Blue Agave
Last inspected: Jan 17, 2020
64
Score
Across the available record, Blue Agave has 17 inspections on file, the first dated 2010. On Jan 17, 2020, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme. The file hasn't been updated since Jan 17, 2020, so take the current picture with that in mind.
The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around seven violations each, up from closer to four violations before.
The pattern that stands out is “food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean”, which has been cited 10 times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 17, 2020
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIGHT BULB IN THE LOWER LEVEL FOOD PREPARATION AREA NOT SHIELD. MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS AND END CAP FOR LIGHT BULB AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN OR POSTERS NEAR HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT BAR AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA AND LOWER LEVEL FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SOOPS STORED INSIDE ICE BIN IN FRONT BAR AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A LEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENY CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY FOOD STORAGAE SHELVING IN MAIN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA AND LOWER LEVEL DISHMACHINE. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKY PIPE UNDERNEATH HAND WASHING BOWLS IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES IN LOWER LEVEL FOOD PREPARATION AREA ABOVE PREP TABLES AND REFRIGERATION UNITS. ALSO OBSERVED OPENINGS INTO WALLS ABOVE WALK-IN COOLER MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING VENTILATION VENTS IN LOWER LEVEL FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
64
Apr 9, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INACCESSIBLE HAND SINK AT BAR AREA. AT TIME OF INSPECTION SINK WAS INACCESSIBLE WITH BLENDER AND BASIN WAS BLOCKED BY LARGE STAINLESS STEEL SLOTTED STRAINER. INFORMED MANAGER THAT HAND SINK MUST BE ACCESSIBLE AND ONLY USED FOR HAND WASHING AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-030(c). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE OR CLEAN UP KIT ON SITE. FACILITY MUST PROVIDE PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALLEGREN TRAINING FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS
58
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS WITHOUT COMMON FOOD (RICE, BLACK BEANS. PINTO BEANS) NAME INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
37
74
Aug 28, 2018
Complaint
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: 3-301.11 (B) (B)- OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER SLICING/PREPARING LEMON GARNISH FOR MIXED DRINK WITH BARE HAND CONTACT AT BAR TOP. INFORMED MANAGER THAT BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOOD IS NOT ALLOWED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO USE BARRIERS SUCH AS TONGS, SINGLE USE GLOVES MUST BE USED TO PREVENT BARE HAND CONTACT. MANAGER CORRECTED VIOLATION AT TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION # 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
9
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-205.11 (A) (A)- OBSERVED BLOCKED AND INACCESSIBLE HAND SINK AT BAR AREA. AT TIME OF INSPECTION SINK WAS BLOCKED WITH BLENDER AND BASIN WAS BLOCKED BY LARGE STAINLESS STEEL SLOTTED STRAINER. INFORMED MANAGER THAT HAND SINK MUST BE ACCESSIBLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-030(c) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11- FOUND NO PROCEDURES ON SITE FOR THE CLEAN UP OF VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14 (A)- OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO COMPLY AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012(A). NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-203.11 (A)- OBSERVED NO HAND SINK IN REAR PREP AREA KITCHEN. INFORMED MANAGER THAT HAND SINK MUST BE IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL HAND SINK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-030(c) NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11 (C) (C)- OBSERVED RUST BUILD UP ON WIRE SHELVING RACK IN BAR AREA. INFORMED MANAGER THAT SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RESURFACE/REPLACE AND ENSURE SURFACE IS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367- OBSERVED ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATES. NO CITATION ISSUED.
58
52
Jan 16, 2018
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE IN COOK LINE USE BARE HANDS TO PUT A PIECE OF LETTUCE ON PLATE, THEN USE BARE HANDS TO PLATE TORTILLA SHELLS AFTER THEY CAME OFF THE GRILL. ALSO OBSERVED EMPLOYEES DICING TOMATOES FOR READY TO EAT PICO DE GALLO AND GREEN ONIONS FOR GARNISH WITH BARE HANDS. INSTRUCTED THAT BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOODS IS PROHIBITED. EMPLOYEE WASHED HANDS AND PUT ON CLEAN GLOVES. CRITICAL VIOLATION: 7-38-010(A)
6
* inspection report summary displayed and visible to all customers
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CURRENT (3/28/17) INSPECTION SUMMARY REPORT NOT POSTED OR VISIBLE TO ALL CUSTOMERS. INSTRUCTED THAT THE MOST CURRENT INSPECTION SUMMARY REPORT MUST BE POSTED AND VISIBLE TO ALL CUSTOMERS AT ALL TIMES. OPERATOR POSTED INSPECTION SUMMARY REPORT FROM TODAY'S INSPECTION AT END OF INSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION: 7-42-010(B)
28
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS UNDER FLAT TOP GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GARBAGE AND DEBRIS ACCUMULATING ON FLOOR UNDER EMPLOYEE LOCKERS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN. OBSERVED MISSING COVING ALONG WALL BEHIND ICE MACHINE, WHERE WALL CREATES A GAP WITH THE FLOOR AND IS ACCUMULATING PARTICULATE MATTER. MUST PROVIDE COVING.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UPRIGHT COOLERS AND FREEZERS THROUGHOUT BOTH COOKING AREAS WITH UNSHIELDED GLASS BULBS. OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA. OBSERVED UNSHIELDED LIGHT FIXTURE IN SUPPLY CLOSET. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS OR SHATTER PROOF BULBS IN THESE AREAS/UNITS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC WRAP BEING USED AS SINK STOPPERS IN MAIN DISH ROOM 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER SINK STOPPERS FOR ALL THREE COMPARTMENTS OF THIS SINK. OBSERVED FOOD PREP AREA "REAR KITCHEN" WITHOUT HANDSINK CONVENIENTLY AVAILABLE IN THE SAME ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL A HAND SINK, WITH HOT AND COLD WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE IN THE REAR KITCHEN THAT IS CONVENIENTLY ACCESSIBLE TO ALL FOOD PREP ACTIVITIES.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON CUTTING BOARDS IN FRONT COOK LINE AND BACK KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP SOILED WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZER SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO LIMIT MICROBIAL GROWTH.
43
70
Mar 28, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND PLASTIC SQUEEZE BOTTLES, SMALL PLASTIC FOOD CONTAINERS HOLDING BEEF, AND OTHER PREPARED FOODS INSIDE REFRIGERATORS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. MUST PROVIDE. ALSO FOUND TORTILLAS CHIPS BEING STORED INSIDE A WHITE PLASTIC SHOPPING BAG INSIDE THE 1DR FRIDGE NEXT TO THE BEER WALK-IN COOLER. ALL FOODS MUST BE STORED IN FOOD GRADE BAGS OR CONTAINERS AT ALL TIMES.MUST PROVIDE. FOUND NO CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED ON PREMISES OR ON THE MENU. MUST ALWAYS PROVIDE.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN GASKET AT THE 1DR FRIDGE NEXT TO THE WALK-IN BEER COOLER.MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND PEELING PAINT AT CEILING PANEL ACROSS FROM THE LARGE ICE MACHINE IN THE REAR AREA. MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LEAKING FAUCET AT THE MEN'S RESTROOM HAND WASHING SINK (LEFT SIDE), ALSO A SMALL LEAK AT THE 3-COMP FAUCET BASE AND AT THE PIPE UNDER THE MIDDLE COMPARTMENT OF THE ABOVE STATED. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. FOUND NO SINK STOPPERS FOR THE FRONT MAIN BAR 3-COMP SINK. MUST PROVIDE.
38
82
Feb 19, 2016
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE DISPENSING UTENSILS FOR ICE BINS AT BAR MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH HANDLES OUT NOT INSIDE THE ICE BINS AND MAINTAIN.
43
95
Jan 28, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 21, 2016
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #1523142 DATED:02/20/2015 NOT CORRECTED: 33 NOTED SLIGHT DISCOLORATION INSIDE UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE. 02/20/2015 34 NOTED ROUGH AND CRACKED TILES ON FLOOR ESPECIALLY AT THE ICE MACHINE/SODA DISPENSER ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE FLOOR AND MAKE IT SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 05/20/2015 35 NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENING ON WALLS ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE HAND WASH SINK AT THE DISH WASHING ROOM, WALL BY THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. 05/20/2015 INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN NOTED VIOLATIONS BY 1/26/2016. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE FOIL LINER ON PIPES BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENTS IN PREP/COOKING AREA AND REPLACE ROTTED WOODEN SHELVINGS NEAR THE ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN..
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS,SIDES OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENTS,FAN COVERS INSIDE WALK-IN-COOLER,SHELVINGS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN AREAS INTERIOR BOTTOMS OF DEEP FRYERS AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SECTION OF CEILING AT CUSTOMER DINING AREA IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT BULB IN THE LOWER LEVEL PREP AREA NOT SHIELDED.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD AND END CAP FOR LIGHT BULB AND MAINTAIN.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELEVATE STORED ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF THE FLOOR IN THE LIQUOR AND 1ST FLOOR STORAGE AREAS AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN.
41
74
Jan 19, 2016
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS NOT MEETING TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENT DURING STORAGE.1 LARGE CONTAINER OF COOKED BEANS WITH INTERNAL TEMPERATURE RANGING FROM 56.7F-57.9F INSIDE THE 2 DOOR COOLER IN LOWER LEVEL FOOD PREP AREA.MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED SAID FOOD.APPROXIMATELY 30 POUNDS OF FOOD WORTH $70.00 PER MANAGER ON SITE.COLD FOODS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT 40F OR BELOW,HOT FOODS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT 140F OR ABOVE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A REMOVAL OF AN EXISTING EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE LOWER LEVEL DISHWASHING AREA/FOOD PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RE-INSTALL SAID EXPOSED HAND SINK AND USE NEARBY SINK FOR HANDWASHING APPROXIMATELY 10' FEET AWAY.CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
11
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #1523142 DATED:02/20/2015 NOT CORRECTED: 33 NOTED SLIGHT DISCOLORATION INSIDE UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE. 02/20/2015 34 NOTED ROUGH AND CRACKED TILES ON FLOOR ESPECIALLY AT THE ICE MACHINE/SODA DISPENSER ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE FLOOR AND MAKE IT SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 05/20/2015 35 NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENING ON WALLS ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE HAND WASH SINK AT THE DISH WASHING ROOM, WALL BY THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. 05/20/2015 INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN NOTED VIOLATIONS BY 1/26/2016. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE FOIL LINER ON PIPES BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENTS IN PREP/COOKING AREA AND REPLACE ROTTED WOODEN SHELVINGS NEAR THE ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN..
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS,SIDES OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENTS,FAN COVERS INSIDE WALK-IN-COOLER,SHELVINGS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN AREAS INTERIOR BOTTOMS OF DEEP FRYERS AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SECTION OF CEILING AT CUSTOMER DINING AREA IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT BULB IN THE LOWER LEVEL PREP AREA NOT SHIELDED.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD AND END CAP FOR LIGHT BULB AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT PIPE BENEATH THE BAR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL WATER LEAKS AND MAINTAIN.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELEVATE STORED ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF THE FLOOR IN THE LIQUOR AND 1ST FLOOR STORAGE AREAS AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN.
41
64
Feb 20, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY AND RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE PRODUCE/MEAT WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN,REPAINT WITH NON TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT AND/OR REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: NOTED SLIGHT DISCOLORATION INSIDE UPPER COMPARTMENT OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: NOTED ROUGH AND CRACKED TILES ON FLOOR ESPECIALLY AT THE ICE MACHINE/SODA DISPENSER ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE FLOOR AND MAKE IT SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENING ON WALLS ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE HAND WASH SINK AT THE DISH WASHING ROOM, WALL BY THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
82
Jun 11, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHICKEN STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE ONLY FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE VENTILATION FILTERS OF BOTH VENTILATION HOODS.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: GROUT THE WALL TILES IN THE DISHWASHING AREA IN BETWEEN THE HANDWASHING SINK AND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. SCRAPE AND REPAINT THE CHIPPED PAINT ON THE CEILING ABOVE THE STEAM TABLE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: SEVERAL LIGHT SHIELDS ARE MISSING END CAPS. MUST PROVIDE FOR ALL LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE SINK STOPPER LEVER FOR THE MIDDLE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER INSIDE OF THE PREP COOLER AT THE END OF THE SERVICE STATION.
40
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED IN THE ICE BINS AT THE BAR. MUST STORE ICE SCOOPS OUTSIDE OF THE ICE BINS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
42
70
Aug 20, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE FOOD PROTECTION, FOUND 20LBS OF COOKED CHICKEN STORED IN A BUSSING TUB AT 56.7F, 15 LBS OF COOKED RICE AT 64.8F. ITEMS WERE PLACED IN WALK-IN COOLER A DAY BEFORE. INSTRUCTED MGR TO COOL DOWN HOT FOOD PROPERLY. FOOD ITEMS DISCARDED VALUED AT $70.
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABEDED, INSTRUCTED TO LABLE AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MISSING COVER FOR ICE BIN AT BAR, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILING AT DISH WASHING AREA IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: COOKS USING INACCURATE METAL STEM THERMOMETER, INSTRUCTED TO USE GOOD WORKING THERMOMETER.
40
78
Nov 27, 2012
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES MUST BE REPLACED. DOOR GASKET RIPPED AT REAR COOLER (SOUTH WALL-LOWER LEVEL KITCHEN), MUST FIX. THE SEAM AT THE LEFT DRAINBOARD OF THE 3-COMP SINK MUST BE RE-SEALED/WELDED.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOLLOWING NEED CLEANING: FILTERS OF HOOD AT FRONT COOK'S LINE (INCLUDING ALL THE ATTACHMENTS TO THE HOOD SYSTEM), LIGHT COVERS THRU-OUT REAR KITCHEN-DUE TO HEAVY GREASE BUILD-UP/FOOD STAINS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BROKEN CEMENT FLOORS IN DISHROOM & REAR KITCHEN MUST BE FIXED/RE-SEALED, TO MAKE SMOOTH & EASILY CLEANABLE. THE WALK-IN COOLER FLOOR(LIQUOR) MUST BE KEPT CLEAN ALSO.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: BROKEN/MISSING WALL TILES & OPENINGS AT THE 3-COMP SINK WALL & BELOW THE STAINLESS STEEL PANEL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT (FRONT COOK'S LINE), MUST BE REPLACED OR MADE SMOOTH/EASILY CLEANABLE ALSO.
35
82
Nov 21, 2012
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: (7-38-005A) FOUND MOLD-LIKE SUBTANCES & SLIME BUILD-UP ADHERING TO THE INTERIOR UPPER & LOWER SIDES, PANELS & TUBINGS OF THE SMALL ICE MACHINE. (UNIT TAGGED). INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE & MAINTAIN.
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES MUST BE REPLACED. DOOR GASKET RIPPED AT REAR COOLER (SOUTH WALL-LOWER LEVEL KITCHEN), MUST FIX. THE SEAM AT THE LEFT DRAINBOARD OF THE 3-COMP SINK MUST BE RE-SEALED.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOLLOWING NEED CLEANING: EXTERIOR BOTTOM OF OVENS ABOVE THE STOVES, FILTERS OF HOOD AT FRONT COOK'S LINE, GASKETS OF SMALL COOLERS, LIGHT COVERS -DUE TO HEAVY GREASE/DUST DEBRIS BUILD-UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN DISHROOM MUST BE KEPT DRY & BROKEN CEMENT MUST BE RE-SURFACED. WALK-IN COOLER FLOOR (LIQUOR) MUST BE KEPT CLEAN ALSO.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: BROKEN/MISSING WALL TILES & OPENINGS AT THE 3-COMP SINK WALL MUST BE FIXED.
35
78
Jul 28, 2011
Tag Removal
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. MUST LABEL AND DATE PREPARED FOODS IN ALL COOLERS.
30
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. REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKET AT THE 1 DOOR PREP COOLER NEXT TO THE CHEST FREEZER IN THE AREA IN FRONT OF THE COOK LINE. MUST PROVIDE COVERS FOR ALL ICE BINS BEHIND THE BAR.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, MICROWAVE AT COOK'S LINE, SHELVES AT THE DISHWASH AREA.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER THE REAR BAR.
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 THE WALL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AT THE COOK'S LINE. REPAIR THE CHIPPED CEILING PAINT ABOVE THE STEAM TABLE. REPLACE ANY MISSING OR STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP KITCHEN. REPLACE MISSING OR BROKEN WALL TILES IN BOTH PREP AREAS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE END CAPS FOR THE LIGHT SHIELDS ABOVE THE PREP KITCHEN.
36
74
Jul 18, 2011
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities. FACILITIES DO NOT MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE. OBSERVED REACH-IN COOLER NEXT TO THE STEAM TABLE WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 46F. UNIT WAS USED TO STORE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS. UNIT TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. MUST MAINTAIN COOLER BELOW 40F. FAX REINSPECTION LETTER TO (312) 746-4240 T0 HAVE TAG REMOVED.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less. POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING FOODS INSIDE OF THE REACH-IN PREP COOLER: SOUR CREAM AT 56F, PICO DE GALLO AT 51F, GUACAMOLE AT 55F, CHEESE AT 51-55F. OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER: STUFFED PEPPERS AT 49F, EGGS AT 48F, C00KED RICE AT 45-49F. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 28# OF FOOD WORTH $250 . CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
3
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: All food should be properly protected from contamination during storage, preparation, display, service, and transportation. FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINES. OBSERVED MOLD GROWTH ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR SURFACES CLEANED AND SANITIZED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
16
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. MUST LABEL AND DATE PREPARED FOODS IN ALL COOLERS.
30
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. REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKET AT THE 1 DOOR PREP COOLER NEXT TO THE CHEST FREEZER IN THE AREA IN FRONT OF THE COOK LINE. MUST PROVIDE COVERS FOR ALL ICE BINS BEHIND THE BAR.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, MICROWAVE AT COOK'S LINE, SHELVES AT THE DISHWASH AREA.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER THE REAR BAR.
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 THE WALL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AT THE COOK'S LINE. REPAIR THE CHIPPED CEILING PAINT ABOVE THE STEAM TABLE. REPLACE ANY MISSING OR STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP KITCHEN. REPLACE MISSING OR BROKEN WALL TILES IN BOTH PREP AREAS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE END CAPS FOR THE LIGHT SHIELDS ABOVE THE PREP KITCHEN.
36
64
Sep 28, 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. OBSERVED SLIGHT LIME BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINES. MUST CLEAN/SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINES.
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. OBSERVED FOOD BUILD UP ON FLOOR BEHIND REACH IN PREP COOLERS ALONG WALL AT FRONT PREP AREA AND DAMAGED FLOOR TILES AT MAIN BAR. MUST KEEP FLOOR CLEAN AND REGROUT ANY DAMAGED FLOOR TILES AT FRONT BAR.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. CEILING LIGHTS NOT SHIELDED ABOVE REAR PREP AREA AND DISHMACHINE ROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND INSTALL LIGHT COVERS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. MENS WASHROOM TOILET BOWL IN POOR REPAIR(LEFT HAND SIDE TOILET BOWL). MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN PLUMBING.
38
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Blue Agave last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Blue Agave on file is from Jan 17, 2020. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Blue Agave?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Blue Agave.
Has Blue Agave's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Blue Agave have averaged around seven violations per visit, up from roughly four earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Blue Agave means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
Nearby Restaurants