China Cafe
Last inspected: Jul 8, 2025
95
Score
The health department has logged 15 inspections at China Cafe, the earliest from 2017. The most recent report on file is from Jul 8, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around eight violations to closer to two violations per visit.
When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited 16 times.
Compared to the broader Chicago restaurant scene, where the average is 81, this is a stronger showing. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
15
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 8, 2025
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.11 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
95
Jun 10, 2025
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
95
Mar 27, 2025
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: 3-501.13: OBSERVED WHOLE DUCK BEING THAWED IN A BOWL OF WATER IN THE SERVICE SINK IN THE REAR DISHWASHING/ FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER THAWING METHODS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.112: OBSERVED DEAD ROACHES ON THE FLOOR NEAR THE BULK DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA NEAR THE AQUARIUM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS.
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-301.12: OBSERVED FACILITY MISSING THREE SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C): OBSERVED DIRT BUILD UP ON THE HAND SOAP DISPENSERS IN NEAR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
82
Mar 18, 2025
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WASHING DISHES AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT SETTING IT UP TO WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE AS REQUIRED BY THE CODE. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT ALWAYS TO SET UP THE SINK WHEN WASHING EQUIPMENT. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY HAD EMPLOYEE SET UP THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE USING THE CHLORINE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED
16
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW-TEMPERATURE DISHWASHING MACHINE (NOT IN USE) NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING. SANITIZING STRENGTH OF SANITIZER (CHLORINE) AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WAS 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT IS PROPERLY SANITIZING. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY CALLED FOR MAINTENANCE PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025, NO CITATION ISSUED
16
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER RINSE HANDS IN THE SERVICE SINK IN THE REAR DISHWASHING/FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED FOOD HANDLER TO WASH HANDS AT NEAREST HANDWASHING SINK IN PREP/DISHWASHING AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010, CITATION ISSUED
8
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 06/11/2024, REPORT #2596608 #37: 3-302.12: OBSERVED THE FOOD STORAGE BINS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOOD STORAGE BINS AND MAINTAIN. #49: 4-601.11(B): OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING SURFACES IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING: THE LIDS OF THE DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS, THE INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF ALL OF THE COLD HOLDING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, RUBBER GASKETS ON THE INSIDE OF THE COLD HOLDING AND FREEZER UNITS, INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVES ON SITE, THE SIDES AND CREVICES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT (ESPECIALLY THE DEEP FRYERS) UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD, THE SHELVES UNDER ALL THE PREP TABLES, TABLE TOPS AND CART WHERE THE MICROWAVES ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE GREASE, GRIME, FOOD DEBRIS, DEEP CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN ALL MENTIONED SURFACES. #55: 6-501.13: OBSERVED THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE REAR FACILITY IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING ESPECIALLY IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, 1 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE REAR, MAIN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED
60
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WHOLE DUCK BEING THAWED IN A BOWL OF WATER IN THE SERVICE SINK IN THE REAR DISHWASHING/ FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER THAWING METHODS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEAD ROACHES ON THE FLOOR NEAR THE BULK DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA NEAR THE AQUARIUM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS.
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY MISSING THREE SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT BUILD UP ON THE HAND SOAP DISPENSERS IN NEAR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
50
Jun 20, 2024
Reinspection
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.18: OBSERVED THE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. THE SINK AND THE TOILET. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11: OBSERVED DAMAGED FLOOR TILES IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR MENTINED FLOORS TO MAKE SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13: OBSERVED THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE REAR FACILITY IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING ESPECIALLY IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, 1 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE REAR, MAIN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114: OBSERVED THE OPENINGS UNDER THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTERS WITH CLUTTER. INSTRUCTED TO DECLUTTER, REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12: OBSERVED THE FOOD STORAGE BINS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOOD STORAGE BINS AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12: OBSERVED DISCOLORED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE MENTIONED CUTTING BOARD.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B): OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING SURFACES IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING: THE LIDS OF THE DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS, THE INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF ALL OF THE COLD HOLDING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, RUBBER GASKETS ON THE INSIDE OF THE COLD HOLDING AND FREEZER UNITS, INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVES ON SITE, THE SIDES AND CREVICES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT (ESPECIALLY THE DEEP FRYERS) UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD, THE SHELVES UNDER ALL THE PREP TABLES, TABLE TOPS AND CART WHERE THE MICROWAVES ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE GREASE, GRIME, FOOD DEBRIS, DEEP CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN ALL MENTIONED SURFACES.
49
67
Jun 18, 2024
Reinspection
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONTINUED NON-COMPLIANCE NOT CORRECTED AS FOLLOWS: #55: THE FLOORS STILL NEED DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. #56: THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING; MUST CLEAN VENTS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED
59
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12: OBSERVED THE FOOD STORAGE BINS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOOD STORAGE BINS AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12: OBSERVED DISCOLORED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE MENTIONED CUTTING BOARD.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B): OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING SURFACES IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING: THE LIDS OF THE DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS, THE INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF ALL OF THE COLD HOLDING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, RUBBER GASKETS ON THE INSIDE OF THE COLD HOLDING AND FREEZER UNITS, INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVES ON SITE, THE SIDES AND CREVICES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT (ESPECIALLY THE DEEP FRYERS) UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD, THE SHELVES UNDER ALL THE PREP TABLES, TABLE TOPS AND CART WHERE THE MICROWAVES ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE GREASE, GRIME, FOOD DEBRIS, DEEP CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN ALL MENTIONED SURFACES.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.18: OBSERVED THE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. THE SINK AND THE TOILET. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11: OBSERVED DAMAGED FLOOR TILES IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR MENTINED FLOORS TO MAKE SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13: OBSERVED THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE REAR FACILITY IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING ESPECIALLY IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, 1 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE REAR, MAIN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114: OBSERVED THE OPENINGS UNDER THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTERS WITH CLUTTER. INSTRUCTED TO DECLUTTER, REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.
55
61
Jun 11, 2024
Routine
3 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 45 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS AND ABOUT 20 RAT DROPPINGS ON SITE. THE FOLLOWING SURFACES AND FLOORS WITH THE RODENT DROPPINGS: THE FLOORS IN THE DIM SUM AREA UNDER THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND THE SHELVING UNITS, ON THE FOOD PREP TABLE, ON THE LIDS OF DRY INGREDIENTS, ON THE PLASTIC WRAP OF A FOOD ITEM ON THE LOWER SHELF OF THE SHELVING UNIT IN THE MENTIONED AREA, ON THE BOXES UNDER THE SHELVING UNIT IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP/SERVICE AREA. THE RAT DROPPINGS WERE OBSERVED UNDER THE OPENINGS OF THE SERVICE COUNTERS AND THE FLOORS UNDER THE EQUIPMENT STORED NEAR THE SIDE ENTRANCE OF THE FOOD PREP AREA INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE RODENT DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR A SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A), CITATION ISSUED
38
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH THE ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE, DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE OPEN AND OPERATING. INSTRUCTED A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE WITH THE ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012, NO CITATION ISSUED
2
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 02/02/2023, REPORT #2570639 #55: THE FLOORS AND WALLS NEED DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. #56: THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING; MUST CLEAN VENTS. OBSERVED MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON THE WALLS IN THE DIM SUM KITCHEN POSSIBLY DUE TO THE STEAMER; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE; CLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOOD STORAGE BINS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOOD STORAGE BINS AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DISCOLORED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE MENTIONED CUTTING BOARD.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING SURFACES IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING: THE LIDS OF THE DRY INGREDIENT CONTAINERS, THE INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF ALL OF THE COLD HOLDING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, RUBBER GASKETS ON THE INSIDE OF THE COLD HOLDING AND FREEZER UNITS, INTERIOR AND OUTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVES ON SITE, THE SIDES AND CREVICES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT (ESPECIALLY THE DEEP FRYERS) UNDER THE VENTILATION HOOD, THE SHELVES UNDER ALL THE PREP TABLES, TABLE TOPS AND CART WHERE THE MICROWAVES ARE STORED. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE GREASE, GRIME, FOOD DEBRIS, DEEP CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN ALL MENTIONED SURFACES.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA NOT CLEAN. THE SINK AND THE TOILET. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED FLOOR TILES IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR MENTINED FLOORS TO MAKE SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE REAR FACILITY IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING ESPECIALLY IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, 1 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND THE REAR EXIT DOOR IN THE REAR, MAIN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE OPENINGS UNDER THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTERS WITH CLUTTER. INSTRUCTED TO DECLUTTER, REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.
55
50
Feb 2, 2023
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEELING PAINT FROM THE CEILING IN THE MAIN KITCHEN ABOVE THE DISHMACHINE AND OVEN. ALSO PEELING PAINT ON THE WALL OF THE MENS WASHROOM; MUST REMOVE PEELING PAINT FROM BOTH AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: THE FLOORS AND WALLS NEED DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. OBSERVED MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON THE WALLS IN THE DIM SUM KITCHEN POSSIBLY DUE TO THE STEAMER; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE; CLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING; MUST CLEAN VENTS.
56
86
Jan 26, 2023
Complaint
1 major violation. 12 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENTS ON PREMISES. FOUND 200 DROPPINGS ON PREMISES IN BASEMENT STORAGE ROOMS AND PREP AREA AND IN MAIN KITCHEN AND STORAGE ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. MUST HAVE A PRINTED PEST CONTROL RECEIPT VERIFYING DETAILED SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) ISSUED.
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: HAND WASHING SIGNS MISSING AT SOME HAND WASHING SINKS; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE DIM SUM PREP AREA NOT LABELED; LABEL CONTAINERS WITH NAME OF PRODUCT INSIDE.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS ARE NOT PROPERLY STORED WHEN NOT IN USE. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM) WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NEED DETAIL CLEANING: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT (FRYERS, STOVE, WOK STATION) INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS, PREP TABLE TOPS AND BOTTOM AREA, BULK STORAGE CONTAINER EXTERIOR SURFACES; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL EQUIPMENT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME HAND SINKS DRAINING SLOWLY (WOMENS WASHROOM, EMPLOYEE WASHROOM, FRONT SERVING AREA AND MAIN KITCHEN); REPAIR SINKS SO THAT WATER DRAINS PROPERLY.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ANY AND ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS FROM STORAGE AREAS TO AVOID CLUTTER AND POTENTIAL RODENT HARBORAGE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEELING PAINT FROM THE CEILING IN THE MAIN KITCHEN ABOVE THE DISHMACHINE AND OVEN. ALSO PEELING PAINT ON THE WALL OF THE MENS WASHROOM; MUST REMOVE PEELING PAINT FROM BOTH AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: THE FLOORS AND WALLS NEED DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, IN STORAGE ROOMS AND BASEMENT AREA. OBSERVED MOLD ON THE WALLS IN THE DIM SUM KITCHEN POSSIBLY DUE TO THE STEAMER; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MOLD; CLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS WHERE NEEDED IN MAIN KITCHEN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: SOME MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS IN KITCHEN; MUST PROVIDE SHIELDS WHERE NEEDED.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING; MUST CLEAN VENTS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOUND EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES; MUST HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS OBTAIN VALID CERTIFICATES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES; INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN VALID FOOD ALLERGEN CERTIFICATES.
58
50
Jul 1, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 11 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND TCS AND READY TO EAT FOODS STORED INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL TCS AND READY TO EAT FOODS THAT ARE PREPARED AND/OR REMOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK INGREDIENT CONTAINERS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL. MAINTAIN SAME.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS AND EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS ARE NOT PROPERLY STORED WHEN NOT IN USE. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM) WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RUSTY RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND RUSTY PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND MAINTAIN SURFACES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR/EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYERS WITH THICK GREASE, FOOD AND DIRT BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND IN THE FOOD PREP AREA WITH THICK DIRT AND FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: FOUND THE TRASH RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM WITH OUT A LID. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A TRASH RECEPTACLE WITH A LID AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: THE WALLS, CEILING VENTS AND TILES WITH DIRT AND DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. THE FLOORS IN THE CORNERS, UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT AND INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER WITH DIRT, FOOD AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOORS IN THE BASEMENT AND 1ST FL. MAINTAIN SAME.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE FILTERS ON THE VENTILATION HOOD WITH GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN FILTERS AND MAINTAIN SAME.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST MEET THE FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS AND PROVIDE PROOF THE REQUIREMENTS WERE MET. INSTRUCTED TO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS. MAINTAIN CURRENT CERTIFICATES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE HOLDERS MUST TAKE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING COURSE AND PROVIDE PROOF THE REQUIREMENT WAS MET.
58
52
Jun 11, 2019
License
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE WORN RUBBER GASKETS AT THE THREE DOOR PREP COOLER AND THE REFRIGERATION DOOR NEXT TO IT IN THE KITCHEN; MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE RUBBER GASKETS TO AVOID ESCAPING AIR FROM UNITS.
47
86
Jun 4, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL READY TO EAT TCS FOODS HELD FOR 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE MARKED WITH THE DATE THE FOOD WILL BE CONSUMED, DISCARDED OR USED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
23
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE WORN RUBBER GASKETS AT THE THREE DOOR PREP COOLER AND THE REFRIGERATION DOOR NEXT TO IT IN THE KITCHEN; MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE RUBBER GASKETS TO AVOID ESCAPING AIR FROM UNITS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES AND SHELVES BEHIND FRONT SERVING COUNTER. ALSO CLEAN INSIDE OF REFRIGERATION UNITS WHERE NEEDED.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND VARIOUS KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS AND CLOSET WHERE MOP SINK LOCATED. THE WALLS AROUND VARIOUS KITCHEN EQUIPMENT NEED CLEANING; CLEAN WALLS. OBSERVED SOME WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN KITCHEN AREA; REPLACE TILE WHERE NEEDED.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
58
Apr 13, 2018
Reinspection
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST DISCONTINUE USE OF GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED. BOARDS ARE WORN, DISCOLORED AND WITH DEEP CUTS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING IN PREP AREA: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PROOFERS, STEAMERS, REACH IN COOLERS, ALL PREP TABLES, HOOD VENTILATION, AND ALL SINKS TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN AND FREE FROM GREASE AND FOOD BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN SIDE PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR. TILES MISSING AND FLOOR IS WORN. FLLOORS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER MAIN COOK LINE TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THROUGHOUT MAIN PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD, DUST AND GREASE BUILD UP. CEILING ABOVE DISH MACHINE IN NEED OF SCRAPING TO REMOVE ALL PEELING PAINT. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHEILDS IN MAIN PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR OR REPLACING. BROKEN OR MISSING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: TOILET ROOM NEAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKS AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET AND PTRAP MUST BE REPAIRED. 2 COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT MUST BE REPLACED WITH 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO PROPERLY WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE. ALL EVIDENCE OF WASHING BUT NON IN PROCESS AT THE TIME. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST HAVE PROPER HAIR RESTRAINTS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN
42
Only authorized personnel in the food-prep area
Inspector notes: ONLY AUTHORIZED FOOD PERSONEL MAY BE IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
44
61
Mar 30, 2018
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST DISCONTINUE USE OF GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED. BOARDS ARE WORN, DISCOLORED AND WITH DEEP CUTS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
32
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER WITH GREASE ENCRUSTED TO THE TOP AND SIDES OF CONTAINER. GREASE BUILD UP ON CITY SIDEWALK. REMOVE GREASE BUILD UP ON GROUND. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
19
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON DUTY AT BEGINNING OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOMEONE WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING COOKED, PREPPED OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING IN PREP AREA: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PROOFERS, STEAMERS, REACH IN COOLERS, ALL PREP TABLES, HOOD VENTILATION, AND ALL SINKS TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN AND FREE FROM GREASE AND FOOD BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN SIDE PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR. TILES MISSING AND FLOOR IS WORN. FLLOORS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER MAIN COOK LINE TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THROUGHOUT MAIN PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD, DUST AND GREASE BUILD UP. CEILING ABOVE DISH MACHINE IN NEED OF SCRAPING TO REMOVE ALL PEELING PAINT. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHEILDS IN MAIN PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR OR REPLACING. BROKEN OR MISSING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKS AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET AND PTRAP MUST BE REPAIRED. 2 COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT MUST BE REPLACED WITH 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO PROPERLY WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE. ALL EVIDENCE OF WASHING BUT NON IN PROCESS AT THE TIME. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST HAVE PROPER HAIR RESTRAINTS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
42
Only authorized personnel in the food-prep area
Inspector notes: ONLY AUTHORIZED FOOD PERSONEL MAY BE IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
44
58
Jul 26, 2017
License
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was China Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at China Cafe on file is from Jul 8, 2025. The public record contains 15 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at China Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 16 times, more than any other issue at China Cafe.
Has China Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at China Cafe have averaged around two violations per visit, down from roughly eight earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at China Cafe 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 China Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, China Cafe is inspected around two times per year on average.
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