Athena Restaurant

212 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60661
Greek / Mediterranean
Last inspected: Jul 15, 2025
90
Score
Low Risk

Inspectors have visited Athena Restaurant 17 times, with records going back to 2017. The most recent visit was on Jul 15, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.

Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near two violations each time.

“Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 10 times across the record.

Compared to the broader Chicago restaurant scene, where the average is 81, this is a stronger showing. Taken together, the history is a positive one.

17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 15, 2025
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND NO SOAP AT HAND SINK AT PREPARATION AREAS.PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED.7-38-030C.SOAP PROVIDED BY THE END OF INSPECTION.
10
90
Sep 5, 2024
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: No hot running water available through out facility, water temp 75-81f, Instructed manager to provide 110f minimum water temp at all dish washing facilities. Priority violation 7-38-030(C).
50
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: Fly traps mounted in kitchen above large meat grinder, instructed to remove from food prep area.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Main prep line hand wash sink missing splash guard, too close to open food container. Instructed to install.
55
78
Aug 1, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 ALLERGEN TRAINING STILL NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2579128 DATE 7/27/23. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLY OR MORE CITATION WILL FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION CITATION ISSUED #7-42-090. Violation Codes: 2-102.13 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD CERTIFIED MANAGER WITH AN EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS OBTAIN THIS CERTIFICATE
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE PREP COOLERS TO REMOVE SPILLS AND DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE SALAD COOLER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STANDING WATER ON THE FLOORS THROUGH OUT PREP AND DISHWASHING AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND KEEP FLOORS DRY AS POSSIBLE TO PREVENT BREEDING PLACE FOR PESTS.
55
82
Jul 27, 2023
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3-COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPERS NEAR THE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM NOT WORKING AT RIGHT SIDE AND MIDDLE COMPARTMENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE WORKING STOPPERS AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE FAUCET OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE REAR DISH ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE IN THE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM. INSTRCUTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD CERTIFIED MANAGER WITH AN EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS OBTAIN THIS CERTIFICATE.
58
78
Aug 18, 2022
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT SALAD PREP, FOOD HOTLINE AND REAR PREP HANDWASHING SINKS INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND A MINIMAL AMOUNT OF PINK UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE INSIDE TOP INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. ALSO NOTED A MINIMAL AMOUNT OF BLACK UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE INSIDE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ICE, CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND 1/4 INCH GAP AT BOTTOM OF REAR EXIT DOOR. MUST PROVIDE A CLOSED TIGHT FITTED DOOR AT ALL TIMES TO PREVENT PEST ENTRANCE.
38
86
Jan 6, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 4, 2022
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: FOUND CONTINUED NON-COMPLIANCE OF THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION FROM INSPECTION REPORT # 2545985 NOTED ON 12/27/21 : 3-603.11 OBSERVED AN INCOMPLETE CONSUMER ADVISORY FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS; ADVISORY IS MISSING DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND ASTERISK LINKING ADVISORY TO MENU ITEM(S). INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY SUCH FOODS BY ASTERISKING THEM TO A FOOT NOTE THAT STATES: "ITEMS CAN BE SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED OR CONTAIN UNDERCOOKED INGREDIENTS" AND ADD A STATEMENT THAT SAYS: "CONSUMING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL PRODUCTS MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE MEDICAL CONDITIONS". PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. 4-501.12 OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS ATTACHED TO COOLER UNIT ALONG HOT SERVICE PREP LINE WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. MUST CORRECT PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
59
90
Dec 27, 2021
Suspected Food Poisoning
3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN INCOMPLETE CONSUMER ADVISORY FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS; ADVISORY IS MISSING DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND ASTERISK LINKING ADVISORY TO MENU ITEM(S). INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY SUCH FOODS BY ASTERISKING THEM TO A FOOT NOTE THAT STATES: "ITEMS CAN BE SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED OR CONTAIN UNDERCOOKED INGREDIENTS" AND ADD A STATEMENT THAT SAYS: "CONSUMING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL PRODUCTS MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE MEDICAL CONDITIONS". PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
25
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: FOUND NO IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR FOR THE HOT WATER SANITIZING DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE AND HAVE READILY ACCESSIBLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
48
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM 8/19/2021 REPORT 2528280 NOT CORRECTED: VIOLATION #47 (4-501.12) OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS ATTACHED TO COOLER UNIT ALONG HOT SERVICE PREP LINE WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. MUST CORRECT PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090.
60
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE HOT WATER SANITIZING DISH MACHINE. FOUND THE THIRD AUTOMATIC HANDWASHING SINK FROM THE LEFT IN THE WOMENS RESTROOM INOPERABLE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: FOUND HEAVY DUST BUILD UP ON THE CEILING VENTS IN THE EMPLOYEE LOCKER AREA AND IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
67
Aug 19, 2021
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DRAINPIPE LEAKING UNDER 3-COMPARTMNET SINKAND CLEAR WATER POOLING INTO SURROUNDING FLOOR SPACE WITHIN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED REPAIR LEAKING DRAINPIPE.
51
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE IN THE MEN'S AND WOMEN'S WASHROOM. A sign or poster that notifies FOOD EMPLOYEES to wash their hands shall be provided at all HANDWASHING SINKS used by FOOD EMPLOYEES and shall be clearly visible to FOOD EMPLOYEES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED NO LABELS FOR BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS (FLOUR AND RICE). INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS ATTACHED TO COOLER UNIT ALONG HOT SERVICE PREP LINE WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXTERNAL AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE DISPLAY INOPERABLE ON REFRIGERTOR #4 (2-DOOR UNIT). INTERNAL AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER OBSERVED AT PROPER COLD-HOLDING TEMPERATURE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR EXTERNAL TEMPERATURE DISPLAYS AND MAINTAIN.
47
78
Oct 19, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: FACILITY USES HI TEMPERATURE SANITIZING DISH MACHINE AND DOESN'T HAVE PROPER TEMPERATURE MEASURING IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR THAT SHALL BE PROVIDED AND READILY ACCESSIBLE FOR MEASURING THE UTENSIL SURFACE TEMPERATURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
48
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE DOOR PREP COOLER WHERE THE FRIED FOODS ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
86
Oct 14, 2020
Complaint
6 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY ON MENUS ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENUS REGARDING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED. (REFER TO HANDOUT)
25
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: FACILITY USES HI TEMPERATURE SANITIZING DISH MACHINE AND DOESN'T HAVE PROPER TEMPERATURE MEASURING IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR THAT SHALL BE PROVIDED AND READILY ACCESSIBLE FOR MEASURING THE UTENSIL SURFACE TEMPERATURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
48
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BROKEN TEMPERATURE MEASURING GAUGE FOR THE WASH AND SANITIZING CYCLES OF RESIDENTIAL HIGH TEMPERATURE GRADE WAREWASHING MACHINE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED. DISH COMPANY REP ARRIVED DURING THE INSPECTION AND FIXED THE DISH MACHINE GAUGE. COS
48
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY WITH NO BODILY FLUID SPILL KIT PROCEDURE AND INCOMPLETE SUPPLIES. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE A COMPLETED POLICY REFLECTING THE SUPPLIES INCLUDED IN ON-SITE SPILL KITS. MUST ENSURE THE AVAILABILITY OF BOTH A COMPLETED POLICY ALL SUPPLIES NEEDED FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND/OR DIARRHEA TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HOT RUNNING WATER AT EMPLOYEE BATHROOM HAND WASH SINK AND THE REAR FOOD PREP AHND SINK. THE TEMPERATURE OF WATER WAS 70.0 AND 64.5F AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE HOT AND COLD RUNNING AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE BROWNISH AND PINK SLIMY SUBSTANCE BUILD UP ON INSIDE THE INTERIOR PANEL OF BOTH ICE MACHINE AND DRIPPING ONTO ICE FOR HUMAN CONSUMTION. MUST REMOVE BUILD UP, CLEAN AND SANITIZE.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005) CITATION ISSUED.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR BULK CORN STRACH AND FLOUR STORAGE CONTAINER STORED ON THE DRY STORAGE SEASONING RACK. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A 1/4" GAP IN THE MIDDLE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR EXIT DOOR. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AT ALL OUTER OPENINGS TO PREVENT THE ENTRY OF PESTS.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTH HANGING ON THE CUTTING BOARDS AND PREP TABLES THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOPE BEING STORED IN A UNCOVERED CONTAINER MOUNTED TO THE WALL NEXT TO THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE DOOR PREP COOLER WHERE THE FRIED FOODS ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILINGS TILE PANELS IN THE DISH AREA AND CEILING NEAR THE REAR EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE MISSING CEILING TILES.
55
37
Aug 7, 2019
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 5 LBS OF COOKED LAMB AT 112F AND 5 LBS OF GYRO MEAT AT 100F ON THE HOT FOOD LINE. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD HOT TCS FOODS AT 135F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED. FOOD VALUED AT $100
21
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENUS REGARDING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED. (REFER TO HANDOUT)
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: HAND SINK IN PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE. OBSERVED A BOWL OF LETTUCE AND A KNIFE STORED IN THE HAND SINK. A HANDWASHING SINK may not be used for purposes other than handwashing. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE DRINKING FROM AN OPEN PITCHER IN THE DISH-WASHING AREA. A FOOD EMPLOYEE may drink from a closed BEVERAGE container to prevent contamination oF CLEAN DISHES AND UTENSILS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
6
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN UNKNOWN DEBRIS FROM INTERIOR PANELS OF BOTH ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA, PANELS A LITTLE DIRTY, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING FOOD IN PREP AREA WITH OUT A HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES WHEN PREPARING FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
40
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT DISHES BEING STORED IN STORAGE COMPARTMENTS IN PREP AREA, TO PREVENT DUST CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE ALL WHITE CUTTING BOARDS ON PREP COOLERS IN REAR PREP AREA. Surfaces such as cutting blocks and boards that are subject to scratching and scoring shall be resurfaced if they can no longer be effectively cleaned and SANITIZED, or discarded if they are not capable of being resurfaced. DEEP DARK GROOVES PRESENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN REFRIGERATION GASKETS ON MULTIPLE REFRIGERATION UNITS THROUGHOUT FACILITY. ALSO, REMOVE FROM STORAGE RACKS IN WALK IN COOLER #1, SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAK UNDERNEATH SINK AT HIGH-TEMPERATURE DISH-MACHINE, AND LEAKY FAUCET ON 3-COMP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BROKEN/MISSING FLOOR TILES BEHIND HEAVY EQUIPMENT IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DEBRIS AND WATER FROM FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREP AREA, STORAGE CLOSET IN REAR AND UPSTAIRS STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE EXCESSIVE DUST & GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM HOOD FILTERS, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
41
Nov 26, 2018
Complaint
2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON-SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH FORM OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURES FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KIT & PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE DATE MARKINGS ON RTE & TCS FOODS PREPARED ONSITE AND HELD IN COOLERS FOR MORE THE 24 HRS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSUME BY DATES AND MAINTAIN.
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING WATER BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE GREEN CUTTING BOARDS IN PREP AREA, DEEP DARK GROOVES PRESENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED GREASE & FOOD FROM EXTERIOR OF STACKABLE OVEN IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREP AREA, STORAGE CLOSET IN REAR AND UPSTAIRS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
58
Mar 30, 2018
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: Observed potentially hazardous food stored at improper temperature in the following area: Vegetable walk in cooler- 74.5f, 50lbs of house made tomatoes sauce, at a value of $200: date 3/29/18, at 12:00pm 49.6f, 30lb of ground beef in tomato sauce, at a value of $100 Vegetable cooler at time of inspection was 37.8f Manager voluntarily discarded and denatured a total weight of 80lbs, at a value of $300.00 Informed manager that potentially hazardous must be at 40f or lower for cold and 140f or more for hot foods at all times. Critical violation 7-38-005 (A)
3
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: Observed no soap or paper towels at exposed hand sink at front main bar. Informed manager that soap and paper towels are required at all exposed hand to ensure proper hand washing. Manager corrected violation during inspection. Also, observed food handler wash hands at mop sink, adjacent to cook line, then put on single use gloves and returned to cook line. Informed manager that hand washing must occur at exposed hand sink at all times, as well as wash hands properly before putting on single use gloves. Manager corrected violations during inspection during inspection. Critical violation #7-38-010 (A)
6
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: Found retail food establishment making own yogurt on premises. Instructed to contact the Illinois Department of Public Health for approval at DPH.dairy@illinois.gov . Instructed to cease making yogurt until approved by IDPH. If found making yogurt without IDPH approval, citation will be issued. 30lbs of Yogurt, at a value of $40.00 was (voluntarily discarded) at this time. NO CITATION ISSUED, AT TIME OF INSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION # 7-38-005 (A)
16
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Observed ice scoops resting inside ice bin, in direct contact with ice for consumption, at front bar. Instructed manager to provide proper holding device for ice scoop. Maintain at all times.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed rusted and chipped paint on shelving units in the following areas: -Vegetable walking cooler -Main walk in freezer -Meat walk in cooler -2nd floor Beverage Room Instructed manager to resurface and or replace. Maintain at all times. Observed raw wood shelving in small beverage storage room, on second floor. Informed manager that all surfaces must be smooth and easily cleanable. Instructed manager to seal said area and maintain it all times. Observed broken and cracked door gaskets on meat walk in cooler and vegetable walk in cooler. Instructed manager to repair and maintain at all times. Observed plastic film on beverage cooler, at beverage station adjacent to main kitchen. Instructed manager that surface must be smooth and easily cleanable. Instructed manager to remove and ensure surface is smooth and easily cleanable. Maintain at all times.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Observed raw wood walls in large beverage room, on second floor. Informed manager that all surfaces must be smooth and easily cleanable. Instructed manager to seal said area and maintain it all times.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed missing stainless steel mushroom back flow preventive cap/device on mop sink faucet. Instructed manager to repair and maintain at all times.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed clutter and unused kitchen equipment on floor in walk-in cooler in rear kitchen, near exit door, used as dry storage. Informed manager to organize, clean, remove any unnecessary items and elevate items at least 6 inches off the floor, to prevent rodent harborage. Maintain at all times.
41
67
Oct 3, 2017
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Facility installed rubber insert between 2 front exterior doors that does not reach top or bottom of doors. Facility has plastic insert on the premises that reach top and bottom of space between doors. Must install to make doors tight fitting. Must maintain same.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON THE SHELVES LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE ALL AND MAINTAIN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed drain line for soda gun holder routed to hand sink in bar. Must remove. Drain line must be routed directly to floor drain. Must maintain same.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THERMOMETERS NEEDED IN 2 REFRIGERATORS AND COLD HOLDING UNITS LOCATED ACROSS FROM THE COOKING LINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES NOT AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES AND MAINTAIN.
45
78
Sep 22, 2017
Complaint
12 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: Observe bar hand sink without soap and paper towels. Observed soda gun holder drain line routed directly into bar handsink, and debris in basin. Instructed hand sink may only be used for washing hands. Instructed all hand sinks must be have soap and paper towels (or a sanitary drying device) available at all times. Operator corrected during inspection. Critical violation 7-38-030.
12
Potentially hazardous food properly thawed
Inspector notes: Observed frozen potentially hazardous foods (octopus, squid, etc.) being improperly thawed in 2 compartment sink in rear of kitchen. Foods stored in basin which is full of cold standing water. Instructed must use approved method of thawing potentially hazardous foods as outlined in the Food Rules & Regulations such as: in a refrigeration unit with internal ambient air temperature of 40F or less; under potable running water at a temperature of 70F or below.; in a microwave only when part of continuous cooking process and finished in convention cooking facilities. Operator turned on water to allow water to continuous run over thawing foods. Serious violation 7-38-005(a).
17
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: Observed 1-2 inch gap in between front exterior doors (top to bottom of doors). All doors must be tight fitting to prevent pest entry. Must repair to make tight fitting. Serious violation 7-38-020.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DRY STORAGE BINS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING PRODUCT NAME AND DATE. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON THE SHELVES LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE ALL AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT LOCATED BY 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS. OBSERVED INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE WITH A SLITE PINKISH SUBSTANCE LOCATED BY THE ICE MAKER OBSERVED FANS IN ONE DOOR REFRIGERATORS WITH ACCUMULATED DIRT DEBRIS. OBSERVED FANS IN WALK IN COOLER WITH ACCUMULATED DUST DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS IN FOOD PREP AREA AND BY DISH WASHING AREA NEED TO BE RE-GROUTED. OBSERVED FLOORS WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS THRU OUT FOOD PREP AREAS, DISH WASHING AREA, DRY STORAGE AREA, AND WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL SAID AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTS WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE AND DUST DEBRIS LOCATED BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED WALLS AND CEILINGS BY THE DISH MACHINE WITH ACCUMULATED DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed drain line for soda gun holder routed to hand sink in bar. Must remove. Drain line must be routed directly to floor drain. Must maintain same.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NEEDED ON THE FAUCET OF THE UTILITY SINK. INSTRCUTED TO PROVIDE ALL AND MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THERMOMETERS NEEDED IN 2 REFRIGERATORS AND COLD HOLDING UNITS LOCATED ACROSS FROM THE COOKING LINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES NOT AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES AND MAINTAIN.
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Jul 6, 2017
License
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES NOT AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES AND MAINTAIN.
45
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DRY STORAGE BINS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING PRODUCT NAME AND DATE. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON THE SHELVES LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE ALL AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT LOCATED BY 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS. OBSERVED INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE WITH A SLITE PINKISH SUBSTANCE LOCATED BY THE ICE MAKER OBSERVED FANS IN ONE DOOR REFRIGERATORS WITH ACCUMULATED DIRT DEBRIS. OBSERVED FANS IN WALK IN COOLER WITH ACCUMULATED DUST DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS IN FOOD PREP AREA AND BY DISH WASHING AREA NEED TO BE RE-GROUTED. OBSERVED FLOORS WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS THRU OUT FOOD PREP AREAS, DISH WASHING AREA, DRY STORAGE AREA, AND WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL SAID AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTS WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE AND DUST DEBRIS LOCATED BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED WALLS AND CEILINGS BY THE DISH MACHINE WITH ACCUMULATED DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PROPER FLOOR DRAIN NEEDED UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND A AIR GAP AT LEAST 6 INCHES IN BETWEEN THE FLOOR DRAIN AND DRAIN PIPE LOCATED UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK BY THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. OBSERVED BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NEEDED ON THE FAUCET OF THE UTILITY SINK. INSTRCUTED TO PROVIDE ALL AND MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THERMOMETERS NEEDED IN 2 REFRIGERATORS AND COLD HOLDING UNITS LOCATED ACROSS FROM THE COOKING LINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
40
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Frequently Asked Questions

When was Athena Restaurant last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Athena Restaurant on file is from Jul 15, 2025. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Athena Restaurant?

Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Athena Restaurant.

Has Athena Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Athena Restaurant have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Athena Restaurant means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.

How often is Athena Restaurant inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Athena Restaurant is inspected around two times per year on average.