FURNACE EQUIPMENT AND REAR WALL LOCATED IN THE REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SAID GLUE BOARDS AND MAINTAIN SO THE WALLS ARE REPAIRED TO SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE, NON-ABSORBENT SURFACES. ALSO, INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN FOOD SPLASHED DEBRIS ON WALLS/CEILING AT REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 56Facility maintenance

Official wording

ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD/FILTERS TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.

More about building upkeep issues
notedCode 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITH EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.INSTRUCTED TO SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Feb 25, 2026 · Original Source

Canvass

Aug 5, 2025

Out of Business

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 5, 2025 · Original Source

License Re-Inspection

Aug 5, 2025

Pass

4 recorded violations

notedCode 37Food source and labeling

Official wording

FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

Inspector’s notes

3-302.12: OBSERVED SQUIRT BOTTLES NOT LABELED IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
notedCode 48Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS

Inspector’s notes

4-301.12: OBSERVED TWO MISSING SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

6-501.13: OBSERVED FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

2-102.13: OBSERVED NO ALLEGRGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST TAKE COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORD ON SITE.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 5, 2025 · Original Source

License

Jul 25, 2025

Fail

7 recorded violations

notedCode 22Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS. FOUND TWO ZIPLOC BAGS OF STEAK (64.1F-66.2F), CHICKEN (56.0F), GROUND BEEF (65.1F), ITALIAN BEEF MEAT (58.4F), PORK (59.1F), DICED TOMATOES (53.0F), SLICED TOMATOES (52.0F) MANAGER DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 14LBS AT $195 WORTH OF PRODUCT. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0°F OR BELOW. PRIORITY 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 33Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COOLING METHODS USED; ADEQUATE EQUIPMENT FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF REFRIGERATOR AT 53.1°F WITH TCS FOODS STORED INSIDE FOR SALE. A HELD FOR INSPECTION TAG WAS PLACED ON THE UNIT. PLEASE REVIEW COMMENTS FOR TAG REMOVAL. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING UNITS AT 41.0°F OR BELOW.(PRIORITY 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 20 MICE DROPPINGS AND TWO LIVE ROACHES ON SITE DURING INSPECTION. MICE DROPPING ABOVE ON FLOORS IN THE REAR NEAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, COLD HOLDING UNITS, UNDER THE SHELVES, AND HOT WATER TANK, AND IN THE FRONT PREP AREA: SURROUNDING COLD HOLDING UNITS. FOUND 1 ROACH UNDER THE SHELF IN THE REAR PREP AREA AND UNDER THE SHELF IN THE FRONT PREP AREA THAT ELEVATES THE TV. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MICE DROPPINGS, ELIMINATE LIVE ROACH ACTIVITY, CLEAN AFFECTED SURFACES, AND RECOMMEND CONTACTING PEST CONTROL. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A), CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
notedCode 48Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TWO MISSING SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO ALLEGRGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST TAKE COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORD ON SITE.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
notedCode 37Food source and labeling

Official wording

FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SQUIRT BOTTLES NOT LABELED IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Jul 25, 2025 · Original Source

Canvass

Mar 17, 2025

Pass w/ Conditions

5 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WITH A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE WHILE TCS, TIME TEMPERATURE AND CONTROL, FOODS ARE STORED, PREPARED AND SERVED. CFM ARRIVED ON SITE AT APPROXIMATELY 12:35PM. INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED MANAGER WITH A CURRENT CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE MUST BE ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
notedCode 35Food temperature

Official wording

APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED BOX OF CHICKEN THAWING IMPROPERLY IN 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO THAW PROPERLY.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED CARDBOARD ON FLOOR UNDER FLOOR MATS IN FOOD PREP AREA AT THE FRYER AND GRILL AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED OLD/UNUSED EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT-LINE AND PREP FOOD AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE POSTED FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIVE.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Mar 17, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint Re-Inspection

Oct 15, 2024

Pass

2 recorded violations

notedCode 53Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TOILET ROOM DOOR TO BE NOT TIGHT-FITTING AND UNABLE TO SECURELY CLOSE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE TOILET ROOM DOOR TO ALLOW FOR DOOR TO CLOSE SECURELY AND MAINTAIN TOILET ROOM DOORS TIGHT-FITTING.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FLOORS BENEATH COOKING EQUIPMENT (GRILL LINE) TO BE HEAVILY-SOILED WITH GREASE AND OTHER DRIED FOOD DEBRIS IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS BENEATH EQUIPMENT WITH ADEQUATE CLEANING SUPPLIES AND AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF HEAVY SOILS SUCH AS GREASE AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Oct 15, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

Oct 8, 2024

Fail

6 recorded violations

notedCode 36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SEVERAL COLD-HOLDING UNITS MISSING INTERNAL AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AT LEAST ONE INTERNAL AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER IN A CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY-VIEWEABLE LOCATION IN ALL EQUIPMENT USED TO COLD-HOLD TCS FOOD ITEMS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 100 RODENT DROPPINGS THROUGHOUT THE FOLLOWING AREAS: APPROXIMATELY 40 DROPPINGS IN REAR CORNER BEHIND UPRIGHT COLD-HOLDING AND FREEZER UNITS, APPROXIMATELY 20 DROPPINGS BENEATH MILK CRATES IN CORNER NEAR 2-DOOR FREEZER UNITS, APPROXIMATELY 20 DROPPINGS BENEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN WAREWASHING AREA, APPROXIMATELY 20 DROPPINGS THROUGHOUT FRONT PREP AREA BENEATH COLD-HOLDING UNITS, FRONT SERVICE SHELF, AND IN AND BELOW DRY STORAGE CABINETS NEAR HOT-HOLDING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO EFFECTIVELY REMOVE DROPPINGS AND CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS, AND SEEK ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM LICENSED PEST CONTROL OPERATOR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
notedCode 45Equipment and utensils

Official wording

SINGLE-USE/SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES: PROPERLY STORED & USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED INVIDUALLY-WRAPPED DISPOSABLE PAPER TOWEL ROLLS STORED ON ELEVATED WALL SHELF IN TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DISPOSABLE PAPER TOWELS FROM TOILET ROOM AND CEASE STORAGE OF ANY SINGLE-USE OR SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES IN TOILET ROOMS AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED INTERIOR CAVITY OF SMALL LINE COOLER TO BE SOILED WITH DRIED FOOD DEBRIS AND HEAVY ICE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND DE-ICE NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF SOIL OR ICE AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 53Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TOILET ROOM DOOR TO BE NOT TIGHT-FITTING AND UNABLE TO SECURELY CLOSE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE TOILET ROOM DOOR TO ALLOW FOR DOOR TO CLOSE SECURELY AND MAINTAIN TOILET ROOM DOORS TIGHT-FITTING.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FLOORS BENEATH COOKING EQUIPMENT (GRILL LINE) TO BE HEAVILY-SOILED WITH GREASE AND OTHER DRIED FOOD DEBRIS IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS BENEATH EQUIPMENT WITH ADEQUATE CLEANING SUPPLIES AND AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF HEAVY SOILS SUCH AS GREASE AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Oct 8, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

Apr 16, 2024

Pass

6 recorded violations

notedCode 35Food temperature

Official wording

APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FROZEN CHICKEN THAWING IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO THAW TCS FOODS UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER, IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR IN THE MICROWAVE AS PART OF A CONTINUOUS COOKING PROCESS.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON FLOOR IN PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD FROM SHELVING UNITS. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 51Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED MINOR LEAK AT THE UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED EXCESSIVE CLUTTER IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS, PERSONAL ITEMS, ETC AND ELEVATE ALL ITEMS 6 INCHES OFF OF FLOOR. MUST MAINTAIN PREMISES.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, COOLERS, FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Apr 16, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

Jan 10, 2024

Pass w/ Conditions

7 recorded violations

notedCode 35Food temperature

Official wording

APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FROZEN CHEESE AND FROZEN HOT SAUCE THAWING IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO THAW TCS FOODS UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER, IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR IN THE MICROWAVE AS PART OF A CONTINUOUS COOKING PROCESS.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
notedCode 41Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

WIPING CLOTHS: PROPERLY USED & STORED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED,HANDLED AND SERVED SUCH AS (BEEF,CHICKEN,STEAK,ETC). CERTIFIED MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012)(CITATION ISSUED

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
notedCode 23Food source and labeling

Official wording

PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TCS FOODS (COOKED BEEF) HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITH OUT DISCARD DATES. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE DISCARD DATE FOR ANY TCS FOODS HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED

In plain English

Food came from an unapproved source, was missing required date marks or labels, or was past its use-by date. Knowing where food came from and how old it is helps prevent illness.

More about food source, dating, or labeling problems
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD FROM SHELVING UNITS. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF GREASE, DIRT, DUST AND FOOD SPLATTER AND DEBRIS ON THE SIDES, UNDER AND AROUND ALL COOKING AND NON COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST HARBORING.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED THE FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT ALONG THE WALLS WITH A BUILD UP OF GREASE, DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Jan 10, 2024 · Original Source

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