Cafe Tola II
Last inspected: Jan 14, 2026
90
Score
Inspectors have visited Cafe Tola II 17 times, with records going back to 2016. The most recent visit was on Jan 14, 2026. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.
Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near six violations each time.
“Thermometers provided & accurate” comes up most often, recorded seven times in the inspection record.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Cafe Tola II is doing better than most peers. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 14, 2026
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF ICE BIN IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
90
Jan 7, 2026
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENU FOR RAW OR UNDERCOOKED FOODS (EGGS BEEF). MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE AND DESCRIBE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK TH0SE ITEMS TO A REMINDER STATEMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED PAPER TOWELS DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). NO CITATION ISSUED. CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2610603 ON 01/15/25. #36. OBSERVED HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH NO THERMOMETER. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN. #39. OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS AND MAINTAIN. #47. OBSERVED RUST ON RACKS IN THE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE RUST AND ENSURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. #55. OBSERVED HOLE IN CEILING ABOVE PIPING IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO SMOOTHLY SEAL ALL HOLES AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP PROVIDED AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED HAND SOAP DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUD.
10
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE NOR CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED SUCH AS CHICEKN SOUP, PORK, BEEF AND CHORIZO EMPANADAS ETC. INSTRUCTED ABOVE TO OPERATE WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS AREA BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012
2
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER. MUST LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING HANDLED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF ICE BIN IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIN FOIL ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLE IN FRONT FOO PREPARATION AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE ALL SURFACES TO BE NON-CORROSIVE, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES
47
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES AND MUST HAVE CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. MUST COMPLETE AND HAVE CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES.
58
41
Jan 15, 2025
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH NO THERMOMETER. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
36
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS AND MAINTAIN.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON RACKS IN THE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE RUST AND ENSURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLOW DRAINING HANDWASHING SINK IN THE REAR PREP/WAREWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLE IN CEILING ABOVE PIPING IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO SMOOTHLY SEAL ALL HOLES AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
55
78
Mar 19, 2024
Routine
No violations found.
100
Mar 17, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2572345 ISSUED ON 03-10-2023 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED #55 - INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA. #57 - OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. #58 - ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
59
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-204.112(B) INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
36
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED FAUCET MISSING ON THE LEFT SIDE (BETWEEN WASH AND RINSE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK) INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET AT HANDSINK INSIDE THE WASHROOM.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 TOILET RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE THE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 OBSERVED NON WORKING AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSER/NO LONGER IN USE ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR DINING AREA LEADING TO REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-202.11 INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE NON WORKING LIGHTBULB INSIDE 4 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
56
64
Mar 10, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND HANDSINK IN FRONT PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR EMPLOYEE HANDWASHING. NOTED COFFEE JAR AND UTENSILS STORED IN THE SAID HANDSINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER, HANDWASHING SINK MUST BE CLEAR AND ACCESSIBLE FOR EMPLOYEES TO WASH HANDS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2562530 ISSUED ON 08-22-2022 PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED #10 - OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. #55 - INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA. #57 - OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. #58 - ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
60
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING PROCEDURE OF FROZEN (PASTOR) MEAT ON TOP OF CHEST FREEZER IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT, THAWING MUST OCCUR UNDER REFRIGERATION THAT MAINTAINS THE FOOD TEMPERATURE AT 41.0F OR LESS OR COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER RUNNING WATER OR THAWED IN A MICROWAVE OVEN AND IMMEDIATELY TRANSFERRED TO CONVENTIONAL COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH NO INTERRUPTION IN THE PROCESS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CORRECT THAWING PROCEDURES.
35
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
36
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET AT HANDSINK INSIDE THE WASHROOM.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FAUCET MISSING ON THE LEFT SIDE (BETWEEN WASH AND RINSE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK) INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: TOILET RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE THE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NON WORKING AUTOMATIC SOAP DISPENSER/NO LONGER IN USE ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR DINING AREA LEADING TO REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE NON WORKING LIGHTBULB INSIDE 4 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
56
55
Aug 22, 2022
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14--OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.17--INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13-- OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
58
82
Aug 15, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010,CITATION ISSUED.
3
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER OVERFLOWING WITH TRASH AND CARDBOARD BOXES. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. LIDS/COVER MUST BE KEPT CLOSED TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020 (b),CITATION ISSUED.
54
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK LOCATED FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER INSIDE THE EMPANADA HOT HOLDING UNIT AT FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON ICE BIN AT FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE IN A CLEAN SEPARATE CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE.
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER LEAK AT DRAIN PIPE UNDERNEATH THE HANDSINK AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.MUST REPAIR PLUMBING LEAK AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES AT REAR DISHWASHING 3-COMPARTMENT SINK/PREP AREA.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
58
55
Jan 22, 2021
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ESPRESSO MACHINE AND COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINES. MUST PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AND MAKE VISIBLE AT SAID LOCATIONS.
51
95
Jan 15, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO SANITIZING TEST STRIPS ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE SANITIZING TEST STRIPS ON PREMISES. 7-38-005 PRIORITY FOUNDATION.
48
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY, AND MAINTAIN POLICY ON-SITE. FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING POLICY GO TO WWW.CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG/HEALTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION, 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: CLEAN UP KIT NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ON-SITE, PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOP IMROPERLY STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A CLEAN CONTAINER FOR ICE SCOOP.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: VENTILATION HOOD WITH GREASE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ESPRESSO MACHINE AND COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINES. MUST PROVIDE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AND MAKE VISIBLE AT SAID LOCATION.S
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE IN WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
61
Mar 13, 2019
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE- BEANS AT 48.5 F, PORK AND BEANS AT 46.4 AND SALSA RED SAUCE AT 47.8 F. ALL ITEMS WERE HELD INSIDE PREP AREA STAND UP 2-DOOR COOLER BY 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE TCS FOODS VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TCS FOODS MUST HELD AT 41.0 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: PREP AREA STAND UP 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER BY 3-COMPARTMENT SINK NOT MAINTAINED, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 45.0 F, FOUND BEANS, PORK AND BEANS, ETC. HELD INSIDE SAID COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST REPAIR COOLER, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE MUST BE 41.0 F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
33
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: REFRIGERATED TCS FOODS WITHOUT SELL BY DATES ON LABELS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOOD, PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD GREATER THAN 24 HOURS MUST HAVE SELL BY DATES ON LABELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FRONT PREP AREA 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR PREP AREA CEILING LIGHT BULB COVERS MISSING END CAPS ABOVE PREP TABLES AND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE END CAPS FOR ALL CEILING LIGHT BULB COVERS.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFCATES ON PREMISES.
58
58
Jul 3, 2018
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES: FOUND A LARGE CONTAINER OF SLICED PORK IN THE 2-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR AT 55.6F, A PAN OF ROPA VIEJA EMPANADAS AT 50.3F IN THE 4-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR, A CONTAINER OF GUACAMOLE AT 52.6F IN THE COLD-HOLDING UNIT, AND A CONTAINER OF POTATOES BEEF AT CILANTRO OUT IN THE PREP AREA AT 63.7F. INSTRUCTED STAFF THAT FOODS IN THE REFRIGERATOR OR PREP AREA MUST BE 41F OR LESS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 50# OF FOOD WORTH $200. PRIORITY VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY, AND MAINTAIN POLICY ON-SITE. FOR MORE INFORMATION REGARDING POLICY GO TO WWW.CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG/HEALTH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION, 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: CLEAN UP KIT NOT AVAILABLE AT THIS TIME. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ON-SITE, PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CONTAINER OF FROZEN BEEF BEING THAWED ON THE BOTTOM SHELF OF A PREP TABLE IN THE REAR PREPARATION AREA. FOODS MUST BE COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER WATER OR IN A REFRIGERATION UNIT THAT MAINTAINS A TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR LESS DURING THE THAWING PROCESS.
35
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RIPPED GASKETS AROUND THE 4-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE TO PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AND MAINTAIN.
47
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE HAS NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PF VIOLATION PA100-0367. NO CITATION ISSUED.
58
61
Jan 18, 2018
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: FOUND NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS AT THE EXPOSED HAND SINK NEXT TO THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS PER REQUEST. ALL EXPOSED HAND SINKS MUST HAVE HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE WITH SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
12
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST THE DEEP FREEZER FURTHEST TO THE NORTH IN THE BASEMENT AGAINST THE WALL TO REMOVE ICE BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE THE BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB IN THE 2-DOOR REACH-IN REFRIGERATOR TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER FOR THE REACH-IN COOLER NEAR THE FRONT DOOR WHERE DAIRY ITEMS ARE STORED. ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS ON PREMISES NEED AN INTERNAL THERMOMETER
40
82
Mar 31, 2017
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: 4-DOOR STAND UP REACH IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS RIPPED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS ALSO OBSERVED SLIGHT CALCIUM BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS AND REPLACE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME MISSING CEILING LIGHT END CAPS AT DISHWASH AREA ABOVE PREP TABLES. MUST PROVIDE END CAPS/CEILING COVERS FOR LIGHTS.
36
86
Mar 23, 2017
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD UP ON FLOOR AROUND/UNDER OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER, ON EXTERIOR OF GREASE CONTAINER AND ON WALL NEXT TO GREASE CONTAINER. POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EXTERIOR OF GREASE CONTAINER AND FLOOR/WALL UNDER AND AROUND GREASE CONTAINER. OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER AREA MUST BE CLEANED BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: 4-DOOR STAND UP REACH IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS RIPPED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS ALSO OBSERVED SLIGHT CALCIUM BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN VENTILATION HOOD FILTERS AND REPLACE ICE MACHINE PLASTIC WATER TUBES.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME MISSING CEILING LIGHT END CAPS AT DISHWASH AREA ABOVE PREP TABLES. MUST PROVIDE END CAPS/CEILING COVERS FOR LIGHTS.
36
82
Oct 20, 2016
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST RESAND/REPAINT/SEAL LARGE WOODEN CUTTING BLOCK TABLE IN THE HOT COOKING LINE SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. FOUND ABOVE IN POOR REPAIR.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR THE LARGE OVEN IN THE REAR KITCHEN IF IT IS MORE THAN 7.5KILOWATTS OR REMOVE ABOVE STATED OVEN FROM PREMISES
38
90
Oct 19, 2016
License
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FOUND FRONT 2DR DOOR FRIDGE AT 45F NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMP. MUST PROVIDE ALL REFRIGERATORS TO MAINTAIN 40F AND BELOW AT ALL TIMES.
2
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL DISPENSER ACCESIBLE TO BOTH SIDE OF THE EXPOSED HAND SINK BETWEEN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND THE COFFEE AREA.
12
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SNEEZE GUARD ABOVE THE COFFEE MACHINE AREA.
16
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST RESAND/REPAINT/SEAL LARGE WOODEN CUTTING BLOCK TABLE IN THE HOT COOKING LINE SO AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. FOUND ABOVE IN POOR REPAIR.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD ON THE RIGHT HAND SIDE OF THE EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE COFFEE HAND SINK. MUST PROVIDE EXHAUST VENTILATION FOR THE LARGE OVEN IN THE REAR KITCHEN IF IT IS MORE THAN 7.5KILOWATTS OR REMOVE ABOVE STATED OVEN FROM PREMISES.
38
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cafe Tola II last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cafe Tola II on file is from Jan 14, 2026. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cafe Tola II?
Across the inspection record, “thermometers provided & accurate” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Cafe Tola II.
Has Cafe Tola II's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Cafe Tola II have averaged around six violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Cafe Tola II 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 Tola II inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cafe Tola II is inspected around two times per year on average.
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