Cafe Tola #4
Last inspected: Dec 11, 2025
64
Score
Going back to 2018, Cafe Tola #4 has 19 inspections in the public record. The most recent visit was on Dec 11, 2025. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
Things have been moving the wrong way, with the rolling count rising from around two violations to closer to 12 violations per visit.
The pattern that stands out is “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, which has been cited 14 times.
By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting Cafe Tola #4 on the weaker side. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
19
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
Dec 11, 2025
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12: **C** Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11: **C** Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11: **C** Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination OBSERVED NO SPLASHGUARD BETWEEN FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINKAND COFFEE AREA MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4-904.11: **C** Kitchenware and Tableware- Preventing Contamination OBSERVED EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19: **C** Nonfood-Contact Surfaces OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT AND TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12: **C** Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON FAN IN WALK-IN COOLER, LIGHT SHIELDS IN COOKING AREA AND CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS, LIGHT SHIELDS, CEILING/WALL VENTS AND CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11: **C** Maintained in Good Repair, Facilities (FACILITIES NOT IN GOOD REPAIR) OBSERVED ENTRENCE THRESHOLD OF WALK IN COOLER BROKEN INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-303.11: **C** Intensity- Lighting OBSERVED A BURNED-OUT LIGHT-BULB IN WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BULB AND MAINTAIN LIGHTING IN THE UNIT.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: **C** Allergen Training - All certified food service sanitation managers employed by a restaurant must receive or obtain training in basic allergen awareness principles within 30 days after employment and every 3 years thereafter. Training programs must be accredited by the American National Standards Institute or another reputable accreditation agency under the ASTM International E2659-09 (Standard Practice for Certificate Programs). OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
64
Dec 2, 2025
Reinspection
2 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES REPORT# 2627522 DATE:11/21/2025. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN PUBLIC VIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B). CITATION ISSUED.
61
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED WITHIN SPECIFIED TIME FRAME ON THE INSPECTION REPORT # 2627522 DATED 11/21/2025: (#48) 4-302.14: **PF** Sanitizing Solutions, Testing Devices OBSERVED NO QUAT CHEMICAL TEST KIT AVAILABLE DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE QUAT TEST KIT FOR PROPER CONCENTRATION IN SANITIZING SOLUTIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT THE VIOLATION SHALL NOW CLASSIFIED AS A PRIORITY ITEM DUE TO PREVIOUS NONCOMPLIANCE. MUST CORRECT BEFORE RE-INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
59
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12: **C** Food Storage Containers Identified with Common Name of Food OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11: **C** Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11: **C** Miscellaneous Sources of Contamination OBSERVED NO SPLASHGUARD BETWEEN FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINKAND COFFEE AREA MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4-904.11: **C** Kitchenware and Tableware- Preventing Contamination OBSERVED EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19: **C** Nonfood-Contact Surfaces OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT AND TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12: **C** Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON FAN IN WALK-IN COOLER, LIGHT SHIELDS IN COOKING AREA AND CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS, LIGHT SHIELDS, CEILING/WALL VENTS AND CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11: **C** Maintained in Good Repair, Facilities (FACILITIES NOT IN GOOD REPAIR) OBSERVED ENTRENCE THRESHOLD OF WALK IN COOLER BROKEN INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-303.11: **C** Intensity- Lighting OBSERVED A BURNED-OUT LIGHT-BULB IN WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BULB AND MAINTAIN LIGHTING IN THE UNIT.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: **C** Allergen Training - All certified food service sanitation managers employed by a restaurant must receive or obtain training in basic allergen awareness principles within 30 days after employment and every 3 years thereafter. Training programs must be accredited by the American National Standards Institute or another reputable accreditation agency under the ASTM International E2659-09 (Standard Practice for Certificate Programs). OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
52
Nov 21, 2025
Routine
4 critical violations. 2 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY WITHOUT CHEMICAL SANITIZERS NEEDED TO SANITIZER EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS. MUST PROVIDE CHEMICAL SANITIZERS AND BE AVAILABLE FOR USE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WASHING DISHES AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT SETTING IT UP TO WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE AS REQUIRED BY THE CODE. NO SANITIZER WAS USED TO SET UP THE SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO ALWAYS SET UP THE SINK WHEN WASHING EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING FOOD NOT MEETING REQUIRE TEMPERATURE OF 135F DEGREES OR ABOVE IN THE DESIGNATED HOT-HOLDING UNIT IN FRONT PREP: VARIETY OF EMPANADAS (GOAT & CHEESE, CHICKEN MOLE, HAM, EGG & CHEESE, MEXICAN EGG, COCONUT CURRY, AND CHICKEN TENGA) RANGING IN TEMP FROM 119.2F-130.5F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 15 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $250.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
21
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (RICE) AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 44.6F LOCATED IN REACH-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND DENATURE ALL SAID TCS FOODS AND TO MAINTAIN A COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 41F AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION.7-38-005. CITATION COMBINED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION
22
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK WITH REPORTS WITH ONLY 02/2025 REPORT IN BINDER PIC COULD NOT PROVIDE ANY OTHER REPORT FOR THE 2025 YEAR. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A LICENSED PEST CONTROL COMPANY AND OPERATOR MUST PROVIDE AT LEAST 2 PEST INSPECTIONS A YEAR AND THE REPORTS MUST BE MAINTAINED IN THE LOG BOOK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CURRENT PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK AND PEST INSPECTION REPORTS.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(C).
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO QUAT CHEMICAL TEST KIT AVAILABLE DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE QUAT TEST KIT FOR PROPER CONCENTRATION IN SANITIZING SOLUTIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
48
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SPLASHGUARD BETWEEN FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINKAND COFFEE AREA MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT AND TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DEBRIS AND ICE BUILDUP ON THE FLOOR/WALLS/CEILING OF THE WALK IN FREEZER. MUST REMOVE EXCESS ICE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON FAN IN WALK-IN COOLER, LIGHT SHIELDS IN COOKING AREA AND CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS, LIGHT SHIELDS, CEILING/WALL VENTS AND CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ENTRENCE THRESHOLD OF WALK IN COOLER BROKEN INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BURNED-OUT LIGHT-BULB IN WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BULB AND MAINTAIN LIGHTING IN THE UNIT.
56
27
Feb 20, 2025
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Feb 13, 2025
Complaint
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE WHILE HANDLING TCS FOODS.(HANDLES CHICKEN,BEEF,ETC.)PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-012.MUST PROVIDE.
2
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND OUTSIDE DUMPSTER WITH MISSING LID.PRIORITY FOUNDATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-020B.MUST PROVIDE.
54
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE WITH NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE.MUST PROVIDE.
1
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: FOODHANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT.MUST PROVIDE.
40
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND SANITATION MANAGER WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING.MUST PROVIDE.
58
70
Dec 5, 2024
Complaint
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISE WHILE HANDLING TCS FOODS.(HANDLES BEEF,CHICKEN,ETC.)PRIORITY FOUNDATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-012.MUST PROVIDE.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE WITH NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE.MUST PROVIDE.
1
86
Sep 24, 2024
Complaint
No violations found.
100
Feb 26, 2024
Complaint
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND OUTSIDE DUMPSTER WITH OVERFLOWING GARBAGE AND LIDS WIDE OPENED.PRIORITY FOUNDATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-020B.MANAGER WAS ABLE TO COMPACT GARBAGE AND CLOSE LIDS BY THE END PF INSPECTION.
54
90
Jan 17, 2024
Complaint
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING TCS FOODS.(HANDLES CHICKEN,BEEF,ETC.)PRIORITY FOUNDATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-012.MUST PROVIDE.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE WITH NO SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE.MUST PROVIDE.
1
86
Oct 23, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 16, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.15 OBSERVED GARBAGE OVERFLOWING OVER THE TOP OF THE GARBAGE DUMPSTER SO THAT THE DUMPSTER LIDS COULD NOT BE CLOSED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE GARBAGE PICK UP SO THAT THE DUMPSTER LIDS CAN BE CLOSED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP, PREP COOLER UNDER GRILL, AND PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.19 OBSERVED THE WASHROOM DOOR WITHOUT A SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 REPAIR THE CEILING DRYWALL IN THE WASHROOM ABOVE THE DOOR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 CLEAN THE FOOD DEBRIS ON THE CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AREA AND THE WALL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
55
74
Oct 11, 2023
Reinspection
3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B)(3) PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2582737 ON 10/3/23 NOT CORRECTED: 38 - OBSERVED APPROX. 50 LIVE SMALL FLYING INSECTS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING OF THE WASHROOM, STORAGE HALLWAY AND DINING AREA. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
59
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: 8-304.11(A) PREVIOUS INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY FROM 10/3/23 WAS NOT POSTED IN PUBLIC VIEW. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF THE PUBLIC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B). CITATION ISSUED.
61
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: 2-101.11 OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS (EMPANADAS AND TACOS) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP, PREP COOLER UNDER GRILL, AND PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.19 OBSERVED THE WASHROOM DOOR WITHOUT A SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 REPAIR THE CEILING DRYWALL IN THE WASHROOM ABOVE THE DOOR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 CLEAN THE FOOD DEBRIS ON THE CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AREA AND THE WALL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
58
Oct 3, 2023
Complaint
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. OBSERVED A CARTON OF LIQUID EGGS STORED ON TOP OF THE GRILL WITH A TEMPERATURE OF 52F, AND CARTONS AND GALLONS OF MILK STORED AT 47-62F INSIDE OF THE ICE BIN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL COLD TCS FOODS BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. SEE VIOLATION #21 ABOVE FOR CITATION.
22
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPANADAS WITH VARIOUS FILLINGS STORED INSIDE OF THE HOT HOLDING DISPLAY CASE AT 128F. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL HOT FOODS MUST BE HOT HELD ABOVE 135F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
21
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROX. 25 LIVE SMALL FLYING INSECTS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING OF THE WASHROOM, STORAGE HALLWAY AND DINING AREA. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP, PREP COOLER UNDER GRILL, AND PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WASHROOM DOOR WITHOUT A SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE CEILING DRYWALL IN THE WASHROOM ABOVE THE DOOR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOOD DEBRIS ON THE CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AREA AND THE WALL BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITHOUT A FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
50
Mar 3, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS (CHICKEN, BEEF, ETC.) ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON PREMISES AT ALL TIME WHEN TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012.
2
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND ICE SCOOPS IMPROPERLY STORED INSIDE ICE BIN AND ICE MACHINE. MUST PROVIDE CLEAN CONTAINER FOR ICE SCOOPS.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE/FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND HOOD FILTERS. MUST CLEAN VENTILATION HOOD/FILTERS AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST BUILD UP ON PREP AREA CEILING TILES AROUND CEILING VENTILATION COVER. MUST CLEAN CEILING TILES/CEILING VENTILATION COVER AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Apr 26, 2022
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: THE WASHROOM DOOR LACKS A SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
53
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITHOUT A FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
86
Feb 11, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Feb 4, 2021
Routine
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: SOME VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP ITEMS MISSING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST HAVE ALL NECESSARY CLEAN UP ITEMS AS OUTLINED IN POLICY ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE DUMPSTER OVERFLOWED IN ALLEY WITH GARBAGE, UNABLE TO CLOSE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER OUTSIDE DUMPSTER LID MUST BE ABLE TO CLOSE AND TIGHT FITTED TO PREVENT POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(B).
54
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: ESTABLISHMENT UNABLE TO LOCATE PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK FOR INSPECTOR AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK FROM A LICENSED ILLINOIS PEST CONTROL OPERATOR FOR ESTABLISHMENT ON PREMISES BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. 7-38-005(C) NO CITATION ISSUED.
38
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS.
40
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE BUILD UP ON WALK IN FREEZER FLOOR. MUST REMOVE ICE FORM WALK IN FREEZER FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
55
70
Nov 8, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERRVED IMPROPER DATE MARKING ON TCS FOOD. ALL REFRIGERATED TCS FOOD HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS SHALL BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH DATE BY WHICH FOOD IS TO BE CONSUMED, SOLD, OR DISCARDED WITH A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AVAILABLE. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN PREP AND HALLWAY AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL STOCK SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
74
Oct 11, 2018
License
2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN UP PROCEDURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT ALLERGEN TRAINING. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cafe Tola #4 last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cafe Tola #4 on file is from Dec 11, 2025. The public record contains 19 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cafe Tola #4?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Cafe Tola #4.
Has Cafe Tola #4's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Cafe Tola #4 have averaged around 12 violations per visit, up from roughly two earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Cafe Tola #4 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 Cafe Tola #4 inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cafe Tola #4 is inspected around three times per year on average.
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