SANITARY INSPECTION RECORD — CITY OF CHICAGO

CAFE TOLA II.

BEAT. 23/100

3324 N CALIFORNIA AVE · NORTH CENTER, CHICAGO

Last inspected January 14, 2026 · passed

Failed 7 of 18 inspections. 15 critical violations on the cumulative record. Pattern of issues, not a one-off.

THE NUMBERS

INSPECTIONS
18
7 passed · 4 w/ conditions · 7 failed
VIOLATIONS
97
includes 15 critical
RECORDS COVER
9 YEARS
since Oct 2016

INSPECTION HISTORY

JAN 14
2026
PASSED
2 violations
DETAILS
MINORFood Storage & Handling
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.

MINORSanitation
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF ICE BIN IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.

JAN 7
2026
FAILED
12 violations3 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE NOR CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED SUCH AS CHICEKN SOUP, PORK, BEEF AND CHORIZO EMPANADAS ETC. INSTRUCTED ABOVE TO OPERATE WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS AREA BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012

CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED PAPER TOWELS DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). NO CITATION ISSUED. CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.

CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP PROVIDED AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED HAND SOAP DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUD.

SERIOUSOther
CONSUMER ADVISORY PROVIDED FOR RAW/UNDERCOOKED FOOD

OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENU FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS (EGGS BEEF). MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE AND DESCRIBE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK TH0SE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.

MINORFood Storage & Handling
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER

MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.

MINOREmployee Hygiene
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS

OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING HANDLED.

MINORSanitation
WIPING CLOTHS: PROPERLY USED & STORED

OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.

MINORSanitation
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF ICE BIN IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.

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

OBSERVED TIN FOIL ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLE IN FRONT FOO PREPARATION AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE ALL SURFACES TO BE NON-CORROSIVE, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES AND MUST HAVE CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. MUST COMPLETE AND HAVE CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES.

SERIOUSFood Temperature
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2610603 ON 01/15/25. #36. OBSERVED HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH NO THERMOMETER. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN. #39. OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS AND MAINTAIN. #47. OBSERVED RUST ON RACKS IN THE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE RUST AND ENSURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. #55. OBSERVED HOLE IN CEILING ABOVE PIPING IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO SMOOTHLY SEAL ALL HOLES AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.

JAN 15
2025
PASSED
5 violations
DETAILS
MINORFood Temperature
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

OBSERVED HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH NO THERMOMETER. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.

MINORFood Storage & Handling
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY

OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS AND MAINTAIN.

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

OBSERVED RUST ON RACKS IN THE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE RUST AND ENSURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.

SERIOUSEmployee Hygiene
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

OBSERVED SLOW DRAINING HANDWASHING SINK IN THE REAR PREP/WAREWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

OBSERVED HOLE IN CEILING ABOVE PIPING IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO SMOOTHLY SEAL ALL HOLES AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.

MAR 19
2024
PASSED
0 violations
MAR 21
2023
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
8 violations
DETAILS
MINOROther
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

4-204.112(B) INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

5-205.15 OBSERVED FAUCET MISSING ON THE LEFT SIDE (BETWEEN WASH AND RINSE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK) INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

5-205.15 INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET AT HANDSINK INSIDE THE WASHROOM.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

5-501.17 TOILET RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE THE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

6-501.114 OBSERVED NON WORKING AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSER/NO LONGER IN USE ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

6-201.11 INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR DINING AREA LEADING TO REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

MINORFacility Condition
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED

6-303.11 INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE NON WORKING LIGHTBULB INSIDE 4 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

MINORDocumentation & Training
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2572719 ISSUED ON 03-17-2023 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED #57 - OBSERVED INCOMPLETE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.

show all 18 inspections →
MAR 17
2023
FAILED
8 violations
DETAILS
MINOROther
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

4-204.112(B) INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

5-205.15 OBSERVED FAUCET MISSING ON THE LEFT SIDE (BETWEEN WASH AND RINSE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK) INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

5-205.15 INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET AT HANDSINK INSIDE THE WASHROOM.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

5-501.17 TOILET RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE THE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

6-501.114 OBSERVED NON WORKING AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSER/NO LONGER IN USE ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

6-201.11 INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR DINING AREA LEADING TO REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

MINORFacility Condition
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED

6-202.11 INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE NON WORKING LIGHTBULB INSIDE 4 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

MINORFacility Condition
PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED

PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2572345 ISSUED ON 03-10-2023 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED #55 - INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA. #57 - OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. #58 - ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.

MAR 10
2023
FAILED
10 violations1 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

FOUND HANDSINK IN FRONT PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR EMPLOYEE HANDWASHING. NOTED COFFEE JAR AND UTENSILS STORED IN THE SAID HANDSINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER, HANDWASHING SINK MUST BE CLEAR AND ACCESSIBLE FOR EMPLOYEES TO WASH HANDS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C) CITATION ISSUED

MINORFood Temperature
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING PROCEDURE OF FROZEN (PASTOR) MEAT ON TOP OF CHEST FREEZER IN THE BASEMENT. 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.

MINOROther
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

OBSERVED FAUCET MISSING ON THE LEFT SIDE (BETWEEN WASH AND RINSE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK) INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET AT HANDSINK INSIDE THE WASHROOM.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

TOILET RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE THE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

OBSERVED NON WORKING AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSER/NO LONGER IN USE ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR DINING AREA LEADING TO REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

MINORFacility Condition
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED

INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE NON WORKING LIGHTBULB INSIDE 4 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.

SERIOUSEmployee Hygiene
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2562530 ISSUED ON 08-22-2022 PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED #10 - OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. #55 - INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA. #57 - OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. #58 - ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.

AUG 22
2022
PASSED
4 violations1 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

6-301.14--OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

6-201.17--INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

2-102.13-- OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

2-102.13--ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.

AUG 15
2022
FAILED
10 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010,CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE

OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.

MINORFood Temperature
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER INSIDE THE EMPANADA HOT HOLDING UNIT AT FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON ICE BIN AT FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE IN A CLEAN SEPARATE CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

OBSERVED WATER LEAK AT DRAIN PIPE UNDERNEATH THE HANDSINK AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.MUST REPAIR PLUMBING LEAK AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.

MINORPest Activity
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED

OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER OVERFLOWING WITH TRASH AND CARDBOARD BOXES. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. LIDS/COVER MUST BE KEPT CLOSED TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020 (b),CITATION ISSUED.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.

JAN 22
2021
PASSED
1 violation
DETAILS
MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ESPRESSO MACHINE AND COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINES. MUST PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AND MAKE VISIBLE AT SAID LOCATIONS.

JAN 15
2021
FAILED
7 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY, AND MAINTAIN POLICY ON-SITE. FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING POLICY GO TO WWW.CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG/HEALTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION, 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALSanitation
PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

CLEAN UP KIT NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ON-SITE, PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.

MINORSanitation
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED

ICE SCOOP IMROPERLY STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A CLEAN CONTAINER FOR ICE SCOOP.

SERIOUSSanitation
WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS

NO SANITIZING TEST STRIPS ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE SANITIZING TEST STRIPS ON PREMISES. 7-38-005 PRIORITY FOUNDATION.

MINORSanitation
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

VENTILATION HOOD WITH GREASE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES

BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ESPRESSO MACHINE AND COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINES. MUST PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AND MAKE VISIBLE AT SAID LOCATION.S

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE IN WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.

MAR 13
2019
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
6 violations
DETAILS
SERIOUSFood Temperature
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

FOUND THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE- BEANS AT 48.5 F, PORK AND BEANS AT 46.4 AND SALSA RED SAUCE AT 47.8 F. ALL ITEMS WERE HELD INSIDE PREP AREA STAND UP 2-DOOR COOLER BY 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE TCS FOODS VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TCS FOODS MUST HELD AT 41.0 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.

SERIOUSFood Storage & Handling
PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION

REFRIGERATED TCS FOODS WITHOUT SELL BY DATES ON LABELS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOOD, PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD GREATER THAN 24 HOURS MUST HAVE SELL BY DATES ON LABELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.

MINORFood Temperature
PROPER COOLING METHODS USED; ADEQUATE EQUIPMENT FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL

PREP AREA STAND UP 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER BY 3-COMPARTMENT SINK NOT MAINTAINED, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 45.0 F, FOUND BEANS, PORK AND BEANS, ETC. HELD INSIDE SAID COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST REPAIR COOLER, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE MUST BE 41.0 F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.

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

FRONT PREP AREA 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.

MINORFacility Condition
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED

OBSERVED REAR PREP AREA CEILING LIGHT BULB COVERS MISSING END CAPS ABOVE PREP TABLES AND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE END CAPS FOR ALL CEILING LIGHT BULB COVERS.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFCATES ON PREMISES.

JUL 3
2018
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
6 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY, AND MAINTAIN POLICY ON-SITE. FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING POLICY GO TO WWW.CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG/HEALTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION, 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALSanitation
PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

CLEAN UP KIT NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ON-SITE, PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.

SERIOUSFood Temperature
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES

OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES: FOUND A LARGE CONTAINER OF SLICED PORK IN THE 2-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR AT 55.6F, A PAN OF ROPA VIEJA EMPANADAS AT 50.3F IN THE 4-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR, A CONTAINER OF GUACAMOLE AT 52.6F IN THE COLD-HOLDING UNIT, AND A CONTAINER OF POTATOES BEEF AT CILANTRO OUT IN THE PREP AREA AT 63.7F. INSTRUCTED STAFF THAT FOODS IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR PREP AREA MUST BE 41F OR LESS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 50# OF FOOD WORTH $200. PRIORITY VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-005A

MINORFood Temperature
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

OBSERVED A CONTAINER OF FROZEN BEEF BEING THAWED ON THE BOTTOM SHELF OF A PREP TABLE IN THE REAR PREPARATION AREA. FOODS MUST BE COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER WATER OR IN A REFRIGERATION UNIT THAT MAINTAINS A TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR LESS DURING THE THAWING PROCESS.

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

OBSERVED RIPPED GASKETS AROUND THE 4-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE TO PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AND MAINTAIN.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

PERSON IN CHARGE HAS NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PF VIOLATION PA100-0367. NO CITATION ISSUED.

JAN 18
2018
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
4 violations1 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
HAND WASHING FACILITIES: WITH SOAP AND SANITARY HAND DRYING DEVICES, CONVENIENT AND ACCESSIBLE TO FOOD PREP AREA

FOUND NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS AT THE EXPOSED HAND SINK NEXT TO THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS PER REQUEST. ALL EXPOSED HAND SINKS MUST HAVE HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE WITH SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030

MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED

INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST THE DEEP FREEZER FURTHEST TO THE NORTH IN THE BASEMENT AGAINST THE WALL TO REMOVE ICE BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.

MINORFacility Condition
LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED

MUST REPLACE THE BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB IN THE 2-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.

MINORFacility Condition
REFRIGERATION AND METAL STEM THERMOMETERS PROVIDED AND CONSPICUOUS

MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER FOR THE REACH-IN COOLER NEAR THE FRONT DOOR WHERE DAIRY ITEMS ARE STORED. ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS ON PREMISES NEED AN INTERNAL THERMOMETER

MAR 31
2017
PASSED
3 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED

4-DOOR STAND UP REACH IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS RIPPED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.

MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS ALSO OBSERVED SLIGHT CALCIUM BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS AND REPLACE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES.

MINORFacility Condition
LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED

OBSERVED SOME MISSING CEILING LIGHT END CAPS AT DISHWASH AREA ABOVE PREP TABLES. MUST PROVIDE END CAPS/CEILING COVERS FOR LIGHTS.

MAR 23
2017
FAILED
4 violations1 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALPest Activity
OUTSIDE GARBAGE WASTE GREASE AND STORAGE AREA; CLEAN, RODENT PROOF, ALL CONTAINERS COVERED

OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD UP ON FLOOR AROUND/UNDER OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER, ON EXTERIOR OF GREASE CONTAINER AND ON WALL NEXT TO GREASE CONTAINER. POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EXTERIOR OF GREASE CONTAINER AND FLOOR/WALL UNDER AND AROUND GREASE CONTAINER. OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER AREA MUST BE CLEANED BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.

MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED

4-DOOR STAND UP REACH IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS RIPPED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.

MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS ALSO OBSERVED SLIGHT CALCIUM BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS AND REPLACE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES.

MINORFacility Condition
LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED

OBSERVED SOME MISSING CEILING LIGHT END CAPS AT DISHWASH AREA ABOVE PREP TABLES. MUST PROVIDE END CAPS/CEILING COVERS FOR LIGHTS.

OCT 20
2016
PASSED
2 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

MUST RESAND/REPAINT/SEAL LARGE WOODEN CUTTING BLOCK TABLE IN THE HOT COOKING LINE SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. FOUND ABOVE IN POOR REPAIR.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED

MUST PROVIDE EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR THE LARGE OVEN IN THE REAR KITCHEN IF IT IS MORE THAN 7.5KILOWATTS OR REMOVE ABOVE STATED OVEN FROM PREMISES

OCT 19
2016
FAILED
5 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALFood Temperature
FACILITIES TO MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE

FOUND FRONT 2DR DOOR FRIDGE AT 45F NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMP. MUST PROVIDE ALL REFRIGERATORS TO MAINTAIN 40F AND BELOW AT ALL TIMES.

CRITICALEmployee Hygiene
HAND WASHING FACILITIES: WITH SOAP AND SANITARY HAND DRYING DEVICES, CONVENIENT AND ACCESSIBLE TO FOOD PREP AREA

MUST PROVIDE SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL DISPENSER ACCESIBLE TO BOTH SIDE OF THE EXPOSED HAND SINK BETWEEN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND THE COFFEE AREA.

SERIOUSFood Storage & Handling
FOOD PROTECTED DURING STORAGE, PREPARATION, DISPLAY, SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION

MUST PROVIDE A SNEEZE GUARD ABOVE THE COFFEE MACHINE AREA.

MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

MUST RESAND/REPAINT/SEAL LARGE WOODEN CUTTING BLOCK TABLE IN THE HOT COOKING LINE SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. FOUND ABOVE IN POOR REPAIR.

MINORPlumbing & Waste
VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED

MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THE EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE COFFEE HAND SINK. MUST PROVIDE EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR THE LARGE OVEN IN THE REAR KITCHEN IF IT IS MORE THAN 7.5KILOWATTS OR REMOVE ABOVE STATED OVEN FROM PREMISES.

Data sourced from Chicago Dept. of Public Health. We'd love to link you straight to this restaurant's record — turns out Chicago considers that a luxury. The full dataset is what's on offer →

NEARBY IN NORTH CENTER