Bottom Lounge
Last inspected: Nov 5, 2025
74
Score
Across the available record, Bottom Lounge has 17 inspections on file, the first dated 2011. Inspectors last stopped by on Nov 5, 2025. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.
Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around five violations each.
The pattern that stands out is “proper cooling methods used”, which has been cited 11 times.
By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting Bottom Lounge on the weaker side. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
2
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Nov 5, 2025
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Variance obtained for specialized processing methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A VACUUM PACKAGING MACHINE IN THE FOOD PREP AREA AND VACUUM PACKAGED TCS FOODS (CHICKEN) IN THE FREEZER WITHOUT A CDPH APPROVED HACCP PLAN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE THE MACHINE UNTIL A HACCP PLAN HAS BEEN APPROVED BY CDPH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. SEE VIOLATION #29 ABOVE FOR CITATION.
32
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A VACUUM PACKAGING MACHINE IN THE FOOD PREP AREA AND VACUUM PACKAGED TCS FOODS (CHICKEN) IN THE FREEZER WITHOUT A CDPH APPROVED HACCP PLAN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE THE MACHINE UNTIL A HACCP PLAN HAS BEEN APPROVED BY CDPH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
29
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE SODA GUN NOZZLES AND FLUSH OUT THE DRAINS AT ALL BARS.
49
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE WITHOUT A VALID FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST SHOW VALID PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING.
57
74
May 8, 2024
Routine
3 critical violations. 1 minor violation.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE OF 2-DOOR REACH IN PREP COOLER TO BE IMPROPER AT 67.2F. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT IS MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. THE PERSON IN CHARGE SERVICED THE COOLER UNIT DURING THE INSPECTION. THE COOLER UNIT WAS OBSERVED AT 41F AFTER INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE KITCHEN PREP COLD HOLDING UNIT, SUCH AS 3 LBS OF CHICKEN AT 67.5F AND 3 LBS OF SLICED VEGETABLES AT 67.4F. THE MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED A TOTAL OF 6LBS AT $100. ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NOTED LOW-TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINE IN USE NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING. THE SANITIZING STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER (CHLORINE) AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WAS 0 PPM. EQUIPMENT MUST BE PROPERLY SANITIZED AT A MINIMUM OF 50 PPM. THE DISH MACHINE WAS REPAIRED DURING INSPECTION TO 100PPM. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE DEBRIS, DIRT, AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY OF FLOORS. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
61
May 17, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM 6/8/2022 REPORT #2556946 NOT CORRECTED: VIOLATION #58 (3-307.11) OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST CORRECT PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE KITCHEN AND BARS HANDWASHING SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS AND MAINTAIN.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN INCH GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR EXIT DOUBLE DOORS LOCATED NEAR THE 1ST FLOOR GREEN ROOMS. MUST SEAL GAP TO PREVENT RODENT/PEST ENTRY AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DRAIN HOSES FOR THE SODA GUNS LOCATED IN THE BAR DIRECLTY NEXT TO THE 1ST FLOOR STAGE. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE AND DIRT ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE FRYERS IN THE FIRST FLOOR KITCHEN. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY DUST BUILD UP ON THE CEILING VENT LOCATED ABOVE THE LOW TEMP DISH MACHINE IN THE 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
70
Jun 8, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO PERSON ON SITE WITH AN ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A PERSON IN CHARGE ON SITE WITH AN ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN SENSOR AT 3RD WASH BOWL SINK IN WOMEN'S BATHROOM 1ST FLOOR. MUST REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY WATER DAMAGE WITH LARGE HOLE THROUGH CEILING IN WOMEN'S BATHROOM 1ST FLOOR. MUST REPAIR.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
78
May 14, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE OR NECCESARY ITEMS OUTLINED IN POLICY AVAILABLE ON SITE DURING TIME OF INSPECTION FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS THAT CAN OCCUR IN THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUME ADVISORY WITH DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT BY ASTERICKING AND FOOTNOTES IN MENU FOR UNDERCOOKED OR RAW FOOD ITEMS DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICES ON SITE FOR FOOD AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES ON SITE DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIOIRTY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVD FOIL USED ON SHELF OF PREP TABLE AS A LINER. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAKE SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.NOTED THE INTERIOR SURFACES OF FREEZER IN PREP AREA AND DRINK COOLERS IN FRONT MAIN BAR AREA WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GARBAGE RECEPTACLE IN RESTROOM WITHOUT A COVER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE POP SPILLS THROUGH BASEMENT STORAGE AREA FLOORS UNDER RACKS, AND FOOD DEBRIS IN DRINK WALK IN COOLER ON 2ND FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY DUST BUILD UP ON FANS ABOVE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
56
64
Jan 30, 2018
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN EXPOSED HAND SINK AND PREP COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST DISCONTINUE USING MILK CRATES AS STORAGE RACKS THROUGHOUT WALK IN COOLER, BEHIND BARS AND IN PREP AREA. REPAIR/REPLACE BROKEN DOOR GASKET ON 2-DOOR TRUE PREP COOLER IN PREP AREA. REPLACE CUTTING BOARDS IN PREP AREA, DARK STAINS AND GROOVES PRESENT.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN UNKNOWN DEBRIS FROM BAR SODA NOZZLES AND CADDY'S. CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM MICROWAVE IN PREP AREA. ALSO, CLEAN EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION FROM DISH STORAGE RACKS IN PREP AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR/REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR TILES BEHIND FRONT BAR. CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM UNDER HEAVY EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT PREP AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DUST FROM FAN GUARDS IN WALK IN COOLER AND CEILING VENTS IN PREP AREA. SEAL SMALL HOLES IN WALL IN MENS TOILET ROOM.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN UNKNOWN DEBRIS FROM LIGHT SHEILDS IN PREP AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INCREASE HOT WATER PRESSURE AT HAND SINKS IN MENS AND WOMENS TOILET ROOMS. REPAIR NON-WORKING URINAL IN MENS TOILET ROOM.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE OR ORGANIZE CLUTTER FROM UNDER STAIRS IN BASEMENT.
41
70
Apr 20, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, TOPS AND SIDE OF EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DAILY,
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT STORAGE/PREP AREAS ALONG BASES OF WALLS AND IN CORNERS. CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS WHERE STAINS AND BUILDUP ARE PRESENT. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN BAR.
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Any food handler working in the City of Chicago, unless that person has a valid Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required to meet the food handler training requirement. If someone working in a facility that is not a food handler on a regular basis, but fills in as a food handler when needed, they too must have food handler training.
45
86
Jun 29, 2016
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF PREP COOLER LINED WITH CLOTH. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME SO AS SURFACE TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, AND EASILY CLEANABLE. ICE BIN COVERS MISSING FOR CONSUMABLE ICE IN BAR AREAS. PROVIDE SAME
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR UPPER PANEL OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEAN, SLIGHT PINK/BLACK SUBSTANCE. EXTERIOR OF WALK-IN COOLER DOOR (2ND FLOOR) NOT CLEAN, BLACK DEBRIS ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAME
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR DRAINS THROUGH OUT PREP AREA AND BARS NOT CLEAN, DEBRIS. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: ALL VENTS AND SURROUNDING CEILING TILES AND LIGHTSHIELDS IN PREP AND DISHWASHING AREA NOT CLEAN, DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN
35
82
Jun 17, 2016
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATION FROM 6/10/16 REPORT 1932543 NOT CORRECTED: 18- FRONT DOUBLE ENTRANCE DOORS AND REAR DOUBLE EXIT DOORS NOT RODENT PROOF, APPROX. 1/2 INCH GAP INBETWEEN AND AT BOTTOM OF DOORSF. INSTD TO RODENT PROOF SAME SO AS TO BE TIGHT FITTING. CITATION ISSUED CRITICAL 7-42-090.
14
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF PREP COOLER LINED WITH CLOTH. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME SO AS SURFACE TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, AND EASILY CLEANABLE. ICE BIN COVERS MISSING FOR CONSUMABLE ICE IN BAR AREAS. PROVIDE SAME
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR UPPER PANEL OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEAN, SLIGHT PINK/BLACK SUBSTANCE. EXTERIOR OF WALK-IN COOLER DOOR (2ND FLOOR) NOT CLEAN, BLACK DEBRIS ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAME
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR DRAINS THROUGH OUT PREP AREA AND BARS NOT CLEAN, DEBRIS. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: ALL VENTS AND SURROUNDING CEILING TILES AND LIGHTSHIELDS IN PREP AND DISHWASHING AREA NOT CLEAN, DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN
35
78
Jun 10, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FRONT DOUBLE ENTRANCE DOORS AND REAR DOUBLE EXIT DOORS NOT RODENT PROOF, APPROX. 1/2 INCH GAP INBETWEEN AND AT BOTTOM OF DOORSF. INSTD TO RODENT PROOF SAME SO AS TO BE TIGHT FITTING. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020 SERIOUS.
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN, BEEF, ETC). INSTD TO HAVE ON DUTY AT ALL TIMES FOOD PREPARED, HANDLED. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012A SERIOUS.
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF PREP COOLER LINED WITH CLOTH. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME SO AS SURFACE TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, AND EASILY CLEANABLE. ICE BIN COVERS MISSING FOR CONSUMABLE ICE IN BAR AREAS. PROVIDE SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR UPPER PANEL OF ICE MACHINE NOT CLEAN, SLIGHT PINK/BLACK SUBSTANCE. EXTERIOR OF WALK-IN COOLER DOOR (2ND FLOOR) NOT CLEAN, BLACK DEBRIS ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR DRAINS THROUGH OUT PREP AREA AND BARS NOT CLEAN, DEBRIS. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: ALL VENTS AND SURROUNDING CEILING TILES AND LIGHTSHIELDS IN PREP AND DISHWASHING AREA NOT CLEAN, DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
35
74
Sep 16, 2015
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: ALL MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES MUST BE PROPERLY STORED INVERTED(HANDLES UP OR OUT.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: ALL POP DISPENSING GUNS AND HOLSTERS AT ALL BARS ON ALL LEVELS, SIDES AND INTERIORS OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT ON COOK LINE, AND EXPOSED HANDSINK BEHIND MAIN BAR IN DINING AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT STORAGE AREAS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS AND IN CORNERS. CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS WHERE STAINS AND BUILD-UP ARE PRESENT. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN BAR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN WALLS BEHIND BAR(S) WHERE SPLATTERS, STAINS AND DIRT ARE PRESENT. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS AND CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT WHERE DUST BUILD-UP AND STAINS ARE PRESENT.
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: CERTIFIED MGR/COOK MUST WEAR A BEARD RESTRAINT.
42
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Any food handler working in the City of Chicago, unless that person has a valid Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required to meet the food handler training requirement. If someone working in a facility that is not a food handler on a regular basis, but fills in as a food handler when needed, they too must have food handler training.
45
74
Sep 11, 2015
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATION NOTED 9-4-15 ON REPORT# 1575230 NOT CORRECTED:-19- OUTSIDE WASTE AND GREASE STORAGE AREAS NOT PROPERLY MAINTAINED. 1/2 OF THE LID TO ONE OF THE GARBAGE DUMPSTERS IS MISSING. NON COMLIANT VIOLATION CRITICAL 7-42-090
14
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #14
19
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: ALL MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES MUST BE PROPERLY STORED INVERTED(HANDLES UP OR OUT).
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: ALL POP DISPENSING GUNS AND HOLSTERS AT ALL BARS ON ALL LEVELS, SIDES AND INTERIORS OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT ON COOK LINE, AND EXPOSED HANDSINK BEHIND MAIN BAR IN DINING AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: : CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT STORAGE AREAS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS AND IN CORNERS. CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS WHERE STAINS AND BUILD-UP ARE PRESENT. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN BAR
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN WALLS BEHIND BAR(S) WHERE SPLATTERS, STAINS AND DIRT ARE PRESENT. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS AND CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT WHERE DUST BUILD-UP AND STAINS ARE PRESENT.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKY COLD WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE AT EXPOSED HAND SINK BEHIND MAIN BAR.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: : CERTIFIED MGR/COOK MUST WEAR A BEARD RESTRAINT.
42
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Any food handler working in the City of Chicago, unless that person has a valid Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required to meet the food handler training requirement. If someone working in a facility that is not a food handler on a regular basis, but fills in as a food handler when needed, they too must have food handler training.
45
64
Sep 4, 2015
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: BLACK AND PINK COLORED RESIDUE OBSERVED INSIDE LARGE ICE MACHINE(ON WALLS AND CEILING NEAR THE SHOOT WERE THE ICE DROPS DOWN INTO THE MACHINE) IN KITCHEN PREP AREA. MUST HAVE MACHINE EMPTIED OUT AND THOROUGHLY CLEANED AND SANITIZED. ALSO FOUND CONTAINERS INSIDE THE CONSUMABLE ICE BINS LIKE BOTTLES OF JUICE, OLIVES, CHERRIES ETC. NOTHING CAN BE STORED INSIDE THESE BINS WITH THE ICE WHICH IS USED FOR CONSUMPTION. SERIOUS 7-38-005(A).
16
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE WASTE AND GREASE STORAGE AREAS NOT PROPERLY MAINTAINED. 1/2 OF THE LID TO ONE OF THE GARBAGE DUMSPERS IS MISSING. GREASE BUILD-UP ALSO FOUND ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE DUMPSTER. MUST REQUEST A NEW GARBAGE RECEPTACLE FROM COMPANY, AND CLEAN OR REPLACE GREASE DUMPSTER. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: ALL MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES MUST BE PROPERLY STORED INVERTED(HANDLES UP OR OUT).
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: ALL POP DISPENSING GUNS AND HOLSTERS AT ALL BARS ON ALL LEVELS, SIDES AND INTERIORS OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT ON COOK LINE, AND EXPOSED HANDSINK BEHIND MAIN BAR IN DINING AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT STORAGE AREAS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS AND IN CORNERS. CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS WHERE STAINS AND BUILD-UP ARE PRESENT. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN BAR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN WALLS BEHIND BAR(S) WHERE SPLATTERS, STAINS AND DIRT ARE PRESENT. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS AND CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT WHERE DUST BUILD-UP AND STAINS ARE PRESENT.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKY COLD WATER SHUT-OFF VALVE AT EXPOSED HAND SINK BEHIND MAIN BAR.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: CERTIFIED MGR/COOK MUST WEAR A BEARD RESTRAINT.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOPS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED OUTSIDE OF ALL ICE BINS IN A CLEAN MANNER PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Any food handler working in the City of Chicago, unless that person has a valid Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required to meet the food handler training requirement. If someone working in a facility that is not a food handler on a regular basis, but fills in as a food handler when needed, they too must have food handler training.
45
61
Sep 12, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH A DARK SLIMY SUBSTANCE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
16
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOTTOM INTERIOR OF FRYERS WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FRYERS.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOOD VENTS AND CEILING VENTS ABOVE THE DISH MACHINE WITH ACCUMULATED DUST. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTS.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE DISH ROOM WITHOUT 3 DRAIN PLUGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND 3 DRAIN PLUGS FOR DISH ROOM 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LEFT FAUCET BASE LEAKING AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE DISH ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
78
Nov 4, 2013
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SEAL SMALL OPENINGS BETWEEN AND ALONG THE BOTTOM OF ALL EXTERIOR DOORS AS NEEDED.
32
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SANITARY CONTAINER TO STORE ALL ICE DISPENSING UTENSILS.
43
90
Oct 25, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH MACHINE NOT SANITIZING DURING THE FINAL RINSE CYCLE. MUST REPAIR SO THAT DISH MACHINE IS PROPERLY SANITIZING MULTI USE ITEMS. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
8
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NOTED EVIDENCE OF INSECTS AND RODENTS ON SITE. NOTED APPROXIMATELY 20-25 MICE DROPPINGS IN LIQUOR STORAGE ROOM BEHIND 1ST FLOOR BAR. ALSO NOTED APPROXIMATELY 30-35 RAT DROPPINGS LOCATED ALONG WALLS AND IN CORNERS IN BOTH BASEMENTS AND ON 1ST FLOOR BEHIND SEATING BOOTHS ALONG FRONT WINDOWS. ALSO NOTED APPROXIMATELY 25 LIVE SMALL FLIES BEHIND EACH BAR,ON INTERIOR OF SODA GUN HOLSTERS AND IN PREP AREA. MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS AND INSECTS,SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS INCLUDING SODA GUN HOLSTERS AND HAVE THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE AREAS. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SEAL SMALL OPENINGS BETWEEN AND ALONG THE BOTTOM OF ALL EXTERIOR DOORS AS NEEDED.
32
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SANITARY CONTAINER TO STORE ALL ICE DISPENSING UTENSILS.
43
78
Sep 8, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. THE FIRST FLOOR BAR SODA GUN HOLDERS ARE DIRTY; WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE THE SODA GUN HOLDERS.
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. THE WEST 2 DOOR COOLER INTERIOR AND DISHMACHINE IS DIRTY; WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE THE COOLER AND DISH MACHINE IN DETAIL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: THE FLOORS AND MOTORS UNDER THE BAR ARE DIRTY, CLEAN THE FLOORS IN DETAIL. The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE 2ND FLOOR ICE BIN IS DIRTY, CLEAN OUT THE BIN. BOTH THE FIRST FLOOR BARS HAVE DIRTY FLOOR DRAINS, CLEAN OUT THE DRAINS.
38
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Bottom Lounge last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Bottom Lounge on file is from Nov 5, 2025. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Bottom Lounge?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Bottom Lounge.
Has Bottom Lounge's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Bottom Lounge have averaged around five violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Bottom Lounge means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Bottom Lounge inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Bottom Lounge is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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