Casa Margarita
Last inspected: Feb 10, 2026
61
Score
The health department has logged 14 inspections at Casa Margarita, the earliest from 2017. Casa Margarita was last inspected on Feb 10, 2026. When a facility lands in medium risk territory, it usually means a mixed inspection result.
Recent inspections have found fewer violations than earlier ones, averaging around five violations lately and about seven violations before that.
“Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” comes up most often, recorded 12 times in the inspection record.
The city-wide average sits at 81, which Casa Margarita's 61 doesn't quite reach. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
14
Inspections
2
Critical latest
0
Major latest
4
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 10, 2026
Routine
2 critical violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES BETWEEN 47.5 F AND 60.0 F INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND 3-DOOR REACH IN PREP COOLER ALONG COOKLINE- CREAM CHEESE, CHOPPED TOMATOES, CHEESE, CHICKEN AND BUTTER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TCS FOODS MUST HELD AT 41.0 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. ALL OF OF TEMPERATURE TCS FOODS VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. FOODS DISCARDED WEIGHT- 150 LBS, VALUED AT $280.00.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND WALK IN COOLER AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 60.0 F AND COOKLINE REACH IN 3-DOOR COOLER AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 48.0 F, FOUND CREAM CHEESE, CHOPPED TOMATOES, ETC. HELD INSIDE SAID COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SAID COOLERS, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE MUST BE 41.0 F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
33
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT PINK BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE UPPER PORTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 3-DOOR REACH IN COOLER ALONG COOKLINE DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE SAID DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKETS.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: DISHWASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK HOT AND COLD WATER HANDLES STRIPPED. MUST REPAIR.
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE FOR FOOD MANAGER. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES.
58
61
Aug 9, 2024
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAWED BEEF MEAT STORED IN PLASTIC THANK YOU BAGS IN THE COLD HOLDING UNIT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS AND CONTAINERS ONLY
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB IN HOOD SYSTEM, INSTURCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
56
86
Aug 6, 2024
Reinspection
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: "OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED WITHIN SPECIFIED TIME FRAME ON THE INSPECTION REPORT# #: 2598227 DATED FOR 07/29/24: 6-501.111:(38) OBSERVED PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK WITH REPORTS FROM YEAR 2021 SERVICE REPORTS. ALL RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS MUST MAINTAIN A LOGBOOK WHICH SHALL BE KEPT FOR A PERIOD OF TWELVE (12) MONTHS AND INCLUDE A COPY OF THE SERVICE TICKETS AND THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY?S ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC (IDPH) HEALTH LICENSE NUMBER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED."
59
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #59
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAWED BEEF MEAT STORED IN PLASTIC THANK YOU BAGS IN THE COLD HOLDING UNIT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS AND CONTAINERS ONL
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB IN HOOD SYSTEM, INSTURCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
56
74
Jul 29, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 7 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: LOW TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINE IN USE NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING AT BAR AND REAR PREP. SANITIZING STRENGTH OF SANITIZER (CHLORINE) AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WAS 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNIT UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (CDPH). TAGGED UNITS. FACILITY WILL USE 3 PART SINK TO WASH ALL DISHES. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PIC DOESN'T DEMONSTRATE KNOWLEDGE OF FOOD OPERATION.MUST PROVIDE. (PRIORITY FOUNDATION-NO CITATION ISSUED) ?
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN) HAS BEEN PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES 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 HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR DISH AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE AS EQUIPMENT (STOCK BURNER) WAS INSTALLED IN FRONT OF HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR PREP DISH AREA, INSTRUCTED TO MOVE EQUIPMENT, SO THAT HAND WASHING SINK IS ACCESSIBLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED. CITATION HAS BEEN COMBINED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION
10
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDSINKS IN PREP AREA NOT STOCKED WITH HAND SOAP. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT HAND SOAP MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HANDSINKS AT ALL TIMES. FOOD HANDLER OBTAINED HAND SOAP FOR HAND SINK DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: "OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWEL AT THE BAR AT THE HAND WASHING SINK NOR AT THE HAND-SINK IN THE PREP AREA. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT PAPER TOWELS MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HAND SINKS AT ALL TIMES. FOOD HANDLER OBTAINED PAPER TOWEL FOR HAND SINK DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. CITATION HAS BEEN COMBINED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED."
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK WITH REPORTS FROM YEAR 2021 SERVICE REPORTS. ALL RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS MUST MAINTAIN A LOGBOOK WHICH SHALL BE KEPT FOR A PERIOD OF TWELVE (12) MONTHS AND INCLUDE A COPY OF THE SERVICE TICKETS AND THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY?S ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC (IDPH) HEALTH LICENSE NUMBER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(C)."
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAWED BEEF MEAT STORED IN PLASTIC THANK YOU BAGS IN THE COLD HOLDING UNIT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS AND CONTAINERS ONLY.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB IN HOOD SYSTEM, INSTURCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD EMPLOYEE WITH PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS OBTAIN THIS CERTIFICATE.
58
35
Oct 25, 2023
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: Found 3 lbs of raw shrimp at 54.3f, 2 lbs of raw chicken at 53.8f and 4 lbs of raw beef at 55.1f, all food items held in prep cooler from a day before. Instructed to hold all cold TCS foods at 41f or lower. Priority violation 7-38-005. food discarded valued at $50.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: Found cook line prep cooler air temp at 61.3f, cooler is used to store said food items. Instructed to keep all coolers temp at 41f or lower, cooler is tagged not allowed to use. priority violation 7-38-005. must contact the office of CDPH for tag removal when repaired.
33
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: No certified food service manager on site while handling and serving TCS foods ( chicken , beef...) instructed to obtain. Priority foundation violation 7-28-012.
2
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: No discard date provide on cooked food containers ( ground beef, rice...) in walk-in cooler that held for more than 24hr. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005.
23
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
1
58
Mar 3, 2022
Complaint
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: No certified food service manager on site while handling and serving TCS foods ( chicken, beef...) instructed to obtain. priority foundation violation 7-38-012.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
1
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Using disposable food container as a scoop in food preparation, instructed to use proper scoop.
47
82
Aug 5, 2020
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 29, 2020
Complaint
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS SLICING LIMES FOR BAR DRINKS WITH BARE HANDS, INSTRUCTED NOT TO HANDLE READY-TO-EAT FOODS WITH BARE HANDS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010
9
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND WALK-IN COOLER TEMPERATURE AT 54.5F WHERE PERISHABLES AND TCS FOOD ARE STORED, INSTRUCTED TO KEEP ALL COOLERS TEMPERATURE AT 41F OR LOWER. COOLER IS TAGGED NOT ALLOWED TO USE. MUST CONTACT THE OFFICE OF CDPH FOR A TAG REMOVAL REQUEST. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
33
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE HANDLING AND SERVICENG TCS FOODS ( CHICKEN, BEANS...) INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN, PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND DRYING DEVICES/PAPER TOWELS AT MAIN KITCHEN HAND WASH SINK, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 8-38-030(C).
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO CHLORINE TEST STRIPS ON SITE FOR LOW TEMP DISH WASHING MACHINE, INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION, 7-38-025.
48
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING FOOD ITEMS HELD IN WALK-IN COOLER AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. 20 LBS OF COOKED RICE AT 52.4, 15 LBS OF COOKED BEEF AT 54.4, 40 LBS OF COOKED SALSA AT 57.4F, 6 GALLONS OF MILK AT 52.5F AND 15 LBS OF COOKED BEANS AT 55.4F, ALL FOODS HELD IN WALK-IN COOLER FROM A DAY BEFORE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO KEEP SUCH FOODS HELD AT 41F OR LOWER, FOOD ITEMS DISCARDED VALUED AT $200.
22
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 FOOD HANDLERS IN KITCHEN NOT WEARING FACE MASKS WHILE PREPARING FOOD, INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL STAFF IN RESTAURANT WEAR FACE MASK. NO CITATION ISSUED AT THE FIRST OFFENCE. A CITATION WILL BE ISSUED AT THE NEXT INSPECTION IF NOT IN COMPLIANCE.
64
50
Oct 24, 2019
Reinspection
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED HEALTH POLICIES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEVICHE AND COOKED TO ORDER HAMBURGERS ON MENU WITHOUT DISCLOSURE. INSTRUCTED ALL POTENTIALLY UNDER COOKED ITEMS MUST CONTAIN DISCLOSURE THAT LINKS TO REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON INSIDE DOOR OF TALL STANDING COOLER IN REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR THE NUMBER OF STAFF WORKING. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES MUST HAVE VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES MAINTAINED ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITH AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES WITH CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATES MUST ALSO OBTAIN ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE.
58
70
Oct 17, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 9 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 19 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PARTIALLY COOKED TOMATOES IN A LARGE POT WITH OTHER INGREDIENTS BEING HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES BETWEEN 50.4-60.2F AND HAMBURGERS BEING HELD AT THE IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF 44.8. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 20 LBS OF PRODUCT VALUED AT $75. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL TIME TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS AT OR BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS SUCH AS GUACAMOLE, SALSA, AND QUESO IN WALK IN COOLER AND THROUGHOUT KITCHEN PREP COOLERS WITHOUT PROPER DATE MARKING. INSTRUCTED ALL TIME TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE 7 DAY DISPOSAL DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEVICHE AND COOKED TO ORDER HAMBURGERS ON MENU WITHOUT DISCLOSURE. INSTRUCTED ALL POTENTIALLY UNDER COOKED ITEMS MUST CONTAIN DISCLOSURE THAT LINKS TO REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE ON SITE AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A FOOD TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE READILY ACCESSIBLE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
36
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHLORINE TEST STRIPS ON SITE FOR MEASURING SANITIZING SOLUTION CONCENTRATION IN LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE LOCATED IN REAR KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE BETWEEN 12:15PM AND 12:40PM. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A PERSON IN CHARGE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A PERSON IN CHARGE WITH A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE AT ALL TIMES WHILE OPEN AND OPERATING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED HEALTH POLICIES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO KIT AND PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A KIT WITH ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES INCLUDING A SANITIZER EFFECTIVE AGAINST NOROVIRUS AND PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO INCIDENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND WASH SINK IN REAR PREP AREA NEXT TO WALK IN COOLER AND IN FRONT BAR NEAR POS REGISTER NOT PROPERLY SUPPLIED WITH HAND SOAP. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN HAND SOAP AND ALL OTHER NECESSARY SUPPLIES AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(c). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT 2 HAND WASH SINKS IN REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA AND AT 1 HAND WASH SINK IN FRONT BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN HAND WASHING SIGNAGE.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER INSIDE PREP COOLERS THROUGHOUT REAR KITCHEN AREA.
36
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON INSIDE DOOR OF TALL STANDING COOLER IN REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MATERIAL RESEMBLING PINK FOAM WALL INSULATION BEING USED AS A SHELF ON PREP TABLE IN REAR KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN ONLY FOOD GRADE ITEMS IN KITCHEN PREP AREA.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA WITH BLACK, CURLED UP EDGES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE CUTTING SURFACES.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOTH HAND WASH SINKS IN REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA NOT MOUNTED SECURELY TO WALL. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL SINKS IN WORKING ORDER.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND WASH SINK IN REAR KITCHEN NEAR EXIT DOOR LEAKING FROM WATER PIPE BELOW WASH BASIN. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL HAND WASH SINKS IN PROPER WORKING ORDER WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER PRESSURE AND ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES FOR HAND WASHING.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR THE NUMBER OF STAFF WORKING. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES MUST HAVE VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES MAINTAINED ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITH AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES WITH CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATES MUST ALSO OBTAIN ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE.
58
22
Jun 21, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN AREA STAINED WITH DEEP CUTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
32
95
Jun 14, 2018
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN THE KITCHEN AREA WITH A BLACK SLIME LIKE SUBSTANCE DRIPPING ON TO THE ICE USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. ALL ICE INSIDE ICE MACHINE VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP INTERIOR CLEAN AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION #7-38-005(A)
16
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON DUTY OR VALID CERTIFCATE POSTED WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. A CERTIFIED MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE WITH VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION # 7-38-012(A)
21
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD BINS IN THE KITCHEN AREA CONTAINING RICE AND BEANS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTS, PANS AND EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO INVERT POTS AND PANS AFTER SANITIZING SO AS TO AIR DRY.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN AREA STAINED WITH DEEP CUTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
32
78
Aug 9, 2017
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SCALE DEPOSITS, DIRT AND DEBRIS IN ALL SINKS IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED OPERATOR TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAITAIN, AT ALL TIMES.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TOP LOADING MIX MACHINE AT THE BAR AREA. INSTRUCED OPERATOR THAT HOT AND COLD RUNNNING WATER MUST BE PROVIDED FOR THE MACHINE.
38
90
Aug 1, 2017
License
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OPERATION HAS A DOUBLE WALK IN COOLER. THE REAR WALK IN COOLER IS MAINTAINING TEMPERATURE, HOWEVER FRONT WALK IN COOLER WAS BEING SERVICED AT TIME OF INSPECTION. COOLERS UNITS AT COOK LINE, IN KITCHEN WERE NOT AT TEMPERATURE AS THE UNIT HAD NOT BEEN PLUGGED UP. INSTRUCTED OPERATION TO SERVICE ALL UNITS TO ENSURE THAT TEMPERATURE MAINTAINED 40F OR LOWER FOR COLD POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS. CRITICAL VIOLATION # 7-38-005 (A)
2
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1/4 GAP AT THE SOUTH EXIT DOOR IN DINING AREA, WHICH LEADS OUT TO COMMON HALLWAY. INSTRUCTED OPERATOR TO ELIMINATE GAP. SERIOUS VIOLATION # 7-38-020
18
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONSTRUCTION DUMPSTER IN REAR OF FACILITY, WITH NO LIDS. INSTRUCEED OPERATOR THAT DOCK DOORS IN DUMPSTER AREA MUST BE CLOSED AT ALL TIMES TO ENSURE RODENT PROOF. SERIOUS VIOLATION # 7-38-020
19
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SCALE DEPOSITS, DIRT AND DEBRIS IN ALL SINKS IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED OPERATOR TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAITAIN, AT ALL TIMES.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TOP LOADING MIX MACHINE AT THE BAR AREA. INSTRUCED OPERATOR THAT HOT AND COLD RUNNNING WATER MUST BE PROVIDED FOR THE MACHINE.
38
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Casa Margarita last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Casa Margarita on file is from Feb 10, 2026. The public record contains 14 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Casa Margarita?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 12 times, more than any other issue at Casa Margarita.
Has Casa Margarita's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Casa Margarita have averaged around five violations per visit, down from roughly seven earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Casa Margarita 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 Casa Margarita inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Casa Margarita is inspected around two times per year on average.
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