Complaint Re-Inspection
May 20, 2026
Pass
0 recorded violations
No violations recorded in this inspection.
Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, May 20, 2026 · Original Source
Restaurant · Chicago, IL
Taqueria El Ranchito
2829 N Milwaukee Ave
Last inspected May 20, 2026 · 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
8 inspectionsComplaint
May 12, 2026
Fail
15 recorded violations
notedCode 10Handwashing
Official wording
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWEL AT THE HAND-SINK IN THE PREP AREA. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT PAPER TOWELS MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HAND SINKS AT ALL TIMES. FOOD HANDLER OBTAINED PAPER TOWEL FOR HAND SINK DURING TIME OF INSPECTION PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #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 problemsnotedCode 13Contamination
Official wording
FOOD IN GOOD CONDITION, SAFE, & UNADULTERATED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED BAGS OF PINTO BEANS, DRIED CHILIS, ONIONS GNAWED, TORN AND READY TO PREPARE FOR SERVICE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD. ALL FOOD PACKAGES SHALL BE IN GOOD CONDITION AND PROTECT THE INTEGRITY OF CONTENTS SO FOOD IS NOT EXPOSED TO ADULTERATION OR POTENTIAL CONTAMINANTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
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 contaminationnotedCode 14Food source and labeling
Official wording
REQUIRED RECORDS AVAILABLE: SHELLSTOCK TAGS, PARASITE DESTRUCTION
Inspector’s notes
MUST PROVIDE THE DATE ON ALL SHELLFISH TAGS, WHEN THE LAST SHELLSTOCK FROM THE CONTAINER IS SOLD OR SERVED; AND STORE ALL SHELLFISH TAGS IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER FOR AT LEAST 90 DAYS FROM THE SALE DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #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 problemsnotedCode 16Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN BASMENT PREP/STORAGE AREA WITH A BUILD-UP OF BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE, DRIPPING ONTO ICE CUBES STORED AT BELOW ICE BIN.ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.CITATION ISSUED
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 problemsnotedCode 21Food temperature
Official wording
PROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING FOOD NOT MEETING REQUIRE TEMPERATURE OF 135F DEGREES OR ABOVE IN THE DESIGNATED HOT-HOLDING UNIT: AL PASTOR 109.4F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 5 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $50.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. 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 temperaturenotedCode 23Food source and labeling
Official wording
PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (BEANS, RICE, CHICKEN SOUP, BEEF). NOT PROPERLY DATED, STORED LONGER THAN 24 HOURS INSIDE WALK-INCOOLER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DATE MARKING WITH DISPOSITION DATE FOR RTE FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD OVER 24HOURS IN COLD HOLDING UNITS. REVIEWED PROPER DATE LABELING OF PREPARED TCS FOODS.ING UNIT: AL PASTOR 109.4F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 500 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $15000.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 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 problemsnotedCode 36Equipment and utensils
Official wording
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLERS AND DISPLAY COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY READABLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT.
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 issuesnotedCode 38Pests
Official wording
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED RODENT INFESTATION. LIVE MICE AND RAT OBSERVED IN BASEMENT OVER 350 DROPPINGS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS THROUGHOUT: DINING ROOM, 1ST FLOOR PREP, BASEMENT PREP AND ON SHELVES IN BASEMENT, CHEST FREEZER THROUGHOUT BASEMENT, ON DRIED PINTO BEAN STORAGE , ON ONIONS UNDER THE STAIRS IN DRY STORAGE AREA, ALONG BASEBOARDS AND UNDER IN STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE SOUTHEAST SIDE OF THE BASEMENT REAR SOUTH BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS, SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS HAVE PEST CO. SERVICE FOR RATS AND MICE. 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 insectsnotedCode 39Contamination
Official wording
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
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 contaminationnotedCode 43Equipment and utensils
Official wording
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED SCOOPS FOR DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS BEING STORED DIRECTLY INSIDE OF THE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL UTENSILS BETWEEN USE.
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 issuesnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED PALLETS BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE WALK IN COOLER/ WALK IN FREEZER AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE PALLETS AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
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 problemsnotedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED BROKEN LID OF CHEST FREEZER IN REAR PREP INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE LID 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 problemsnotedCode 53Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF SANITARY NAPKINS IN ALL-GENDER WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED 2 LIVING QUARTER IN BASEMENT WHERE BEDS, DRESSERS AND PERSONAL ITEMS AREA INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL ITEMS PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
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 problemsnotedCode 60Other
Official wording
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED
Inspector’s notes
NOTED CONTINUED NON-COMPLIANCE FROM REPORT #2629316 CONDUCTED ON 01/06/2026 . PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED: (#37) 3-302.12: **C** Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE COTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABEL WITH THE COMMON NAME AT ALL TIMES. (#47) 4-101.19: **C** Nonfood-Contact Surfaces OBSERVED TIN FOIL ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLES IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE ALL SURFACES TO BE NON-CORROSIVE, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES. OBSERVED RUSTY BOTTOM OF FOOD PREP TABLES IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAINT/REFINISH TO REMOVE DUST AND PROVIDE A NON-CORROSIVE SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES. (#47)4-501.12: **C** Cutting Surfaces OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEEMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. (#47)4-102.11: **C** Characteristics- Single-Service and Single-Use OBSERVED FROZEN FOOD ITEMS STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS IN MAIN KITCHEND FOOD PREP AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE USE PROPER FOOD GRADE BAGS OR CONTAINERS ONLY. (#47)4-501.11: **C** Good Repair and Proper Adjustment- Equipment OBSERVED DAMAGED DOOR GASKET AT THE 2-DOOR TALL REFRIGERATOR LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. (#49) 4-602.13: NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues. OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF ICE AND DIRT BUILD UP INSIDE ALL CHEST FREEZERS LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST REMOVED EXCESS ICE BUILD UP AND DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED GREASE AND DIRT BUILD UP ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, REFRIGERATION UNITS, FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. (#49)4-601.11(B): (B) The FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of cooking EQUIPMENT and pans shall be kept free of encrusted grease deposits and other soil accumulations. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD FOR LINER ON SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. (#55) 6-501.16: **C** Drying Mops OBSERVED MOPS STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST PLACE MOPS IN POSITION THAT CAN ALLOW THEM AIR DRY WITHOUT SOILING WALLS AND FLOORS. (#55) 6-201.11: **C** Floors, Walls, and Ceilings- Cleanability OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP ON FLOOR AND SURFACES THROUGHOUT PREMISES. INSTRUCTED ABOVE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN UNDERNEATH AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT, UNDER FOOD STORAGE SHELVING, PREP TABLES, DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN FLOOR THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES AND MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT BUILD UP ON WALLS BEHING COOKING EQUIPMENT, BEHIND COOLERS AND FREEZERS AND PREP TABLES IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. (55)6-501.13: **C** Cleaning Floors, Dustless Methods OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DIRT AND GREASE ON FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. MUST CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIES (#55)6-501.12: **C** Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions OBSERVED ACCUMULATION OF DUST AND GRASE BUILD UP NON-VENTILATION HOOD AND FILETRS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. (#55)6-501.11: **C** Maintained in Good Repair, Facilities (FACILITIES NOT IN GOOD REPAIR) OBSERVED A FEW WATERS DAMAGED CEILING TILES ABOVE CHEST FREEZER IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA/FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE. OBSERVED BROKEN, CRACKED, MISSING, DAMAGED FLOOR AND WALLS TILES BEHING PREP TABLES AND BEHING REFRIGERATION UNITS IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR REPLACE ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND MAINTAIN. MUST REMOVE ALL UNEVEN SPRAY FOAM SEALANT ALONG BASEBOARD COVING THROUGHOUT REAR DISHWASHING AREA. OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON WALL IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA AND BASEMENT. MUST REPAINT AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED BIG OPENINGS INTO CEILING AND AROUND PIPES ON BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. MUST CORRECT CORE VIOLATIONS BY THE DATE ON THE REPORT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 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 findingOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, May 12, 2026 · Original Source
Canvass
Jan 6, 2026
Pass w/ Conditions
9 recorded violations
notedCode 23Food source and labeling
Official wording
PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (BEANS, RICE, CHICKEN SOUP, BEEF). NOT PROPERLY DATED, STORED LONGER THAN 24 HOURS INSIDE WALK-INCOOLER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DATE MARKING WITH DISPOSITION DATE FOR RTE FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD OVER 24HOURS IN COLD HOLDING UNITS. REVIEWED PROPER DATE LABELING OF PREPARED TCS FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 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 problemsnotedCode 37Food source and labeling
Official wording
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER
Inspector’s notes
MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE COTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABEL WITH THE COMMON NAME AT ALL TIMES.
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 problemsnotedCode 40Employee health and hygiene
Official wording
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
In plain English
This covers things like hair restraints, jewelry, clean clothing, eating or drinking in food prep areas, touching ready-to-eat food with bare hands, or not having a sick-employee policy.
More about employee hygiene or health policy issuesnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED FROZEN FOOD ITEMS STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS IN MAIN KITCHEND FOOD PREP AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE USE PROPER FOOD GRADE BAGS OR CONTAINERS ONLY.
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 problemsnotedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF ICE AND DIRT BUILD UP INSIDE ALL CHEST FREEZERS LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST REMOVED EXCESS ICE BUILD UP AND DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED GREASE AND DIRT BUILD UP ON THE EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, REFRIGERATION UNITS, FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED MOPS STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST PLACE MOPS IN POSITION THAT CAN ALLOW THEM AIR DRY WITHOUT SOILING WALLS AND FLOORS.
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 problemsnotedCode 56Facility maintenance
Official wording
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED A FEW LIGHT BULBS OFF IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REPAIR/ REPLACE AND PROVIDE INTENSITY LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
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 issuesnotedCode 57Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING
Inspector’s notes
MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
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 issuesnotedCode 58Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED THREE CERTFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ABOVE THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN AND PROVIDE PROOF OF 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 issuesOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Jan 6, 2026 · Original Source
Complaint Re-Inspection
Feb 20, 2025
Pass
2 recorded violations
notedCode 36Equipment and utensils
Official wording
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE
Inspector’s notes
4-204.112(B) OBSERVED NO THERMOMETERS IN ANY OF THE COLD HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT BAR AND REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COLD HOLDING EQUIPMENT 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 issuesnotedCode 45Equipment and utensils
Official wording
SINGLE-USE/SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES: PROPERLY STORED & USED
Inspector’s notes
4-903.11(A;C) OBSERVED BOXED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES OFF FLOOR 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 issuesOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Feb 20, 2025 · Original Source
Complaint
Feb 6, 2025
Fail
7 recorded violations
notedCode 36Equipment and utensils
Official wording
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED NO THERMOMETERS IN ANY OF THE COLD HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT BAR AND REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COLD HOLDING EQUIPMENT 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 issuesnotedCode 41Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
WIPING CLOTHS: PROPERLY USED & STORED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED MULTIPLE SOILED WIPING CLOTHS BEING STORED ON PREP TABLES THROUGHOUT REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES 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 problemsnotedCode 45Equipment and utensils
Official wording
SINGLE-USE/SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES: PROPERLY STORED & USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED BOXED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES OFF FLOOR 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 issuesnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED FOIL BEING USED AS LINER ON PREP SURFACES IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE FOIL AND ENSURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN 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 problemsnotedCode 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, PREP TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS, AND SHELVING UNITS. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. (NONFOOD CONTACT 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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON THE FLOORS AND SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO DETAIL CLEAN UNDER ALL SHELVING UNITS, INTERIOR OF PREP DISH AREA, AROUND DISH MACHINE, PREP TABLES AND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE SPILLS, FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT BUILDUP AND/OR GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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 problemsnotedCode 60Other
Official wording
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED
Inspector’s notes
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 08/12/2024 INSPECTION, REPORT #2600053 NOT CORRECTED: #16-NOTED INNER LINING AND UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEANED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. #39-NOTED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF FLOOR. #47-NOTED RUSTY AND DIRTY SHELVES THROUGHOUT WALK IN COOLERS AND KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, REPAINT WITH NON TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT AND/OR REPLACE. #47- NOTED LIDS OF CHEST FREEZER IN POOR REPAIRS IN BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.NOTED PEELING PAINT ON WALLS BEHINED THE UNUSED DISH WASHING MACHINE AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA. ALSO NOTED STAINED CEILING TILES, HOLES AND OPENING ON CEILING AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS OF THE PEELING PAINT, REPAIR AND MAINTAIN THE CEILINGS.#55- PRIORITY FOUNDATION 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 findingOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Feb 6, 2025 · Original Source
Complaint
Aug 12, 2024
Pass w/ Conditions
5 recorded violations
notedCode 39Contamination
Official wording
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY
Inspector’s notes
NOTED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" 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 contaminationnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
NOTED RUSTY AND DIRTY SHELVES THROUGHOUT WALK IN COOLERS AND KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, REPAINT WITH NON TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT AND/OR REPLACE.
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 problemsnotedCode 16Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED
Inspector’s notes
NOTED INNER LINING AND UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEANED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE 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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
NOTED PEELING PAINT ON WALLS BEHINED THE UNUSED DISH WASHING MACHINE AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA. ALSO NOTED STAINED CEILING TILES, HOLES AND OPENING ON CEILING AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS OF THE PEELING PAINT, REPAIR AND MAINTAIN THE CEILINGS.
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 problemsnotedCode 60Other
Official wording
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED
Inspector’s notes
NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 RULE #PA-100-0367 FROM INSPECTION REPORT #2586004 DATED 11/29/2023 NOT CORRECTED. FOUND INCOMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 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 findingOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 12, 2024 · Original Source
Complaint
Nov 29, 2023
Pass
9 recorded violations
notedCode 10Handwashing
Official wording
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE
Inspector’s notes
INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK IN THE COOKING AREA.
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 problemsnotedCode 54Facility maintenance
Official wording
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED LEAVES AND DEBRIS ON GROUND UNDER AND AROUND REAR OUTSIDE ARBAGE DUMPSTER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN 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 issuesnotedCode 49Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF ALL PREP COOLERS, WALK-IN COOLER AND IN BASEMENT WALK-IN FREEZER.
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 problemsnotedCode 35Food temperature
Official wording
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING PROCEDURE ON FROZEN PORK. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT, THAWING MUST OCCUR UNDER REFRIGERATION THAT MAINTAINS THE FOOD TEMPERATURE AT 41.0F OR LESS OR COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER RUNNING WATER OR THAWED IN A MICROWAVE OVEN AND IMMEDIATELY TRANSFERRED TO CONVENTIONAL COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH NO INTERRUPTION IN THE PROCESS. 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 temperaturenotedCode 39Contamination
Official wording
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY
Inspector’s notes
INSTRUCTED TO REORGANIZE FROZEN FOOD STORED INSIDE BASEMENT WALK-IN FREEZER. FROZEN FOOD ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE 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 contaminationnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN PREP AND STORAGE SHELVES WITH DRIED FOOD DEBRIS IN THE KITCHEN.
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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS WITH EXCESSIVE DRIED FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE ACCUMULATION IN THE KITCHEN.
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 problemsnotedCode 57Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING
Inspector’s notes
OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITHOUT A FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST SHOW PROOF OF 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 issuesnotedCode 58Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
Inspector’s notes
FOUND INCOMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
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 issuesOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Nov 29, 2023 · Original Source
Complaint Re-Inspection
Oct 3, 2023
Pass
4 recorded violations
notedCode 37Food source and labeling
Official wording
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER
Inspector’s notes
3-302.12 INSTRUCTED TO LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN THE BASEMENT IDENTIFIED WITH COMMON NAME (BEANS, RICE ETC).
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 problemsnotedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
Inspector’s notes
4-101.11(B, C, D, E) OBSERVED BREAD STORED IN GROCERY BAGS IN THE WALK-IN-COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE STORAGE CONTAINERS OR BAGS
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 problemsnotedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing
Official wording
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
Inspector’s notes
6-201.17 INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN LIGHTSHIELDS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN WITH EXCESSIVE DIRT AND ACCUMULATION OF DEAD INSECTS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CONDENSER FAN COVER WITH EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
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 problemsnotedCode 58Permits, training, and postings
Official wording
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
Inspector’s notes
2-102.13 FOUND NO APPROVED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
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 issuesOfficial record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Oct 3, 2023 · Original Source