Cafe Michelle
Last inspected: Aug 19, 2025
86
Score
Cafe Michelle has been inspected 15 times since 2016. The newest entry in the record is dated Aug 19, 2025. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.
Violation counts have ticked up lately, averaging around seven violations per visit versus roughly three violations earlier in the record.
“Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing seven times across the record.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Cafe Michelle is comfortably above that bar. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
15
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Aug 19, 2025
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING PROVIDED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF COMPLETED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
57
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15: OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF BAR HANDWASHING SINK NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED TO THE HANDWASHING SINK. OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF HANDWASHING SINK IN BAR NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED, SECTION OF DRAINPIPE NOT CONNECTED AND WATER FROM HANDWASHING SINK COLLECTS IN CONTAINER UNDERNEATH HANDWASHING SINK ON FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND RECONNECT DRAINPIPE TO BAR HANDWASHING SINK.
51
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E): OBSERVED RUST ON UPPER STAINLESS STEEL INTERIOR AND LOWER STAINLESS STEEL SHIELD OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST FROM ALL INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF ICE IN ICE MACHINE.
16
86
Aug 14, 2025
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-202.12 (A): OBSERVED IMPROPER MINIMUM WATER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 75.6-95.2F AT HANDWASHING SINKS FACILITY. OBSERVED IMPROPER MINIMUM WATER TEMPERATURES AT HANDWASHING SINKS IN PRIVATE WOMEN AND MEN'S WASHROOMS AND PUBLIC MEN'S WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED A HANDWASHING SINK SHALL BE EQUIPPED TO PROVIDE WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF AT LEAST 100F THROUGH A MIXING VALVE OR COMBINATION FAUCET. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)CITATION ISSUED.( NOTE: CITATION FOR VIOLATION ISSUED ON 8/12/2025)
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 15 LARGE FLIES IN FACILITY. OBSERVED LARGE FLY ACTIVITY IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE LARGE FLY ACTIVITY IN FACILITY AND CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS, RECOMMENDED LICENSED PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE FACILITY ON OR AFTER 8/12/2025. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED( NOTE: CITATION FOR VIOLATION ISSUED ON 8/12/2025)
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.113(B): OBSERVED DAMAGED DUMPSTER LID ON RIGHT DUMPSTER. OBSERVED DUMPSTER LID PUSHED INWARDS REAR LID CREATES A LARGE OPENING, LID IS NOT TIGHT FITTING. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE DUMPSTER LID AND MAINTAIN TIGHT FITTING LID ON SAID DUMPSTER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED (NOTE: CITATION ISSUED DURING INSPECTION ON 8/12/2025)
54
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E): OBSERVED RUST ON UPPER STAINLESS STEEL INTERIOR AND LOWER STAINLESS STEEL SHIELD OF ICE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST FROM ALL INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF ICE IN ICE MACHINE.
16
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING PROVIDED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF COMPLETED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
57
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15: OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF BAR HANDWASHING SINK NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED TO THE HANDWASHING SINK. OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF HANDWASHING SINK IN BAR NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED, SECTION OF DRAINPIPE NOT CONNECTED AND WATER FROM HANDWASHING SINK COLLECTS IN CONTAINER UNDERNEATH HANDWASHING SINK ON FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND RECONNECT DRAINPIPE TO BAR HANDWASHING SINK.
51
61
Aug 12, 2025
Routine
3 critical violations. 5 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HOT RUNNING WATER ON THE PREMISES, OBSERVED WATER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 74.8-97.0F. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN HOT RUNNING WATER ABOVE 110F AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND ABOVE 100F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. INSTRUCTED HOT WATER GENERATION AND DISTRIBUTION SHALL BE SUFFICIENT TO MEET THE PEAK HOT WATER DEMANDS THROUGHOUT THE RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED ALL EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS MUST BE WASHED, RINSED AND SANITIZED IN LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE, NO EQUIPMENT OR UTENSILS CAN BE WASHED, RINSED OR SANITIZED IN ANY THREE COMPARTMENT SINK UNTIL THE VIOLATION REGARDING SUFFICIENT HOT WATER GENERATION AND DISTRIBUTION IN FACILITY HAS BEEN CORRECTED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C), CITATION ISSUED.
50
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER MINIMUM WATER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 75.6-95.2F AT HANDWASHING SINKS FACILITY. OBSERVED IMPROPER MINIMUM WATER TEMPERATURES AT HANDWASHING SINKS IN PRIVATE WOMEN AND MEN'S WASHROOMS AND PUBLIC MEN'S WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED A HANDWASHING SINK SHALL BE EQUIPPED TO PROVIDE WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF AT LEAST 100F THROUGH A MIXING VALVE OR COMBINATION FAUCET. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE IMPROPERLY SANTIZING AT A CONCENTRATION OF 0PPM CHLORINE. CORRECTED ON SITE, LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE REPAIRED AND WAS SANITIZING AT A MINIMUM CONCENTRATION OF 50PPM CHLORINE BEFORE CONCLUSION OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025 CITATION ISSUED
16
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED DUMPSTER LID ON RIGHT DUMPSTER. OBSERVED DUMPSTER LID PUSHED INWARDS REAR LID CREATES A LARGE OPENING, LID IS NOT TIGHT FITTING. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE DUMPSTER LID AND MAINTAIN TIGHT FITTING LID ON SAID DUMPSTER. CONSOLIDATED WITH VIOLATION BELOW PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED
54
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER MUST BE ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES. CORRECTED ON SITE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ARRIVED ON SITE AT 12:15PM. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER MUST BE ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES. CORRECTED ON SITE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ARRIVED ON SITE AT 12:15PM. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 15 LARGE FLIES IN FACILITY. OBSERVED LARGE FLY ACTIVITY IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE LARGE FLY ACTIVITY IN FACILITY AND CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS, RECOMMENDED LICENSED PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE FACILITY ON OR AFTER 8/12/2025. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEFT OUTSIDE DUMPSTER USED FOR TRASH AND CARDBOARD OVERFLOWING WITH BAGS AND CARDBOARD UNABLE TO BE CLOSED TO PREVENT PEST FROM ENTERING DUMPSTER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TRASH AND RECYCLING SHALL BE STORED SO THAT IT IS INACCESSIBLE TO INSECTS AND RODENTS. CORRECTED ON SITE, TRASH AND CARDBOARD PUSHED DOWN INTO DUMPSTER BEFORE CONCLUSION OF INSPECTION LID OF DUMPSTER WAS CLOSED AND TIGHTLY FITTING BEFORE CONCLUSION OF INSPECTION. CONSOLIDATED WITH VIOLATION ABOVE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED
54
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON UPPER STAINLESS STEEL INTERIOR AND LOWER STAINLESS STEEL SHIELD OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST FROM ALL INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF ICE IN ICE MACHINE.
16
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF BAR HANDWASHING SINK NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED TO THE HANDWASHING SINK. OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF HANDWASHING SINK IN BAR NOT PROPERLY CONNECTED, SECTION OF DRAINPIPE NOT CONNECTED AND WATER FROM HANDWASHING SINK COLLECTS IN CONTAINER UNDERNEATH HANDWASHING SINK ON FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND RECONNECT DRAINPIPE TO BAR HANDWASHING SINK.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING PROVIDED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF COMPLETED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
57
33
Jul 15, 2024
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE FAUCET AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE JUICE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS AT THE BOTTOM OF TWO DOOR REACH IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
90
Jul 13, 2023
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: Food handler not washing hands when required, Observed a cook handling raw beef patty and then handling ready-to-eat foods ( bread, lettuce..) without washing hands in between or changing gloves. Instructed manager to have food handlers to wash hands when required. Priority violation 7-38-010.
8
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: No Certified food service manager on site while handling and serving TCS foods ( chicken, beef...) instructed to obtain. priority foundation violation 7-38-012.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
1
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: Weak water pressure at rear prep area hand wash sink, instructed to provide adequate pressure.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: Food handler at ice cream station not wearing a hair restraints. Instructed to wear.
40
67
Aug 17, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTER CONNECTED TO UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL RELEVANT LAWS, RULES, AND REGULATIONS.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES MUST COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
90
Aug 15, 2022
Complaint
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 4 EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS NEAR COFFEE GRINDER, PREP LINE, COOK LINE, AND JUICE BAR MAINTAINING IMPROPER TEMPERATURES 66.9F, 65.6F, 65.8F, AND 66.2F RESPECTIVELY. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SO THAT ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS MAINTAIN HOT RUNNING WATER UNDER PRESSURE AT TEMPERATURES BETWEEN 100-120F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VERIFIABLE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. LEFT TEMPLATE AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN COPIES OF HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT 4 EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS LOCATED NEAR COFFEE GRINDER, PREP LINE, COOK LINE, AND JUICE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT ALL EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY (DISCLOSURE) SUCH FOODS BY ASTERISKING THEM TO A FOOTNOTE THAT STATES: "ITEMS CAN BE SERVED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED OR CONTAIN UNDERCOOKED INGREDIENTS" AND ADD A STATEMENT (REMINDER) THAT SAYS: "CONSUMING RAW OR UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL PRODUCTS MAY INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOODBORNE ILLNESS, ESPECIALLY IF YOU HAVE MEDICAL CONDITIONS." PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OLD "PRETZEL" AND "PUB MIX" CONTAINERS USED TO STORE PICKLES AND GARDINERA. INSTRUCTED TO USE ONLY REUSABLE, FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARD ON COOK LINE COVERED IN DEEP GROOVES AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN SMOOTH, CLEANABLE CUTTING SURFACES.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTER CONNECTED TO UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH ALL RELEVANT LAWS, RULES, AND REGULATIONS.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES MUST COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Compliance with clean indoor air ordinance
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOOKAH STORED ON FLOOR NEAR MANAGER'S DESK AND CIGAR STORED IN CABINET ABOVE MANAGER'S DESK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN FACILITY FREE OF SMOKING PARAPHANALIA. VIOLATION 7-32-020(C). CITATION ISSUED. MANDATORY COURT APPEARANCE.
62
47
Jul 8, 2021
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations.
View 4 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH WASHING MACHINE NOT SANITIZING AT FINAL RINSE. 0PPM OBTAINED AT TEST STIPS. NO SANITIZER SOLUTION ATTACHED TO MACHINE WHILE BEING USED, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER SANITIZER CONCENTRATION AT FINAL RINSE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025. MACHINE IS REPAIRED BY THE END OF INSPECTION.
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER AT BAR HAND SINK, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C).
10
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE SERVING TCS ( CHICKEN, BEEF..) INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND SOAP PROVIDED AT KITCHEN HAND WASH SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
61
Oct 1, 2020
Routine
3 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ONSITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH FORM OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES OR PROCEDURES ONSITE FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SUPPLIES AND POST PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM LAST INSPECTION REPORT. #58- NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE FOR CERTIFIED MANAGER, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. VIOLATION STILL EXISTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES; FLOUR, SUGAR, ETC., WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN REFRIGERATION GASKETS ON MULTIPLE REFRIGERATION UNITS THROUGHOUT FACILITY. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE ALL TORN GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND CUTTING BOARDS ON PREP COOLERS IN NEED OR REPAIR OR REPLACING. Surfaces such as cutting blocks and boards that are subject to scratching and scoring shall be resurfaced if they can no longer be effectively cleaned and SANITIZED, or discarded if they are not capable of being resurfaced.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND GREASE ACCUMULATION ON EXTERIOR CONTACT SURFACE OF FRYER, INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: UNABLE TO LOCATE BACKFLOW DEVICE ON MOP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE SPIDER WEBS FROM WALLS THROUGHOUT PREP AND DRY STORAGE AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROTECTIVE SHIELDS ON LIGHT BULBS IN FOOD PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #60
58
50
Aug 23, 2018
Complaint
3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14 (A) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE,PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO VOMIT/ DIARRHEA CLEANUP KIT, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
5
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE FOR CERTIFIED MANAGER, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
58
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15 DOORS AT REAR KITCHEN KEPT OPEN WITH NO SCREEN, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL A SCREEN OR KEEP DOORS CLOSED.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.14 INTERIOR ICE MAKER NOT CLEAN, NOTED A GRAY FILM ON INTERIOR SURFACES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
39
67
Jul 31, 2018
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE,PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT/ DIARRHEA CLEANUP KIT, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
5
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE FOR CERTIFIED MANAGER, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION ISSUED. A 90 day grace period was given for all new priority and priority foundation violations. Citations will be issued on the next inspection after the 90 day grace period for these violations. (New violations are marked with an asterisk*) -
58
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: DOORS AT REAR KITCHEN KEPT OPEN WITH NO SCREEN, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL A SCREEN OR KEEP DOORS CLOSED.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: INTERIOR ICE MAKER NOT CLEAN, NOTED A GRAY FILM ON INTERIOR SURFACES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
39
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RAW UNFINISHED WOODEN SHELVES USED IN JUICING PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO SEAL SO IT'S SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE
47
61
Sep 8, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 2, 2017
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR AT THE SIDE BAR AND GELATO PREP AREA WITH NO GROUT BETWEEN FLOOR TILES AND NO FLOOR DRAIN AT THE SIDE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE GROUT BETWEEN THE FLOOR TILES AND A FLOOR DRAIN AT THE SIDE BAR.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE SIDE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE SIDE BAR.
38
90
May 30, 2017
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Water source: safe, hot & cold under city pressure
Inspector notes: FOUND NO HOT WATER (55.4-55.9F) AT THE KITCHEN 3 EXPOSED HAND SINKS, 1 GELATO PREP AREA EXPOSED HAND SINK AND THE KITCHEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN HOT WATER AT 85.0F OR ABOVE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
9
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT GELATO PREP AREA AND THE DISHMACHINE ROOM WITH INADEQUATE FOOD PROTECTION. FOOD UTENSILS AND EQUIPMENT OPEN TO THE OPEN AIR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT GELATO PREP AREA NOT RODENT PROOF WITH NO WALLS OR DOORS, DISH MACHINE ROOM WITH NO DOOR AND OPEN TO THE OPEN AIR AND THE SIDE BAR AREA NOT RODENT PROOF WITH LARGE OPENINGS BETWEEN THE WALLS AND THE ROOF. ALSO OBSERVED NO CURRENT PEST CONTROL LOG AVAILABLE DURING THE INSPECTION.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN RODENT PROOF FOOD PREP AREAS AND AT THE DISH MACHINE ROOM AND PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CURRENT PEST CONTROL LOG. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (EGGS, SAUSAGE, CHEESE) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND/OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF ALL KITCHEN COOLERS WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS AND THE EXTERIOR OF ALL FOOD AND NON FOOD CONTACT SURFACES WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND/OR ACCUMULATED GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE COOLERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. ALSO OBSERVED THE FLOOR AT THE SIDE BAR AND GELATO PREP AREA WITH NO GROUT BETWEEN FLOOR TILES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS AND PROVIDE GROUT BETWEEN THE FLOOR TILES.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE SIDE BAR AND THE KITCHEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WASTE PIPE LEAKING UNDER THE RIGHT BASIN. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AN EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE SIDE BAR AND REPAIR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK PLUMBING.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITH NO HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE HANDLING FOOD.
42
67
May 26, 2016
License
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Front counter shelving that had exposed raw wood, shall be repaired/sealed.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Cooler shelving/racks throughout premises not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors throughout premises not clean, need detailed cleaning.
34
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cafe Michelle last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cafe Michelle on file is from Aug 19, 2025. The public record contains 15 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cafe Michelle?
Across the inspection record, “adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Cafe Michelle.
Has Cafe Michelle's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Cafe Michelle have averaged around seven violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Cafe Michelle 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 Cafe Michelle inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cafe Michelle is inspected around two times per year on average.
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