Cafe Tola III

1625 W Addison Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
Café / Breakfast
Last inspected: Feb 25, 2026
50
Score
High Risk

The health department has logged 13 inspections at Cafe Tola III, the earliest from 2018. The latest inspection on file is from Feb 25, 2026. A high risk tier suggests the facility had a rough recent inspection, with multiple violations on record.

Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near seven violations each time.

The pattern that stands out is “adequate ventilation & lighting”, which has been cited seven times.

Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Cafe Tola III trails the local norm. There are enough flags in the record to merit a second thought.

13
Inspections
2
Critical latest
4
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 25, 2026
Routine
2 critical violations. 4 major violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE 1-DOOR PREP COOLER WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 50F. THE COOLER WAS USED TO STORE MILK AND OPEN ALTERNATIVE MILKS SUCH AS PLANT BASED, ALMOND MILK, ETC. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN THE COOLER BELOW 41F AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS TYPES OF MILK (DAIRY, PLANT, ALMOND MILK ETC.) STORED IN THE 1-DOOR PREP COOLER AT ANY IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF 44-47F. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL COLD TCS FOODS BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2613316 ON 3/7/25 NOT CORRECTED: 58 - OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT PROOF OF THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO A VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT WHILE TCS FOODS (EMPANADAS AT 150F) WERE 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
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOTH EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR USE. BOTH HAND WASHING SINKS HAD STAINLESS STEEL PANS STORED IN THE SINK BASINS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL HAND WASHING SINKS ACCESSIBLE FOR USE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
50
Mar 7, 2025
Routine
2 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE OR SUPPLIES ON PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROCEDURE AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS POSTED NEAR EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK AND HAND WASHING SINK IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETER NEEDED IN THE 1-DOOR FRONT PREP COOLER. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUTCHER KNIFE STORED BEHIND THE HAND WASHING SINK NEXT TO MOP SINK. MUST PROPERLY STORE KNIFE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
44
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BIG OPENINGS INTO WALL BEHIND HAND WASHING SINK IN THE UNISEX WASHROOM. MUST SEAL AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING VENTILATION VENTS INSIDE UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT PROOF OF THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
52
Aug 28, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES IN 1 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AT FRONT PREP/CASHIER AREA: STEAK AT 49.3F, EGGS AT 49.5F, MOLE AT 49.2F, AND HAM AT 50.1F. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED ALL ITEMS AT TIME OF INSPECTION. APPROX. 8 LBS WITH A $50 VALUE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL TCS COLD FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES.
22
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXES OF FOOD ITEMS, CANS, AND OIL STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE FRONT STORAGE AREA NEXT TO STANDING COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM FLOOR.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RIGHT SIDE DOOR OF SOLID 2 DOOR STANDING COOLER IN FRONT STORAGE AREA TO HAVE A DAMAGED BOTTOM BRACKET, CAUSING THE DOOR TO FALL OFF WHEN OPENING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK FROM HAND SINK IN BATHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO IDENTIFY SOURCE OF LEAK AND REPAIR. MANAGER STATED THEY LOCATED SOURCE AND ARE IN PROCESS OF COMPLETING REPAIRS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOPS STORED IN FULL MOP BUCKET NEXT TO UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE ALL MOPS TO ALLOW FOR AIR DRYING IN BETWEEN USE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF DUST AND GREASE ON THE EXHAUST HOOD FILTERS ABOVE THE FLAT TOP GRILL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTIAN FILTERS FREE OF EXCESSIVE BUILD UP.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE OF THREE LIGHTBULBS TO NOT BE FUNCTIONAL IN THE EXHAUST HOOD ABOVE THE FLAT TOP GRILL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
56
64
Mar 3, 2023
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
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 THERMOMETER
36
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE DOOR OF 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
47
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 HOLES ON WALL INISIDE THE BATHROOM BEHIND THE HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
82
Aug 1, 2022
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SMALL OPENING AT THE PATIO DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF AND MAINTAIN SAID DOOR.
38
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUTCHER KNIFE STORED BEHIND THE HANDWASHING SINK NEAR THE MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE SAID ITEM.
44
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SANITIZING COMPARTMENT AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPED UP WITH BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER SINK STOPPERS AT SAID LOACTION AND MAINTAIN.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES NOT LOCATED AT THE MOP SINK MUST INSTALL SO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES OR AIR GAP BETWEEN THE WATER SUPPLY INLET AND THE UNIT SO IT COULD BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RECEPTACLE IN ALL GENDERS TOILET ROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN SAID LOCATION.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILT-UP DUST AND GREASE ON THE FILTERS OF THE VENTILATION HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLOWN-OUT LIGHT BULB UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE SAID LIGHT BULB.
56
70
Jul 25, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER ON MENU FOR USE RAW AND UNDERCOOKED FOODS. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION-7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM REPORT # 2493165, DATE:03/22/2021, VIOLATION # 58, NOT CORRECTED. OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING REQUIREMENTS. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT VIOLATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SMALL OPENING AT THE PATIO DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF AND MAINTAIN SAID DOOR.
38
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUTCHER KNIFE STORED BEHIND THE HANDWASHING SINK NEAR THE MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE SAID ITEM.
44
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SANITIZING COMPARTMENT AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPED UP WITH BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER SINK STOPPERS AT SAID LOACTION AND MAINTAIN.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES NOT LOCATED AT THE MOP SINK MUST INSTALL SO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES OR AIR GAP BETWEEN THE WATER SUPPLY INLET AND THE UNIT SO IT COULD BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RECEPTACLE IN ALL GENDERS TOILET ROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN SAID LOCATION.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILT-UP DUST AND GREASE ON THE FILTERS OF THE VENTILATION HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLOWN-OUT LIGHT BULB UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE SAID LIGHT BULB.
56
58
Mar 22, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS (RICE, CHICKEN SOUPS ETC.) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES. TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED ALSO THE PERSON IN CHARGE MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE BY NEXT INSPECTION (UPON BEING INSPECTED) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED NO SANITIZER TEST STRIP KIT ON-SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A TEST STRIP KIT ON SITE AT ALL TIMES TO MONITOR THE STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER PROPERLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005
48
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
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
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ICE SCOOP STORED INSIDE ICE MACHINE ON ICE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND PROVIDE AN ICE SCOOP HOLDER.
47
64
Aug 11, 2020
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 4, 2020
Routine
3 major violations.
View 3 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION AND NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS (RICE, CHICKEN EMPANADAS SOUP ETC.) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED AND ALSO THE PERSON IN CHARGE MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE BY NEXT INSPECTION (UPON BEING INSPECTED) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP PROVIDED AT THE HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MANAGER INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY PROVIDE SOAP AT MY REQUEST. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 7/02/2020 REPORT#2300636 #40 NOTED EMPLOYEES AT THE PREP AREA PREPARING FOOD WITH NO HAIR RESTRAINTS OR PROTECTION. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS OR PROTECTION AT ALL TIMES #41 NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES AT PREP AREAS. NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE. #43 NOTED NO ICE SCOOP INSIDE THE ICE MACHINE STATION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ICE SCOOP HOLDERS FOR THE ICE MACHINE. #51 NOTED LEAKAGE AT BOTTOM PIPING OF THE HAND WASH SINK AT THE PREP AREA . INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. #53 NOTED WASH ROOMS ON PREMISE WITH NO GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASH ROOMS AND UNISEX WASH ROOMS. #55 INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT ESPECIALLY AROUND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. ALSO NOTED DEAD FLIES ON WINDOW LEDGING BY THE COOKING PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. #56 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. #58 NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS AND PIPES/CONDUITS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
74
Jul 2, 2019
Complaint
3 critical violations. 2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER:-CHEESE 57.2F, SALSA 48.4F, LETTUCE (CUT) 48.2F, GUACAMOLE 58.5F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 6 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $10.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: 4-301.11 EQUIPMENT NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE. NOTED TEMPERATURE OF SERVICE COOLER AT THE PREP AREA TO BE IMPROPER AT 57.3F. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE EQUIPMENT UNTIL MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005
33
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
16
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION AND NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS (RICE, CHICKEN EMPANADAS ETC.) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED AND ALSO THE PERSON IN CHARGE MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE BY NEXT INSPECTION (UPON BEING INSPECTED) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 RULE #PA-100-0367 FROM INSPECTION REPORT #2244061 DATED 1/4/2019 NOT CORRECTED. NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090
60
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11 NOTED EMPLOYEES AT THE PREP AREA PREPARING FOOD WITH NO HAIR RESTRAINTS OR PROTECTION. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS OR PROTECTION AT ALL TIMES
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES AT 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 NO ICE SCOOP INSIDE THE ICE MACHINE STATION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ICE SCOOP HOLDERS FOR THE ICE MACHINE
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKAGE AT BOTTOM PIPING OF THE HAND WASH SINK AT THE PREP AREA . INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED WASH ROOMS ON PREMISE WITH NO GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND 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: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT ESPECIALLY AROUND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. ALSO NOTED DEAD FLIES ON WINDOW LEDGING BY THE COOKING PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN 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
37
Jan 4, 2019
Routine
5 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE OR REQUIRED EQUIPMENT ON SITE OF A VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREPARED TCS NOT PROPERLY DATE MARKED. MUST PROPERLY DATE MARK ALL TCS FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK ON SITE AND ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW. MUST PROVIDE A PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK FROM A LICENSED PEST CO. WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(C) CITATION ISSUED.
38
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES OR SUCH A PERSON ON SITE DURING INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN OPEN 1/4 INCH GAP BETWEEN THE TWO DOUBLE GLASS DOORS LEADING TO THE OUTDOOR PATIO. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL BETWEEN THE TWO DOORS.
38
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER COOKING ON THE GRILL WITHOUT A HAT/HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT WHILE PREPARING FOODS.
40
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER COOKING ON GRILL WEARING LOOSE FITTING STREET CLOTHING. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR CLEAN, OUTER CLOTHING TO PROTECT FOODS FROM CONTAMINATION.
40
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLEAN POTS/PANS BEING STORED IN THE DINING AREA WITH CUSTOMER ACCESS. MUST NOT STORE CLEAN PANS EXPOSED IN DINING ROOM.
44
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DISPOSABLE FORKS AND KNIVES FOR CUSTOMERS AT THE CONDIMENT STATION IMPROPERLY STORED WITH EXPOSED MOUTH PIECES. MUST PROPERLY STORE PROTECTED /INVERTED.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS A LINER FOR SHELVING AT THE DINING ROOM CONDIMENT STATION.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACK FLOW PREVENTOR NOT LOCATED ON THE UTILITY MOP SINK TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED. MUST INSTALL A BACK FLOW DEVICE ON THE MOP SINK.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPEN WOODEN BEAMS ABOVE THE DISH AND PREP AREAS. MUST PROVIDE A CEILING ABOVE THE FOOD PREP AND DISH WASHING AREAS THAT IS SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ANY CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
37
Feb 20, 2018
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: REMOVE CAULKING AROUND DRAIN INSIDE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK
33
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: NO SELF CLOSING DOOR DEVICE PROVIDED AT STAFF WASHROOM BY PREP AREA AND ORDERING AREA.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE PROVIDED AT MOP SINK,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
38
86
Jan 29, 2018
License
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL EXPOSED HAND SINK NEED TO BE INSTALLED UNDER CITY PLUMBING CODE AT PREP AREA, DUE TO PRESENT EXPOSED HAND SINK NOT EASILY ACCESSIBLE TO AREA. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
11
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: REMOVE CAULKING AROUND DRAIN INSIDE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
33
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: NO SELF CLOSING DOOR DEVICE PROVIDED AT STAFF WASHROOM BY PREP AREA AND ORDERING AREA.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE PROVIDED AT MOP SINK,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
38
82

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Cafe Tola III last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Cafe Tola III on file is from Feb 25, 2026. The public record contains 13 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Cafe Tola III?

Across the inspection record, “adequate ventilation & lighting” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Cafe Tola III.

Has Cafe Tola III's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Cafe Tola III have averaged around seven violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a high risk rating mean?

A high risk rating at Cafe Tola III 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 Tola III inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Cafe Tola III is inspected around two times per year on average.