GOOD INFORMATION. BETTER PEACE OF MIND.Español · Always free. No signup required.

Restaurant · Chicago, IL

The New Congress Pizza

3737 W Grand Ave

Last inspected Jun 16, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

Read Reviews on Google

Pass

Get the next inspection, free.

We'll email you when The New Congress Pizza has a new health inspection. No spam, one-click unsubscribe.

No account needed. Unsubscribe at any time.

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

The full inspection history

12 inspections

Complaint Re-Inspection

Jun 16, 2026

Pass

2 recorded violations

notedCode 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

4-501.11---OBSERVED A TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE 1 DOOR PIZZA PREP COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKET 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 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

2-102.13---OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITHOUT A 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, Jun 16, 2026 · Original Source

Short Form Complaint

Jun 9, 2026

Fail

6 recorded violations

notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

6-501.111 OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES.OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 40 RODENT (MICE) DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR CLUTTERED TELEPHONE SERVICE COUNTER SPACE AREA AND INSIDE BOTTOM CABINET OF HAND SINK IN SAME AREA.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL RODENT DROPPINGS. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. 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 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

4-201.11---INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN FREEZER. MUST USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS.

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

4-602.13---INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN EXTERIORS OF LARGE PIZZA OVEN TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF DUSTS 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

6-201.11---OBSERVED BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.MUST REPLACE 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 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

2-102.13---OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITHOUT A 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
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

2-102.13---OBSERVED ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE.INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE 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, Jun 9, 2026 · Original Source

Complaint

May 26, 2026

Pass w/ Conditions

8 recorded violations

notedCode 3Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IN-COMPLETE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING.MISSING POLICY FOR SOME EMPLOYEES.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL EMPLOYEES WORKING ON SITE AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED.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 23Food source and labeling

Official wording

PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT TCS FOODS STORED PAST THEIR EXPIRATION DATE IN THE MAIN PREP LINE COOLER.OBSERVED LARGE CONTAINER OF LASAGNA WITH BEEF THAT WAS STORED LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ACCORDING TO THE DATE MARK STICKER ON THE CONTAINER.TCS FOOD LASAGNA WITH BEEF WAS PREPARED ON 5/19/2026. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD AND TRACK DAILY TO ENSURE ALL FOOD IS DISCARDED BY THE ALLOWABLE USE BY DATE. THE MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE USE BY DATE MAY NOT EXCEED 7 DAYS, WITH THE FIRST DAY OF PREPARATION COUNTING AS DAY 1. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 15 LBS OF LASAGNA WORTH $300.00.PRIORITY 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 problems
notedCode 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED STICKY FLY TRAP ROLL HANGING ABOVE THE FRONT PIZZA HOT HOLDING UNIT.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE 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 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN FREEZER. MUST USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS.

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 EXTERIORS OF LARGE PIZZA OVEN TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF DUSTS 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 BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.MUST REPLACE 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 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITHOUT A 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
notedCode 58Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE.INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE 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, May 26, 2026 · Original Source

Short Form Complaint

Sep 5, 2025

Pass

1 recorded violation

notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

6-501.114: OBSERVED AN OPENING IN THE LOWER WALL UNDER THE MOP SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT POTENTIAL PEST ENTRY POINTS.

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, Sep 5, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint Re-Inspection

Aug 20, 2025

Pass

1 recorded violation

notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

6-501.114: OBSERVED AN OPENING IN THE LOWER WALL UNDER THE MOP SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT POTENTIAL PEST ENTRY POINTS.

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 20, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint

Aug 12, 2025

Fail

2 recorded violations

notedCode 55Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED AN OPEING IN THE LOWER WALL UNDER THE MOP SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT POTENTIAL PEST ENTRY POINTS.

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 60Other

Official wording

PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 05/13/2025, REPORT #2617356 #37:3-302.12: OBSERVED SQUIRT BOTTLES NOT LABELED IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN. #49: 4-601.11(B): OBSERVED THE ICE SHIELD AND ABOVE THE ICE WITH SLIGHT BLACK-LIKE SUBSTANCE BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ICE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE THE ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION: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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Aug 12, 2025 · Original Source

Canvass Re-Inspection

May 13, 2025

Pass

5 recorded violations

notedCode 36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

Inspector’s notes

4-204.112(B): OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER INSIDE HOT HOLDING UNIT USED FOR PREPACKAGED PIZZA SLICES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 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 37Food source and labeling

Official wording

FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

Inspector’s notes

3-302.12: OBSERVED SQUIRT BOTTLES NOT LABELED IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL 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 FACILITY MISSING THREE SINK STOPPERS FOR THE WAREWASHING 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 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

4-601.11(B): OBSERVED THE ICE SHIELD AND ABOVE THE ICE WITH SLIGHT BLACK-LIKE SUBSTANCE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ICE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ICE MACHINE 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 57Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

Inspector’s notes

2-102.13: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST TAKE COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.

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 13, 2025 · Original Source

Canvass

May 1, 2025

Fail

10 recorded violations

notedCode 8Handwashing

Official wording

HANDS CLEAN & PROPERLY WASHED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED, POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES. FOOD HANDLER BLEW INSIDE GLOVE WITH MOUTH, PUT HAND INSIDE GLOVE, AND STARTED TO PREPARE FOOD. ALSO, OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER WIPING HANDS ON WIPING CLOTH USED TO WIPE SURFACES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROPERLY WASH HANDS AFTER ANY POSSIBLE SOURCE OF CONTAMINATION. ALSO, REFRAIN FROM USING WIPING CLOTHS FOR HANDS. EMPLOYEE WASHED HANDS ONCE NOTIFIED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010, 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 16Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER DISHWASHING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. EMPLOYEE WASHING DISHES AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT HAVING BASINS SET UP TO WASH, RINSE, AND SANITIZE AS REQUIRED BY THE CODE. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT ALWAYS SETS UP THE WAREWASHING SINK WHEN WASHING EQUIPMENT. THE MANAGER IMMEDIATELY HAD THE EMPLOYEE SET UP THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK TO WASH, RINSE, AND SANITIZE. 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 problems
notedCode 22Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS ITEMS INSIDE OF A THREE DOOR COOLER, IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. FOUND CHICKEN WINGS (47.8F), CHICKEN THIGHS (48.0F), PORK (48.7-50.0F), 8-1 QUART BOTTLES OF HEAVY WHIPPING CREAM (49.3F). MANAGER DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 38LBS AT $277 WORTH OF PRODUCT. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F 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 COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF A THREE DOOR REFRIGERATOR AT 51.0F WITH TCS FOODS STORED INSIDE FOR SALE. A HELD FOR INSPECTION TAG PLACED ON UNIT. PLEASE REVIEW COMMENTS FOR TAG REMOVAL INSTRUCTIONS. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING EQUIPMENT AT 41.0F 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 36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER INSIDE HOT HOLDING UNIT USED FOR PREPACKAGED PIZZA SLICES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 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 37Food source and labeling

Official wording

FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SQUIRT BOTTLES NOT LABELED IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL 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 38Pests

Official wording

INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED 2 LIVE ROACHES ON SITE DURING INSPECTION. 1 ROACH WAS FOUND CRAWLING ON EMPLOYEE SHIRT AND UNDER THE MICROWAVE IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE LIVE ROACH ACTIVITY AND MAINTAIN. RECOMMENDED 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 FACILITY MISSING THREE SINK STOPPERS FOR THE WAREWASHING 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 49Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED THE ICE SHEILD AND ABOVE THE ICE WITH SLIGHT BLACK-LIKE SUBSTANCE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ICE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIB.

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 NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST TAKE COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.

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 1, 2025 · Original Source

Complaint

Oct 1, 2024

Pass w/ Conditions

3 recorded violations

notedCode 16Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED BUILD UP OF BLACK SUBSTANCE WITH SLIMY APPEARANCE ON FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF CHUTE PLATE AND INTERIOR CAVITY OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD ICE AND CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD- AND NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. PERSON-IN-CHARGE DISCARDED ALL ICE AND CLEANED AND SANITIZED ALL FOOD- AND NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. 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 problems
notedCode 36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO INTERIOR TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE PROVIDED IN UPRIGHT COOLER IN FRONT PIZZA PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AT LEAST ONE INTERIOR TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE INSIDE ALL EQUIPMENT USED TO COLD-HOLD TCS FOOD ITEMS IN A CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY-VIWEABLE LOCATION 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 39Contamination

Official wording

CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED SINGLE-USE STYROFOAM CUP USED AS A SCOOP IN SEVERAL BULK DRY FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SINGLE-USE CUPS AND REPLACE WITH MULTI-USE UTENSILS WITH HANDLES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION WHILE SCOOPING 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

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, Oct 1, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

Jul 8, 2024

Pass w/ Conditions

4 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ONSITE, AT THE START TIME OF INSPECTION AT 3:10PM, WHILE TCS, TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY, FOODS SUCH AS CHICKEN, PORK, AND BEEF ARE BEING PREPARED, SERVED AND/OR STORED. CERTIFIED MANAGER MARIA MEDRANO ARRIVED ON SITE AT 3:18PM. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN EMPLOYEE HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE ON SITE 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 16Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED THE INTERIOR CHUTE OF ICE MACHINE AND SURROUNDING SURFACE SOILED WITH DEBRIS WHICH APPEARS AS A PINK SLIME AND/OR BLACK SUBSTANCE. ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO DISPOSE OF ICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 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 problems
notedCode 22Food temperature

Official wording

PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED TCS, TEMPERATURE AND TIME CONTROL FOR SAFETY, FOODS (PORK SAUSAGE AND TOMATO SAUCE) AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 50.2F AND 53.2F, RESPECTIVELY. APPROXIMATELY 20LBS OF PORK SAUSAGE AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $40 TOSSED IN THE GARBAGE AND DENATURED ALONG WITH APPROXIMATELY 15LBS OF TOMATO SAUCE AT AN ESTIMATED COST OF $25 ALSO TOSSED OUT AND DENATURED. 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 47Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

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

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED, IN THE REFRIGERATOR/FREEZER UNIT(S) NEAR THE BACK PREPARATION AREA, IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS INSTEAD OF USING FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS OR FREEZER 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 problems

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

Complaint Re-Inspection

May 9, 2024

Pass w/ Conditions

1 recorded violation

notedCode 60Other

Official wording

PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM PREVIOUS REPORT #257939 ISSUED ON 08-01-2023: -VIOLATION #58: NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED. COS 5/10/24

In plain English

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

More about other finding

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, May 9, 2024 · Original Source

Complaint

May 2, 2024

Fail

2 recorded violations

notedCode 2Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED MANAGER FROM 2:35PM TO 3:05PM WHILE TCS FOODS SUCH AS CHICKEN WERE PREPARED. AT 3:05PM CERTIFIED MANAGER MARIA MEDRANO ARRIVED ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN EMPLOYEE HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE ON SITE 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 60Other

Official wording

PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

Inspector’s notes

OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM PREVIOUS REPORT #257939 ISSUED ON 08-01-2023: - VIOLATION #56: NOTED HOOD VENTILATION FILTERS WITH A BUILD UP OF DUST AND GREASE -VIOLATION #58: NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION 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 finding

Official record from Chicago Department of Public Health, May 2, 2024 · Original Source

More restaurants nearby