Cafe Istanbul

No violations were recorded at this inspection.

1. Aug 24, 2026 Fail

   Complaint Re-Inspection · Fail

   1 critical4 general Show violations

   • CriticalPests

     Insects, rodents, or animals were present, or the building wasn’t sealed against them.

     Inspector’s note: 6-501.111 observed pest infestation throughout the establishment. Observed over 20 live cockroaches throughout the establishment. Also observed over 100 mice droppings behind prep coolers and over 100 live small flies throughout the establishment. Must eliminate all evidence of pest activity on premises. Must clean and sanitize all affected areas. Priority violation. 7-38-020(a). Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 38)

     Insects, rodents, & animals not present

   • GeneralPests

     Insects, rodents, or animals were present, or the building wasn’t sealed against them.

     Inspector’s note: 6-501.112 observed several dead cockroaches throughout the establishment. Must remove from the premises.

     Official wording (code 38)

     Insects, rodents, & animals not present

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Equipment and surfaces were dirty.

     Inspector’s note: 4-602.13 observed heavy grease spills on the exterior of cooking equipment. Must clean and maintain.

     Official wording (code 49)

     Non-food/food contact surfaces clean

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

     Inspector’s note: 6-201.11 observed food debris on floors throughout the kitchen prep area and under cooking equipment. Must be cleaned and maintained.

     Official wording (code 55)

     Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

   • GeneralRepeat violation

     A previously cited basic violation still wasn’t fixed.

     Inspector’s note: 8-404.13(b:4) previous core violation not corrected from 2-23-2026, report # 2631645. 58-observed certified food service sanitation manager without allergen training. Instructed to provide allergen training for all certified food managers. Priority foundation violation. 7-42-090. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 60)

     Previous core violation corrected

2. Aug 17, 2026 Fail

   Complaint · Fail

   2 critical3 general Show violations

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Hands weren’t washed properly or when required.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food handler wearing gloves while washing hands at 3-compartment sink. Instructed to properly wash bare hands with soap and water for 20 seconds and use handwashing sink only to wash hands. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-010. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 8)

     Hands clean & properly washed

   • CriticalFood handling

     Raw and ready-to-eat foods weren’t kept apart.

     Inspector’s note: Observed raw chicken stored over ready to eat foods in prep cooler9cooked noodles, cooked eggplant). Observed raw beef stored over chopped tomatoes and chopped lettuce. Must store food properly to prevent cross contamination. Priority violation. 7-38-005. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 15)

     Food separated and protected

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

     Inspector’s note: Observed boxes of carrots and potatoes stored on table outside by back door located in rear walkway area. Instructed to properly store food to prevent contamination.

     Official wording (code 39)

     Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

   • GeneralFood handling

     Clean utensils, equipment, or linens weren’t stored and handled properly.

     Inspector’s note: Observed mop stored in bucket at main prep line. Instructed to hang soil mop inverted at mop sink area.

     Official wording (code 44)

     Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled

   • GeneralRepeat violation

     A previously cited basic violation still wasn’t fixed.

     Inspector’s note: Previous core violation not corrected from 2-23-2026, report # 2631645. #6--observed personal food item(s) stored in the prep area. Instructed manager to remove and identify a designated area for employees to store personal food items. #10-observed no handwashing signage at the handwash sink in the bar area. Instructed to provide. #39--observed food items stored improperly in containers stored on the floor in the walk-in cooler. Must elevate 6 inches from floor. #58-observed certified food service sanitation manager without allergen training. Instructed to provide allergen training for all certified food managers. Priority foundation violation. 7-42-090. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 60)

     Previous core violation corrected

3. Aug 11, 2026 No Entry

   Non-Inspection · No Entry

   No violations

4. Feb 23, 2026 Conditional

   Complaint · Pass w/ Conditions

   4 critical5 general1 paperwork Show violations

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Staff were eating, drinking, or smoking where food is prepared.

     Inspector’s note: Observed personal food item(s) stored in the prep area. Instructed manager to remove and identify a designated area for employees to store personal food items.

     Official wording (code 6)

     Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Hands weren’t washed properly or when required.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food handler use the 3-comp sink as a handwashing sink. Instructed to use handwashing sink only to wash hands. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-010. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 8)

     Hands clean & properly washed

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

     Inspector’s note: Observed no handwashing signage at the handwash sink in the bar area. Instructed to provide.

     Official wording (code 10)

     Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

   • CriticalFood temperature

     Prepared food wasn’t date-marked, or was kept past its discard date.

     Inspector’s note: Observed time temperature control for safety (tcs) foods in walk-in cooler not date marked to indicate the product's name and date in which the food must be discarded or consumed within 7 days. Instructed to provide proper labels for date marking tcs foods. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005. Citation issued.

     Official wording (code 23)

     Proper date marking and disposition

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food storage containers without labels containing the common name of foods. Instructed to provide.

     Official wording (code 37)

     Food properly labeled; original container

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food items stored improperly in containers stored on the floor in the walk-in cooler, walk-in freezer and storage areas. Instructed to store properly by elevating at least six inches from the floor on raised shelving units. Observed food items stored in prep area cooler uncovered. Instructed to provided food grade lids and/or covers to prevent contamination.

     Official wording (code 39)

     Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

   • GeneralFood handling

     Wiping cloths weren’t used or stored properly.

     Inspector’s note: Observed wet wiping cloths stored improperly on prep surface areas. Instructed to store properly between usage.

     Official wording (code 41)

     Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

   • GeneralFood handling

     In-use utensils weren’t stored properly.

     Inspector’s note: Observed in-use utensils (scoops) stored improperly directly inside of the food container(s). Instructed to store properly between usage.

     Official wording (code 43)

     In-use utensils: properly stored

   • GeneralFood handling

     Clean utensils, equipment, or linens weren’t stored and handled properly.

     Inspector’s note: Observed plates not stored properly in the prep area. Instructed to invert plates.

     Official wording (code 44)

     Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled

   • PaperworkManagement & training

     Required allergen training was missing.

     Inspector’s note: Observed certified food service sanitation manager on site without allergen training. Instructed to provide documentation.

     Official wording (code 58)

     Allergen training as required

5. Feb 17, 2026 No Entry

   Complaint · No Entry

   No violations

6. Apr 22, 2025 Pass

   Canvass Re-Inspection · Pass

   1 general1 paperwork Show violations

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

     Inspector’s note: 6-501.11 observed missing and stained ceiling tiles near ice machine. Instructed manager to replace ceiling tiles.

     Official wording (code 55)

     Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

   • PaperworkManagement & training

     Required allergen training was missing.

     Inspector’s note: 2-102.13 observed certified food manager with no food allergen training. Instructed manager to comply with requirement.

     Official wording (code 58)

     Allergen training as required

7. Apr 14, 2025 Fail

   Canvass · Fail

   2 critical2 general1 paperwork Show violations

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Hands weren’t washed properly or when required.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food employee wash hands without using soap. Instructed manager to ensure employees are suing soap when washing hands. Employee rewashed hands using soap. Priority violation 7-38-010 citation issued. Citation consolidated with previous violation.

     Official wording (code 8)

     Hands clean & properly washed

   • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

     Hands weren’t washed properly or when required.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food employee prepare raw chicken and proceed to move to other tasks without washing hands. Instructed manager to ensure all employees wash hands after handling raw meat. Employee washed hands. Priority violation 7-38-010 citation issued.

     Official wording (code 8)

     Hands clean & properly washed

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Garbage wasn’t handled or stored properly.

     Inspector’s note: Observed outside recycle receptacle filled past capacity with lid unable to close. Instructed manager to ensure lid is closed and tight fitting at all times. Priority foundation violation 7-38-020(b) citation issued.

     Official wording (code 54)

     Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

     Inspector’s note: Observed missing and stained ceiling tiles near ice machine. Instructed manager to replace ceiling tiles.

     Official wording (code 55)

     Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

   • PaperworkManagement & training

     Required allergen training was missing.

     Inspector’s note: Observed certified food manager with no food allergen training. Instructed manager to comply with requirement.

     Official wording (code 58)

     Allergen training as required

8. Apr 12, 2024 Pass

   Canvass Re-Inspection · Pass

   2 general Show violations

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

     Inspector’s note: 3-305.11 observed food stored on the floor in a walk-in cooler. Must keep 6 inches above the floor.

     Official wording (code 39)

     Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

     Inspector’s note: 6-501.11 noted heavy clutter in dry storage food areas. Instructed to detail clean, organize, and remove all unnecessary or unused articles and equipment to prevent hiding places for pests.

     Official wording (code 55)

     Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

9. Apr 4, 2024 Fail

   Canvass · Fail

   3 critical4 general Show violations

   • CriticalFood source

     Required records (shellfish tags, parasite-destruction logs) were missing.

     Inspector’s note: Observed mussels stored in refrigerator without tags. Instructed to properly date and maintain shellstock tags on site for at least 90 days after selling last mussel and date shellstock tags with date of last item sold. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005. Citation issued

     Official wording (code 14)

     Required records available: shellstock tags, parasite destruction

   • CriticalFood temperature

     Prepared food wasn’t date-marked, or was kept past its discard date.

     Inspector’s note: Observed ready-to-eat temperature control for safety foods (cooked beans) not properly dated and 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. Citation issued. 7-38-005

     Official wording (code 23)

     Proper date marking and disposition

   • CriticalFood handling

     No warning to customers about raw or undercooked food.

     Inspector’s note: According to the manager's statement, the facility serves undercooked food, such as steaks, without reminder, disclosure, or identification. Instructed to add reminders, disclosure, and identification to all versions of the menu. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005. Citation was issued.

     Official wording (code 25)

     Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food stored on the floor in a walk-in cooler. Must keep 6 inches above the floor.

     Official wording (code 39)

     Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

   • GeneralFood handling

     Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

     Inspector’s note: Observed food stored outside the facility by the back exit door. Instructed to remove and maintain to prevent harborage of pest.

     Official wording (code 39)

     Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Plumbing problems, or missing protection against backflow.

     Inspector’s note: Observed small leak from pipes under 3-compartment sink. Instructed to repair the leak and maintain.

     Official wording (code 51)

     Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices

   • GeneralFacility upkeep

     Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

     Inspector’s note: Noted heavy clutter in dry storage food areas. Instructed to detail clean, organize, and remove all unnecessary or unused articles and equipment to prevent hiding places for pests.

     Official wording (code 55)

     Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

10. Feb 2, 2023 Pass

    Complaint Re-Inspection · Pass

    1 critical4 general1 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: 6-301.14 observed no handwashing signage at the exposed handwashing sink located in the bar. Instructed to provide.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

      Inspector’s note: 3-602.11(a; b:1-4,6,7; c; d) observed containers of bulk ingredients such as flour, sugar, etc. Not labeled. Instructed to label with the common name.

      Official wording (code 37)

      Food properly labeled; original container

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Equipment or surfaces were in poor repair or made of material that can’t be cleaned.

      Inspector’s note: 4-501.11 observed a broken handle on the paper towel dispenser located at the exposed handwashing sink in the rear prep/dish area. Instructed to repair, replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 47)

      Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Observed a build-up of food debris on the ground in the storage area. Instructed to clean and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Ventilation or lighting was inadequate.

      Inspector’s note: 6-501.12 observed all lights in both hoods are burnt out. Instructed to repair or replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 56)

      Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: 2-102.13 observed 2 employees who work as dishwashers without food handler training. Instructed all employees must complete food handler training and maintain records thereof on site at all times.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

11. Jan 30, 2023 Fail

    Complaint Re-Inspection · Fail

    3 critical4 general2 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: 5-205.11 observed exposed handwashing sink located in bar rendered inaccessible by coffee pot and cleaning supplies being piled in sink basin. Instructed to remove and maintain exposed handwashing sinks accessible for handwashing. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: 6-301.14 observed no handwashing signage at the exposed handwashing sink located in the bar. Instructed to provide.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalRepeat violation

      A previously cited serious violation still wasn’t fixed.

      Inspector’s note: 8-404.13 (b:3) observed the following repeat priority foundation violation not corrected from report #2570098 dated 1/23/2023: #25 "observed items on the menu served raw or undercooked, such as steaks, without reminder, disclosure, and identification. Instructed to add reminder, disclosure, and identification to all versions of the menu. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005." instructed to correct and come into compliance. Priority violation 7-42-090. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 59)

      Previous priority foundation violation corrected

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

      Inspector’s note: 3-302.12 observed containers of bulk ingredients such as flour, sugar, etc. Not labeled. Instructed to label with the common name.

      Official wording (code 37)

      Food properly labeled; original container

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Equipment or surfaces were in poor repair or made of material that can’t be cleaned.

      Inspector’s note: 4-501.11 observed a broken handle on the paper towel dispenser located at the exposed handwashing sink in the rear prep/dish area. Instructed to repair, replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 47)

      Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: 6-501.12 observed a build-up of food debris on the ground in the storage area. Instructed to clean and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Ventilation or lighting was inadequate.

      Inspector’s note: 6-303.11 observed all lights in both hoods are burnt out. Instructed to repair or replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 56)

      Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: 2-102.13 observed 2 employees who work as dishwashers without food handler training. Instructed all employees must complete food handler training and maintain records thereof on site at all times.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

    • PaperworkFood handling

      The inspection summary report wasn’t posted for the public.

      Inspector’s note: 8-304.11(a) observed no summary posted for public view from previous inspection #2570098 dated 1/23/2023. Left new summary and instructed to post for public view. Priority foundation violation 7-42-010(b). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 61)

      Summary report displayed and visible to the public

12. Jan 23, 2023 Fail

    Complaint · Fail

    7 critical5 general2 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Staff touched ready-to-eat food with bare hands.

      Inspector’s note: Observed a male employee in a white shirt prepare salad with bare hands. Management voluntarily discarded one salad valued at approximately $20 and had staff put on gloves. Instructed food employees must always wear gloves when handling ready-to-eat items. Priority violation 7-38-010. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 9)

      No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no soap at the exposed handwashing sink located in the bar. Instructed to maintain soap at all exposed handwashing sinks at all times. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no paper towels at exposed handwashing sink located in bar and rear prep/dish area. Instructed to maintain paper towels at all exposed handwashing sinks at all times. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c). Citation combined with above violation.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no handwashing signage at the exposed handwashing sink located in the bar. Instructed to provide.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalFood source

      Required records (shellfish tags, parasite-destruction logs) were missing.

      Inspector’s note: Observed mussels on the menu and no shellstock tags on site. Instructed to maintain shellstock tags on site for at least 90 days after selling last mussel and date shellstock tags with date of last item sold. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 14)

      Required records available: shellstock tags, parasite destruction

    • CriticalFood handling

      Surfaces that touch food weren’t cleaned and sanitized.

      Inspector’s note: Observed a low-temperature dish machine maintaining an improper chemical sanitizer concentration of 0ppm of chlorine. The machine was tagged and held for inspection. Instructed to repair dish machine so that it is capable of delivering chlorine in concentrations between 50-100 ppm. Priority violation 7-38-025. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 16)

      Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized

    • CriticalFood handling

      No warning to customers about raw or undercooked food.

      Inspector’s note: Observed items on the menu served raw or undercooked, such as steaks, without reminder, disclosure, and identification. Instructed to add reminder, disclosure, and identification to all versions of the menu. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005. No citation was issued.

      Official wording (code 25)

      Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

      Inspector’s note: Observed containers of bulk ingredients such as flour, sugar, etc. Not labeled. Instructed to label with the common name.

      Official wording (code 37)

      Food properly labeled; original container

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Equipment or surfaces were in poor repair or made of material that can’t be cleaned.

      Inspector’s note: Observed broken handle on paper towel dispenser located at exposed handwashing sink in rear prep/dish area. Instructed to repair, replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 47)

      Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Observed build-up of food debris on the ground in the storage area. Instructed to clean and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Ventilation or lighting was inadequate.

      Inspector’s note: Observed all lights in both hoods are burnt out. Instructed to repair or replace and maintain in good condition.

      Official wording (code 56)

      Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used

    • GeneralRepeat violation

      A previously cited basic violation still wasn’t fixed.

      Inspector’s note: Observed the following repeat core violation not corrected from report #2559875 dated 6/24/2022: #58 "observed no certified food manager with allergen training. Instructed any persons with the city of chicago food sanitation certificate to comply with the completion of training. Must provide documentation." instructed to correct and come into compliance. Priority foundation violation 7-42-090. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 60)

      Previous core violation corrected

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: Observed 2 employees who work as dishwashers without food handler training. Instructed all employees must complete food handler training and maintain records thereof on site at all times.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

    • PaperworkFood handling

      The inspection summary report wasn’t posted for the public.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no summary from previous inspection #2559875 dated 6/24/2022 posted for public view. Left new summary and instructed to post for public view. Priority foundation violation 7-42-010(b). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 61)

      Summary report displayed and visible to the public

13. Jun 24, 2022 Conditional

    Canvass Re-Inspection · Pass w/ Conditions

    1 general3 paperwork Show violations

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

      Inspector’s note: Observed food containers and boxes of food stored on the floor in the walk-in cooler and walk-in freezer. 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.

      Official wording (code 39)

      Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      No manager on duty held a City of Chicago food sanitation certificate.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no certified city of chicago food service sanitation manager on site at start time of inspection while meat, rice and other tcs foods were being cooked. The designated person in charge, who is physically on site, must obtain and maintain a valid city of chicago food service sanitation license. Priority foundation violation #7-38-012. Citation issued

      Official wording (code 2)

      City of chicago food service sanitation certificate

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: Observed expired food handler certificates. Instructed to maintain records at all times.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Required allergen training was missing.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no certified food manager with allergen training. Instructed any persons with the city of chicago food sanitation certificate to comply with completion of training. Must provide documentation.

      Official wording (code 58)

      Allergen training as required

14. Jun 17, 2022 Conditional

    Canvass · Pass w/ Conditions

    3 critical3 general3 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Staff were eating, drinking, or smoking where food is prepared.

      Inspector’s note: Observed food handlers eating in kitchen prep area. Instructed to allow employees eat outside prep area.

      Official wording (code 6)

      Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed handsink in food prep area with hand sanitizer and not stocked with hand soap. Informed person in charge that hand soap must be available at handsinks at all times. Food handler obtained hand soap for hand sink during time of inspection. Priority foundation violation #7-38-030(c). Citation issued. Hand soap was provided during the inpsection.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalFood handling

      Surfaces that touch food weren’t cleaned and sanitized.

      Inspector’s note: Observed low temperature dish washing machine in use not properly sanitizing. Sanitizing strength of sanitizer (chlorine) at the time of inspection was 0 ppm. Equipment must properly sanitize at a minimum of 50 ppm. Instructed not to use unit until reinspected by chicago department of health (cdph). Tagged unit. Also instructed to use the three compartment sink to sanitize all dishes until dish machine is properly repaired. Priority violation #7-38-025. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 16)

      Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t protected from contamination during prep, storage, or display.

      Inspector’s note: Observed food containers and boxes of food stored on the floor in the walk-in cooler and walk-in freezer. 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.

      Official wording (code 39)

      Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display

    • GeneralFood handling

      Wiping cloths weren’t used or stored properly.

      Inspector’s note: Observed wet wiping cloths on several prep surface areas in the kitchen. Instructed to properly store wiping cloths in a sanitizing solution between uses to prevent contamination of equipment & food. Must maintain

      Official wording (code 41)

      Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      No manager on duty held a City of Chicago food sanitation certificate.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no certified city of chicago food service sanitation manager on site at start time of inspection while meat, rice and other tcs foods were being cooked. The designated person in charge, who is physically on site, must obtain and maintain a valid city of chicago food service sanitation license. Violation corrected on site; the certified city of chicago food service sanitation manager, mustafa guler, arrived on site approx 1 hour through inspection. Priority foundation violation #7-38-012. Citation issued

      Official wording (code 2)

      City of chicago food service sanitation certificate

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: Observed expired food handler certificates. Instructed to maintain records at all times.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Required allergen training was missing.

      Inspector’s note: Observed the city of chicago food certified manager with expired food allergen training certificate. Instructed all city of chicago certified food managers obtain this certificate.

      Official wording (code 58)

      Allergen training as required

15. Aug 10, 2021 Pass

    Complaint Re-Inspection · Pass

    2 general Show violations

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Found hood filled with oil. Must clean sanitize and maintain.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Found ceiling tiles discolored. Must replace.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

16. Aug 3, 2021 Fail

    Complaint · Fail

    7 critical4 general1 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalManagement & training

      No written plan or kit for cleaning up vomit or diarrhea.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no vomit and diarrhea procedure or cleaning materials to clean up said incident on site. Facility must provide procedures and cleaning materials (gloves, mask, disposable mop, disinfectant rated for norovirus) for employees to follow and use when responding to vomiting or diarrheal events. Instructed manager to provide. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005.

      Official wording (code 5)

      Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Staff touched ready-to-eat food with bare hands.

      Inspector’s note: Observed food handler touch ready to eat lettuce mixture with bare hands while plating for guest at hotline.food employees may not contact exposed, ready-to-eat food with their bare hands. Must use suitable utensils such as deli tissue, spatulas, tongs, single-use gloves, or dispensing equipment. Priority violation. 7-38-010. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 9)

      No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed handwashing sink at front bar filled with tools. Intructed manager to use handwashing sink for handwashing purposes only. 7-38-030(c). Citation consolidated with above violation.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no handwashing cleanser at handwashing sink located in food preperation area and bar.all handwashing sinks must be equipped with hand cleaning liquid at all times. Instructed manager to provide. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-030-(c). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no hand drying provision at handwashing sink in dish room/food prep & bar. All handwashing sinks must be equipped with a hand drying provision at all times. Instructed manager to provide.corrected on site. Priority foundation. Citation consolidated with above violation.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalFood handling

      Raw and ready-to-eat foods weren’t kept apart.

      Inspector’s note: Found meat grinder filled with residue of raw meat stored on shelf located in walk in cooler. Also noted, ready to eat bread and a gallon of milk stored in said grinder. Instructed manager to remove ready to eat items and to never store ready to eat food items inside raw meat grinder. Priority violation. 7-38-005. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 15)

      Food separated and protected

    • CriticalFood temperature

      Prepared food wasn’t date-marked, or was kept past its discard date.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no discard dates on any ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety foods(variety of sauces, coleslaw etc.) held for over 24 hours instructed facility to provide discard date for any ready-to-eat tcs foods held for over 24 hours. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005. Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 23)

      Proper date marking and disposition

    • GeneralPests

      Insects, rodents, or animals were present, or the building wasn’t sealed against them.

      Inspector’s note: Observed pest control log book not maintained at time of inspection. Food establishment was last serviced by best control in 2019. Found no proof of service within the year. Every retail food establishment is required to maintain a pest control log book on its premises containing a contract with a licensed exterminator who shall provide insect and vermin services at the establishment at least twice a year. Instructed manager to provide. Priority foundation. 7-38-020(c).

      Official wording (code 38)

      Insects, rodents, & animals not present

    • GeneralPests

      Insects, rodents, or animals were present, or the building wasn’t sealed against them.

      Inspector’s note: Found 20 - 30 small flies in rear food storage area. Must minimize fly activity. Must contact pest control for service. Must minimize fly activity. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-020(a). Citation issued.

      Official wording (code 38)

      Insects, rodents, & animals not present

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Found hood filled with oil. Must clean sanitize and maintain.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Found ceiling tiles discolored. Must replace

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Required allergen training was missing.

      Inspector’s note: Found no proof of allergen training on site. Instructed manager to provide proof of allergen training for all city of chiicago food service mangers.

      Official wording (code 58)

      Allergen training as required

17. Sep 15, 2020 Conditional

    Complaint · Pass w/ Conditions

    2 critical1 general1 paperwork Show violations

    • CriticalManagement & training

      No one in charge was present who knew the food-safety rules.

      Inspector’s note: No certified manager person in charge at this time, instructed to obtain.

      Official wording (code 1)

      Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Staff were eating, drinking, or smoking where food is prepared.

      Inspector’s note: Observed food handlers eating in kitchen prep area, open tea cups placed on prep tables, instructed to allow employees eat outside prep area.

      Official wording (code 6)

      Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use

    • GeneralFood handling

      Miscellaneous public health order.

      Inspector’s note: Observed 5 employees in food prep area not wearing face mask covering. Must have all employees wear face mask coverings.citation issued 7-28-060.

      Official wording (code 64)

      Miscellaneous / public health orders

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      No manager on duty held a City of Chicago food sanitation certificate.

      Inspector’s note: No certified food service manager on site while handling tcs foods ( chicken, beef...0 instructed to obtain. Priority foundation violation 7-38-012.

      Official wording (code 2)

      City of chicago food service sanitation certificate

18. Jan 27, 2020 Pass

    Canvass · Pass

    1 critical4 general Show violations

    • CriticalFood handling

      Surfaces that touch food weren’t cleaned and sanitized.

      Inspector’s note: Observed the baffle inside the ice machine a little dirty. Instructed to clean and sanitize ice machine.

      Official wording (code 16)

      Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

      Inspector’s note: Observed large bulk containers of flour, sugar, and rice not properly labeled. Instructed that food outside of the original container must be properly labeled.

      Official wording (code 37)

      Food properly labeled; original container

    • GeneralFood handling

      Wiping cloths weren’t used or stored properly.

      Inspector’s note: Observed used wiping cloths on top of cutting boards in the rear prep area and cutting boards in the cook area. Instructed that wiping cloths must be stored in sanitizer solution when not in use.

      Official wording (code 41)

      Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Equipment or surfaces were in poor repair or made of material that can’t be cleaned.

      Inspector’s note: Observed large containers of dried food items on the floor in the rear prep area. Instructed that all items must be 6 inches or above off of the floor.

      Official wording (code 47)

      Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Observed clutter and unnecessary articles behind business. Must remove items clean and organize area to prevent rodent harborage.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

19. May 16, 2019 Conditional

    Short Form Complaint · Pass w/ Conditions

    4 critical5 general Show violations

    • CriticalManagement & training

      Staff weren’t trained on, or didn’t follow, the rules for reporting illness.

      Inspector’s note: The person in charge unable to provide employee health policy. Instructed to provide and maintain. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-010. No citation issued.

      Official wording (code 3)

      Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting

    • CriticalManagement & training

      No written plan or kit for cleaning up vomit or diarrhea.

      Inspector’s note: The person in charge unable to provide procedure for employee to follow when responding to vomiting and diarrheal events. Instructed to provide procedure with the necessary items gloves, masks, disposable mops and appropriate sanitizer. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005. No citation issued.

      Official wording (code 5)

      Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no handwashing sink in front service station area. Instructed to install a hand washing sink with hot and cold running water under city pressure soap and paper towels. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c) no citation issued.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalFood temperature

      Prepared food wasn’t date-marked, or was kept past its discard date.

      Inspector’s note: Observed improper date marking on tcs foods held more than 24 hours inside walk-in cooler and prep coolers. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005 no citation issued.

      Official wording (code 23)

      Proper date marking and disposition

    • GeneralFood handling

      In-use utensils weren’t stored properly.

      Inspector’s note: Observed ice scoops stored on top of ice machine in rear prep area. Must properly store ice scoops in a clean container to prevent contamination.

      Official wording (code 43)

      In-use utensils: properly stored

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Plumbing problems, or missing protection against backflow.

      Inspector’s note: Backflow preventer device not located at the ice machine and espresso machine. Instructed to install so that can be located to be service and maintain

      Official wording (code 51)

      Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Plumbing problems, or missing protection against backflow.

      Inspector’s note: Observed leaking handle at the hand washing sink in front bar area. Must repair and maintain.

      Official wording (code 51)

      Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Observed clutter and unnecessary articles behind business. Must remove items clean and organize area to prevent rodent harborage.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Ventilation or lighting was inadequate.

      Inspector’s note: Observed grease build up on ventilation hood and filters above cooking equipment. Must clean and maintain.

      Official wording (code 56)

      Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used

20. Apr 23, 2019 Conditional

    Canvass · Pass w/ Conditions

    5 critical5 general Show violations

    • CriticalManagement & training

      Staff weren’t trained on, or didn’t follow, the rules for reporting illness.

      Inspector’s note: The person in charge unable to provide employee health policy. Instructed to provide and maintain. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-010. No citation issued.

      Official wording (code 3)

      Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting

    • CriticalManagement & training

      No written plan or kit for cleaning up vomit or diarrhea.

      Inspector’s note: The person in charge unable to provide procedure for employee to follow when responding to vomiting and diarrheal events. Instructed to provide procedure with the necessary items gloves, masks, disposable mops and appropriate sanitizer. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005. No citation issued.

      Official wording (code 5)

      Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no handwashing sink in front service station area. Instructed to install a hand washing sink with hot and cold running water under city pressure soap and paper towels. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c) no citation issued.

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalHygiene & sanitation

      Hand sinks were missing, blocked, or not stocked with soap and towels.

      Inspector’s note: Observed no hand drying devices at the hand washing sinks in food prep area and front bar area. Manager provided paper towels during inspection. Instructed to provide paper towels at all hand washing sinks at all times. Priority foundation violation 7-38-030(c) citation issued. Cos

      Official wording (code 10)

      Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible

    • CriticalFood temperature

      Prepared food wasn’t date-marked, or was kept past its discard date.

      Inspector’s note: Observed improper date marking on tcs foods held more than 24 hours inside walk-in cooler and prep coolers. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005 no citation issued.

      Official wording (code 23)

      Proper date marking and disposition

    • GeneralFood handling

      In-use utensils weren’t stored properly.

      Inspector’s note: Observed ice scoops stored on top of ice machine in rear prep area. Must properly store ice scoops in a clean container to prevent contamination.

      Official wording (code 43)

      In-use utensils: properly stored

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Plumbing problems, or missing protection against backflow.

      Inspector’s note: Observed leaking handle at the hand washing sink in front bar area. Must repair and maintain.

      Official wording (code 51)

      Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Plumbing problems, or missing protection against backflow.

      Inspector’s note: Backflow preventer device not located at the ice machine and espresso machine. Instructed to install so that can be located to be service and maintain.

      Official wording (code 51)

      Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Floors, walls, or ceilings were damaged or dirty.

      Inspector’s note: Observed clutter and unnecessary articles behind business. Must remove items clean and organize area to prevent rodent harborage.

      Official wording (code 55)

      Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean

    • GeneralFacility upkeep

      Ventilation or lighting was inadequate.

      Inspector’s note: Observed grease build up on ventilation hood and filters above cooking equipment. Must clean and maintain.

      Official wording (code 56)

      Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used

21. Dec 11, 2018 Pass

    Canvass · Pass

    2 general2 paperwork Show violations

    • GeneralFood handling

      Food wasn’t labeled or wasn’t in its original container.

      Inspector’s note: Instructed manager to properly label prepared food items with the name and date(fifo).

      Official wording (code 37)

      Food properly labeled; original container

    • GeneralFood handling

      Wiping cloths weren’t used or stored properly.

      Inspector’s note: Noted wiping clothes laying on the counter tops and prep stations. Instructed manager to properly store wiping clothes in sanitation solution when not in use.

      Official wording (code 41)

      Wiping cloths: properly used & stored

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Not all food employees had food-handler training.

      Inspector’s note: Instructed manager to comply with the food handler requirements or citations will follow.

      Official wording (code 57)

      All food employees have food handler training

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Required allergen training was missing.

      Inspector’s note: No allergen training. Instructed manager to comply with the new codes or citations will follow.

      Official wording (code 58)

      Allergen training as required

22. Oct 23, 2018 Pass

    License · Pass

    1 paperwork Show violations

    • PaperworkManagement & training

      Required allergen training was missing.

      Inspector’s note: No allergen training. Instructed manager to comply with the new codes or citations will follow.

      Official wording (code 58)

      Allergen training as required

23. Jun 4, 2018 Not Ready

    License · Not Ready

    No violations