Birrieria Ocotlan
Last inspected: Apr 7, 2025
78
Score
Public records show 27 inspections at Birrieria Ocotlan stretching back to 2010. The most recent visit was on Apr 7, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near seven violations per visit.
“Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 15 times across the record.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 7, 2025
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STYROFOAM CUP USED FOR DISPENSING SALSA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED ALONG STAIRWAY LEADING TO BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS USED FOR STORING FOOD ITEMS IN FIRST FLOOR COOLERS AND BASEMENT FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROPER FOOD STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SPILLS AND DEBRIS ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF BASMENT CHEST FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTILATION FAN NOT OPERABLE IN BASEMENT WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
56
78
Mar 31, 2025
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE TEST KIT FOR PROPER CONCENTRATION IN SANITIAING SOLUTIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
48
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED ALONG STAIRWAY LEADING TO BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STYROFOAM CUP USED FOR DISPENSING SALSA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS USED FOR STORING FOOD ITEMS IN FIRST FLOOR COOLERS AND BASEMENT FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROPER FOOD STORAGE BAGS OR CONTAINERS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SPILLS AND DEBRIS ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF BASMENT CHEST FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTILATION FAN NOT OPERABLE IN BASEMENT WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
56
70
Mar 1, 2024
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED ALONG STAIRWAY TO BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROOPERLY LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS NOT COVERED IN COOLERS AND STORED ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY COVER AND ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRATES USED AS SHELVING UNITS IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SELF-CLOSING DEVICE ON WASHROOM DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON WALLS AND CEILINGS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MAKE ALL WALLS AND CEILINGS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED MANAGERS. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
67
Apr 20, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 18, 2023
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-102.11 Observed plastic grocery and black garbage bags used for food storage in all chest freezers, must eliminate and provide food grade storage bags.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 Must remove rust from lower shelves of prep tables in prep area.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-301.12 Observed large pots on site unable to be fully submerged inside of 3 compartment sink for proper washing and sanitizing. Instructed to remove or provide a larger sink.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11 Must defrost ice build up from all chest freezers, debris build up from prep tables in basement and clean.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.19 Must provide a self closing device on toilet room door in basement leading to prep area.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.13 Must repair or replace holes in walls throughout premises including basement.
55
74
Apr 12, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 16 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: Previous priority foundation violation from report #2573756 4/5/23not corrected #38-still observed approximately 50 or more rat droppings in basement scattered under 3 compartment sink and inside hole in the wall, scattered in with the dirt in dirt mound area, on shelves in tool room. As well a strong smell of rodent urine. Instructed to clean and sanitize and maintain. Must eliminate pest activity. Must have a pest control operator to service premises on or after 4/12/23.( Priority 7-42-090). Citation Issue
59
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 06-202.16 Observed back door open in rear prep area with door open and magnetic screen not tight fitting. Instructed to enclose in order to prevent pest entry.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11 MUST PROVIDE A SPLASH GUARD AT HAND SINK NEXT TO 3- COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.14 OBSERVED CUSTOMERS USING TOILET ROOM AND LINED UP AGAINST WALL THAT IS ADJACENT TO REAR PREP AREA A BARRIER IS NEEDED TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION FROM CUSTOMERS AND KEEP THEM FROM WALKING INTO PREP AREA.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 4-901.12 Observed air drying wiping cloths stored throughout all prep areas. Instructed to store in sanitizing water and maintain
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-102.11 Observed plastic grocery and black garbage bags used for food storage in all chest freezers, must eliminate and provide food grade storage bags.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 Observed crates located in dry storage area, must eliminate and provide adequate shelving units.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 Must remove rust from lower shelves of prep tables in basement prep area and raw wood surface tops in poor repair of prep tables in basement.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-301.12 Observed large pots on site unable to be fully submerged inside of 3 compartment sink for proper washing and sanitizing. Instructed to remove or provide a larger sink
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11 Must defrost ice build up from all chest freezers, debris build up from prep tables in basement and clean.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: must provide a self closing device on toilet room door in basement leading to prep area.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-501.114 Inspector Comments: Observed large black garbage bags of trash and recycles stored in backyard leading to trash area. Instructed to remove and maintain area free of clutter.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-201.16 Inspector Comments: must scrape and paint chipping paint on walls throughout basement prep/dish washing area.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-201.11 Inspector Comments: must clean food debris and splatter from walls in basement prep/dish washing area.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: must repair or replace damaged walls and holes in walls throughout premises including basement.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 2-102.13 Inspector Comments: Observed no food handler training certificates for all employees. Instructed to provide and maintain
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 2-102.13 Inspector Comments: Observed no allergen training certificate on site for City of Chicago certified food managers. Instructed to provide and maintain.
58
41
Apr 5, 2023
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 17 minor violations.
View 22 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: Observed the following TCS foods at improper hot holding temperatures during inspection... Approximately 6 lbs with $120 value of Goat located in front prep area 111.0F-126.0F Instructed to hold hot food @135.0F at all times and maintain. Priority Violation. #7-38-005. Citation Issued.
21
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: Observed approximately 50 large rodent droppings in basement scattered under 3 compartment sink and inside hole in the wall, the dirt area and in the tool room scattered throughout the shelving units. Instructed to clean and sanitize and maintain. Must eliminate pest activity. Recommended to have a pest control operator to service premises on or after 4/5/23. Priority Foundation Violation.# 7-38-020 (A). Citation Issued.
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: Observed no signed employee health policies on site during inspection for all food employees. Instructed to provide and maintain. Priority Foundation Violation. #7-38-010. Citation Issued.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND DRYING DEVICES AT HAND SINKS IN 1ST FL. REAR PREP/DISH WASHING AREA AND BASEMENT PREP AREA. PAPER TOWELS WERE PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: Observed hand sink located in rear prep/dishwashing areas blocked by garbage can,a wrench and hand washing sign was stored inside of said sink unable to access hand sink during time if inspection. Instructed to remove and maintain accessible. Priority Foundation Violation. #7-38-030(C). Citation Issued.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: Observed no labels (squeeze bottles) located on tables and front prep area. Instructed to provide and maintain when not in original containers.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: Observed back door open in rear prep area with door open and magnetic screen not tight fitting. Instructed to enclose in order to prevent pest entry.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: Observed air drying wiping cloths stored throughout all prep areas. Instructed to store in sanitizing water and maintain.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed ice scoop stored improperly in between uses. Instructed to store in a clean container and not on top of ice machine.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Observed crates located in dry storage area, must eliminate and provide adequate shelving units. Observed 2 door refrigeration unit located in dining area in need of lock to protect food from public and maintain.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Observed plastic grocery and black garbage bags used for food storage in all chest freezers, must eliminate and provide food grade storage bags.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: must remove rust from lower shelves of prep tables in basement prep area.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: Observed large pots on site unable to be fully submerged inside of 3 compartment sink for proper washing and sanitizing. Instructed to remove or provide a larger sink.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: must defrost ice build up from all chest freezers and clean.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: Observed no back flow device on ice machine located in basement. Must be seen for servicing and maintain.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: Observed no toilet seat in toilet room in basement instructed to attach. Must repair leaky pipes on front and rear first floor hand washing sinks. Must maintain in good repair.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Observed large black garbage bags of trash and recycles stored in backyard leading to trash area. Instructed to remove and maintain area free of clutter.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: must scrape and paint chipping paint on walls throughout basement prep/dish washing area.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: must clean food debris and splatter from walls in basement prep/dish washing area.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: observed cooking equipment not under ventilation hood fully in rear prep area must place underneath.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: Observed no food handler training certificates for all employees. Instructed to provide and maintain.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: Observed no allergen training certificate on site for City of Chicago certified food managers. Instructed to provide and maintain.
58
25
Aug 25, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF SUGAR IN SECONDARY CONTAINERS WITH NO LABELS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL CONTENTS WITH COMMON NAME WHEN NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY TOILET FIXTURES IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL TOILET ROOMS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES.
53
90
Aug 18, 2022
License
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP AT THREE HAND SINKS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL HAND SINKS MUST BE MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS OR SANITARY HAND DRYING DEVICES AT 3 HAND WASHING SINKS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION WRITTEN UNDER 6-301.11
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SANITIZING SOLUTION FOR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE TO PROPERLY WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MULTIPLE POUNDS OF FROZEN MEAT THAWING ON TABLE IN BASEMENT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO THAW TCS FOODS UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER, IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR IN THE MICROWAVE AS PART OF A CONTINUOUS COOKING PROCESS.
35
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF SUGAR IN SECONDARY CONTAINERS WITH NO LABELS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL CONTENTS WITH COMMON NAME WHEN NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK AT BASE OF 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGE TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY TOILET FIXTURES IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL TOILET ROOMS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES.
53
61
Apr 26, 2021
Complaint
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO VOMIT OR DIARRHEA CLEAN UP PROCEDURE OR SUPPLIES ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE ON THE PREMISES TO ACCOMPANY THE KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE PREP TABLES AND STORAGE RACKS WITH RUST. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND CARDBOARD FROM THE PREP TABLES AND STORAGE RACKS. MAINTAIN A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE THAT IS RUST FREE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: THE FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT AND HAND WASHING SINK IN THE REAR IS CRACKED/DAMAGED. THE WALL TILES AROUND THE 3-COMP. AND HAND WASHING SINK IS PEELING. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE FLOOR AND WALL TILES. MAINTAIN A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: LL FOOD HANDLERS MUST MEET THE FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS AND PROVIDE PROOF THAT THE REQUIREMENTS WERE MET. CERTIFICATES MUST BE CURRENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS CERTIFICATE HOLDERS MUST TAKE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING COURSE AND PROVIDE THE CERTIFICATE GIVEN. INSTRUCTED TO MEET THIS REQUIREMENT AND MAINTAIN.
58
67
Mar 15, 2021
Routine
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 PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE ON THE PREMISES TO ACCOMPANY THE KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD HANDLERS NOT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS TO WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT. MAINTAIN SAME.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES AND STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER SAND IT OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARD(S). MAINTAIN A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE PREP TABLES AND STORAGE RACKS WITH RUST. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND CARDBOARD FROM THE PREP TABLES AND STORAGE RACKS. MAINTAIN A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE THAT IS RUST FREE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND A LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT THE PIPE UNDER THE HAND WASHING SINK THAT IS NEXT TO THE 3-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO FIX ALL PLUMBING AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: THE FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE 3-COMPARTMENT AND HAND WASHING SINK IN THE REAR IS CRACKED/DAMAGED. THE WALL TILES AROUND THE 3-COMP. AND HAND WASHING SINK IS PEELING. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE FLOOR AND WALL TILES. MAINTAIN A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST MEET THE FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS AND PROVIDE PROOF THAT THE REQUIREMENTS WERE MET. CERTIFICATES MUST BE CURRENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS CERTIFICATE HOLDERS MUST TAKE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING COURSE AND PROVIDE THE CERTIFICATE GIVEN. INSTRUCTED TO MEET THIS REQUIREMENT AND MAINTAIN.
58
58
Oct 22, 2019
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS LOCATED AT THE HAND WASHING SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-502.13 OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS BEING USED FOR FOOD STORAGE IN THE REACH IN FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED TO ONLY USE FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS OR FOOD GRADE BAGS FOR ALL FOOD STORAGE.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 OBSERVED A WOODEN CHOPPING BLOCK LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL WOOD OR REMOVE WOODEN CHOPPING BLOCK. ALL SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED NO CLOSED RECEPTACLE IN THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
82
Nov 29, 2018
Complaint
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012(A).
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
5
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALLS IN THE KITCHEN IN NEED OF CLEANING AROUND AND BEHIND SOME KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND IN BASEMENT AREA BEHIND AND AROUND DEEP FREEZERS ALONG THE WALL; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE VENT ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE REAR KITCHEN NEEDS CLEANING. ALSO CLEAN THE VENTILATION FAN IN THE WINDOW ABOVE THE VENTILATION SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO VALID FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES FOR EMPLOYEES; INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS THAT ARE NOT CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN AND HAVE ON PREMISES A VALID FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
67
Sep 6, 2018
Routine
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012(A).
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12(A) OBSERVED WALLS IN THE KITCHEN IN NEED OF CLEANING AROUND AND BEHIND SOME KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND IN BASEMENT AREA BEHIND AND AROUND DEEP FREEZERS ALONG THE WALL; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 THE VENT ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE REAR KITCHEN NEEDS CLEANING. ALSO CLEAN THE VENTILATION FAN IN THE WINDOW ABOVE THE VENTILATION SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 NO VALID FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES FOR EMPLOYEES; INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS THAT ARE NOT CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN AND HAVE ON PREMISES A VALID FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
67
Nov 14, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE STEAM TABLE IN THE FRONT PREP AREA.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FAN INSIDE OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM IN THE FRONT PREP AREA TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED ON THE FAN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE PIPE UNDERNEATH THE THREE COMP SINK ON THE FIRST FLOOR AT THE CENTER COMPARTMENT OF THE SINK; REPAIR LEAK FROM PIPE.
38
86
Feb 8, 2017
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE CHEST FREEZERS IN BASEMENT AREA,HAS ICE BUILD-UP AND MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF FREEZERS,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 THE FLOORS IN THE BASEMENT AREA,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
90
Jan 30, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS TO TEST THE SANITIZER AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,WHEN SINK IS SET UP FOR WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE STRIPS,SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE CHEST FREEZERS IN BASEMENT AREA,HAS ICE BUILD-UP AND MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF FREEZERS,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 THE FLOORS IN THE BASEMENT AREA,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
86
May 4, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED MEATS STORED IN GROCERY BAGS INSIDE THE CHEST FREEZER. MUST PROVIDE FOOD GRADE STORAGE CONTAINER OR BAGS FOR PROPER STORING.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF CHEST FREEZERS IN THE BASEMENT VERY DIRTY. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE TO REMOVE BLOOD AND FOOD DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT(1st FL) AND IN THE BASEMENT UNDERNEATH THE SHELVING WHERE ONIONS ARE STORED.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTED THE HOODS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT DIRTY. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE DUST AND GREASE.
35
82
May 26, 2015
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST ALL CHEST FREEZERS IN THE BASEMENT AREA,HAS HEAVY ICE BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM WALL IN THE KITCHEN AREA AND CLEAN WALLS AT WALL BASE IN THE KITCHEN AREA,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS INSIDE REFRIGERATOR UNIT IN KITCHEN AREA
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES OR PROOF OF ENROLLEMENT,UPON NEXT INSPECTION
45
82
May 19, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 30 MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNER IN THE STORAGE ROOM AT BASEMENT AREA,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREA,SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST ALL CHEST FREEZERS IN THE BASEMENT AREA,HAS HEAVY ICE BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM WALL IN THE KITCHEN AREA AND CLEAN WALLS AT WALL BASE IN THE KITCHEN AREA,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS INSIDE REFRIGERATOR UNIT IN KITCHEN AREA
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES OR PROOF OF ENROLLEMENT,UPON NEXT INSPECTION
45
78
Oct 7, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Sep 29, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF 56 RODENT,(MICE) DROPPINGS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA,AND FOOD STORAGE FREEZER AREAS ON FLOORS BEHIND AND AROUND FREEZERS ,ALONG WALLS BY BASEMENT STAIRS,ETC. ALSO 5 LIVE ANTS IN DINING ROOM AREA.MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.RECOMMENED TREATMENT FOM PEST CONTROL CO.SERIOUS VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-020
18
Toilet rooms enclosed clean, provided with hand cleanser, sanitary hand drying devices and proper waste receptacles
Inspector notes: OPEN WASHROOM .NO DOOR ON BASEMENT TOILET ROOM DOOR.TOILET ROOMS MUST BE ENCLOSED.MUST INSTALL DOOR.SERIOUS VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-030
27
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS STILL EXIST FROM LAST INSPECTION REPORT DATED. REPORT # 1155050 #32- PAINT SHELVES UNDER FRONT COUNTER,REMOVE GROCERY BAGS,BLACK BAGS,ETC.STORE FOOD IN FOOD GRADE BAGS IN REACH IN FREEZERS.#36 PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD OR SHATTER PROOF BULB ABOVE CUTTING BOARD IN BASEMENT PREP AREA,#38 INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS IN BASEMENT BUTCHER AREA.SERIOUS VIOLATION ISSUED 7-42-090
29
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT ON FLOORS IN BASEMENT DEEP FREEZER/BOILER ROOM.MUST REPAIR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT ON WALL POLE IN PREP BUTCHERS AREA.MUST REPAIR.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON DOOR TO BE INSTALLED ON BASEMENT WASHROO. DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKY FAUCET AT 3-COMP SINK 1ST FLOOR PREP AREA IN REAR.MUST REPAIR.NO HAND SINK IN BASEMENT WASHROOM .NO VENTILATION IN BASEMENT WASHROOM.MUST INSTALL
38
70
May 17, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS IN REAR PREP AREA. PROPERLY COVER AND LABEL ALL PREPARED FOOD IN FREEZERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT PLASTIC FORKS AND SPOONS UNDER BEVERAGE AREA TO PROTECT FROM DUST, DIRT, CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT SHELVES UNDER FRONT COUNTER. REMOVE GROCERY BAGS, BLACK BAGS, ETC AND STORE FOOD IN CLEAR FOOD GRADE BAGS, CONTAINERS, OR PACKAGING, IN ALL REACH-IN FREEZERS.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD OR SHATTERPROOF BULB ABOVE CUTTING BOARD IN BASEMENT PREP AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS IN BASEMENT BUTCHER AREA.
38
78
Nov 23, 2012
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE PREPED MEATS IN FOOD STORAGE BAGS IN FREEZERS.
32
95
Aug 8, 2011
Routine
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 CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ON PREMISES WITH A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO (POSTED OR ON PREMISES AT THIS TIME)/ SANITATION CERTIFICATE/PROOF OF ENROLLMENT AT THIS TIME WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZADROUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE VALID CERTIFICATE/PROOF OF ENROLLMENT
21
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.REMOVE CARDBOARD FROM TABLE STORAGE SHELF REAR PREP. ALSO RESEAL FRONT STORAGE SHELVES.
32
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.CLEAN HOOD ANF FILTER ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. CLEAN INTERIOR OF COOLER
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.NEED TO CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AND AROUND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: All rooms in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be lighted so that a minimum of 50-foot candles of light is available on all work surfaces. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.CLEAN FRONT LIGHT SHIELD
36
78
Nov 8, 2010
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 27, 2010
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Minor violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority.38- MUST REMOVE OR PROVIDE A VENTILATION HOOD FOR COOKING EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT. ALSO MUST REMOVE LARGE POTS TOO BIG TO BE SURMERGE INSIDE 3- COMP SINKS. FROM REPORT#68231,DATED 12/11/2009- SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED.
29
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. OBSERVED LARGE WOODEN CUTTING BLOCK NOT BEING USED IN BASEMENT PREP AREA,IN POOR REPAIR. MUST WRAP IN CLEAR PLASTIC OR REMOVE FROM PREMIES.
41
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Birrieria Ocotlan last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Birrieria Ocotlan on file is from Apr 7, 2025. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Birrieria Ocotlan?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 15 times, more than any other issue at Birrieria Ocotlan.
Has Birrieria Ocotlan's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Birrieria Ocotlan have averaged around seven violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Birrieria Ocotlan 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 Birrieria Ocotlan inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Birrieria Ocotlan is inspected around two times per year on average.
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