Chicago Waffles
Last inspected: Oct 14, 2025
74
Score
Going back to 2019, Chicago Waffles has 16 inspections in the public record. Chicago Waffles was last inspected on Oct 14, 2025. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.
The picture has gotten worse over the last few visits, with the average climbing from around five violations to closer to 12 violations.
When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited 12 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. The inspection history reads as standard for a restaurant of this size.
16
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Oct 14, 2025
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SUGAR OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE PRODUCT NAME. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOODS AND SPICES WITH COMMON NAME THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SPLASH GUARD IN REAR/DISHWASHING EXPOSED HAND SINK. MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS EVEVATION IN THE FOLLWING AREAS: REAR PREP, DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REMOVE ALL CRATES AND ELIMINATE THE USE OF CRATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RESIDUE ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS AROUND DUMPSTER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
54
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHEILD ON ONE OF THE LIGHT IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE
56
74
Oct 3, 2025
Routine
5 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPPED (SUCH AS EGGS, CHICKEN). INSTRUCTED MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPPED/SERVED. INSTRUCTED MUST POST A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATION IN PLAIN VIEW OF CUSTOMERS AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PAPER TOWELS AT ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION COMBINED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: FOUND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK NOT MAINTAINED; SINK IS LEAKING WHEN WATER FROM FIRST COMPARTMENT IS DRAINED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO GET DRAINAGE SYSTEM SERVICED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN FRONT RENDERED INACCESSIBLE BY LONG TABLE WITH PANCAKE BATTER ON IT AND SCOOPER AND CONTAINER BEING PLACED INSIDE HANDWASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS OPEN AND ACCESSIBLE FOR HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP AVAILABLE AT HANDSINK IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HANDSOAP AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SUGAR OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE PRODUCT NAME. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOODS AND SPICES WITH COMMON NAME THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SPLASH GUARD IN REAR/DISHWASHING EXPOSED HAND SINK. MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS EVEVATION IN THE FOLLWING AREAS: REAR PREP, DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REMOVE ALL CRATES AND ELIMINATE THE USE OF CRATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RESIDUE ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS AROUND DUMPSTER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
54
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHEILD ON ONE OF THE LIGHT IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
56
45
Jul 1, 2024
Complaint
4 critical violations. 1 major violation. 14 minor violations.
View 19 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOK OPERATING LOW TEMP. DISH MACHINE AND PROCEED TO PREPARE RTE FOOD WITHOUT PROPERLY WASHING HANDS. NOTED SERVERS BUSSING TABLES AND SERVING TABLES WITHOUT PROPERLY WASHING HANDS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE EMPLOYEES WASH HANDS WHEN THERE IS A POSSIBLE SOURCE OF CROSS-CONTAMINATION. THE MANAGER INSTRUCTED THE EMPLOYEE TO WASH THEIR HANDS, CHANGE GLOVES, PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
8
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOK PREPARING RTE STRAWBERRIES IN REAR PREP WITH BARE HANDS, MUST USE GLOVES OR OTHER ALTERNATIVE APPROVED METHODS WHEN HANDLING READY TO EAT FOOD AND PRODUCTS. 5# OF PRODUCT $15. VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
9
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE INADEQUATELY SANITIZING DISHES AT 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO ADEQUATELY SANITIZE DISHES PER MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS. TECHNICIAN ARRIVED ON SITE TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS DISHWASHER NOW READING 50 PPM. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS IN HOT HOLDING AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES: 4# COUNTRY GRAVY AT 98.3F AND 5# SHREDDED CHICKEN AT 114.3F. 9 POUNDS WITH VALUE OF $35.00 VOLUNTARILY DISCARD & DENATURED FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD HOT TCS FOODS AT 135F OR ABOVE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
21
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT HAND WASH SINKS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNWARAPPED 6 INCH PAN OF COOKED SAUSAGE LINK ON FLOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER, MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF FLOOR
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DELI CUPS NOT PROPERLY AIR DRIED BEFORE STACKING, INSTRUCTED TO ALLOW TO AIR DRY PRIOR TO STACKING DELI CUPS.
44
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOK USE GLOVES WITHOUT WASHING HANDS INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS BEFORE PUTTING GLOVES ON TO PREPARE FOOD.
46
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IN WALK-IN COOLER A PIECE OF RAW WOOD USED AS A SHELF WITH BUS PANS AS A BASE, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS EVEVATION IN THE FOLLWING AREAS: REAR PREP, DISHWASHING AREA, WALK IN COOLER AND GARAGE/DRY STORAGE. MUST REMOVE ALL CRATES AND ELIMINATE THE USE OF CRATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON SHELVES OF WALK-IN COOLER INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3 COMPARMENT SINK IN DISREPAIR LEAKING FROM 1ST AND 3RD COMPARTMENT FROM DRAIN, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOORS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE CLEANING FRQUENCY AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MIANTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND CLUTTER IN REAR GARAGE/DRY STORAGE AREA INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN DINING ROOM AND FRONT AND REAR PREP WITH EXCESSIVE DUST INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT BULB IN IN HOOD SYSTEM INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING PROTECTIVE SHIELD FROM LIGHT BULBS IN EXHAUST SYSTEM, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING FILTERS FROM EXHAUST SYSTEM INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
56
25
Feb 6, 2024
Reinspection
1 critical violation.
View 1 violation
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: 7-206.12 OBSERVED OPEN RODENT BAIT IN FOOD STORAGE AREA ( WHERE A VARIETY OF CONDIMENTS ARE STORED). OBSERVED RODENT BAIT ON FOOD STORAGE SHELVES AND CONDIMENTS LOCATED IN GARAGE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN SAID AREA. PRIORITY VIOLATION, 7-38-015, CITATION ISSUED. FACILITY CLEANS AND REMOVES RODENT BAIT.
28
86
Jan 31, 2024
Routine
5 critical violations. 4 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 10 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE FOOD STORAGE PRACTICES. OBSERVED A CASE OF RAW EGGS STORED OVER FRESH STRAWBERRIES. OBSERVED CRACKED EGG DRIPPING ONTO STRAWBERRIES. FOOD SHALL BE PROTECTED FROM CROSS CONTAMINATION BY ARRANGING ALL FOODS TO BE STORED, HELD AND DISPLAYED IN ORDER OF MINIMUM COOKING TEMPERATURES. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.ITEMS STORED CORRECTLY AT TIME OF INSPECTION, CONTAMINATED FOOD DISCARD AT TIME OF INSPECTION. 12LBS $30.
15
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE INADEQUATELY SANITIZING DISHES AT 10 PPM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO ADEQUATELY SANITIZE DISHES PER MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS. LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO NO LONGER USE DISH MACHINE UNTIL IT IS RE-INSPECTED BY CDPH AND AT AN ADEQUATE SANITIZING SOLUTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED. -
16
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD CHICKEN, BEEF, TOMATOES, ETC. STORED FOR OVER 7 DAYS, LABELED WITH A DISCARD DATE OF 11/30, 12/23 & 12/28 LOCATED IN REAR 2 DOOR COOLER. PREPARED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS MUST BE DISCARDED AFTER 7 DAYS. THE DAY OF PREPARATION SHALL BE COUNTED AS DAY 1. . INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD AND DENATURE APPROXIMATELY 80 LBS OF FOOD AT $200. ALSO NOTED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITHOUT DISCARD DATE INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Time as a public health control; procedures & records
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD COOKED BACON SITTING IN FOOD PREP AREA FOR OVER 24 HOURS. ALSO NOTED COOKED POTATOES AT 76.8 F LOCATED IN FOOD PREP. MANAGER STATES FACILITY IS USING TIME AS A PUBLIC HEALTH CONTROL. FOUND NO TIMES ON SAID FOOD ITEMS OR NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE WRITTEN PROCEDURES, SAID PROCEDURES SHALL BE PREPARED IN ADVANCE, MAINTAINED IN THE RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENT AND MADE AVAILABLE TO THE DEPARTMENT UPON REQUEST THAT SPECIFY THE FOOD TEMPERATURE OF 41�F OR LESS WHEN REMOVED FROM COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE CONTROL, OR 135�F OR GREATER WHEN REMOVED FROM HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURE CONTROL; THE FOOD SHALL BE MARKED OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED TO INDICATE THE TIME THAT IS FOUR (4) HOURS PAST THE POINT IN TIME WHEN THE FOOD IS REMOVED FROM TEMPERATURE CONTROL; THE FOOD SHALL BE DISCARDED, WITHIN FOUR (4) HOURS FROM THE POINT IN TIME WHEN THE FOOD IS REMOVED FROM TEMPERATURE CONTROL; CONTAINERS OR PACKAGES, OR MARKED TO EXCEED A FOUR (4)-HOUR LIMIT SHALL BE DISCARDED.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD, 5 LBS AT .PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
24
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPEN RODENT BAIT IN FOOD STORAGE AREA ( WHERE A VARIETY OF CONDIMENTS ARE STORED). OBSERVED RODENT BAIT ON FOOD STORAGE SHELVES AND CONDIMENTS LOCATED IN GARAGE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN SAID AREA. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-015 CITATION ISSUED.
28
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND DRYING PROVISION AT HANDWASHING SINK IN DISH ROOM/ PREP AND FRONT BAR . ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH A HAND DRYING PROVISION AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.CORRECTED ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-030(C), CITATION CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING CLEANSER AT HANDWASHING SINK IN PREP/DISH ROOM. ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH HAND CLEANING LIQUID AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-030-(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND APPROX 15 RAT DROPPINGS IN DRY STORAGE AREA LOCATED IN GARAGE. RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL. MUST ELIMINATE EST ACTIVITY.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: FOUND CONTINUED NON- COMPLIANCE FROM INSPECTION REPORT # 2572587 CONDUCTED ON 03/15/23. THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS WERE NOT CORRECTED. 6-501.114 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE ITEMS (BOXES, GALLONS OF CHEMICALS) STORED DIRECTLY ON THE GROUND IN THE GARAGE DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE GROUND AND STORE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM THE GROUND. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND ALL SHELVING UNITS LOCATED IN WALK IN COOLER AND DRYING SHELVING UNITS LOCATED IN DISHWASHER AREA FILLED WITH AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DUST AND BLACK UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
30
Mar 23, 2023
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED SOME DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS.
37
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-502.13 OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING REUSED AS A SHELF LINER UNDER THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND DO NOT REUSE CARDBOARD, ALL SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
45
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED A MINOR LEAK UNDER THE FAR-RIGHT COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE ITEMS (BOXES, GALLONS OF CHEMICALS) STORED DIRECTLY ON THE GROUND IN THE GARAGE DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE GROUND AND STORE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM THE GROUND. 6-201.11 OBSERVED FLOOR TILES CRACKED AND NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED A SHELF CORRODING UNDER THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL.
55
82
Mar 15, 2023
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: 5-103.11(B) OBSERVED INADEQUATE HOT WATER AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK, 2 OUT OF 3 HAND WASHING SINKS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA AND IN THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION HOT WATER AT SAID SINKS RANGED FROM 80F-84F. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS MAINTAIN HOT WATER AT 110F AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT 100F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PLUMBER ARRIVED DURING THE INSPECTION AND BY THE END OF THE INSPECTION ADEQUATE HOT WATER WAS RESTORED TO ALL SINKS. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030(C).
50
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED SOME MENU ITEMS (EGG ITEMS) WITHOUT A CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND IRRELEVENT ITEMS WITH A DISCLOSURE SUCH AS PORK AND POULTRY ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DISCLOSURE FOR ITEMS THAT CAN NOT BE SERVED UNDERCOOKED OR RAW AND ADD DISCLOSURE (WITH FOOTNOTE) TO ITEMS THAT CAN BE ORDERED UNDERCOOKED OR RAW SUCH AS MOST EGG ITEMS (UNLESS FULLY COOKED). PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
25
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED A MINOR LEAK UNDER THE FAR-RIGHT COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 OBSERVED FLOOR TILES CRACKED AND NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED A SHELF CORRODING UNDER THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE ITEMS (BOXES, GALLONS OF CHEMICALS) STORED DIRECTLY ON THE GROUND IN THE GARAGE DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ITEMS FROM THE GROUND AND STORE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM THE GROUND.
55
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED SOME DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-307.11 OBSERVED JUGS OF WATER BEING STORED IN THE CUSTOMER DINING AREA WITH PROTECTION FROM POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL UNCLOSED JUGS OF WATER IN THE FOOD PREP AREA OR PROVIDE PROPER PROTECTION FOR THE WATER JUGS IN ORDER TO PROTECT FROM ANY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION.
39
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-502.13 OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING REUSED AS A SHELF LINER UNDER THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND DO NOT REUSE CARDBOARD, ALL SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
45
58
Nov 1, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 25, 2022
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVERED VARIOUS TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. FOUND COOKED MUSHROOMS 10LBS, MARINATED BEEF CHUNCKS 25LBS, BUCKETS OF SHELLED EGGS, 25 DOZEN WHOLE EGGS, AND 35 LBS GROUND MARINATED MEAT. ALL PRODUCTS WERE BETWEEN 48-55 DEGREES. PREMISES NOT COOLING PROPERLY AFTER PROCESSING TOTAL VALUE $500.00 100 LBS ALL PRODUCTS WERE DISCARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDWASHING SINK AT DISH AREA WITH NO PAPER TOWELS TO DRY HANDS AFTER WASHING. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN TOWELS AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER INSTALLED TOWELS AT THIS TIME. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS FOR LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN STRIPS AND MAINTAIN FOR DAILY TESTING OF MACHINE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
48
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: ALL NON TOWEL WIPING CLOTHS IN NEED OF REPLACING OFTEN. PREMISES USING GREEN SCOURING PAD THAT NEEDS REPLACING. INSTUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED AT FRONT PREP LINE. BOARDS WORN, DISCOLORED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD ORDER.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL CONTACT SURFACES IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL DOOR HANDLES AND INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS. CLEAN ALL FOOD BINS TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS. CLEAN ALL SINKS AND PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAK AT P-TRAP ON 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS AND WALLS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING IN REAR PREP AREA, AROUND THE DISH MACHINE, AROUND AND UNDER ICE MACHINE TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS AND BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: LIGHT ABOVE 3 COMP SINK IN NEED OF REPAIR. LIGHT SHEILDS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: AIR VENTS IN REAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE LARGE AMOUNTS OF DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
50
Jul 13, 2022
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 OBSERVED BASE COVING MISSING NEAR 2 DOOR COMMERCIAL COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR BASE COVING
55
95
Jul 5, 2022
Reinspection
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO REMINDER ON MENU TO INDICATE WHICH FOODS REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ASTERISKS ON MENU TO INDICATE FOODS REQUIRING DISCLOSURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B:3) OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED IN THE SPECIFIED TIME FREAME. OBSERVED OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE NOT MAINTAINED WITH HEAVY DEBRIS BUILD UP. VIOLATION PREVIOUSLY DISCUSSED IN REPORT # 2559927 FROM JUNE 27TH 2022. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED
59
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 OBSERVED NO DRAIN PLUGS IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE DRAIN PLUGS
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 OBSERVED BASE COVING MISSING NEAR 2 DOOR COMMERCIAL COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR BASE COVING
55
74
Jun 27, 2022
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS TCS FOOD HELD AT TEMPERATRUES RANGING FROM 48-50 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL COLD TCS FOODS ARE HELD AT 41 F AND BELOW. MANAGER DISCARDED: 7 POUNDS OF SAUSAGE PATTIES, 1 POUND OF SAUSAGE LINKS, 4 POUNDS OF STEAK, 3 POUNDS OF TURKEY BACON, AND 3 POUNDS OF HAM ($157). PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE NOT MAINTAINED WITH HEAVY DEBRIS BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020 (B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO REMINDER ON MENU TO INDICATE WHICH FOODS REQUIRE THE DISCLOSURE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ASTERISKS ON MENU TO INDICATE FOODS REQUIRING DISCLOSURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DRAIN PLUGS IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE DRAIN PLUGS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BASE COVING MISSING NEAR 2 DOOR COMMERCIAL COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR BASE COVING.
55
64
Nov 16, 2021
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER BEING STORED ON A RACK IN FRONT OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH THE FOOD CONTACT SURFACE EXPOSED. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR BULK POWDERED SUGAR STORAGE CONTAINER LOCATED ON BOTTOM SHELF NEAR WAITRESS AREA. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A 1/4" GAP IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AT ALL OUTER OPENINGS TO PREVENT THE ENTRY OF PESTS.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE FAUCET OF THE FRONT HAND SINK ONCE HOT AND COLD NOZZLES ARE TURNED ON. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY AND DUSTY CEILING AND VENTS IN THE REAR PREP AREAS NEAR THE WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNT OUT LIGHT BULBS ON THE CEILING NEAR THE WALK-IN COOLER AND REAR PREPPING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR EMPLOYEES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT AN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS OBTAIN THIS CERTIFICATE.
58
67
Sep 18, 2020
Complaint
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES IN PREP COOLER: EGGS AT 61F, CHORIZO AT 60F, SLICED TOMATOS AT 61F, HAM AT 56.3F, COOKED ONIONS 61F AND COOKED MUSHROOMS 60F. ALL FOOD WAS DISCARDED. 20LBS VALUED AT $40. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL TCS FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND A TWO DOOR PREP COOLER AT IMPROPER HOLDING TEMPERATURE. UNIT WAS HOLDING AT 61F. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT THE UNIT MUST BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN ALL TCS FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. UNIT WAS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY THE CHICAGO DEPT. OF PUBLIC HEALTH. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 ISSUED.
33
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT/SUPPLIES ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. THE PERSON IN CHARGE STATED THAT THEY HAD A KIT BUT WAS NOT ABLE TO LOCATE IT AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 ISSUED.
5
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REFRIGERATION UNITS, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND BOTTOM INTERIOR OF FRYER TO REMOVE GREASE. ALSO CLEAN PREP TABLE SURFACES WHERE NEEDED.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS AND WALLS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT WHERE NEEDED AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
58
Jul 29, 2019
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED FACILITY MISSING CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE STATEMENT FOR FOOD ITEMS/PRODUCTS OFFERED AND REMINDER * STATEMENT FOR THE FOOD PRODUCTS OFFERED. MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
25
90
Mar 29, 2019
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-204.12 OBSERVED GASKETS FOR REACH IN COLD HOLDING UNITS IN DISREPAIR. MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
95
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Chicago Waffles last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Chicago Waffles on file is from Oct 14, 2025. The public record contains 16 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Chicago Waffles?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 12 times, more than any other issue at Chicago Waffles.
Has Chicago Waffles' inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Chicago Waffles have averaged around 12 violations per visit, up from roughly five earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Chicago Waffles 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 Chicago Waffles inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Chicago Waffles is inspected around two times per year on average.
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