Cleo's
Last inspected: Sep 17, 2025
78
Score
Inspectors have visited Cleo's 18 times, with records going back to 2010. The most recent visit was on Sep 17, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
Violation counts have been trending down, averaging around two violations across recent inspections versus roughly 10 violations before.
When inspectors have written things up, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been the most frequent reason, cited nine times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Cleo's trails the local norm. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
18
Inspections
1
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Sep 17, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: Bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods. Observed a cook assembling a sandwich touching bread, cheese, lettuce with bare hands. Instructed manager not to allow bare hands contact with such food items. Priority violation 7-38-010.
9
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: No hands washing signs in restrooms, instructed to provide.
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: Open ice bin container Infront of customer seating area at bar, instructed to provide a cover or a food guard.
39
78
Jul 11, 2024
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DRAIN PLUGS FOR KITCHEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE DRAIN PLUGS.
47
95
Sep 19, 2023
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON THE COUNTERS IN KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP ALL WIPE CLOTHS STORED IN PROPER SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST ACCUMULATION ON THE FAN GUARDS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
90
Mar 29, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY WITHOUT A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ONSITE FOR FOOD EMPLOYEES. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE CITY OF CHICAGO ORIGINAL UP TO DATE FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE MUST BE POSTED ALONG WITH THE CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE WHEN TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY(TCS) FOODS (BURGERS AN SALADS) ARE BEING PREPARED, COOKED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
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 ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN ACCUMULATION OF DIRT/DEBRIS BUILDUP ON THE WOMEN PUBLIC TOILET ROOM EXHAUST VENTILATION. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ON FILE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE TOLIET ROOM LOCATED IN THE KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
67
Jul 8, 2019
Reinspection
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDER RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND LINK THOSE FOODS WITH AN ASTERISK TO A REMINDER STATEMENT THAT STATES THAT EATING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HAND WASHING SINKS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITH OUT HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP AREA AND ON SINKS IN FRONT BAR AREA. 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 INSIDE ICE BIN IN FRONT BAR AREA AND INSIDE ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO STORED ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN REAR PREP DISH WASHING AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLOW LEAKING PIPE FROM UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK,PREP SINK AND HAND WASHING SINK. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REFRIGERATION UNITS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON WALLS AND CEILING ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND DISH WASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS INSIDE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM AND THROUGHOUT REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE.
55
58
Jun 25, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDER RAW OR UNDER COOKED AND LINK THOSE FOODS WITH AN ASTERISK TO A REMINDER STATEMENT THAT STATES THAT EATING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: EVIDENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL INSIDE PREMISES. OBSERVED OVER 50 LIVE FRUIT FLIES ON WALLS, CEILING, SHELVING EXTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND SINKS IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA AND REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS AND WHENEVER NEEDED. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020. CITATION ISSUED.
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE UNABLE TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER.
37
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HAND WASHING SINKS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DATE MARKING ON TCS FOODS HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
23
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITH OUT HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE PREPING FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP AREA AND ON SINKS IN FRONT BAR AREA. 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 INSIDE ICE BIN IN FRONT BAR AREA AND INSIDE ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO STORED ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN REAR PREP DISH WASHING AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLOW LEAKING PIPE FROM UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK,PREP SINK AND HAND WASHING SINK. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND REFRIGERATION UNITS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS INSIDE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM AND THROUGHOUT REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON WALLS AND CEILING ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND DISH WASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
43
Feb 9, 2017
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RIPPED GASKETS AROUND THE DOOR OF THE REACH-IN FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE GASKETS TO PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AT ALL TIMES.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DUST BUILDUP ON THE CHAINS HOLDING UP THE HEAT LAMP AND THE TOP OF THE HEAT LAMP- MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE SODA GUN AND HOLSTER ON THE NORTH END OF THE BAR IS SOILED WITH BROWN BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOORS UNDER THE FOOD STORAGE RACKS INSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP COVERING THE FAN VENT COVER INSIDE OF THE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM.
38
78
May 26, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE PIPE AT EAST WALL OF THE HALLWAY/STORAGE ABOVE FOOD CONTAINERS AND OTHER ITEMS.INSTRUCTED IF FOOD OR FOOD CONTAINERS ARE STORED UNDER THE SAID PIPES, PIPES MUST BE ENCASED.
32
95
May 17, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: THE ONLY EXPOSED HAND SINK IN PREP AREA NOT MAINTAINED. FOUND SAID SINK CLOGGED,COOK WAS HANDLING/COOKING FOOD FOR CUSTOMERS. DURING INSPECTION EMPLOYEED PLUNGED AND UNCLOGGED EXPOSED HAND SINK. EXPOSED HANDSINK MUST BE IN WORKING CONDITION AT ALL TIMES FOR HAND WASHING. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
11
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 7-1-15,REPORT#1454053 #33-MUST CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD UP, WHEELS ON EQUIPMENT, ALL PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLERS, INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER, SHELVES IN WALK IN COOLER, SINKS, DISH MACHINE, POP GUN HOLDER AND INTERIOR OF BEER WALK IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP AND FOOD DEBRIS. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. #34-FLOORS THROUGH OUT IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT, SINKS, COUNTERS, TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. FLOORS IN DRY STORAGE AREA IN NEED CLEANING AND REPAIRING. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. #35-WALLS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES #41-ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN SIDE STORAGE ROOME IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN #43-ALL ICE UTENSIL MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN SANITIZED CONTAINER AT ALL TIMES. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. TODAY 5-17-16 WE(OWNER AND MYSELF) OBSERVED THE SAME VIOLATIONS.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE,INCLUDED FLOORS. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE PIPE AT EAST WALL OF THE HALLWAY/STORAGE ABOVE FOOD CONTAINERS AND OTHER ITEMS.INSTRUCTED IF FOOD OR FOOD CONTAINERS ARE STORED UNDER THE SAID PIPES, PIPES MUST BE ENCASED.
32
86
Jul 1, 2015
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE WITH 0PPM SANITIZER AT RINSE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO HAVE MACHINE CORRECTED AND MAINTAIN MACHINE AT ALL TIMES. MUST USE TEST STRIPS DAILY. ECOLAB ARRIVED TO SERVICE MACHINE, SO MACHINE NOT TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
8
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING WHERE WORN AND DISCOLORED. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD UP, WHEELS ON EQUIPMENT, ALL PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLERS, INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER, SHELVES IN WALK IN COOLER, SINKS, DISH MACHINE, POP GUN HOLDER AND INTERIOR OF BEER WALK IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP AND FOOD DEBRIS. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGH OUT IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIOPMENT, SINKS, COUNTERS, TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. FLOORS IN DRY STORAGE AREA IN NEED CLEANING AND REPAIRING. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HOOD VENTILATION UNIT ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP AND DUST. ALL FAN VENTS IN WALK IN COOLERS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DUST BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: ALL REACH IN AND WALK IN COOLERS IN NEED OF THERMOMETERS. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN SIDE STORAGE ROOME IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL ICE UTENSIL MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN SANITIZED CONTAINER AT ALL TIMES. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
43
64
Nov 13, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE.
33
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE SOILED WATER AND STORE MOP HEAD UPRIGHT TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: PROVIDE LONG HANDLE UTENSILS FOR DISPENSING CONDIMENTS ON TOP OF PREP COOLER.
43
86
Jan 17, 2014
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL AND DATE ALL PREPARED FOOD IN COOLERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS, SINKS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: ELEVATE ALL STOCK OFF FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER AND PREP AREAS. SEAL/PAINT FLOOR IN PREP AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS NEED CLEANING IN PREP AREA(GREASE BUILDUP).
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE MOP HEADS UPRIGHT TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING. ORGANIZE WALK-IN COOLER AND STORAGE AREAS.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE ICE SCOOP HANDLE UP OR IN SEPARATE CONTAINER. STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
74
Jul 26, 2013
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Food inside cooler not labeled. Instructed to label food containers.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not properly stored. Instructed to invert utensils to prevent contamination before use.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Exhaust hood and filters, utensils, sink and exterior between equipment not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floor along wallbase and behind cooking equipment not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean daily.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Wall behind cooking equipment not maintained. Instructed to detail clean. Coving along wallbase missing in dish washing area. Instructed to install rubber coving. Light covers not cleaned in prep area. Instructed to detail clean. Exposed brick in dining area not sealed. Instructed to apply non-toxic sealant to surface.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Handsink in employees toilet room leaking. Instructed to repair leak.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Unnecessary articles stored in adjacent outside storage room. Instructed to elevate 6 inches or higher and away from wall.
41
70
Apr 19, 2012
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS REQUIRE ADETAIL CLEANING,REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN CUSTOMERS DINING AREA,TOILET ROOMS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.WALLS AND ATTACHED EQUIPMENTS AT COOK LINE REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health.DETAIL CLEAN HOOD/FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENTS.
38
86
Apr 16, 2012
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
18
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
24
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: VIOLATION STILL PENDING.
40
64
Apr 12, 2012
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: All food should be properly protected from contamination during storage, preparation, display, service, and transportation.FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MAKER. OBSERVED BLACK/MOLD GROWTH ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF THE ICE MACHINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED.TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION MUST FAX LETTER TO THE CDPH 312-746-4240 FOR TAG REMOVAL. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines.FOUND FRONT DOOR TO FOOD ESTABLISHMENT NOT INSECT/RODENT PROOFED. OBSERVED A 1/4" GAP ALONG THE ENTIRE BOTTOM OF SAID DOOR,PROVIDE SCREENS AT 2 OPENED WEST SIDE WINDOWS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSECT/RODENT PROOF THE DOOR. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: All dishwashing machines must be of a type that complies with all requirements of the plumbing section of the Municipal Code of Chicago and Rules and Regulation of the Board of Health. FOUND 3 COMP SINK NOT MAINTAINED I.E. WATER SEAPING THROUGH FROM MIDDLE COMPARTMENT ONTO LEFT COMPARTMENT WHEN IS FILLED.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO APPLY A LIGHT WELD TO SMOOTH,EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO UTILIZE THE WORKING LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE FOR EQUIPMENT,UTENSIL SANITATION.SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
24
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers.PREPARED FOODS ITEMS HELD IN COOLERS MUST BE LABELED TO IDENTIFY PRODUCTS,FOUND NO CONSUMARY ADVISORY SIGNAGE FOR PUBLIC VIEW.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.PROVIDE ICE BIN COVER FOR ICE BIN BEHIND THE BAR AREA,REMOVE ALUMINUM FOILS FROM KITCHEN COOKING EQUIPMENTS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. DETAIL CLEAN TOPS/SIDES OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENTS,SHELVINGS,CUTTING BOARDS,INTERIORS/EXTERIORS OF COOLERS AND FAN COVERS,BAR GUNS,HOUSINGS ATTACHED,INTERIOR/EXTERIOR OF DISHMACHINE,KNIFE RACKS,TOPS/BOTTOMS OF FOOD PREP TABLES,SHELFS INCLUDING LEGS OF EQUIPMENTS ETC.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS REQUIRE ADETAIL CLEANING,REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN CUSTOMERS DINING AREA,TOILET ROOMS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.WALLS AND ATTACHED EQUIPMENTS AT COOK LINE REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health.DETAIL CLEAN HOOD/FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENTS,CLEAN DUSTS ACCUMULATIONS ON VENTILATION COVERS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES INCLUDING REAR EXHAUST VENT ON UPPER WEST WALL ALSO MUST PROPERLY CONNECT WASTE LINES AT BAR GUNS SUCH THAT IT DRAINS DIRECTLY INTO A FLOOR DRAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous foods shall have calibrated metal stem thermometers, provided and conspicuous, for refrigerated and hot food units.THERMOMETER IS NEEDED INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER.
40
61
Jan 19, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. MUST REPAINT/RESEAL WIRE RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER, BOTTOM COUNTER TABLE AREA, AND REMOVE ALL FOIL, SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. MUST CLEAN FAN GUARDS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND WHITE PANEL INSIDE ICE MACHINE
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. MUST CLEAN/REPAIR FLOOR SURFACE WHERE NEEDED THROUGH-OUT PREMISES
34
86
Apr 16, 2010
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.REPLACE/REPAIR RUST ON SHELVING INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER USING A NON-TOXIC FINISH.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.THE FOLLOWING REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING FAN COVERS IN ALL COOLERS,SHELVING/COUNTER TOPS IN KITCHEN AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.FLOOR AT BAR AREA REQUIRES A DEEP CLEANING.
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86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Cleo's last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Cleo's on file is from Sep 17, 2025. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Cleo's?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Cleo's.
Has Cleo's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Cleo's have averaged around two violations per visit, down from roughly 10 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Cleo's 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 Cleo's inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Cleo's is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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