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Restaurant · Chicago, IL

Seoul Taco

1321 E 57th St

Last inspected Dec 18, 2025 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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ImprovingThe latest inspection recorded fewer violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

10 inspections

Complaint Re-Inspection

Dec 18, 2025

Pass

1 recorded violation

notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE CEILING VENTS WHERE NEEDED TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED ON VENTS.

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, Dec 18, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint

Dec 11, 2025

Fail

3 recorded violations

notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED RODENT ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. FOUND MORE THAN 100 MOUSE DROPPINGS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: BEHIND FRONT COUNTER ON SHELF AND FLOOR, IN COOKING AREA ON FLOOR AND UNDER FRYERS, IN REAR PREP AREA UNDER AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT AND SINKS, IN CLOSET AREA NEXT TO THE SODA MACHINE, IN CUSTOMER WASHROOM ON THE FLOOR BY THE TOILET AND SINK AND IN BASEMENT AREA AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT AND ALONG WALL LEDGE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. 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 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED THE BOTTOM AREA OF THE FRYERS WITH GREASE AND DROPPINGS; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CLEAN EXTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, REFRIGERATION UNITS AND PREP TABLES WHERE NEEDED.

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

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE RESTAURANT AND BASEMENT FOCUSING ON ALL AREAS WHERE MOUSE DROPPINGS LOCATED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE CEILING VENTS WHERE NEEDED TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED ON VENTS.

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, Dec 11, 2025 · Original Source

Canvass Re-Inspection

May 14, 2025

Pass

4 recorded violations

notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP COOLERS, PREP TABLES, HOLDING UNITS. 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
notedCode 51Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET ON 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR 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 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SPILLS ON WALLS, DUST, DIRT AND DEBRIS ON CEILING TILES, CEILING VENTS, AND LIGHT SHIELDS, ON FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. 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
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED MANAGER. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.

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, May 14, 2025 · Original Source

Canvass

May 6, 2025

Fail

13 recorded violations

notedCode 1Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION

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 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE OR VALID CERTIFICATE POSTED WHEN TCS FOOD (BEEF 163.8F) PREPARED AND SERVED. A CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AND CERTIFICATE POSTED AT ALL TIMES TCS FOOD PREPARED AND SERVED. 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 5Other

Official wording

PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO PROCEDURES AND SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
notedCode 10Handwashing

Official wording

ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED LARGE PITCHER INSIDE HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA AND HAND WASHING SNK BLOCKED BY BULK CONTAINERS OF SOY SAUCE AND OIL IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL ITEMS INSIDE AND IN FRONT OF HAND WASHING SINKS. HAND WASHING SINKS SHALL BE ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED

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 37Food source and labeling

Official wording

FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED BULK CONTAINER NOT LABELED IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.

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 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED OVER 100 MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR UNDER FRONT COUNTER, INSIDE UNUSED PREP COOLER, ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLES, ON HOT HOLDING UNIT, BASE OF WARMER, ON ELECTRICAL OUTLETS AND PIPING IN FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA, ON WOODEN LEDGES AND FLOOR IN POP STORAGE ROOM, ON CARDBOARD BOXES OF TOILET TISSUE, ON WATER METER, INSIDE CARBON DIOXIDE MACHINES, ON FLOOR NEAR WATER HEATERS, ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 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 39Contamination

Official wording

CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS, RICE, ETC STORED ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.

In plain English

Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.

More about food not protected from contamination
notedCode 45Equipment and utensils

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES STORED ON FLOOR BEHIND FRONT COUNTER AND NOT INVERTED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE AND INVERT ALL SINGLE SERVICE UTENISLS, CONTAINERS AND LIDS TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.

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 DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP COOLERS, PREP TABLES, HOLDING UNITS. 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
notedCode 51Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET ON 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR 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 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SOILED MOP HEAD STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE MOP HEAD UPRIGHT TO PROPERLY DRY AND PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.

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 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED MISSING FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES. ALL EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING.

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 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED MANAGER. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.

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, May 6, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint Re-Inspection

Dec 13, 2024

Pass

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Dec 13, 2024 · Original Source

Short Form Complaint

Dec 6, 2024

Fail

2 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

THE PERSON IN CHARGE HAS NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. 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 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF MICE ON PREMISES. FOUND 100 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: IN THE REGISTER AREA ON THE FLOOR, ON THE FLOOR IN THE COOKING AREA BY THE TWO DOOR COOLER, ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR KITCHEN AREA BEHIND REFRIGERATION UNITS AND IN THE BASEMENT AREA ALONG THE WALL AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ORKIN SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT NEXT WEEK PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. 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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Dec 6, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint Re-Inspection

Aug 16, 2024

Pass

0 recorded violations

No violations recorded in this inspection.

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

Complaint Re-Inspection

Aug 7, 2024

Fail

5 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITH CERTIFICATE ON-SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED PERSON-IN-CHARGE TO OBTAIN CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE AND MAINTAIN POSTED 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 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS AND WALLS AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND COOKING AND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE, FOOD SPLATTER AND DROPPINGS WHERE OBSERVED.

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 59Other

Official wording

PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED

Inspector’s notes

PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2597418 ON 7-12-24:38 OBSERVED RODENT ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. FOUND 100 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA USED BY THE RESTAURANT ALONG THE WALL EDGE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS, ALONG STAIRWAY BEHIND AND AROUND OTHER BASEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE FLOOR, ON BEER TAP EQUIPMENT, ON ELECTRICAL OUTLETS, ON ROLLING CARTS AND PIPING, ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN SOUTH BASEMENT; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN. ALSO FOUND MICE DROPPINGS BEHIND THE FRONT SERVING COUNTER ON THE FLOOR, ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT, INSIDE FRYER CABINETS, ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLES, BEHIND THE TWO DOOR FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN, AT THE BOTTOM AREA OF THE TWO DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND ON STORAGE HAMPER AND BEHIND THE STORAGE HAMPER ACROSS FROM THE SINK ON THE FLOOR, ON THE SIDE OF THE UTILITY SINK AND IN THE SODA DISPENSER CLOSET IN THE DINING AREA ON THE FLOOR ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS INSIDE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
notedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT NEEDS TO BE CLEANED AND MAINTAINED: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF BEVERAGE MACHINE, COOKING EQUIPMENT AND INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION UNITS IN COOKING AREA.

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

VENTILATION SYSTEM NOT WORKING PROPERLY ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. SYSTEM SCHEDULED TO BE REPAIRED.

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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 7, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

Jul 12, 2024

Fail

5 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. 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 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED RODENT ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. FOUND 100 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA USED BY THE RESTAURANT ALONG THE WALL EDGE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS, BEHIND AND AROUND OTHER BASEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE FLOOR; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN. ALSO FOUND MOUSE DROPPINGS BEHIND THE FRONT SERVING COUNTER ON THE FLOOR, BEHIND THE TWO DOOR FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN, AT THE BOTTOM AREA OF THE TWO DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN, UNDER THE THREE COMP SINK AND BEHIND THE STORAGE HAMPER ACROSS FROM THE SINK ON THE FLOOR, ON THE SIDE OF THE UTILITY SINK AND IN THE CLOSET IN THE DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE PRIOR TO REINSEPCTION NEXT WEEK. 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 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT NEEDS TO BE CLEANED AND MAINTAINED: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT ADN INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION UNITS IN COOKING AREA.

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

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS AND WALLS AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND COOKING AND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE, FOOD SPLATTER AND DROPPINGS WHERE OBSERVED.

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

VENTILATION SYSTEM NOT WORKING PROPERLY ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. SYSTEM SCHEDULED TO BE REPAIRED.

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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Jul 12, 2024 · Original Source

Canvass

Feb 23, 2024

Pass w/ Conditions

12 recorded violations

notedCode 22Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD ITEMS AT INSUFFICIENT COLD-HOLDING TEMPERATURES IN THE KITCHEN AREA DRAWER COOLER: COOKED CORN AT 60.2F, COOKED CHICKEN MIX AT 60.4F, AND RAW EGGS AT 59.0F. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND DENATURE OUT-OF-TEMPERATURE FOOD ITEMS. PERSON-IN-CHARGE DISCARDED AND DENATURED FOOD ITEMS WITH BLEACH ON-SITE, APPROXIMATELY 40 LBS VALUED APPROXIMATELY $250 DISCARDED. 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 33Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COOLING METHODS USED; ADEQUATE EQUIPMENT FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SMALL GRILL DRAWER COOLER (RIGHT-MOST) COOLER AT INSUFFICIENT TEMPERATURE TO COLD-HOLD TCS FOOD ITEMS AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE 52.3F. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE TCS FOOD ITEMS FROM COOLER AND CEASE USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT MAINTAINS ADEQUATE TEMPERATURE FOR COLD-HOLDING. PERSON-IN-CHARGE REMOVED AND DISCARDED ALL FOOD ITEMS FROM COOLER AT TIME OF INSPECTION. 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 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITH CERTIFICATE ON-SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED PERSON-IN-CHARGE TO OBTAIN CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE AND MAINTAIN POSTED 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 3Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY COPIES ON-SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES AND MAINTAIN ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-010 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 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FLY GLUE STRIPS ABOVE FOOD PREPARATION AREA IN THE REAR OF FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND USE PEST CONTROL DEVICES IN AREAS WHERE EXPOSED FOOD IS NOT PREPARED OR HANDLED AND MAINTAIN.

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 39Contamination

Official wording

CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED MULTI-USE CUP WITHOUT HANDLE USED AS SCOOP IN DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS IN KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND REPLACE WITH A MULTI-USE TOOL WITH A HANDLE TO AVOID CONTACT WITH DRY FOODS WHEN HANDLING UTENSIL AND MAINTAIN.

In plain English

Food was stored or handled in a way that could let germs or other material get into it, such as raw meat stored above ready-to-eat food or uncovered food. Cross-contamination is a common cause of foodborne illness.

More about food not protected from contamination
notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED CAN OPENER ASSEMBLYIN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA TO BE RUSTED AND NO LONGER EASILY-CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND REPLACE WITH MODEL THAT IS 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 NONFOOD-CONTACT PORTIONS OF COOKING/DRAWER COOLER EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN AREA HEAVILY SOILED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILDUP OF SOIL 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 51Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED DRAIN PLUMBING FOR HANDWASHING SINKS IN KITCHEN AREA AND REAR PREP AREA TO BE SLOW-DRAINING AND IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE HANDWASHING SINK DRAIN PLUMBING TO ALLOW FOR ADEQUATE DRAINAGE 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 54Facility maintenance

Official wording

GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SOIL ON EXTERIOR OF OUTDOOR GREASE WASTE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN GREASE WASTE CONTAINER AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILDUP OF SOIL 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 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FLOORS AND WALLS IN KITCHEN AREA TO BE SOILED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE WALLS AND FLOORS IN KITCHEN AREA AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILDUP OF SOIL 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

OBSERVED LIGHTING OF INSUFFICIENT INTENSITY IN THE WALK-IN COOLER AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE LIGHT FIXTURE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE INTENSITY FOR AREAS IN WHICH FOOD IS HANDLED OR STORED 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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Feb 23, 2024 · Original Source

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