Big Tony's
Last inspected: Jul 2, 2025
78
Score
Big Tony's appears in inspection records 20 times, starting in 2010. Big Tony's was last inspected on Jul 2, 2025. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around 11 violations to closer to three violations per visit.
The pattern that stands out is “food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean”, which has been cited 12 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
20
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 2, 2025
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP AND RESIDUE ON WALLS THROUGHOUT FACILITY. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TAPE USED ON CHEST FREEZER FOR BROKEN AREAS. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROPERLY REPAIR OR REPLACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR OF COLD HOLD AND HOT HOLD UNITS/EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOOD SYSTEM NOT OPERABLE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP OF GREASE ON FILTERS IN HOOD SYSTEM. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
78
Apr 30, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 19, 2024
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations.
View 4 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 2.5 LBS OF COOKED CHICKEN WINGS STORED INSIDE A CONTAINER ON THE PREP TABLE DURING THE TIME OF INSPECTION AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. NOTED TEMPERATURE @ 65F-72F AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD ALL HOT TCS FOODS @135 OR HIGHER AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION. #7-38-005 PERSON IN CHARGE DISCARDED VOLUNTARILY.
21
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING COLD TCS FOOD ITEMS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES DURING THE TIME OF INSPECTION. THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS: APPROXIMATELY 3 LBS SLICED TOMATOES ON PREP TABLE, 3 LBS CHOPPED CHICKEN, 3 LBS CHOPPED BEEF, 8 LBS COOKED SHRIMP, 7.5 LBS GROUND BEEF, ALL STORED INSIDE 2 DOOR UPRIGHT COOLING UNIT IN FRONT PREP. NOTED TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 50-69F. THE PERSON IN CHARGE DISCARDED SAID FOODS VOLUNTARILY AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD ALL COLD TCS FOODS @41 OR BELOW AS REQUIRED. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. PLEASE SEE THE ABOVE VIOLATION FOR CITATION INFORMATION.
22
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE LIVE ROACH CRAWLING ON UPRIGHT REFRIGERATOR DOOR HANDLE DURING TIME OF INSPECTION AS WELL AS APPROXIMATELY 30 SMALL RODENT DROPPINGS BEHIND SAID COOLING UNIT SCATTERED ON THE FLOOR, UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND IN REAR PREP UNDERNEATH SHELVING UNITS. INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE, REMOVE DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANTIZE. MUST ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020 (A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT #2573329 ON MARCH 28, 2023; THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS... 37)OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR FLOUR STORAGE CONTAINER STORED ON THE SHELF IN THE REAR. I INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE OF ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS THAT MUST BE LABELED WITH THE CONTENTS' NAMES. 41)OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES. 43)OBSERVED CUTTING UTENSILS BEING STORED BETWEEN THE PREP TABLE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO STORE PROPERLY HANGING OR INSIDE DEVICE FOR HOLDING UTENSILS, KEEP CLEANED AND MAINTAINED BETWEEN USE. 47)OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDE FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING. -OBSERVED CARDBOARD LINING SHELVES AND COUNTERS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL AS A MEANS OF BEING ABLE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AND TO PREVENT POSSIBLE INSECT HARBORING. OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF THE DEEP FRYER OIL FILTERING UNIT WITH A BUILD-UP OF GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. 49)OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DEBRIS AND ICE BUILDUP IN THE INTERIOR OF THE CHEST FREEZERS LOCATED IN THE FRONT AND REAR NEAR THE BACK EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE EXCESS ICE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE SIDES OF ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND NON-COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH A BUILD-UP OF DIRT, DUST, GREASE, AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. -OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF ALL REACH-IN COOLERS WITH A BUILD-UP OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE BOTTOM AND THE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. 55) OBSERVED A BUILD-UP OF EQUIPMENT CLUTTER AND OTHER ITEMS ON SHELVING AND FLOORS IN THE REAR DISHWASHING AREA AND REAR STORAGE ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ANY AND ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND INSECT HARBORING. -OBSERVED A BUILD-UP OF DIRT, GREASE, AND FOOD SPLATTER ON THE FLOORS AND WALLS IN THE FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA AND THE REAR DISH WASHING AND STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS. -FLOORS NEED DETAILED CLEANING THROUGHOUT, ESPECIALLY ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS. 56)OBSERVED NO LIGHTING UNDER THE HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN GOOD LIGHTING. MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE THE GREASE AND DEBRIS OBSERVED ONE MISSING LIGHT SHIELD IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT ALL PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS ABOVE AS REQUIRED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
61
Mar 28, 2023
Routine
18 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING UTENSILS BEING STORED BETWEEN THE PREP TABLE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO STORE PROPERLY HANGING OR INSIDE DEVICE FOR HOLDING UTENSILS, KEEP CLEANED AND MAINTAINED BETWEEN USE.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARD BOARD LINING SHELVES AND COUNTERS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL AS A MEANS OF BEING ABLE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AND TO PREVENT POSSIBLE INSECT HARBORING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF THE DEEP FRYER OIL FILTERING UNIT WITH A BUILD UP OF GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DEBRIS AND ICE BUILDUP IN THE INTERIOR OF THE CHEST FREEZERS LOCATED IN THE FRONT AND REAR NEAR THE BACK EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE EXCESS ICE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE SIDES OF ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND NON COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT, DUST, GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF ALL OF THE REACH IN COOLERS WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE BOTTOM AND ON THE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WASTE RECEPTACLES AT HAND WASHING SINK IN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF CLUTTER OF EQUIPMENT AND OTHER ITEMS ON SHELVING AND FLOORS IN THE REAR DISH WASHING AREA AND REAR STORAGE ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ANY AND ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND INSECT HARBORING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF DIRT, GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER ON THE FLOORS AND WALLS IN THE FRONT FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA AND THE REAR DISH WASHING AND STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING THROUGH OUT ESPECIALLY ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LIGHTING UNDER THE HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN GOOD LIGHTING.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE THE GREASE AND DEBRIS
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE MISSING LIGHT SHIELD IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1 EMPLOYEES WORKING WITHOUT FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE DUE TO THE ONE ON SITE BEING EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES MUST COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTIONDUE TO THE ONE ON SITE BEING EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATES MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR FLOUR STORAGE CONTAINER STORED ON THE SHELF IN THE REAR. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
41
Mar 3, 2022
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING UTENSILS BEING STORED BETWEEN THE PREP TABLE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO STORE PROPERLY HANGING OR INSIDE DEVICE FOR HOLDING UTENSILS, KEEP CLEANED AND MAINTAINED BETWEEN USE.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARD BOARD LINING SHELVES AND COUNTERS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL AS A MEANS OF BEING ABLE TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AND TO PREVENT POSSIBLE INSECT HARBORING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF THE DEEP FRYER OIL FILTERING UNIT WITH A BUILD UP OF GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF ALL OF THE REACH IN COOLERS WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE BOTTOM AND ON THE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE SIDES OF ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND NON COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT, DUST, GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF DIRT, GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER ON THE FLOORS AND WALLS IN THE FRONT FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA AND THE REAR DISH WASHING AND STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF CLUTTER OF EQUIPMENT AND OTHER ITEMS ON SHELVING AND FLOORS IN THE REAR DISH WASHING AREA AND REAR STORAGE ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ANY AND ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND INSECT HARBORING.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM WITH A BUILD UP OF GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LIGHTING UNDER THE HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN GOOD LIGHTING.
56
64
Feb 24, 2020
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR BULK FLOUR STORAGE CONTAINER STORED ON THE SHELF IN THE REAR. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON THE COUNTER NEAR WITH WOKS. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DEBRIS AND ICE BUILDUP IN THE INTERIOR OF THE CHEST FREEZERS LOCATED IN THE REAR NEAR THE BACK EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE EXCESS ICE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WALLS IN THE REAR TO BE SOILED WITH FOOD SPLASH. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS IN THE REAR.
55
78
Jul 30, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: **PREMISES HAS NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR BODY FLUID SPILL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH THE NEW CODE OR CITATIONS WILL FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7=38-005.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: **PREMISES HAS NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH THE NEW CODE OR CITATIONS WILL FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010.
3
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN WORKING THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE THE COOLERS WITH DATES(FIFO).
37
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS AND FREEZERS TO REMOVE SPILLS,DEBRIS AND ICE BUILD UP.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING THROUGH OUT ESPECIALLY ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE LINES BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD UP.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE THE GREASE AND DEBRIS.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVERD THE CERTIFIED MANAGER WITHOUT ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH THE ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CITATIONS WILL FOLLOW.
58
58
Jun 6, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: NOTED THE SHELVING INSIDE IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA DIRTY ALSO SHELVING INSIDE RIC. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS AROUND THE LEG OF COOKING EQUIPMENT FOUND DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
90
Oct 20, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS IN REAR OF PREMISES NEAR SHELVES,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS IN THE PREP AREA,BEHIND THE GRILL,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE 2 CHEST FREEZER IN THE PREP AREA,HAS ACCUMLICATION OF ICE BUILD-UP, AND CLEAN INTERIOR OF REFRIGERATOR UNIT IN REAR OF PREMISES INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
86
Jan 15, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER ENCRUSTED WITH GREASE ON THE TOP,LIP,AND LID OF CONTAINER,THIS IS A FOOD SOURCE FOR RODENTS AND OTHER PEST,SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
19
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN ALL REACH-IN COOLERS THROUGHOUT PREMISES OF FOOD DEBRIS AND MUST DEFROST ALL CHEST FREEZERS OF ICE BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS IN THE REAR OF PREMISES AND REAR STORAGE CLOSET ,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR OF PREMISES
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THE REAR STORAGE CLOSET,TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE THE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE AT PREP AREA
43
74
Jul 31, 2015
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE FRYERS AND GRILL, CLEAN INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES, CLEAN INSIDE OF REFRIGERATIION UNITS WHERE NEEDED AND CLEAN CUTTING BOARD.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES. ALSO CLEAN UNDER SINKS IN REAR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE. CLEAN PIPES CONNECTED TO COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE. CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: SOME UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN REAR AREA; REMOVE TO AVOID CLUTTER. REMOVE STANDING WASTE WATER FROM MOP BUCKET IN REAR WHEN DONE USING; STORE MOP WITH MOP HEAD UPWARD TO DRY.
41
82
May 19, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE FRYERS AND GRILL, CLEAN INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES, CLEAN INSIDE OF REFRIGERATIION UNITS WHERE NEEDED AND CLEAN CUTTING BOARD.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES. ALSO CLEAN UNDER SINKS IN REAR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE. CLEAN PIPES CONNECTED TO COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE. CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: SOME UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN REAR AREA; REMOVE TO AVOID CLUTTER. REMOVE STANDING WASTE WATER FROM MOP BUCKET IN REAR WHEN DONE USING; STORE MOP WITH MOP HEAD UPWARD TO DRY.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLER ON PREMISES MUST OBTAIN THE IDPH FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INFO GIVEN.
45
78
Dec 2, 2014
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE EXTERIOR OF ALL EQUIPMENT,STORAGE SHELVING TO REMOVE HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS TO REMOVE GREASE,DEAD BUGS, AND SPILLS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LOOSE WALL COVING WHERE EVERY NEEDED TO PREVENT FOOD AND GREASE BUILD UP AND BREEDING PLACE FOR PEST.
35
86
Nov 24, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NOTED 9 LIVE ROACHES INSIDE PREMISES: 1 INSIDE THE WALL COVING OF THE WALL BASE IN THE FRONT NEXT TO BREAD COOLER AND 1 ON THE WALL IN SAME AREA, 3 INSIDE THE RUBBER GASKET OF A SMALL PREP COOLER, 2 CRAWLING ON THE WALL ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND 2 ROACHES CRAWLING ON THE FLOOR BEHIND THE POP COOLER. MUST REMOVE AND ELIMINATE PEST PROBLEM (ROACHES) AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITZIE AREAS. CITATION ISSUED #7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE EXTERIOR OF ALL EQUIPMENT,STORAGE SHELVING TO REMOVE HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS TO REMOVE GREASE,DEAD BUGS, AND SPILLS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LOOSE WALL COVING WHERE EVERY NEEDED TO PREVENT FOOD AND GREASE BUILD UP AND BREEDING PLACE FOR PEST.
35
82
Jan 29, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: PREMISES ONLY TOILET IS OUT OF ORDER AND HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM BASE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030. MUST REPAIR, RE-INSTALL AND MAINTAIN TOILET. PLUMBER ARRIVED DURING INSPECTION AND CORRECTED VIOLATION AT 3PM.
11
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: CHICAGO FOODSERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE EXPIRED 1/22/14. NO PROOF OF ENROLLMENT FOR RENEWAL AVAILABLE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012A. MUST ENROLL IN CLASS TO OBTAIN NEW CERTIFICATE.
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOLERS AND FREEZERS, SHELVING, RACKS AND COUNTERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THUR-OUT PREMISES HAVE BUILD OF GRIME. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OVERHEAD HOOD AND FILTERS HAS BUILD UP OF GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT UNDER OVERHEAD HOOD IS NOT SHATTER PROOF OR SHIELDED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SHATTER PROOF LIGHT BULB OR SHIELD.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: VENTILATION COVERS THRU-OUT PREMISES HAVE BUILD UP OF DUST AND GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN. ALSO INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON MOP SINK FAUCETS. INSTRUCTED NEVER HOOK UP WATER HOSE WITHOUT BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE. GYRO SPIT NOT UNDER VENTILATION HOOD. MUST PLACE UNDER HOOD.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: POTTED PLANTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREA MUST BE REMOVED. REMOVE ALL UNUSED OR UNNECESSARY ITEMS FROM PREMISES.
41
67
Apr 16, 2013
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REACH-IN COOLER NOT MAINTAINED. REPAIR/DISGUARD SAME. PROVIDE HOOKS TO HANG THE MOPS AND BROOM WHEN NOT BEING USED.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE HOOD,FILTERS AND ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, REMOVE ALL GREASE FROM GRILL AND FRYER CABINETS, ALSO CLEAN RIM OF REACH IN COOLERS AND INTERIOR SURFACES SHELVES. DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN CHEST FREEZERS HAS ICE BUILDUP IN THEM.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AND BEHIND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND PAINT ALL THE WALLS THROUGHOUT WHERE NEEDED. CLEAN TILE WALLS BEHIND COOKING EQUIPTMENT THE GROUT HEAVY WITH GREASE. MUST SEAL ALL HOLES IN THE WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES SO NO INSECT OR RODENT HARBORAGE.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THE REAR STORE ROOM AND REAR AREA CLEAN AND ORGNIZE SO NO INSECT OR RODENT HARBORAGE.
41
78
Apr 8, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REACH-IN COOLER NOT MAINTAINED. REPAIR/DISGUARD SAME. PROVIDE HOOKS TO HANG THE MOPS AND BROOM WHEN NOT BEING USED.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE HOOD,FILTERS AND ALL THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, REMOVE ALL GREASE FROM GRILL AND FRYER CABINETS, ALSO CLEAN RIM OF REACH IN COOLERS AND INTERIOR SURFACES SHELVES. DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN CHEST FREEZERS HAS ICE BUILDUP IN THEM.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AND BEHIND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND PAINT ALL THE WALLS THROUGHOUT WHERE NEEDED. CLEAN TILE WALLS BEHIND COOKING EQUIPTMENT THE GROUT HEAVY WITH GREASE.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THE REAR STORE ROOM AND REAR AREA CLEAN AND ORGNIZE SO NO INSECT OR RODENT HARBORAGE.
41
78
Jan 20, 2011
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. REACH-IN COOLER NOT MAINTAINED. REPAIR/DISGUARD SAME.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS BEHIND ALL HEAVY EQUIPTMENT FLOORS HEAVY WITH DUST.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. DETAIL CLEAN TILE WALLS BEHIND COOKING EQUIPTMENT, GROUT HEAVY WITH GREASE.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous foods shall have calibrated metal stem thermometers, provided and conspicuous, for refrigerated and hot food units. PROVIDE THERMOMETER IN ALL COOLERS WITH POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS IN THEM i.e. MEAT,EGGS.
40
82
Dec 30, 2010
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: A certified food service manager must be present in all establishments at which potentially hazardous food is prepared or served.NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION CITATION ISSUED.
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.MUST REMOVE ALL GREASE FROM GRILL,FRYER,CABINETS, AND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT ALSO CLEAN REACH IN COOLERS AND INTERIOR SHELVES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. MUST CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AND BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT THRU-OUT PREMISES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.MUST REMOVE GREASE FROM WALL AREA BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REPAIR BASEBOARD BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors.MUST REMOVE ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND CLUTTER THRU-OUT PREMISES ALSO REMOVE ALL ITEMS NOT PERTAINING TO RESTAURANT, CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN ALL AREAS OF RESTAURANT.
41
78
Oct 13, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. MUST REMOVE ALL GREASE FROM GRILL AND FRYER CABINETS, ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALSO CLEAN RIM OF REACH IN COOLERS AND INTERIOR SURFACES SHELVES
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. MUST CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AND BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT, THRU-OUT PREMISES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. MUST REMOVE GREASE FROM WALL AREA BY COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REPAIR BASEBOARD BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors. MUST REMOVE ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND CLUTTER THRU-OUT PREMISES, ALSO REMOVE ALL ITEMS NOT PERTAINING TO STORE, CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN ALL AREAS OF STORE
41
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Big Tony's last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Big Tony's on file is from Jul 2, 2025. The public record contains 20 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Big Tony's?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean” has been cited 12 times, more than any other issue at Big Tony's.
Has Big Tony's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Big Tony's have averaged around three violations per visit, down from roughly 11 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Big Tony's 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 Big Tony's inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Big Tony's is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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