El Jacalito
Last inspected: Mar 31, 2025
90
Score
Inspectors have visited El Jacalito 20 times, with records going back to 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Mar 31, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
The trend has been favorable: violation counts have eased from around nine violations to closer to two violations per visit over the last few inspections.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 13 times across the record.
That puts the facility ahead of the local pack: the average Chicago restaurant scores 81. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
20
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 31, 2025
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINER NOT LABELED IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTER IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ORGANIZE ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN.
55
90
May 1, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 24, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVER 50 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON SHELVES UNDER FRONT COUNTER AND ON FLOOR UNDER SHELVES IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP AND FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOLERS, PREP TABLES, SHELVING UNITS, ROLLING CARTS, COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACK FLOW DEVICE ON UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPENING IN BOTTOM SHELVES UNDER FRONT COUNTER AND AROUND PIPE FITTING NEAR FURNACE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN SHELVING AND AROUND PIPE FITTINGS IN ALL AREAS.
55
74
Dec 7, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Sep 7, 2023
Reinspection
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 : OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE NOR REMINDER ON MENU OF CONSUMING RAW AND UNDERCOOKED (EGGS)FOODS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)
25
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2580823 8/28/23 NOT CORRECTED #38-STILL OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 50 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON & UNDER POP AND FOOD STORAGE SHELVING UNITS,ON FLOOR UNDER,AROUND AND ALONG WALL ON FLOOR & ON SHELVING UNIT AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER,INTERIOR LEDGE OF 3- DOOR PREP COOLER.ALSO. 5 - LIVE ROACHES CRAWLING ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH BRICK AT GREASE 3- COMPARTMENT SINK,IN BETWEEN CRACKS AND CREVICES OF WOOD SHELVING UNIT IN FRONT PREP AREA ,ON FLOOR NEAR REAR REACH IN FREEZER AND WALL BASE NEAR COFFEE PREP TABLE.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. MUST HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 9/7/23. PREVIOUS PRIROITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT # 2580823 8/28/23 NOT CORRECTED #49-4-601.11(B) : OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON FRONT AND REAR COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE. 4-602.13 Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN THE ALL STORAGE SHELVING TO REMOVE SPILLS AND/OR DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN FREEZER.#55- 6-501.13 : FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN THE CORNERS THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.#55- 6-501.12 : MUST CLEAN WALLS THROUGH OUT PREMISES TO REMOVE FOOD SPLATTER. #56-4-202.18 : OBSERVED THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 2-102.14 (B) #39-STILL AGAIN OBSERVED UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS IN FOOD STORAGE AREA.OBSERVED A MALE CUSTOMER WALK INTO REAR STORAGE AREA AND LOOKED AROUND INTO REAR PREP AREA AND PLACED A SMALL PERSONAL BOX ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH HAND SINK AND ANOTHER CUSTOMER WASHING HANDS AT HAND SINK AFTER USING TOILET ROOM INSTRUCTED NO UNAUTHORIZED PERONS ALLOWED IN FOOD AREA MUST PROVIDE A BARRIER TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. (PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED) (PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
59
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 : MUST CLEAN DIRT AND GREASE BUILD UP FROM WALLS & CEILING ,VENTS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE DAMAGED FLOOR MATS IN PREP AREA TO BE IN GOOD REPAIR.
55
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #59.
39
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) : MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM GRILL TABLES, ROLLING CART WHEEL BASES AND LEGS OF ALL EQUIPMENT,PIPESO F EQUIPMENT,INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF GARBAGE CANS,STOVE,REACH IN & PREP COOLERS,STOVE,PREP TABLES,ALL SHELVING & STORAGE UNITS,TOP SIDE OF HOT WATER TANK.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13 : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM INSIDE OF FOOTREST AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.13 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR UNDERNEATH STOVE,LOOSE WALL PANEL BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN REAR PREP AREA,GAPS AND OPENINGS IN WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES,DAMAGED WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES
55
61
Aug 28, 2023
Routine
4 critical violations. 4 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL BAGS OF TOXIC POISON (RODENTICIDE) SCATTERED ON FLOOR UNDER,AROUND,ALONG WALL BASES IN FOOD PREP,FOOD & PAPER STORAGE,FRONT SERVICE COUNTER.MUST REMOVE AND HAVE TOXIC ITEMS STORED INSIDE ENCLOSED BAIT STATION.(PRIORITY 7-38-015)(CITATION ISSUED)
28
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOODS SUCH AS 1LBS. COOKED ONIONS AND PEPPERS AT 82.0F ON FRONT SERVICE COUNTER SHELF. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER. MUST HAVE HOT HOLDING AT 135.0F OR ABOVE.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)APPX. 1LBS. $2.
21
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF TCS READY TO EAT FOODS SUCH AS 1LB.SHREEDED LETTUCE AT 71.8F IN A PAN AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER. MST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F OR BELOW.APPX.1LBS. $3.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(COS)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)
22
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT TCS FOODS SUCH AS (SHREEDED CHEESE)THAT THE FEMALE FOOD HANDLER REACH INTO A BAG OF CHEESE WITH BARE HAND AND SPRINKLED CHEESE ON TOP OF BEANS INSIDE OF A FOAM CONTAINER.INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD FOOD. MUST PROVIDE UTENSILS,GLOVES OR TISSUE PAPER TO HANDLE READY TO EAT FOODS. (COS)(PRIORITY 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
9
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT # 2567976 12/5/22 NOT CORRECTED #49-4-601.11(B) : OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON FRONT AND REAR COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE. 4-602.13 Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN THE ALL STORAGE SHELVING TO REMOVE SPILLS AND/OR DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN FREEZER.-#47-4-501.11 : OBSERVED THE RUBBER GASKET AROUND THE INTERIOR OF THE 2- DOOR COOLER IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.#55- 6-501.13 : FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN THE CORNERS THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.#55- 6-501.12 : MUST CLEAN WALLS THROUGH OUT PREMISES TO REMOVE FOOD SPLATTER. #56-4-202.18 : OBSERVED THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#58- 2-102.13 : MANAGER ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE HAS EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY AND MAINTAIN WITH THE ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED OR CITATION WILL FOLLOW.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 150 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON & UNDER POP AND FOOD STORAGE SHLEVING UNITS,ON FLOOR UNDER,AROUND AND ALONG WALL BASES OF COOLERS, FURNANCE,HOT WATER TANK,WINDOW SILLS,ON FLOOR UNDER FRONT SERVICE COUNTER,30 COMPARTMENT SINK.ALSO. 7 - LIVE ROACHES CRAWLING ON GREASE TRAP LID OF 3- COMPARTMENT SINK,IN BETWEEN CRACKS AND CREVICES OF WOOD SHELVING UNIT IN REAR PREP/DISH WASHING AREA,FRONT SERVICE COUNTER.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 8/28/23.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS IN FOOD STORAGE AREA.OBSERVED A MALE CUSTOMER WALK INTO REAR STORAGE AREA AND OPEN POP COOLER AND REMOVED A DTINK AND WENT AND SET BACK DOWN IN DINING AREA AND FOOD WAS DELIVERED TO HIS TABLE AS WELL AS A FEMALE CUSTOMER WALK IN AND WENT INTO REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED NO UNAUTHORIZED PERONS ALLOWED IN FOOD AREA. (PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
39
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE NOR REMINDER ON MENU OF CONSUMING RAW AND UNDERCOOKED (EGGS)FOODS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)
25
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM GRILL TABLES, ROLLING CART WHEEL BASES AND LEGS OF ALL EQUIPMENT,PIPESO F EQUIPMENT,INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF GARBAGE CANS,STOVE,REACH IN & PREP COOLERS,STOVE,PREP TABLES,ALL SHELVING & STORAGE UNITS,TOP SIDE OF HOT WATER TANK.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DIRT AND GREASE BUILD UP FROM WALLS,CEILINGS,DOORS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR UNDERNEATH STOVE,LOOSE WALL PANEL BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN REAR PREP AREA,GAPS AND OPENINGS IN WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES,DAMAGED WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST SCRAPE AND PAINT CHIPPING PAINT ON WALLS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM INSIDE OF FOOTREST AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEE MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MULTI-USE UTENSILS NOT BEING SANITIZED AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK AT 0.0 PPM'S AT THIS TIME. OBSERVED FEMALE EMPLOYEE DISCARD COFFEE FROM COFFEE POT,SQUIRT SOAP INTO GLASS COFFEE POT AND RUN WATER INSIDE ,THEN DUMPED IT OUT AND REFILLED WITH WATER AND NOT SETTING UP SINK TO PROPERLY WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE UTENSILS.INSTRUCTED EMPLOYEE ON HOW TO SET UP SINK.(PRIROITY 7-38-025)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE (SHAKERS & SQUEEZE BOTTLES)
37
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO GLOVES, UTENSILS OR DELI TISSUE USED FOR READY TO EAT FOODS BY EMPLOYEE.
46
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
47
22
Dec 5, 2022
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE RUBBER GASKET AROUND THE INTERIOR OF THE 2- DOOR COOLER IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE ALL STORAGE SHELVING TO REMOVE SPILLS AND/OR DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN FREEZER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN THE CORNERS THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN WALLS THROUGH OUT PREMISES TO REMOVE FOOD SPLATTER.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: MANAGER ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE HAS EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY AND MAINTAIN WITH THE ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED OR CITATION WILL FOLLOW.
58
74
Jan 28, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GRAB & GO FOOD ITEMS (PREPACKAGED DESSERTS) ON DISPLAY NOT PROPERLY LABELED. FACILITY HAS TWO FOOD ALLERGY NOTICE SIGNS POSTED, HOWEVER LABELING MUST BE ON THE INDIVIDUAL PREPACKAGED FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS WITH IDENTITY, NET WEIGHT, INGREDIENTS, LIST MAJOR ALLERGENS, BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS WHERE MADE AND PACKAGED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
37
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORED IN CONTAINERS IN ALL THE REFRIGERATOR UNITS AND DRY STORAGE WITHOUT PROPER LABELING OF FOOD NAME. INSTRUCTED TO PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE A LABEL REFLECTING THE FOOD ITEM'S NAME WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVE FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTH ON A COUNTER SURFACE IN THE PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE USE PAPER CUPS BEING USED TO SCOOP SALSA STORED IN THE REFRIGERATOR. INSTRUCTED TO DISCONTINUE USE TO AVOID CONTAMINATION AND MUST USE PROPER LADLES WITH HANDLES TO RETRIEVE SALSA AND OTHER FOOD ITEMS.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON FRONT AND REAR COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
49
74
May 13, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE NOR ADEQUATE SUPPLIES (DISPOSABLE MASK, DISPOSABLE MOP HEAD, DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES) ON SITE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 OBSERVED TCS READY TO EAT FOODS (COOKED RICE) BEING DATE MARKED WITH THE DATE PRODUCT WAS MADE. INSTRUCTED TO DATE MARK ALL TCS READY TO EAT FOODS WITH THE DATE THE PRODUCT MUST BE DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-602.11(B:5) OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN WARNING LABEL ON THE PREPACKAGED DESSERTS FOR SALE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN ALLERGEN WARNING LABEL. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
37
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E) OBSERVED FLAT TOP GRILL WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-601.11 OBSERVED PREPACKAGED DESSERTS FOR SALE WITHOUT A LABEL CONTAINING THE INGREDIENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABELS WITH THE INGREDIENTS.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.12 OBSERVED UTENSILS BEING STORED INSIDE OF PRODUCT. INSTRUCTED TO STORE UTENSILS PROPERLY BETWEEN USE.
43
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED A CLOSED RECEPTACLE IS NEEDED INSIDE OF THE TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGERS WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
52
Feb 27, 2018
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. MANAGER ON DUTY HAS AN EXPIRED CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO ENROLL FOR THE RECERTIFICATION CLASS ASAP TO OBTAIN A NEW AND VALID SANITATION CERTIFICATE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012 ISSUED.
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES, SURFACES UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT AND INSIDE OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND COOKING AND OTHER KITCHEN EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN WALLS AND DOORS AROUND ALL COOKING AND OTHER KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN WINDOW FAN ABOVE THE FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR TO REMOVE DIRT AND DUST. ALSO OBSERVED CRACKED AND PEELING PAINT ON THE DINING AREA CEILING AND IN FRONT OF THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING GRILLS; REMOVE AND REPAINT WHERE NEEDED. CLEAN ALL LIGHT SHIELDS AND VENT SYSTEM ABOVE STOVE.
35
82
Feb 16, 2017
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR RUBBER GASKETS AT THE 2 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR OF PREMISES,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR GASKETS
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN ALL COOKING EQUIMENT,OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS AND DETAIL CLEAN THE 2 -DOOR REACH-IN COOLER ON INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF COOLER OF OLD FOOD DEBRIS AND FOOD SPILLS,ALSO MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE EXIT DOOR IN KITCHEN AREA,HAS DIRT AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS ON SURFACE OF DOOR,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: UST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE PREP AREA.ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN REAR OF PREMISES OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS AND CLEAN THE LIGHT SHEILD COVERS IN PREP AREA OF DUST BUILD-UP ,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS AT PREP AREA NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE A PREP AREA
43
74
Feb 9, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS TO TEST THE SANITIZER AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,WHEN SINK IS SET UP FOR WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE STRIPS,SEEIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR RUBBER GASKETS AT THE 2 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR OF PREMISES,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR GASKETS
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN ALL COOKING EQUIMENT,OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS AND DETAIL CLEAN THE 2 -DOOR REACH-IN COOLER ON INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF COOLER OF OLD FOOD DEBRIS AND FOOD SPILLS,ALSO MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE EXIT DOOR IN KITCHEN AREA,HAS DIRT AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS ON SURFACE OF DOOR,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE PREP AREA.ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN REAR OF PREMISES OF DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS AND CLEAN THE LIGHT SHEILD COVERS IN PREP AREA OF DUST BUILD-UP ,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS AT PREP AREA NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE A PREP AREA
43
70
May 20, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FAN COVER INSIDE THE 2 DOOR COOLER TO REMOVE DUST. ALSO CLEAN AND DEFROST UPRIGHT FREEZER IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN THE PREP AREAS ALONG THE WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS TO REMOVE SPILLS AND DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE WALL,CEILING AND ATTACHED EQUIPMENT(HOOD & FILTERS) TO REMOVE GREASE,DUST AND DEBRIS IN THE PREP AREAS.
35
86
May 28, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR OF THE REACH-IN COOLER,HAS FOOD SPILLS AND OLD FOOD PARTICLES,IMSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MANINTAIN AREA
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN AREA,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE WALL NEAR SIOVE IN PREP AREA OF FOOD SPILLS,ISTRUCTED TO CLANE AND MAINTAIN AREA AND CLEAN LIGHT SHIELD COVER IN PREP AREA
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES OR PROOF OF ENROLLEMENT UPON NEXT INSPECTION
45
82
Feb 27, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: HOODS & EXHAUSTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN REAR AND FRONT SECTIONS OF PREP AREA, STORAGE CARTS AND SHELVES THROUGHOUT, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF REACH-IN FREEZER, SIDES AND EXTERIORS OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT ALONG ALL WALL BASES, IN CORNERS, UNDERNEATH AND BEHIND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPAIR BOTTOM LEFT SIDE OF FRONT INNER DOOR AND REPAIR BOTTOMS OF BOTH OUTER DOORS. REMOVE CHIPPING PAINT FROM CEILING IN STORAGE ROOM AND RE-PAINT SURFACE. CLEAN ALL WALLS IN REAR SECTION OF PREP AREA(DIRT BUILD-UP), ABOVE EXPOSED HANDSINK BY TOILET ROOM(ALSO NEEDS REPAIRING), IN STORAGE ROOM, AND IN WASHROOM. PAINT RAW WOOD WASHROOM DOOR. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN DINING ROOM WHERE NEEDED.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE BLOWN LIGHTS IN DINING AREA.
36
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES HANDLING OPEN FOODS MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
78
Apr 3, 2013
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MOP SINK IN WASHROOM NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN/MAINTAIN MOP SINK IN WASHROOM.
41
95
Aug 3, 2012
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNCLEAN CURTAINS IN WINDOWS.MUST CLEAN OR REPLACE.
35
95
Jul 26, 2012
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MAINTAINED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES.APPROX 20LBS OF COOKED PORK SKINS WITH MEAT IN COOLER NOT DATED AT 53.1F,1 LB TOMATOES BEHIND FRONT COUNTER IN COUNTER AT 73.5F. MUST PROPERLY COOL COOKED FOODS BEFORE REFRIGERATION. MUST MAINTAIN COLD FOODS AT 40F OR BELOW. TOTAL COST APPROX $40.00. WAS DISCARDED. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED.
3
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS STILL NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT#57976,DATED 2/25/11,#33CHAR GRILL AND FLAT GRILL HOODAND FILTERS NOT CLEANED,#35 CEILING ABOVE THE HOOD IN POOR REPAIR.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WATER DAMAGED CEILING. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: DISH STORAGE WOOD RACK HAS PEELING CHIP PAINT.MUST REPAIR. ALSO RUSTY DISH RACKS ON LOWER SHELF AT 3- COMP SINK.MUST REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CHAR GRILL,FLAT GRILL HOOD AND FILTERS NOT CLEAN. SEE VIOLATION #29.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILING ABOVE THE HOOD IN POOR REPAIR.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WATER DAMAGE CEILING.SEE VIOLATION #29.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALLS OF PREMISES NOT CLEANED/MAINTAINED, PEELING PAINT ON CEILING IN PREP AREA,BASEBOARDS NOT CLEANED,CURTAINS IN WINDOWS AND WINDOW SEALS NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN ALL AREAS ON PREMISES,OR REPLACE CURTAINS,AND PAINT WALLS CEILINGS IF CANNOT BE CLEANED.REPAIR CEILING IN PREP AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: PREMISES IS TOO CLUTTERED,NOT ORGANIZED.PAPERS,BOOKS,UNCLEAN STORAGE BOXES UNDER COFFEE STATION,UNDER GRILL,BEHIND COUNTER, UNCLEAN FAN AT COFFEE STATION.MUST CLEAN OR REPLACE IT,AND FOIL.MUST REMOVE UNUSED ARTICLES,UNCLEAN BOXES,FOIL AND ORGANIZE ALL AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE AREAS.
41
70
Feb 25, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 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.OBSERVED MISSING FRONT DOOR KNOB INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
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.OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN COFFEE MACHINE ABOVE THE COFFEE BASKET, COFFEE PREP TABLE, CHAR GRILL, AND FLAT GRILL HOOD AND FILTERS INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE ABOVE ITEMS.ALSO CLEAN INTERIOR OF UPRIGHT FREEZER.
33
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.OBSERVED THE CEILING ABOVE THE HOOD IN POOR REPAIR INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WATER DAMAGED CEILING.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. OBSERVED 2 LIGHT SHIELDS NOT CLEAN 1 IN STORAGE AREA AND THE OTHER IN REAR KITCHEN INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
36
82
Jan 25, 2010
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 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 RECAULK AROUND EXPOSED HABDWASHING SINK.
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 ALL SHELVES UNDER COUNTER AND THROUGH OUT. CLEAN RUBBER GASKETS ON REACH-IN COOLER IN PREP 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. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN ALL CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENTS.
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. MUST DETAIL CLEAN OR PAINT IF NECESSARY WALLS IN PREP AREA, SEAL ALL CRACKS/CREVICES AND PROVIDE/REATTACH ALL LOOSE/MISSING RUBBER WALLBASE.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: Toilet rooms shall be completely enclosed and shall be vented to the outside air or mechanically ventilated. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A SELF-CLOSING DEVICE ON TOILET ROOM DOOR.
37
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Jacalito last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Jacalito on file is from Mar 31, 2025. The public record contains 20 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Jacalito?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 13 times, more than any other issue at El Jacalito.
Has El Jacalito's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at El Jacalito have averaged around two violations per visit, down from roughly nine earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at El Jacalito 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 El Jacalito inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Jacalito is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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