Boka
Last inspected: Jul 11, 2025
100
Score
The health department has logged 21 inspections at Boka, the earliest from 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Jul 11, 2025. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around three violations, down from roughly 10 violations earlier in the record.
“Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 11 times across the record.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Boka is comfortably above that bar. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 11, 2025
Routine
No violations found.
100
Oct 4, 2024
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH SOME DIRT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETER NEEDED IN THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER IN REAR OF KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING FOOD IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS INSIDE LIQUOR ROOMS AND REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA IN BASEMENT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOOR.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON WALLS IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
May 12, 2022
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FAUCET AT HANDWASHING SINK IN PREP AREA LEAKING,REPAIR ISSUE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DEBRIS UNDER SHELVES INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER,UNDER DISHMACHINE ETC.CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE THE WEST REACH-IN COOLER ACCROSS FROM COOKING EQUIPMENT.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
47
86
Jun 26, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST INDICATE ON MENU "COOK TO ORDER" PHRASE FOR STEAKS, ETC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005.
25
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA STORED UNDERNEATH GALVANIZED WASTE PIPE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RELOCATE ICE MACHINE AND/OR ENCASE SAID PIPE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
39
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OVEN AND STOVE TOP WITH GREASE BUILD-UP CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR INSIDE THE OUTSIDE SHED MUST BE CLEANED AND ITEMS MUST BE ELEVATED 6"ABOVE THE FLOOR. ALSO RAW WOOD SURFACE NOT EASILY CLEANABLE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRUMBLED BRICK WALL ON FLOOR AT ICE MACHINES AREA IN BASEMENT ,SURFACE NOT EASILY CLEANABLE. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL. ALSO BROKEN CEILING VENT COVER(WRAP) ABOVE THE DEHYDRATOR MACHINE AND PREP TABLE BY THE NORTH PREP AREA BY THE WALK-IN COOLER,ENCASE SAID VENT DUCT.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES IS NEEDED ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS
58
70
Jun 19, 2020
Routine
5 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST INDICATE ON MENU "COOK TO ORDER" PHRASE FOR STEAKS, ETC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005,
25
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CAN OF "HOT SHOT" KITCHEN BUG KILLER STORED ON SHELF BY THE CLEAN UTENSILS IN PREP BASEMENT AREA.ALL CHEMICAL PRODUCTS MUST BE STORED AWAY FROM FOOD AND FOOD PRODUCTS. INSECTICIDE REMOVED FROM MENTIONED AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
28
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND PROCEDURE/PLAN ON SITE HOWEVER KIT NOT COMPLETE MISSING SOLUTION TO CONTROL NOROVIRUS FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS, ALSO MISSING MOP ETC. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MEAT SLICER, PREP TABLE, ETC. AT ICE MACHINE AREA IN BASEMENT. AREA IS USED TO SLICE RTE FOOD: CHEESE ETC. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL HANDWASHING SINK AT SAID AREA OR REMOVE PREP TABLE AND RELOCATE MEAT SLICER BY HANDWASHING SINK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-030 (C).
10
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE RECEPTACLES CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED:GARBAGE OVERFLOWING NOT ABLE TO CLOSE LIDS. ONE LID IS CURVED NOT ABLE TO TIGHT FIT RECEPTACLE. REPLACE SID LID. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-020(B)
54
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA STORED UNDERNEATH GALVANIZED WASTE PIPE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RELOCATE ICE MACHINE AND/OR ENCASE SAID PIPE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EDGE OF ICE CHEST LID IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA, INSIDE THE LIQUOR ROOM IN POOR REPAIR WITH EXPOSED INSULATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND REPLACE UNIT OR REMOVE. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE DUCT TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR ON THE PLASTIC CONTAINER WERE CLEAN UTENSILS ARE STORED. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN AND GREASED ALUMINUM FOILS USED INSIDE THE OVEN AND UNDER THE STOVE BURNER. NEED TO REMOVE SAID FOIL AND MAINTAIN SURFACE CLEANABLE.DO NOT USE ALUMINUM FOIL
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED USED LARGE POTS ON SITE STORED ON SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR PROPER WASHING AND SANITIZING OF EQUIPMENT OR REMOVE SAID UTENSILS -
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OVEN AND STOVE TOP WITH GREASE BUILD-UP CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE PROVIDED ON BOTH ICE MACHINES WATER LINE,IN BASEMENT AREA. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRUMBLED BRICK WALL ON FLOOR AT ICE MACHINES AREA IN BASEMENT ,SURFACE NOT EASILY CLEANABLE. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL. ALSO BROKEN CEILING VENT COVER(WRAP) ABOVE THE DEHYDRATOR MACHINE AND PREP TABLE BY THE NORTH PREP AREA BY THE WALK-IN COOLER,ENCASE SAID VENT DUCT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR INSIDE THE OUTSIDE SHED MUST BE CLEANED AND ITEMS MUST BE ELEVATED 6"ABOVE THE FLOOR. ALSO RAW WOOD SURFACE NOT EASILY CLEANABLE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES IS NEEDED ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS
58
33
Feb 7, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND SINK BETWEEN PASTRY PREP AND COOK LINE AREA INACCESSIBLE/BLOCKED BY ROLLING RACK AT TIME OF INSPECTION, WHILE FOOD PREP WAS OCCURRING. INFORMED MANAGER THAT HAND SINKS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE DURING FOOD PREP/SERVICE. MANAGER CORRECTED VIOLATION DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINLESS BOWLS BEING USED AS SCOOPS INSIDE BULK FOOD CONTAINERS OF PANKO BREAD CRUMBS AND RAW RICE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND TO REPLACE WITH SCOOPS WITH LONG HANDLES. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
43
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA STORED UNDERNEATH GALVANIZED WASTE PIPE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RELOCATE ICE MACHINE AND/OR ENCASE SAID PIPE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
39
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: UNABLE TO IDENTIFY BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE ON BOTH ICE MACHINES IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL AND OR IDENTIFY DEVICE. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EDGE OF ICE CHEST LID IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA, ADJACENT TO ICE MACHINE, IN POOR REPAIR WITH EXPOSED INSULATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND REPLACE UNIT. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED CEILING ABOVE ICE MACHINE AND OTHER FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT STORED IN BASEMENT DRY ROOM, ADJACENT TO WINE COOLER, EXPOSING THE STUDS, JOIST AND RAFTERS IN SAID AREA. INFORMED MANAGER THAT CEILING SURFACES ABOVE ICE MACHINE AND FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL CEILING ABOVE SAID EQUIPMENT AND ENSURE SURFACE IS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 SINK STOPPERS WRAPPED IN PLASTIC WRAP AND FOIL WRAP, AT TIME OF INSPECTION AND IN USE AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND OR REPAIR SINK STOPPERS. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
67
Apr 23, 2018
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE 2-DOOR WINE COOLER IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE. MUST USE NON TOXIC PAINT. MUST PROVIDE ICE BIN COVERS IN FRONT BAR AREA. OBSERVED HEAVY ACCULULATION OF ICE BUILD UP INSIDE FREEZER IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. MUST DEFROST AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVE BROKEN HANDLE DOOR IN THE UPRIGHT FREEZER IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DUST BUILD UP ON FLOOR DRAIN INSIDE WASHRROM LOCATED IN THE FIRST FLOOR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON LIGHT SHIELDS COVER IN REAR PREP AND DISWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
36
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: CORRECTED.
43
82
Apr 16, 2018
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (CE)NOT PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION DURING STORAGE. INSIDE OF ICE MACHINE OBSERVED HEAVY ACCUMULATION OF BLACK AND BROWN SLIMY SUBSTANCE IN THE INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. ICE IS BEING USED FOR HUMAN CONSUPTION. INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF ICE MACHINE REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR SURFACES CLEANED AND SANITIZED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(a).
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE 2-DOOR WINE COOLER IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE. MUST USE NON TOXIC PAINT. MUST PROVIDE ICE BIN COVERS IN FRONT BAR AREA. OBSERVED HEAVY ACCULULATION OF ICE BUILD UP INSIDE FREEZER IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. MUST DEFROST AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVE BROKEN HANDLE DOOR IN THE UPRIGHT FREEZER IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DUST BUILD UP ON FLOOR DRAIN INSIDE WASHRROM LOCATED IN THE FIRST FLOOR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON LIGHT SHIELDS COVER IN REAR PREP AND DISWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
36
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
78
Jun 9, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED RAW WOOD SHELVING IN BASEMENT WHERE ICE MACHINES ARE LOCATED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO SEAL RAW WOOD SHELVING SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: NOTED MOPSINK IN MAIN KITCHEN DIRTY IN MAIN KITCHEN,INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN MOPSINK.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTD SMOKED/STAINED CEILING TILES AT HOT LINE AREA IN THE KITCHEN.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN OR REPLACE CEILING TILES. NOTED UNFINISHED CEILING AT BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA.INSTRUCTED MANGEMENT TO FINISH CEILING SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND LIGHT COLORED. NOTED HOLE IN WALLBASE NEXT TO ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPAIR HOLE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: NOTED BURNT OUT LIGHT IN WALK-IN PRODUCE COOLER IN THE BASEMENT.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPLACE BURNT OUT LIGHT BULB.MANAGEMENT COMPLIED.
36
82
Nov 3, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE TOPSIDE INTERIOR LID IN POOR REPAIR ON COLD HOLDING PREP COOLER.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE IN BASEMENT NEAR WALK IN COOLER
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM COUNTER TOP UNDER CAPPUCINO MACHINE AND MEAT SLICER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRI FROM FLOOR BEHIND COOLERS IN ICE MACHINE ROOM
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE MOLD BUILD UP FROM CAULK AND WALL AT DISH MACHINE,DUST BUILD UP FROM VENTILATION VENTS IN TOILETROOMS AND BAR AREA.MUST PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WALL IN POLISHING ROOM.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY FAUCET AT 3- COMP SINK
38
78
Jul 29, 2016
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF PASTRY PREP COOLER AT 56.1F WITH POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED INSIDE.A HELD FOR INSPECTION TAG PLACED ON UNIT .ONCE REPAIRED FAX LETTER TO (312)746-4240 WHEN READY.MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING UNIT AT 40.0F OR BELOW.(CRITICAL 7-38-005A)
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED INSIDE OF ABOVE MENTIONED PASTRY PREP COOLER SUCH AS 4- 8OZ. CONTAINERS OF COOKED MASHED POTATOES 44.5F,44.6F,46.4F,46.8F.1DOZEN POOLED EGGS 45.8F,1DOZEN SHEELED EGGS 46.0F.1-QUART BUTTER MILK 45.6F.PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER.MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING AT 40.0F OR BELOW.APPX.5 LBS.$6.60.(CRITICAL 7-38-005A)
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTIUSE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE RACK IN BASEMENT.MUST COVER SILVERWARE ON DINING ROOM TABLE
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON BASEMENT DAIRY 2- DOOR PREP COOLER,LID ON TOPSIDE OF COLD SIDE PREP COOLER IN POOR REPAIR.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRI FROM DISH RACKS,DISH RACK CART ,FAN GUARDS IN CHICKEN WALK IN COOLER,INTERIOR PART OF SMALL ICE MACHINE,GRILL TABLES.MUST CLEAN DUST BUILD UP FROM OVER HEAD SHELF NEAR OVEN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRI FROM FLOOR UNDER,AROUND,ALONG WALL BASES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT,DISH MACHINE AREA AND BAR AREA
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRI FROM WALLS UNDER DISH MACHINE AND AT FILTERS AT HOOD ,DUST BUILD UP FROM WALL BEHIND OVEN,LIGHT SHIELDS IN PREP AREA
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY CONDENSATION LINE INSIDE OF PROTEIN COOLER
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE HOOKS TO HANG UP WET MOPS.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: IDPH FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS NOT MET FOR NEW EMPLOYEES.MUST ENROLL AND MAINTAIN
45
58
Oct 6, 2015
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Sep 11, 2015
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALK IN COOLER AT 47.0F CONTAINING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD INCLUDING CHICKEN AND DUCK. WALK IN COOLER WAS TAGGED. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005 (A)
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 10 LBS OF CHICKEN VALUED AT $30 AT 48.6F. OBSERVED 2LBS OF DUCK VALUED AT $25 AT 50.0F. FOOD WAS VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005 (A)
3
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIGHT SHEILD IN REACH IN FREEZER IN BASEMENT CRACKED. REPLACE CRACKED LIGHT SHEILD.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FAN COVERS IN FRUIT AND VEGETABLE WALK IN COOLER WITH DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FAN COVERS.
33
82
Jun 19, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 12, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: FOUND OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED. FRESH GREASE DRIPPING ALL AROUND THE RIM OF THE LID AND GREASE ON THE TOP OF THE LID. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CITATION ISSUED SERIOUS 7-38-020.
19
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINER MUST BE LABELED.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID FOR THE ICE BINS BEHIND THE BAR. RAW BARE WOOD IN BETWEEN THE DRY FOOD SHELVES. MUST SEAL THE RAW WOOD OR PAINT.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR ALONG THE WALL BASE BEHIND THE BAR NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: STAINED CEILING TILES ABOVE THE DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVE, MUST REPLACE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB ON THE HOOD. MUST REPLACE. MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD ON THE LIGHT BULB ON THE TWO WHITE WINE COOLER AND WALK IN COOLER.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SELF CLOSER DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE WASHROOM ,1ST FLOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE ON THE COFFEE/EXPRESSO MACHINE AND ICE MACHINE, CONNECTED TO THE WATER LINE.
38
67
Sep 16, 2013
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN BASEMENT. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES IN 1ST FLOOR REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST SEAL OPENING INTO CEILING ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD BROKEN ABOVE PREP COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
36
86
Sep 9, 2013
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITIES DO NOT MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURES. FOUND PASTRY PREP COOLER AIR AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF 57.4F. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/ADJUST TO 40.0F OR BELOW. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A) MANAGER IMMEDIATELLY CALLED COOLER TECHNICIAN AND COOLER WAS REPAIRED AT THE END OF INSPECTION AIR AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF 38.4F.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE FOUND COTTAGGE CHEESE AT 524F, GOAT CHEESE 52.2F, COOKED DAIKON RADISH 51.8F AND PICKELED GREEN TOMATOE. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED ALL FOOD ITEMS 11LBS WORTH $100. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION DURING STORAGE. INSIDE OF ICE MACHINE FOUND BROWN SLIMY SUBSTANCE IN THE INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. ICE IS BEING USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF ICE MACHINE REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR SURFACES CLEANED AND SANITIZED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A). ICE MACHINE WAS CLEANED AND SANITIZED DURING INSPECTION.
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NOTED SIDE RECEIVING DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED. DOOR HAS APPROXIMATELY 1/2 INCH OPENING ON THE BOTTOM. MUST MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOF TO PREVENT RODENT ENTRY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL COOKED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE COOLERS. MUST LABEL ALL BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN 1ST FLOOR REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA AND BASEMENT.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN BASEMENT. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES IN 1ST FLOOR REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST SEAL OPENING INTO CEILING ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD BROKEN ABOVE PREP COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXPOSED HAND SINK IN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA IS SLOWLY DRAINING. MUST REPAIR.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETERS IN ALL COOLERS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA.
40
61
Dec 17, 2012
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKETS ON THE PREP COOLERS IN THE 1ST FLOOR PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE DUST FROM THE WIRE RACKS ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE DISHWASH AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR BEHIND THE BAR. MUST REGROUT THE FLOOR IN THE DISHWASH AREA, COOK'S LINE AND BEHIND THE BAR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE THE CEILING TILES WHERE MISSING IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA.
35
82
Mar 2, 2011
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
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. MUST REMOVE THREADED NOZZLE FROM NEWLY INSTALLED EXPOSED HAND SINK AND INSTALL SPLASH GUARDS ON BOTH SIDES.
38
95
Feb 23, 2011
Complaint
8 minor violations.
View 8 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. BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER FOUND AT 53.1F WITH FOODS SUCH AS COOKED ONION AT 50.1F. COOLER TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND MAINTAINS TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW, SUPERVISOR LOPEZ CONTACTED AT 312-746-7855 FOR INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL.
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. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 20LBS COOKED VEGETABLES, PREPARED KIM CHEE AND COOKED WHEAT FLOUR IN THE ABOVE MENTIONED WALK-IN COOLER AT 50F TO 51.4F. ALL FOODS DISCARDED.
3
* 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 VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON PREMISES OR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER PRESENT.
21
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, properly designed and installed
Inspector notes: When toilet and lavatory facilities are provided for the patrons of food establishments, such facilities shall be adequate in number, convenient, accessible, properly designed, and installed according to the municipal code. 1ST FLOOR PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK BROKEN WITH NO HOT WATER. SINK FOUND TAPED OFF WITH NSTRUCTED SIGNAGE OF OUT OF ORDER. MANAGEMENT STATES SINK HAS BEEN BROKEN FOR ONE DAY. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO INSTRUCT ALL KITCHEN EMPLOYEES TO FRQUENTLY WASH HANDS IN FIRST FLOOR AND BASEMENT WASHROOMS UNTIL SINK IS REPAIRED.
26
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. PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 9-1-10 # 154483 NOT CORRECTED. #35-WALL VENT IN PASTRY PREP WITH EXCESSIVE DUST, MUST CLEAN. #37-1ST FLOOR MENS WASHROOM DOOR SELF-CLOSING DEVICE BROKEN. MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR. #38-MUST INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA OR REMOVE SLICER, PREP CUTTING BOARDS AND ALL OTHER FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT.
29
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. INTERIOR ICE MACHINE MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
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. MIDDLE BAR GUN HOLDER MUST HAVE ADEQUATE DRAINAGE LINE FOR WASTE WATER.
38
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. EMPLOYEES PERSONAL BELONGINGS MUST NOT BE STORED AT OR ON THE BASEMENT CLEAN POTS AND PANS STORAGE SHELVING.
41
67
Sep 1, 2010
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 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. RUBBER GASKET DOOR SEAL ON BASEMENT PRODUCE COOLER TORN. MUST REPLACE.
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. FLOOR UNDER BAR WITH DEBRIS AND BROKEN GLASS, MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. WALL VENT IN PASTRY PREP WITH EXCESSIVE DUST, MUST CLEAN. WALL AT PREP THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH CHIPPING PAINT. MUST RE-PAINT/SEAL.
35
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. CRACKED LIGHT SHIELD AT ENTRANCE TO PASTRY PREP MUST REPLACE.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: Toilet rooms shall be completely enclosed and shall be vented to the outside air or mechanically ventilated. 1ST FLOOR MENS WASHROOM DOOR SELF-CLOSING DEVICE BROKEN. MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR.
37
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. MUST INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA OR REMOVE SLICER AND ALL OTHER FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT.
38
74
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Boka last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Boka on file is from Jul 11, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Boka?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Boka.
Has Boka's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Boka have averaged around three violations per visit, down from roughly 10 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Boka 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 Boka inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Boka is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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