Cafecito
Last inspected: May 1, 2025
100
Score
The health department has logged 13 inspections at Cafecito, the earliest from 2018. Cafecito was last inspected on May 1, 2025. A low risk rating suggests inspectors haven't found much to be concerned about lately.
The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around seven violations each, up from closer to three violations before.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 14 times across the record.
The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting Cafecito on the better side of that line. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
13
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 1, 2025
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 24, 2025
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B:4) NOTED THE FOLLOWING CORE VIOLATIONS 40, 41, 47, 53, 55 WITH THE RULES NUMBERS BELOW FROM INSPECTION #594188 DATED 5/8/2024 NOT CORRECTED:- ..40) 2-402.11: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. ..41) 4-901.12: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE. ..47) 4-101.11(B, C, D, E): OBSERVED RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE ..55) 6-501.11: (FACILITIES NOT IN GOOD REPAIR) OBSERVED BROKEN FLOOR AND WALL TILES UNDERNEATH DISHWASHER MACHINE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN FACILITIES IN GOOD REPAIR. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL THE ABOVE VIOLATIONS MUST BE CORRECTED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS (BEEF, PORK, CHORIZO ETC) INSIDE THE SERVICE PREP COOLER NOT PROPERLY LABELED. NO LABELS ON CONTAINERS AND NO DISCARD BY DATES DISPLAYED.INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL READY TO EAT FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME AND USED BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#7-38-005(A). CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
23
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A SLIMY AND GREY SUBSTANCE INSIDE THE SODA GUN DISPENSER AT THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
49
74
May 8, 2024
Routine
3 major violations. 14 minor violations.
View 17 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
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED NEXT TO 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRCUTED TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY PROVIDED PAPER TOWELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER PREPARED AND READY TO EAT TCS FOOD SUCH AS COOKED BEEF NOT PROPERLY DATE AND LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN SEVEN DAYS. OBSERVED NO DATES AT ALL FOOD DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 20 LBS OF FOOD VALUE OF $80. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED.
23
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCED TO 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
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINENE IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLES PROVIDED IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE/CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST PROIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST AND DIRT INSIDE LIGHTSHIELDS COVERS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN FLOOR AND WALL TILES UNDERNEATH DISHWASHER MACHINE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN FACILITIES IN GOOD REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON WALLS BEHIND DISHWASHER MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURN-OUT LIGHT BULB IN FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY DUST BUILD UP ON VENTILATION VENTS INSIDE THE UNISEX WASHROOM AND EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITHOUT FOOD HANDLING TRAINING CERTIFICATES. MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES WHO DO NOT HAVE CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS.
58
37
Dec 11, 2023
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTS ABOVE ICE MACHINE AND SODA SYRUPS WITH DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
95
Sep 27, 2022
Complaint
1 critical violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: UPON FULL INSPECTION WE OBSERVED COOKED CUT UP STEAK FOR TACOS AT TEMP OF 45.5F; COOKED WHOLE ROAST BEEF AT TEMP OF 47.8F TO 48.OF; COOKED SLICED PORK AT TENP OF 44.4F TO 45F.MENTIONED PRODUCTS WERE STORED INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.COLD FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 41F OR BELOW. FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED BY THE EMPLOYEE.POUNDS 120,VALUE 1.000. PRIORITY VIOLATION:7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED
22
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E) PINK SUBSTANCE AT INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE BIN FRONT WHITE PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN UNIT.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING FAUCET AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.REPAIR ISSUE
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: GRIMES ON FLOOR UNDER BAR AREA,CLEAN ANF MAINTAIN
55
70
Nov 9, 2021
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-201.11 NOTED RUSTY AND DIRTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND SHELF BY THE DISHWASHER LINED WITH FOIL PAPER AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, REMOVE FOIL PAPER AND REPAINT WITH NON-TOXIC FOOD-GRADE PAINT AND REPLACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.17 NOTED DIRTY AND DUSTY CEILING FANS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
90
Nov 2, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO PERSON IN CHARGE WAS PRESENT AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION WAS 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 THE 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 QUAT ON SITE FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINKS AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A TEST STRIP KIT ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005
48
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED RUSTY AND DIRTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND SHELF BY THE DISHWASHER LINED WITH FOIL PAPER AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, REMOVE FOIL PAPER AND REPAINT WITH NON-TOXIC FOOD-GRADE PAINT AND/OR REPLACE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKAGE AT THE BOTTOM PIPING OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED WASHROOMS ON-PREMISE WITH GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND NO LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASHROOMS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY AND DUSTY CEILING FANS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
61
Apr 24, 2020
Reinspection
6 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION DOES NOT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
1
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND PROCEDURE/PLAN ON SITE HOWEVER KIT NOT COMPLETE MISSING SOLUTION TO CONTROL NOROVIRUS FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS, ALSO MISSING MOP ETC. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. -
5
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE AT TIME OF THE INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOOD ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. A LEAST ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE WHEN FOOD IS HANDLED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION: 7-38-012.
2
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABELED FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ON ALL TCS FOODS(COOKED CHICKEN,BOILED DICED POTATOES, SLICED TOMATOES ETC). PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY (ON SITE), REMINDER (IN THE MENU), AND DISCLOSURE (BY THE FOOD ITEMS) FOR ALL UNDERCOOKED FOODS(EGGS). ALSO MUST INDICATE ON MENU "COOK TO ORDER" PHRASE FOR EGGS,STEAKS, ETC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005.
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CUSTOMER COMING IN DINING ROOM WITH A MEDIUM DOG TO PICK UP HER FOOD ORDER. NOT A SERVICE ANIMAL. REVIEWED WITH EMPLOYEE THAT LIVE ANIMALS MAY NOT BE ALLOWED ON THE PREMISES OF A RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-40-060
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTH ON PREP TABLE IN THE KITCHEN, NOT PROPERLY STORED.INSTRUCTED TO STORE WIPING CLOTH IN A BUCKET WITH SANITIZER SOLUTION,WHEN NOT IN USE
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOPS WHEN NOT IN USE MUST BE STORED IN ICE SCOOP CONTAINER THROUGHOUT
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: SINGLE SERVING UTENSILS(PLASTIC UTENSILS)USED FOR CUSTOMERS MUST BE INVERT,TO MINIMIZE SOURCE OF CONTAMINATION
45
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING PIPE UNDER THE HANDWASHING SINK AT FRONT PREP AREA BY THE DOOR,REPAIR CAUSE
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DUST BUILD-UP ON CEILING VENT COVER BY THE ICE MACHINE. CLEAN AND REPAIR
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: TWO CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE,HOWEVER ONE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDE. ADDITIONAL ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE IS NEEDED
58
39
Apr 20, 2020
Routine
1 critical violation. 6 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WRITING DATES ON PIECE OF PAPER,WENT INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER RETURNED TO HIS WORK STATION GRABBED A PAIR GLOVES, GLOVED HIS HANDS A CONTINUE TO SLICE COOKED PEELED RED PEPPERS AND PUT THEM WITH PREVIOUS SLICED PEPPERS.NO HAND WASHING PRIOR TO GLOVE HANDS. HANDWASHING AND GLOVE PROCEDURE WAS DISCUSSED WITH ON DUTY MANAGER, WHICH SHE DISCUSSED ISSUE WITH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010.
8
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND PROCEDURE/PLAN ON SITE HOWEVER KIT NOT COMPLETE MISSING SOLUTION TO CONTROL NOROVIRUS FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS, ALSO MISSING MOP ETC. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. -
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO SOAP PROVIDED AT HAND SOAP DISPENSER BY THE LOW TEMP DISHMACHINE. UPON MY REQUEST MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP AT SOAP DISPENSER, AT SAID MENTION AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-38-030(C)
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABELED FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ON ALL TCS FOODS(COOKED CHICKEN,BOILED DICED POTATOES, SLICED TOMATOES ETC). PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION: 7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY (ON SITE), REMINDER (IN THE MENU), AND DISCLOSURE (BY THE FOOD ITEMS) FOR ALL UNDERCOOKED FOODS(EGGS). ALSO MUST INDICATE ON MENU "COOK TO ORDER" PHRASE FOR EGGS,STEAKS, ETC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005.
25
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: STEM THERMOMETER TO BE ABLE TO CHECK FOOD TEMPERATURE NOT PROVIDED WAS GIVEN/ POINTED TO A COOK MEAT THERMOMETER. AFTER MY REQUEST AND OVER HALF HOUR LATER EMPLOYEE SHOWED ME A NEW THERMOMETER WHICH HE REMOVED FROM MANUFACTURE CASE. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP STEM THERMOMETER IN PREP AREA TO BE ABLE TO CHECK FOOD TEMPERATURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-38-005
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED OVER 25 FLYING INSECT IN REAR PREP AREA: ON WALLS AROUND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,ON WALL BY MOP SINK,ON WALL BY THE ICE MACHINE AND ON WALL BY ONE COMPARTMENT SINK IN PREP AREA. FLIES INSIDE THE OPENED BAG OF DIRTY CLOTHS STORED IN THE KITCHEN. REMOVE FLYING INSECT,CLEAN AND SANITIZE MENTIONED AREA,ALSO RELOCATE BAG WITH DIRTY CLOTH OUT OF PREP AREA AND PROVIDE CONTAINER WITH LID. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-020(A)
38
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOPS WHEN NOT IN USE MUST BE STORED IN ICE SCOOP CONTAINER THROUGHOUT
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: SINGLE SERVING UTENSILS(PLASTIC UTENSILS)USED FOR CUSTOMERS MUST BE INVERT,TO MINIMIZE SOURCE OF CONTAMINATION
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DUST BUILD-UP ON CEILING VENT COVER BY THE ICE MACHINE. CLEAN AND REPAIR
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: TWO CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE,HOWEVER ONE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDE. ADDITIONAL ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE IS NEEDED
58
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING PIPE UNDER THE HANDWASHING SINK AT FRONT PREP AREA BY THE DOOR,REPAIR CAUSE
51
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH MACHINE IN PREP AREA, DISPENSING IMPROPER SANITIZER SOLUTION,0ppm. UNIT WAS IN USE,DISH RACK INSIDE WITH UTENSILS. INSTRUCTED TO USE THREE COMPARTENT SINK TO WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE(100ppm). TWO DAYS GIVEN VIOLATION:7-38-005.
16
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTH ON PREP TABLE IN THE KITCHEN, NOT PROPERLY STORED.INSTRUCTED TO STORE WIPING CLOTH IN A BUCKET WITH SANITIZER SOLUTION,WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
32
Aug 6, 2019
Complaint
1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER ONSITE DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS; DELI MEATS, RICE , SOUP, ETC., ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT MOP SINK IN REAR. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ABOVE HOT FOOD LINE IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DUST ACCUMULATION FROM CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE OR ORGANIZE CLUTTER IN REAR OFFICE AND AROUND THE HOT WATER TANK, INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOORS TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM HOOD FILTERS, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHTS ABOVE THE HOT FOOD LINE IN THE REAR PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
67
Feb 26, 2019
Routine
6 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-012(A). NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND WASHING SINK IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AREA BLOCKED AND INACCESSIBLE. AT TIME OF INSPECTION SAID HAND WASHING SINK WAS BLOCKED WITH LARGE TRASH CAN AND MOP BUCKET. INFORMED MANAGER THAT HAND WASHING SINKS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE. MANAGER CORRECTED VIOLATION DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-030(c) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SINK AT FRONT COUNTER PREP AREA, AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL SINK AT FRONT COUNTER PREP AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C) NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT/TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS, PORK, DRESSING/SAUCES, DELI MEAT, ETC. STORED INSIDE COLD HOLDING UNITS, OVER NIGHT, WITHOUT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE DATE THE FOOD MUST BE SOLD, DISCARDED OR CONSUMED WITHIN 7 DAYS. INFORMED MANAGER THAT TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS STORED FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS MUST HAVE PROPER LABEL AND DATE. INSTRUCTED TO DATE MARK ALL READY TO EAT TCS FOODS HELD MORE THAN 24HOURS. MANAGER CORRECTED VIOLATION DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INFORMED SITE THAT SANITIZING TEST KIT IS NEEDED ON SITE TO DETERMINE PROPER CONCENTRATIONS OF SANITIZING SOLUTION. MANAGER CORRECTED ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK AT FRONT BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDED SIGNAGE AT SAID AREA. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASH AIDS ATTACHED TO WALL ABOVE REAR PREP SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND OR RE LOCATE. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
10
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS, PORK, DELI MEAT, ETC. STORED IN WALK COOLER NOT COVERED OR PROTECTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LID, COVERS, FOR FOODS HELD IN COLD HOLDING UNITS FOR MORE THAN 24HOURS. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
15
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WHITE POWDER SUBSTANCE STORED INSIDE BULK FOOD CONTAINERS AT FRONT BAR AREA. INFORMED MANAGER THAT ONCE FOODS ARE REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL CONTAINER AND STORED IN BULK CONTAINER COMMON NAME LABEL MUST BE PROVIDED. MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
37
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
43
Jan 4, 2019
Reinspection
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-012(A). NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED USE OF UNPROTECTED WOOD SHELF IN DRY STORAGE. MUST PAINT OR SEALED TO MAKE IT SMOOTH EASY CLEAN
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT FACILITY COVERED WITH DUST AFTER CONSTRUCTION.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN.
55
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.
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70
Dec 27, 2018
License
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT WALK IN FREEZER IS NOT WORKING. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38.005 NO CITATION ISSUED
33
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT BATHROOM HAND WASHING SINKS DO NOT HAVE HAND DRYING PROVISION.MUST PROVIDE HAND DRYING .PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-030(C).CITATION NOT ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP ON BATHROOM HAND SINKS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION NOT ISSUED
10
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-012(A). NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DESIGNATED OUTSIDE RECEPTACLE.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ONE.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.7-38-020(B) NO CITATION ISSUED.
54
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED USE OF UNPROTECTED WOOD SHELF IN DRY STORAGE. MUST PAINT OR SEALED TO MAKE IT SMOOTH EASY CLEANABLE
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT FACILITY COVERED WITH DUST AFTER CONSTRUCTION.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN.
55
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
41
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cafecito last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cafecito on file is from May 1, 2025. The public record contains 13 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cafecito?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Cafecito.
Has Cafecito's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Cafecito 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 Cafecito 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 Cafecito inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cafecito is inspected around two times per year on average.
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