SANITARY INSPECTION RECORD — CITY OF CHICAGO

MERLA'S KITCHEN, LLC.

BEAT. 18/100

5207 N KIMBALL AVE · LINCOLN SQUARE, CHICAGO

Last inspected July 28, 2023 · passed

Failed 6 of 18 inspections. 18 critical violations on the cumulative record. Pattern of issues, not a one-off.

THE NUMBERS

INSPECTIONS
18
8 passed · 4 w/ conditions · 6 failed
VIOLATIONS
86
includes 18 critical
RECORDS COVER
10 YEARS
since Aug 2012

INSPECTION HISTORY

JUL 28
2023
PASSED
1 violation
DETAILS
MINOROther
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

2-102.13 OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.

JUL 25
2023
FAILED
5 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES

2-101.11 OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE UPON ARRVAL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION.

CRITICALDocumentation & Training
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.

MINOROther
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

2-102.13 OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.

MINOROther
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

2-102.13 OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.

SERIOUSOther
PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED

OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED WITHIN SPECIFIED TIMEFRAME. REPORT #2578685 DATED JULY 17TH 2023 INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO #36 PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR MEASURING HOT AND COLD FOODS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.

JUL 17
2023
FAILED
8 violations3 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES

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

CRITICALDocumentation & Training
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

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

MINORFood Temperature
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED

OBSERVED FISH BEING THAWED BY STAYING IN STAGNANT WATER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE THAT FOOD IS THAWED UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER.

MINOROther
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE

OBSERVED NO FOOD THERMOMETER ON SITE FOR MEASURING COLD FOODS. ALL FOOD THERMOMETERS ON SITE START AT 100 F AND UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR MEASURING HOT AND COLD FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALPest Activity
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

OBSERVED NO PROOF OF AT LEAST 2 PEST CONTROL SERVICES WITHIN THE PAST YEAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROOF OF PEST CONTROL SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C) CITATION ISSUED.

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

OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS BEING UTILIZED TO STORE FOOD IN FREEZER CHEST. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE WITH FOOD GRADE BAGS.

MINOROther
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING

OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.

MINOROther
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENT.

JAN 18
2022
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
10 violations3 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES

PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALDocumentation & Training
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

FOUND NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS (CHICKEN, PORK, BEEF ETC) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE, A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHEN HANDLING TCS FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED

CRITICALPest Activity
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF BOTTOM OF 2 FRONT DOORS AND SIDE DOORS (IN DINING AREA).

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

INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER.

MINORSanitation
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

(3) TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLES MUST BE COVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.

MINORSanitation
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA AND IN REAR STORAGE AREA. FOOD AND NON FOOD ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING. MUST REMOVE SODA CRATES.

MINORDocumentation & Training
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

CERTIFED FOOD MANAGER WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.

MINOROther
MISCELLANEOUS / PUBLIC HEALTH ORDERS

FOUND NO WRITTEN PROTOCOL AVAILABLE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A WRITTEN RECORD DESCRIBING PROTOCOL FOR CHECKING PROOF OF VACCINATION IN PUBLIC PLACES. VIOLATION 2-112-340 NO CITATION ISSUED

MINOROther
MISCELLANEOUS / PUBLIC HEALTH ORDERS

OBSERVED NO RECORDS RELATING TO EMPLOYEE VACCINATION STATUS AND TESTING AT COVERED LOCATIONS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. VIOLATION 2-112-340 NO CITATION ISSUED

FEB 22
2021
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
2 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

4-602.13 CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FREEZER, 2 DOOR PREP COOLER, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP AND THE WIRE STORAGE RACK NEXT TO THE STOVE.

MINOROther
SUMMARY REPORT DISPLAYED AND VISIBLE TO THE PUBLIC

8-304.11(A) OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B). NO CITATION ISSUED.

show all 18 inspections →
FEB 10
2021
FAILED
8 violations4 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE

OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALDocumentation & Training
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

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

CRITICALSanitation
PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE OR SUPPLIES ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BOTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.

CRITICALPest Activity
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENT ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 40 MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR OF THE REAR STORAGE AREA BEHIND THE CHEST FREEZER AND UNDER THE STORAGE SHELVES. ALSO OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 20 RAT DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR NEXT TO THE REAR EXIT DOOR OF THE STORAGE AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL RODENT DROPPINGS FROM ALL AFFECTED AREAS. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.

MINORSanitation
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN

CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FREEZER, 2 DOOR PREP COOLER, MICROWAVES AND EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP AND THE WIRE STORAGE RACK NEXT TO THE STOVE.

MINORPest Activity
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN

OBSERVED EXCESSIVE CLUTTER AND ITEMS STORED INSIDE OF THE ROOM NEXT TO THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE STORAGE AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ITEMS TO ELIMINATE PEST HARBORAGE CONDITIONS.

MINORSanitation
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED

PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2355854 ON 12/23/19 NOT CORRECTED: 53 - OBSERVED THAT PUBLIC TOILET ROOM DOOR ARE NOT CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE. TOILET ROOM DOOR MUST REMAIN CLOSED EXCEPT DURING CLEANING OPERATIONS. 53 - MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN EMPLOYEES AND PUBLIC BATHROOM. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. NO CITATION ISSUED.

MINOROther
SUMMARY REPORT DISPLAYED AND VISIBLE TO THE PUBLIC

OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B). NO CITATION ISSUED.

DEC 23
2019
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
9 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALDocumentation & Training
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING

OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICY.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION-7-38.010-NO CITATION ISSUED)

CRITICALSanitation
PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS

OBSERVED NO CLEAN-UP OF VOMITING AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE AND CLEAN-UP KIT ON PREMISES DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SAID PROCEDURE ALONG WITH REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR CLEAN-UP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005

SERIOUSFood Temperature
PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION

OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN, PORK) NOT PROPERLY DATED , STORED LONGER THAN 24 HOURS IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DATE MARKING WITH DISPOSITION DATE FOR RTE FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD OVER 24 HOURS IN COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005

MINOREmployee Hygiene
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS

OBSERVED THAT EMPLOYEE WORE WATCHES ON HANDS WHILE WORKING WITH FOOD.MUST REMOVE ALL JEWELRY EXCEPT PLAIN WEDDING BAND FROM HANDS WHILE WORKING WITH EXPOSED FOOD

MINORSanitation
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED THAT UTENSILS IN USE ARE STORED IN WARM WATER TEMP 85 F ,MUST STORED UTENSILS UNDER RUNNING COLD WATER, UNDER HOT WATER (135 F AND ABOVE),IN FOOD HANDLE NOT TOUCHING FOOD AND IN CLEAN PLACE PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION.

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

OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR TO REACH IN COOLER AND FREEZER IN FRONT PREP AREA COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

OBSERVED THAT PUBLIC TOILET ROOM DOOR ARE NOT CLOSED WHEN NOT IN USE.TOILET ROOM DOOR MUST REMAIN CLOSED EXCEPT DURING CLEANING OPERATIONS.

MINORSanitation
TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED

MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN EMPLOYEES AND PUBLIC BATHROOM

MINOROther
ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED

NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.

APR 10
2018
PASSED
3 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE DINING AREA. MUST SCRAPE PEELING PAINT AND RE PAINT. WALLS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE AND DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. HOOD WITH GREASE BUILD-UP. MUST REMOVE GREASE AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
FOOD (ICE) DISPENSING UTENSILS, WASH CLOTHS PROPERLY STORED

WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES,CHOPPING BOARD MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.

MINORDocumentation & Training
FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS MET

NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE FOR THE TWO FOOD HANDLERS EMPLOYEE. MUST PROVIDE.

APR 3
2018
FAILED
6 violations
DETAILS
SERIOUSPest Activity
PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION(S) CORRECTED 7-42-090

PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2049369 DATED 4/27/17. #36-OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN. #41- OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE ITEMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.

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

DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF BOTH MICROWAVE AND MAINTAIN. DETAIL CLEAN ALL EXTERIOR OF THE DRY BULK FOOD CONTAINERS AND EXTERIOR SIDES/TOP OF THE COOKING STOVE AND GRILL AND MAINTAIN. DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE THE BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE DINING AREA. MUST SCRAPE PEELING PAINT AND RE PAINT. WALLS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE AND DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. HOOD WITH CREASE BUILD-UP. MUST REMOVE GREASE AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.

MINOREmployee Hygiene
APPROPRIATE METHOD OF HANDLING OF FOOD (ICE) HAIR RESTRAINTS AND CLEAN APPAREL WORN

ALL EMPLOYEES HELPING PREPARE FOOD IN THE PREP AREA MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT TO CONFINE THE HAIR.

MINORSanitation
FOOD (ICE) DISPENSING UTENSILS, WASH CLOTHS PROPERLY STORED

WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE PREP TABLES,CHOPPING BOARD MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.

MINORDocumentation & Training
FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS MET

NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE FOR THE TWO FOOD HANDLERS EMPLOYEE. MUST PROVIDE.

APR 27
2017
PASSED
3 violations
DETAILS
MINORFacility Condition
LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED

OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN.

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

OBSERVED SMALL WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAKS AND MAINTAIN.

MINORPest Activity
PREMISES MAINTAINED FREE OF LITTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEANING EQUIPMENT PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE IREMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.

APR 18
2017
FAILED
7 violations
DETAILS
SERIOUSSanitation
DISH MACHINES: PROVIDED WITH ACCURATE THERMOMETERS, CHEMICAL TEST KITS AND SUITABLE GAUGE COCK

NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT ON SITE AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CHEMICAL TEST KIT FOR THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND SANITIZING BUCKETS AS REQUIRED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.

MINORChemical Safety
FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED

BULK FOOD CONTAINERS OUT OF ORIGINAL CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED AND MAINTAINED.

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

OBSERVED GREASE BUILD-UP ON GREASE TRAP BENEATH THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,EXTERIOR OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENT STOVE AREA.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED

OBSERVED DIRTY FLOORS BENEATH THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS IN DETAIL THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES AND MAINTAIN.

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

OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN KITCHEN AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAPS OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND MAINTAIN.

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

OBSERVED SMALL WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAKS AND MAINTAIN.

MINORPest Activity
PREMISES MAINTAINED FREE OF LITTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEANING EQUIPMENT PROPERLY STORED

OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS AT REAR NEAR THE CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOMS.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE IREMS KEPT AT LEAST 6" INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.

JUN 14
2016
PASSED
3 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL AND SANITIZE INTERIOR OF MICROWAVE, INTERIOR BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE REACH IN FREEZER(WITH FOOD CRUMBS/DEBRIS)AND MAINTAIN, CLEAN INSIDE THE CABINET UNDER THE EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE FRONT AREA AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

MUST CLEAN THE SCREEN DOOR OF THE EXIT DOOR WITH DUST ACCUMULATED AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
FOOD (ICE) DISPENSING UTENSILS, WASH CLOTHS PROPERLY STORED

WIPING CLOTH FOR WIPING THE TABLES, CHOPPING BOARD ,PREP COOLER MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.

JUN 8
2015
PASSED
3 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE KITCHEN PREP COOLER, NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.

MINORSanitation
FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED

FLOOR ALONG WALL BASE AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.

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

SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS.

DEC 19
2014
PASSED
4 violations
DETAILS
MINORChemical Safety
FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED

FOODS INSIDE COOLER NOT LABELED OR DATED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND DATE ALL FOODS NOT IN ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.

MINORSanitation
FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED

FLOO ALONG WALLBASE AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.

MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

CEILIONG NOT MAINTAINED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND/OR REPAINT.

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

UTILITY SINK REMOVED FROM PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL UTILITY SINK. SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS.

JUL 23
2014
PASSED
4 violations
DETAILS
MINORSanitation
FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS

STORAGE SHELVES UNDER COUNTERS, PREP TABLE, SINKS, AND STORAGE SHELVES NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.

MINORSanitation
FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED

FLOOR BEHIND EQUIPMENT AND ALONG WALL BASE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN DAILY.

MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

LIGHT COVERS IN PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND REMOVE DEBRIS.

MINORFood Storage & Handling
TOILET ROOM DOORS SELF CLOSING: DRESSING ROOMS WITH LOCKERS PROVIDED: COMPLETE SEPARATION FROM LIVING/SLEEPING QUARTERS

TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP TOILET ROOM CLOSED AT ALL TIMES.

APR 29
2013
PASSED
0 violations
APR 22
2013
FAILED
2 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALSanitation
HANDS WASHED AND CLEANED, GOOD HYGIENIC PRACTICES; NO BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY-TO-EAT FOODS.

POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES; OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLER HANDLING RAW MEAT, PLACING PLASTIC CONTAINER FROM SAME MEAT INSIDE THE GARBAGE TOUCHED SOILED GARBAGE BAG, HANDLED SOILED TOWEL AND RETURNING TO PREP TABLE AND HANDLE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS, HOWEVER NOT WASHING HER HANDS BETWEEN ACTIVITIES. (MAKING EMPANADAS). INSTRUCTED HANDS MUST BE WASHED AFTER ANY CONTAMINATING CONDITION INSIDE EXPOSED SINK WITH WARM WATER AND SOAP. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED, 7-38-010(A).

CRITICALPest Activity
PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION(S) CORRECTED 7-42-090

OBSERVED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #1188329, DATED 8-29-12; VIOLATIONS #30, MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS THAT IS NOT THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER WITH READY TO EAT FOODS. ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH SUGAR, FLOUR,RICE ETC. MUST HAVE A LABEL ALSO. #32, MUST REPAIR RIPPED OFF RUBBER GASKET ALONG THE DOOR OF THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AND MAINTAIN. #33, MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL ALL LID AND EXTERIOR OF THE BULK CONTAINERS, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE, EXTERIOR AND DOORS OF ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN. MUST ORGANIZE AND CLEAN BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN. #34, MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER AND BEHIND THE STOVE, UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK UNDER THE PREP TABLES, BEHIND THE WATER HEATER AND MAINTAIN. #35,: WALLS THRU OUT THE PREP AREA, KITCHEN WASHROOM NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING. CRACKED WALLS INSIDE THE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. #37,MUST RE ADJUST THE SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE WASHROOM,(NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY). #41,CLUTTER UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT AND UNDER THE MOP SINK. EMPTY BOTTLES, BOXES, CONTAINERS ETC. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND DISCARD ANY ITEMS/ARTICLES NOT BEING USE TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED, 7-42-090.

AUG 29
2012
PASS W/ CONDITIONS
8 violations2 CRITICAL
DETAILS
CRITICALFood Temperature
POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD MEETS TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENT DURING STORAGE, PREPARATION DISPLAY AND SERVICE

POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER SUCH AS STEAM BUN AT 48.3F, RICE PUDDING AT 45.4F, MILK FLAN AT 47.6F. DISPLAY COOLER TEMPERATURE AT 41.2F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL COLD POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST MAINTAIN A TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW DURING STORAGE INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER. CITATION ISSUED CRITICAL 7-38-005(A). MANAGER DISCARDED THE SAID PRODUCT WORTH $65.00,TOTAL 15LBS.

MINORFood Storage & Handling
FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED

MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS THAT IS NOT THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER WITH READY TO EAT FOODS. ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH SUGAR, FLOUR,RICE ETC. MUST HAVE A LABEL ALSO.

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

MUST REPAIR RIPPED OFF RUBBER GASKET ALONG THE DOOR OF THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AND MAINTAIN.

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

MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL ALL LID AND EXTERIOR OF THE BULK CONTAINERS, EXTERIOR OF THE STOVE, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE, EXTERIOR AND DOORS OF ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN. MUST ORGANIZE AND CLEAN BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE PREP TABLE AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED

MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER AND BEHIND THE STOVE, UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK UNDER THE PREP TABLES, BEHIND THE WATER HEATER AND MAINTAIN.

MINORSanitation
WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS

WALLS THRU OUT THE PREP AREA, KITCHEN WASHROOM NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING. CRACKED WALLS INSIDE THE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.

MINORFood Storage & Handling
TOILET ROOM DOORS SELF CLOSING: DRESSING ROOMS WITH LOCKERS PROVIDED: COMPLETE SEPARATION FROM LIVING/SLEEPING QUARTERS

MUST RE ADJUST THE SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE WASHROOM,(NOT CLOSING ALL THE WAY).

CRITICALPest Activity
PREMISES MAINTAINED FREE OF LITTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEANING EQUIPMENT PROPERLY STORED

CLUTTER UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT AND UNDER THE MOP SINK. EMPTY BOTTLES, BOXES, CONTAINERS ETC. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND DISCARD ANY ITEMS/ARTICLES NOT BEING USE TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE.

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 LINCOLN SQUARE