Cafe El Tapatio
Last inspected: May 14, 2025
50
Score
The health department has logged 15 inspections at Cafe El Tapatio, the earliest from 2016. Cafe El Tapatio was last inspected on May 14, 2025. High risk indicates the latest inspection turned up problems worth knowing about.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around nine violations to closer to six violations per visit.
The pattern that stands out is “adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible”, which has been cited nine times.
By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting Cafe El Tapatio on the weaker side. Taken together, the history suggests a facility that has struggled with consistency.
15
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
12
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 14, 2025
Complaint
1 major violation. 12 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ICE NOT PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION DURIND STORAGE. OBSERVED ACCUMULATION OF BLACK AND PINK SUBSTANCE BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE DRIPPING INTO ICE. ICE IS BEING USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN. MACHINE WAS CLEAN AND SANITIZE DUSRING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS IN FOOD PREP AREAS/DISHWASHING AREA, INSIDE CUSTOMERS AND EMPLOYEE WASHROOMS. MUST PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS AND MAINTAIN.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETER NEEDED IN THE UPRIGHT REFRIGERATOR WHERE RED SAUCE IS STORED. MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER AND MAINTAIN.
36
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONTAINERS OF FOOD STORED ON THE FLOOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST ELEVATE CONTAINERS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1-DOOR PREP COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER DOOR GASKETS. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD OR TIN FLOIL AS A LINER FOR SHELVING OR COOKING EQUIPMENT ALL MUST BE SMOOTHAND CLEANABLE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS AS A FOOD CONTAINERS INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS. MUST USE WASHABLE CONTAINERS OR FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE PLASTIC BAGS. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE OF ICE BUILD UP INSIDE MEAT CHEST FREEZER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE ICE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TINT FOIL AS A LINER FOR COOKING EQUIPMENT IN FRONT PREPARATION AREA. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN REAR OF BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT HARBOAGE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINKS LOCATED IN FOOD PREP/DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED WATER DAMAGED CEILING ABOVE ICE MACHINE AND ABOVE CHEST FREEZERS. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEES MUST NOT STORE PERSONAL BELONGIND IN FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST PROVIDE A DESIGNATED EMPLOYEE AREA FOR PERSONAL BELONGINGS.
56
50
Jun 20, 2024
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-DOOR PREP REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER DOOR GASKETS.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A WORKING MECHANICAL VENTILATION/FAN INSIDE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM.
56
90
Jun 11, 2024
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-DOOR PREP REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER DOOR GASKETS.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A WORKING MECHANICAL VENTILATION/FAN INSIDE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM.
56
90
Apr 3, 2024
Routine
2 critical violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES BETWEEN 48.9 F AND 50.0 F INSIDE 4-DOOR PREP REACH IN COOLER- EGGS, STEAK, CHICKEN AND CARNITAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 41.0 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE TCS FOODS VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. FOOD DISCARDED WEIGHT- 10 LBS, VALUED AT $120.00.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND 4-DOOR PREP COOLER (UNDER GRILL) NOT MAINTAINED, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 49.0 F. FOUND EGGS, STEAK, ETC. INSIDE COOLER. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR COOLER, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE MUST BE 41.0 F OR BELOW.
33
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-DOOR PREP REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER DOOR GASKETS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST BUILD UP ON COOLERS CONDENSERS. MUST CLEAN COOLERS CONDENSERS AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A WORKING MECHANICAL VENTILATION/FAN INSIDE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM.
56
64
Jan 5, 2023
Complaint
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: RECEPTACLE OUTSIDE NOT COVERED,LID OPENED AND WITH GARBAGE BAGS INSIDE. MUST COVER CONTAINER WITH TIGHT LID TO PREVENT INSECTS AND RODENT ACTIVITIES.AFTER MY REQUEST MANAGER CLOSED LIDS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-020(B),CITATION ISSUED
54
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: DRY FOOD IN PLASTIC CONTAINER MUST BE LABELED WITH COMMON NAME(SUGAR,FLOUR,ETC)
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: CONDENSATION ON PIPES IN REAR STORAGE ABOVE REACH-IN COOLER. ENCASED SAID PIPES. REMOVE ALUMINUM FOIL.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: A BUCKET WITH SANITIZE SOLUTION AND LINEN MUST BE PROVIDED AT PREP TABLES
41
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BROKEN OR MISSING FLOOR TILE IN THE KITCHEN,REPAIR/REPLACE SAID TILES.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
55
Previous core violation corrected
60
70
Aug 31, 2022
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: NOTED WASTEWATER BACKING UP WITH DIRT, GREASE, AND FOOD PARTICLES INTO THE COMPARTMENT SINK AND FLOOR DRAIN WHEN WATER IS FILLED INTO ONE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINKS. PLUMBER ON-SITE VIOLATION CORRECTED DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
52
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER:-TOMATOES 57.2F, BEEF 46.8F, SHRIMP 49.7F, POBLANOS (GREEN PEPPERS) 49.3F, CUT VEGETABLES 49.6F, CHORIZO 113F.THE MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 10 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $58.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREPARED TCS FOODS THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE COOLERS, REFRIGERATION UNIT, AND WALK-IN COOLER NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. NO EXPIRATION DATES ARE NOTED. ROAST BEEF, CORNED BEEF, COOKED CHICKEN, VEGETABLES, AND RICE. THE MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 10 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $140.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. INSTRUCTED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED HANDWASHING SINK AT NORTH DISH ROOM NOT ACCESSIBLE WITH A PREP TABLE IN FRONT SAID SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED MISSING LIDS AT THE ICE BINS AT THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ICE BIN COVER.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED INDIVIDUAL TO-GO DISPOSABLE CONTAINERS (CUP) WITH NO HANDLE USED FOR SCOOPING SERVING FOOD AT THE SERVICE PREP COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TONGS, SERVING SPOONS, OR LADLE FOR SCOOPING FOOD.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: FOOD CONTAINERS ARE STORED ON THE FLOOR IN STORAGE AND WALK-IN COOLERS. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF THE FLOOR.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES AT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION, ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY LEAKAGE AT THE BOTTOM PIPE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED WASH ROOMS ON PREMISE WITH GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND NO LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASH ROOMS AND UNISEX WASH ROOMS
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED MULTIPLE CRACKS THROUGH OUT THE FLOOR OF THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AT THE FIRST FLOOR AND DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. NOTED STANDING WATER UNDERNEATH THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINKS AT THE KITCHEN AND DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN DRY FLOORS. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQPUIPMENT THROUGH OUT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. NOTED HOLE WITH LEAKAGE ON CEILING AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS AND ON EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASH SINKS AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO THERMOMETERS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNIT CONSPICUOUSLY POSTED TO MONITOR THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO EQUIP ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS WITH ACCURATE AND WORKING THERMOMETERS.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME INCLUDING BULK FOOD CONTAINERS.
37
33
Sep 9, 2021
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 MUST PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT THE BASEMENT UTILITY SERVICE SINK.
51
95
Aug 18, 2021
Complaint
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS OF THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD. FOODS SUCH AS STEAKS AND EGGS. MUST PROVIDE A CONSUMER ADVISORY THAT DISCLOSES AND REMINDS CONSUMERS OF SUCH ITEMS ON ALL MENUS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
25
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN VOMIT/DIARRHEA CLEANING PROCEDURE WITH ALL REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
5
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT THE BASEMENT UTILITY SERVICE SINK.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SOME AREAS IN THE 1ST FLOOR REAR KITCHEN WITH MISSING/DAMAGED FLOOR TILES. MUST REPLACE TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----RAW WOODEN BACKSPLASH AT THE 1ST FLOOR REAR KITCHEN THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST PAINT/SEAL TO BE NON-ABSORBENT OR REPLACE WITH NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.----NOTED A HOLE IN THE WALL AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE BASEMENT STAIRWELL. WATER DAMAGED CEILING WITH OPEN HOLE IN THE BASEMENT PREP. MUST SEAL ALL. NOTED RAW WOOD USED AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE UNDER THE METAL RACK SHELVING. MUST REPLACE WITH A NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
61
Jul 31, 2019
Reinspection
5 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) Inspector Comments: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING SYSTEM AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE DOCUMENTS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO PROCEDURE/PLAN AND KIT FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A PROCEDURE/PLAN AND TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO INSTALLED HANDWASHING SINK IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: BASEMENT PREP AREA,COFFEE STATION AT FRONT AREA(BY THE BAR),ONE AT NORTH NEW DINING AREA. ALL AREA MENTIONED OPENED FOOD:ICE ,COFFEE AND WATER.MUST PROVIDE EACH SINKS WITH SOAP,AND PAPER TOWELS FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION: 7-38-030(C).NO CITATION ISSUED
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: DATE MARKING OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABELED FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ON TCS FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD (EGGS,ETC) MUST DISCLOSE AND REMIND SUCH ITEMS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO LID PROVIDED AT RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILE IN REAR DISH ROOM/PREP AREA . REPLACE CEILING TILE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE PROVIDED ON EACH HANDWASHING SINK,MUST PROVIDED
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: WHITE CONTAINERS WITH DRY FOOD INGREDIENT MUST BE LABELED WITH COMMON NAME -
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: LINENS MUST BE HELD BETWEEN USE IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO WIPE MULTI USE UTENSILS /CUTTING BOARDS ETC
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: KNIVES STORED BETWEEN WALL AND PREP TABLE MUST REMOVE AND MUST PROVIDE KNIVES RACKS TO MINIMIZE SOURCE CONTAMINATION
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDED ICE SCOOP HOLDER FOR ALL ICE SCOOP ON SITE INCLUDED BAR AREA. MUST PROVIDE ICE BIN LIDS FOR ICE BIN DISPENSERS.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN WITH GREASE BUILD-UP, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND DISCHARGE LEAKING PIPE FROM AIR CONDITION BY THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS IN REAR PREP/DISH ROOM ,MUST REPAIR. NECK FAUCET AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK REAR PREP/AREA WRAPPED WITH DIRTY LINEN DUE TO LEAKING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR CAUSE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK NOT CLEANABLE WITH ROUGH AND UNEVEN SURFACE.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
35
Jul 22, 2019
Routine
8 major violations. 13 minor violations.
View 21 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING SYSTEM AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE DOCUMENTS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO PROCEDURE/PLAN AND KIT FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A PROCEDURE/PLAN AND TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO INSTALLED HANDWASHING SINK IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: BASEMENT PREP AREA,COFFEE STATION AT FRONT AREA(BY THE BAR),ONE AT NORTH NEW DINING AREA. ALL AREA MENTIONED OPENED FOOD:ICE ,COFFEE AND WATER.MUST PROVIDE EACH SINKS WITH SOAP,AND PAPER TOWELS FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION: 7-38-030(C).NO CITATION ISSUED
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED AT HANDWASHING SINKS IN PREP AND DISH ROOM AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. MANAGER PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS FOR EACH SINK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-38-030(C)CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: HANDWASHING SINK AT NORTH DISH ROOM NOT ACCESSIBLE: A METAL PREP TABLE STORED IN FRONT SAID SINK,MUST REMOVE TABLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-38-030(C)"CONSOLIDATE WITH ABOVE CITATION"
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: DATE MARKING OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABELED FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ON TCS FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD (EGGS,ETC) MUST DISCLOSE AND REMIND SUCH ITEMS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
25
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE BOTH RECEPTACLES LIDS NOT CLOSED DUE TO OVERFLOWING GARBAGE. LIDS MUST BE TIGHT FITTED TO CONTAINERS TO MINIMIZE FLYING INSECT ACTIVITIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-020(B)
54
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE PROVIDED ON EACH HANDWASHING SINK,MUST PROVIDED
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: WHITE CONTAINERS WITH DRY FOOD INGREDIENT MUST BE LABELED WITH COMMON NAME -
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: LINENS MUST BE HELD BETWEEN USE IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO WIPE MULTI USE UTENSILS /CUTTING BOARDS ETC.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: KNIVES STORED BETWEEN WALL AND PREP TABLE MUST REMOVE AND MUST PROVIDE KNIVES RACKS TO MINIMIZE SOURCE CONTAMINATION
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDED ICE SCOOP HOLDER FOR ALL ICE SCOOP ON SITE INCLUDED BAR AREA. MUST PROVIDE ICE BIN LIDS FOR ICE BIN DISPENSERS.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN WITH GREASE BUILD-UP, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND DISCHARGE LEAKING PIPE FROM AIR CONDITION BY THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS IN REAR PREP/DISH ROOM, MUST REPAIR. NECK FAUCET AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK REAR PREP/AREA WRAPPED WITH DIRTY LINEN DUE TO LEAKING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR CAUSE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO LID PROVIDED AT RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL FREQUENCY REMOVAL OF GARBAGE IS NEEDED DUE TO CONTAINERS OVERFLOWING
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK NOT CLEANABLE WITH ROUGH AND UNEVEN SURFACE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILE IN REAR DISH ROOM/PREP AREA . REPLACE CEILING TILE AND MAINTAIN.
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: OBSERVED NO APPROVED ALLERGEN TRAINING IN ACCORDANCE WITH PA 100-0367 ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING AND TO MAINTAIN. -
58
23
Oct 30, 2018
Complaint
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.15 FOUND OUTSIDE DUMPSTER AREAS NOT CLEAN. FOUND SOME GARBAGE SPILLAGE. EXTERIOR OF OIL CONTAINER WITH GREASE BUILD UP. ALSO, OIL SPILLAGE ONTO FLOORS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-020B. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREAS. OUTSIDE DUMPSTER AREAS CLEANED DURING INSPECTION.
54
90
Jul 3, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 28, 2018
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE NOT SANITIZING 0PPM CHLORINE. CRITICAL VIOLATION.NO CITATION ISSUED.7-38-030. TAGGED DISHMACHINE. CURRENTLY NOT IN USE.
8
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY ON SHELVING UNITS. MUST STORE INVERTED.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND SINKS AT BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NORT CLEAN THROUGHOUT KITCHEN AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND WALLS AND CEILING AT BASEMENT PREPARATION/STORAGE NOT FINISHED. MUST MAKE WALLS SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN AT BASEMENT STORAGE/PREPARATION. FOUND CEILING NOT FINISHED AT HALLWAY AREAS LEADING TO OUTSIDE(1ST FLOOR). MUST FINISH/PAINT.
35
78
Mar 9, 2017
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE DATE LABELS FOR ALL FOOD ITEMS THAT ARE PREPARED AND COLD HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS (CHICKEN, BEANS, SOUP, ETC).
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL BEING USED TO LINE SHELVING AND METAL BINS. MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN THESE SURFACES TO BE SMOOTH, DURABLE AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR COVERING IN THE COOK LINE AND IN THE KITCHEN. MUST REMOVE. FLOORS AND FLOOR MATS MUST BE MADE OF SMOOTH, NON-ABSORBENT AND EASILY CLEANABLE MATERIAL. NOTED BOXES OF FOOD BEING STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK IN COOLER AND ALONG THE WALL IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAK AT WASTE PIPING ON 1 COMPARTMENT SINK IN KITCHEN.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL HAND SINK IN NORTH DISHWASHING ROOM.
38
78
Apr 14, 2016
License
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN THE CEILING AROUND PIPING THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT PREP AREA.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS OR SHATTER PROOF BULBS THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT PREP.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS IN THE BASEMENT AND REAR PREP AREAS WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS. MUST INSTALL AN ATTACHED DRAIN BOARD TO THE NORTH DISH ROOM THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cafe El Tapatio last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cafe El Tapatio on file is from May 14, 2025. The public record contains 15 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cafe El Tapatio?
Across the inspection record, “adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Cafe El Tapatio.
Has Cafe El Tapatio's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Cafe El Tapatio have averaged around six violations per visit, down from roughly nine earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Cafe El Tapatio means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is Cafe El Tapatio inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cafe El Tapatio is inspected around two times per year on average.
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