Alibaba Cafe
Last inspected: May 9, 2025
74
Score
The health department has logged 18 inspections at Alibaba Cafe, the earliest from 2010. The most recent visit was on May 9, 2025. A medium risk rating points to a few notable findings at the last inspection, though nothing severe.
Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near two violations each time.
Looking across the full record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” is the recurring theme, flagged 10 times.
By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting Alibaba Cafe on the weaker side. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
18
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 9, 2025
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: WASTE PIPE ABOVE CHEST FREEZER MUST BE ENCASED.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE DUCT TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR ON THREE C THE DOOR OF THE TALL REACH-IN COOLER AND THE PLASTIC LID OF THE BULK FLOUR CONTAINER. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. Edit
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS FOOD CONTAINERS TO STORE ICE CUBES INSIDE THE WHITE CHEST FREEZER. ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. . MUST USE WASHABLE CONTAINERS OR FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAGS. MUST REPLACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER/FREEZER MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE SURFACE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE RAW WOOD AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR PLUMBING UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST PROVIDE A NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: WOMEN'S WASHROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING.PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT SAID DOOR.
53
74
Aug 19, 2024
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DOOR AT TOP OF STAIRS LEADING TO SEPARATE BUSSINESS NEEDS TO BE RODENTPROOF AND MAINTAINED.
55
95
Nov 14, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 31, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND 3 LIVE ROACHES ON WALLS AT DISHWASHING AREAS.PRIORITY FOUNDATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-020A.MUST NOTIFY PEST CONTROL OPERATOR AND ELIMINATE ROACH ACTIVITY.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN:EXTERIOR OF DEEP FRYERS, INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLER, AND GRILL AREAS.MUST CLEAN.
49
86
Jul 5, 2022
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNITS WITH FOOD STORED INSIDE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE WATER LINE TO UTILITY SINK, LOCATED IN REAR TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES LOCATED SO THAT THEY MAY BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNT OUT LIGHTBULB UNDERNEATH THE VENTILATION HOOD IN THE KITVHEN PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BURNT OUT LIGHTBULB.
56
86
Feb 17, 2021
Reinspection
2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROCEDURE AND KIT ON SITE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA. LEFT ONE PAGER AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PROCEDURE AND KIT WITH ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES INCLUDING A SANITIZER RATED AS EFFECTIVE AGAINST NOROVIRUS ON TIME AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VERIFIABLE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. LEFT TEMPLATE AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN COPIES OF HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT EXPOSED HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
78
Feb 5, 2021
Routine
6 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 7 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REPEAT CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2244169 DATED 1/8/2019 NOT CORRECTED: " OBSERVED TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN" " OBSERVED ALL EMPLOYEES DID NOT HAVE FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL EMPLOYEES HANDLING FOOD TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN" " NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN." INSTRUCTED TO COME INTO COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B).NO CITATION ISSUED.
60
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SUMMARY POSTED FOR PUBLIC VIEW FROM PREVIOUS INSPECTION #2244169 ON 1/8/2019. INSTRUCTED TO POST CURRENT SUMMARY FOR VIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B).
61
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VERIFIABLE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. LEFT TEMPLATE AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN COPIES OF HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROCEDURE AND KIT ON SITE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA. LEFT ONE PAGER AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PROCEDURE AND KIT WITH ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES INCLUDING A SANITIZER RATED AS EFFECTIVE AGAINST NOROVIRUS ON TIME AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU CONTAINING ITEMS SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED SUCH AS HAMBURGERS AND STEAK WITHOUT REMINDER, DISCLOSURE, AND ASTERISKS. INSTRUCTED TO MARK ALL ITEMS SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ON MENU WITH REMINDER, DISCLOSURE, AND ASTERISKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO TESTING KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION FOR DETERMINING CHEMICAL SANITIZER CONCENTRATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CHEMICAL TESTING KIT ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT EXPOSED HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
52
Jan 8, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 13 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE OR CLEAN UP KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD ADVISORY DISCLOSURE ON MENU. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE DISCLOSURE ON THE MENU INCLUDING AN ASTERISK LEADING TO THE FOOTNOTE THAT STATES THE ITEMS ARE SERVED RAW OR UNDER COOKED, OR MAY CONTAIN UNDER COOKED OR RAW INGREDIENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN APPROXIMATE 2 INCH GAP UNDER THE REAR DOOR IN THE BASEMENT LEADING TO TENANT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARD IN PREP COOKING AREA STAINED AND DEEP SEAMS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD IN THE REACH IN FREEZER IN BASEMENT BEING STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WITH COMMERCIAL FOOD GRADE BAGS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE AND DRIED FOOD DEBRIS OF INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE DISPLAY COOLER, PREP COOLER AND REACH IN COOLER IN PREP/COOKING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE ACCUMULATION ON SIDE OF THE GRILL LOCATED NEXT TO THE FRYER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE UTILITY SINK IN BACK OF FACILITY LOCATED NEXT TO THE TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND WATER STAINS ON CEILING TILE INSIDE TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BASE BOARD AROUND FLOOR IN PREP/COOKING AREA. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN OBSERVED AN OPENING IN THE BRICK LEADING TO TENANT STORAGE AREA IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR, SEAL AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST AND GREASE ON CEILING, WALLS, AND FLOORS THROUGHOUT FACILITY(CEILING FAN, TV, RECESSED LIGHTING COVERS, PICTURES, CHAIRS IN DINING AREA) INCLUDING THE PREP/COOKING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED FOR STORING ITEMS IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND REPLACE WITH SHELVING THAT IS 6 INCHES OR MORE ABOVE THE FLOOR FOR CLEANING. OBSERVED UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN FRONT PREP AREA AND IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A MOP AND OTHER CLEANING TOOLS STORED ON THE FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE OFF THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL EMPLOYEES DID NOT HAVE FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL EMPLOYEES HANDLING FOOD TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN.
58
39
Jun 19, 2017
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2059784, ISSUED ON 06-07-2017. (PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 1961168 ISSUED ON 09-23-2016). #41 - BASEMENT FLOOR CLUTTERED AT NORTHEAST WALL BY EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE ITEMS
14
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE.-------- GROCERY BAGS NOT ALLOWED TO USE FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MUST USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS.-------NOTED WATER LEAK INSIDE 3 DOOR PREP/DISPLAY COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN KITCHEN HOOD AND FILTERS, SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR SURFACES OF COOLERS AND FREEZERS.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AIR CONDITIONER DRAIN LINE DRAINING INTO ONE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. DRAIN LINE MUST PROPERLY DRAIN ONTO FLOOR DRAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE AND ACCURATE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
40
78
Jun 7, 2017
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Sewage and waste water disposal, no back siphonage, cross connection and/or back flow
Inspector notes: FOUND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK NOT PROPERLY MAINTAINED. WASTE WATER (DIRTY WATER - GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS) BACKING-UP FROM ONE COMPARTMENT INTO ANOTHER COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR. (CORRECTED DURING INSPECTION - MANAGER CLEANED AND RODDED THE OUTSIDE GREASE TRAP). CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
10
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND EXPOSED HANDSINK CLOGGED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO FIX. (CORRECTED DURING INSPECTION - MANAGER PLUNGED THE SAID EXPOSED HANDSINK). CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
11
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND FRONT ENTRANCE AND SIDE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED WITH 1/4 INCH GAP/OPENING. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOFED BOTTOM OF THE SAID DOORS, ALSO NOTED OVER 3 MICE DROPPINGS IN BASEMENT STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREA. MUST REMOVE ALL CLUTTER IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (EG COOKED RICE, CHICKEN, BEEF ETC) ARE BEING PREPARED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE, A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST BE PRESENT WHEN HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 1961168 ISSUED ON 09-23-2016. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090 #41 - BASEMENT FLOOR CLUTTERED AT NORTHEAST WALL BY EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE ITEMS
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE.-------- GROCERY BAGS NOT ALLOWED TO USE FOR FOOD STORAGE INSIDE COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MUST USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS.-------NOTED WATER LEAK INSIDE 3 DOOR PREP/DISPLAY COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN KITCHEN HOOD AND FILTERS, SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR SURFACES OF COOLERS AND FREEZERS.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AIR CONDITIONER DRAIN LINE DRAINING INTO ONE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. DRAIN LINE MUST PROPERLY DRAIN ONTO FLOOR DRAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE AND ACCURATE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
40
64
Sep 23, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BASEMENT FLOOR CLUTTERED AT NORTHEAST WALL BY EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE ITEMS.
34
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
90
Jun 9, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE EXPOSED HAND SINK NOT MAINTAINED, PRESENTLY CLOGGED.AFTER HALF HOUR OWNER WAS ABLE TO FIX PROBLEM.SINK UNCLOGGED. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
11
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND DIRTY ALUMINUM FOIL USED AS A SHELF LINERS AND UNDER THE CHARCOAL GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SHELF SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE. BRICKS AND RAW WOOD UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK ARE DIRTY WITH EXCESS GRIMES AND POROUS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ICE BUILD-UP INSIDE THE CHEST FREEZER,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SHELVES INSIDE THE TWO DOOR GLASS REACH-IN COOLER WITH BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE AND ENCRUSTED FOOD.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN MAINTAIN. INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH GREASE BUILD UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: GREASE ON FLOOR UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: TUBE LIGHT SHIELD INSIDE THE REACH-IN COOLER IS DIRTY WITH DEBRIS,ALSO END CAPS ARE MISSING.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN LIGHT SHIELD AND TO PROVIDE END CAPS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO STOPPERS PROVIDED AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EXCESS TOBACCO BOXES AND OTHER ITEMS ARE STORED ON FLOOR INSIDE THE TWO SOUTH- WEST STORAGES, IN BASEMENT AREA.INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE 6"OFF THE FLOOR ALL ITEMS FOR CLEANING PURPOSE.
41
70
Oct 20, 2014
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD BUILD UP ON SPICES SHELVES AT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN SHELVES AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STANDING WATER ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA BY STAND UP REACH IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO KEEP FLOOR DRY/CLEAN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRACKS/CREVICES ON WALL TILES AT FRONT COUNTER AND BETWEEN COUNTER TOP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL CRACKS/CREVICES IN WALLS.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND CALIBRATE METAL STEM THEROMETER FOR FOOD HANDLERS.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: BASEMENT FLOOR CLUTTERED (CANS AND SAUCES ON MILK CRATES). INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE SHELVES FOR ITEMS, MUST BE ABLE TO CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AND AROUND ALL CANS AND SAUCES.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE HAIR RESTRAINT FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
42
74
Jan 3, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GAP BETWEEN PREP EXPOSED HANDWASH BOWL AND WALL BEHIND. MUST SEAL CRACKS/CREVICES BETWEEN SAID SINK AND WALL.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD BUILD UP ON STAND UP REACH IN COOLER RAILS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXPOSED HANDWASH BOWL DRAIN PIPE LEAKING. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINK.
38
86
Jan 14, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE CUTTING BOARD (ON TOP OF PREP COOLER).
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF EXPOSED HAND SINK AND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS WITH DRIED FOOD SPILLAGE AROUND PREP AREA.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX SLOW DRAINING EXPOSED HANDSINK IN PREP AREA.
38
82
Jul 11, 2011
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Storage shelving in bsmt. storage areas had exposed raw wood, shall be repair/sealed.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Non food contact surfaces of cooking equipment, cooler shelving, and storage shelving(bsmt.) not clean need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors in bsmt. storage areas under storage shelving, not clean need detailed cleaning(corners).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Missing ceiling tiles in rear kitchen areas, shall be provided, wall in kitchen areas not clean need cleaning(detailed).
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Missing light shield in cooler shall be provided, missing light shields in storage areas, shall be provided, Light shields in kitchen areas need cleaning(detailed).
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Exhaust vents(ventilation)in cooler, bathroom not clean need detailed cleaning.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Stock items must be stored six inches off of floor to prevent pest harborage.
41
70
May 25, 2010
Consultation
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: VIOLATION #30 REMAINS TO BE CORRECTED.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: VIOLATION #32 REMAINS TO BE CORRECTED.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: VIOLATION #34 REMAINS TO BE CORRECTED.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: VIOLATION #35 REMAINS TO BE CORRECTED.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: VIOLATION #38 REMAINS TO BE CORRECTED.
38
78
May 18, 2010
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Toxic items properly stored, labeled and used
Inspector notes: FOUND TOXIC ITEMS(BLEACH AND SPRAY CONTAINER OF INDUSTRIAL CLEANER AND DEGREASER) STORED WITH THE CANNED FOODS IN THE STORAGE SHELVE. MANAGER /OWNER TOOK THE CHEMICALS AND STORED IT AWAY IN THE PROPER PLACE. CITATION ISSUED SERIOUS 7-38-005A/7-38-030
25
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL FOODS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER, INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER, MUST HAVE A LABEL AND DATED. ALSO ALL THE BULK CONTAINERS WITH ONIONS AND RICE NEED A LABEL.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST RECAULK AROUND THE SPLASGUARD OF THE EXPOSED HAND SINK,( CAULKING WORN OUT).
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: NEED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL THE FLOOR BEHIND THE GRILL, DEEP FRYER, AND COOLER,AND BEHIND THE GAS PIPE ,(WITH ACCUMULATED DUST AND GREASE).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN IN DETAIL THE LIGHT SHIELD BY THE HOOD WITH GREASE BUILT UP. MISSING PART OF THE WALL BY THE STAIR GOING TO THE BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKING ON THE FAUCET NECK CONNECTOR OF THE 3 COMPT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO STOP THE LEAK.
38
74
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Alibaba Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Alibaba Cafe on file is from May 9, 2025. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Alibaba Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Alibaba Cafe.
Has Alibaba Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Alibaba Cafe have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Alibaba Cafe means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Alibaba Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Alibaba Cafe is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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