El Malecon
Last inspected: Feb 24, 2026
61
Score
Going back to 2018, El Malecon has 10 inspections in the public record. On Feb 24, 2026, the health department conducted the most recent visit. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.
Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around six violations each.
When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited 12 times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
10
Inspections
0
Critical latest
3
Major latest
4
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 24, 2026
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: 7-102.11 OBSERVED A CONTAINER OF A CHEMICAL OUT OF IT'S ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND IN A SPRAY BOTTLE HANGING BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT A LABEL CONTAINING THE CHEMICAL'S COMMON NAME. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL BOTTLES THAT CONTAIN CHEMICAL WHEN THE CHEMICAL IS NOT STORED IN THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING. MANAGER PROVIDED A LABEL FOR THE SPRAY BOTTLE DURING THE INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-015.
28
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: 8-304.11(A) OBSERVED THE MOST PREVIOUS INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY DATED 1/6/25 NOT POSTED FOR THE PUBLIC'S VIEW. AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION THE FACILITY HAD THE INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY FROM 4/25/24 POSTED. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS POST THE MOST RECENT INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY FOR THE PUBLIC'S VIEW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-42-010(B).
61
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: 2-101.11 OBSERVED NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER'S CERTIFICATE POSTED NOR ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS HAVE AN ORIGINAL AND VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER'S CERTIFICATE ON SITE AND POSTED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED A HANDWASHING SIGN IS NEEDED AT THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA HANDWASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS INADEQUATELY LABEL WITH THE COMMON NAME OF THE PRODUCT. OBSERVED A CONTAINER WITH THE LABEL "SAL" ON THE FRONT HOWEVER THE CONTAINER WAS A RICE STORAGE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS PROPERLY.
37
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-301.13 OBSERVED A DRAINBOARD IS NEEDED AT THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED VENTS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH MINOR ACCUMULATED DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
55
61
Jan 6, 2025
Routine
2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE OR VALID CERTIFICATE POSTED. A CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AND VALID CERTIFICATE POSTED AT ALL TIMES TCS FOOD PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUP USED FOR DISPENSING RICE AND HANDLE OF SPOON LAYING INSIDE CONTAINER OF CEVICHE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS AND STORE DISPENSING UTENSIL HANDLE ABOVE FOOD TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
78
Apr 25, 2024
License
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AT HAND WASHING SINK IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RESIDUE ON INTERIOR SURFACE OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED DOOR GASKET ON TRUE REACH-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT IN PREP AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMs TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GRILL IN REAR PREP AREA NOT UNDER VENTILATION HOOD. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PLACE GRILL UNDER VENTILATION HOOD OR REMOVE FROM PREMISES.
56
78
Jan 9, 2024
Routine
2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE WHEN TCS FOOD(CEVICHE, SHRIMP, OCTOPUS, OYSTERS, ETC) PREPARED AND SERVED. A CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AND VALID CERTIFICATE POSTED AT ALL TIMES TCS FOOD PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AT HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS USED BY EMPLOYEES.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1/4" GAP UNDER FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOOR TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK UNDER HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE CLUTTER IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING OUTLET COVERS AND STAINED CEILING TILES IN PREP, STORAGE, AND DINING AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
64
Apr 13, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 10, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 11 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2573433 3/29/23 NOT CORRECTED #38- STILL OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 70 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR NEXT TO FRYER AND INSIDE OF FRYER CABINET, ON FLOOR BEHIND ROLLING CART,ON LEDGE OF RADIATOR,ON FLOOR NEXT TO ICE MACHINE,UNDER DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELF,BASEMENT-ON LANDING MIXED IN WITH DIRT LEADING TO BASEMENT,ON CONCRETE LEDGE IN BETWEEN ARTICLES ,ON FLOOR & ON WOOD BEHIND FURNANCE IN FURNANCE ROOM,UNDER CHAIRS ALONG WALLS, SCATTERED ON WOOD BETWEEN ARTICLES.A DEAD DECAYED MOUSE ON FLOOR IN FURNACE ROOM BEHIND VENT COVER. MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS AND DEAD MOUSE CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. MUST HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 4/10/23.#60-OBSERVED RAW EXPOSED UNPROTECTED WOOD IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PAINT OR STAIN ALL RAW WOOD TO MAKE IT EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
59
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST ELEVATE,ORGANIZE OR REMOVE CLUTTER FROM BASEMENT FLOOR,ALONG WALLS IN BETWEEN EQUIPMENT PREP /STORAGE AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-202.11 Inspector Comments: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHT AT HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-501.14 Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FILTERS AND HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 3-302.12 Inspector Comments: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: OBSERVED GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF OUTTER FRONT DOOR AND REAR DOOR MUST MAKE DOORS TIGHT FITTING.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 3-304.14 Inspector Comments: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) Inspector Comments: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR VEGETABLE REACH IN COOLER.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: OBSERVED OVER SIZED POTS TO LARGE TO SUBMERGE IN 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST REMOVE FROM PREMISES OR PROVIDE A LARGER SINK TO SANITIZE UTENSILS.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM USED & UNUSED FRYER CABINET,STORAGE TABLE NEAR COOLER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WATER DAMAGED CEILING NEAR REAR UNUSED HOOD,STAINED CEILING TILES AND MISSING WALL BASES IN DINING AREA,HOLE IN WALL IN BASEMENT AND FLOOR TILES BROKEN & MISSING.
55
52
Mar 29, 2023
Routine
7 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 19 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 100 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR NEXT TO FRYER AND INSIDE OF FRYER CABINET,LOWER SHELF OF GRILL TABLE & ON FLOOR UNDER SAME,ON FLOOR NEXT TO ICE MACHINE,UNDER 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER,UNDER DISH RACK,ON WOOD LEDGE OF BAR & NEXT TO 3- COMPARTMENT SINK,BASEMENT-ON FLOOR NEXT TO BAIT BOX,ON LEDGE ,ON FLOOR IN FURNANCE ROOM,ALONG WALL BASE SCATTERED IN BETWEEN CLUTTER ON FLOOR THROUGHOUT BASEMENT.A DEAD MOUSE ON FLOOR IN FURNACE ROOM. MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS AND DEAD MOUSE CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 3/29/23.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2546075 12/30/21 NOT CORRECTED #47- OBSERVED RAW EXPOSED UNPROTECTED WOOD IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PAINT OR STAIN ALL RAW WOOD TO MAKE IT EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#47- OBSERVED THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH WOODEN PIECES ON EACH LEG AS LIFTS FOR THE SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LIFTING/LEGS FOR DURABILITY, SAFETY, AND EASE OF CLEANING AND MAINTAINING.#55- OBSERVED A SLIDING DOOR REFRIGERATOR WITH A BROKEN GLASS (SAYING BEING REMOVED) OBSERVED EQUIPMENT NOT BEING USED AND OLD HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM IN REAR AREA NOT BEING USED (STATED THAT THEY ARE ALL BEING REMOVED BECAUSE THEY WILL NOT BE USING THEM) INSTRUCTED THAT ANY AND ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVED.#57-OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-SITE FOR EMPLOYEES. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND PROVIDE ON SITE BEFORE OPENING.#58- OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE FOR THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND PROVIDE ON SITE.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS GIVEN SUMMARY REPORT NOT POSTED FOR PUBLIC VIEW IT WAS STORED INSIDE A FOLDER WITH PAPERS FROM 12/30/2021. A SUMMARY REPORT WILL BE POSTED UPON INSPECTION.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-010(B)
61
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK WITH REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(C)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICIES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT HAND SINK IN REAR PREP AREA WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED,HANDLED AND SERVED.SOAP WAS PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION MUST MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
10
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY REMINDER ON MENU OF CONSUMING RAW AND UNDER COOKED FOODS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF OUTTER FRONT DOOR AND REAR DOOR MUST MAKE DOORS TIGHT FITTING.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR VEGETABLE REACH IN COOLER.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE FOIL LINED ON RAW WOOD SHELVING UNITS AT BAR.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVER SIZED POTS TO LARGE TO SUBMERGE IN 3- COMPARTMENT SINK MUST REMOVE FROM PREMISES OR PROVIDE A LARGER SINK TO SANITIZE UTENSILS.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM USED & UNUSED FRYER CABINET,STORAGE TABLE NEAR COOLER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WATER DAMAGED CEILING NEAR REAR UNUSED HOOD,STAINED CEILING TILES AND MISSING WALL BASES IN DINING AREA,MISSING FLOOR REGISTERS IN BAR AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST ELEVATE,ORGANIZE OR REMOVE MASSIVE AMOUNT OF CLUTTER FROM BASEMENT FLOOR,ALONG WALLS IN BETWEEN EQUIPMENT.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHT AT HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FILTERS AND HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
27
Dec 30, 2021
License
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE FRONT SERVICE AREA WITH WOODEN PIECES ON EACH LEG AS LIFTS FOR THE SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LIFTING/LEGS FOR DURABILITY, SAFETY, AND EASE OF CLEANING AND MAINTAINING.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW EXPOSED UNPROTRCTED WOOD IN THE FRONT BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PAINT OR STAIN ALL RAW WOOD TO MAKE IT EASY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD-UP OF DUST, GREASE, AND FOOD DEBRIS ON SHELVING IN THE REAR FOOD SERVICE AREA (COOKING EQUIPMENT) INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE HARBORING OF PESTS AND INSECTS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET OF THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN THE FRONT SERVICE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD WORKING ORDER.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECPTACLE IN THE WOEMNS TOILET ROOM LOCATED IN THE FRONT OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN ON SITE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD-UP OF DUST AND DIRT ON FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY (REPAIRS BEING PERFORMED) INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN PRIOR TO OPENING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL IN THE FRONT SERVICE AREA WHERE DRINK MACHINE IS LOCATED WITH AN OPENING AT THE WALL BASE AND FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND INSECT ENTERING AND HARBORING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIDING DOOR REFRIGERATOR WITH A BROKEN GLASS (SAYING BEING REMOVED) OBSERVED EQUIPMENTNOT BEING USED AND OLD HOOD VENTILATION SYSTEM IN REAR AREA NOT BEING USED (STATED THAT THEY ARE ALL BEING REMOVED BECAUSE THEY WILL NOT BE USING THEM) INSTRUCTED THAT ANY AND ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVED.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-SITE FOR EMPLOYEES. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND PROVIDE ON SITE BEFORE OPENING.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE FOR THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND PROVIDE ON SITE.
58
61
Jul 2, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 8 major violations. 13 minor violations.
View 22 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: 3-301.11(B) OBSERVED A FEMALE FOOD HANDLER HANDLING READY TO EAT FOODS (CHOPPED CUCUMBER AND CHOPPED TOMATOES) WITH BARE HANDS. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND DENATURE SAID FOODS AND TO NEVER HAVE BARE HAND CONTACT WITH ANY READY TO EAT FOODS, AND TO ALWAYS USE TONGS, FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE GLOVES OR SPOONS TO HANDLE ALL READY TO EAT FOODS AT ALL TIMES. SAID EMPLOYEE DISCARDED FOODS AND WASHED HANDS AND PUT ON FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE GLOVES DURING THE INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-010.
9
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-302.12 OBSERVED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE TO PROPERLY TAKE TEMPERATURES OF COLD AND HOT FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
36
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: 2-102.14 OBSERVED THE PERSON IN CHARGE AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION DOES NOT HAVE THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGERS CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: 2-101.11 OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (SHRIMP, OCOTPUS) IS BEING PREPARED HANDLED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) 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 ON SITE TO PROPERLY RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-205.11 OBSERVED THE FOOD PREP AREA'S ONLY HAND WASHING SINK BLOCKED WITH DIRTY DISHES INSIDE OF THE HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO NEVER BLOCK THE HAND WASHING SINK. EMPLOYEE REMOVED DIRTY DISHES FROM THE HAND WASHING SINK DURING THE INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030(C).
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 OBSERVED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY READY TO EAT FOODS (SLICED TOMATOES, DICED CUCUMBER) OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE PRODUCT DISCARD DATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY POSTED NOR A DISCLOSURE AND A REMINDER ON THE MENU FOR ALL ITEMS THAT CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED (OYSTERS). INSTRUCTED TO POST A CONSUMER ADVISORY AND ADD A DISCLOSURE AND A REMINDER FOR ALL ITEMS THAT CAN BE ORDERED UNDERCOOKED OR RAW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS NOT BEING STORED IN SANITIZING. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS STORE ALL WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZER.
41
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-204.112(B) OBSERVED NO THERMOMETERS INSIDE OF THE FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED HAND WASHING SIGNS ARE NEEDED INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM AND BY THE HAND WASHING SINKS LOCATED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA AND BEHIND THE BAR.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E) OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH A SLITE BROWNISH SUBSTANCE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
16
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: 3-501.13 OBSERVED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (SHRIMP) BEING IMPROPERLY THAWED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS PROPERLY THAW ALL TCS FOODS UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER (NOT EXCEEDING 70F) UNTIL THE PRODUCT REACHES 41F OR THAW INSIDE OF A REFRIGERATOR. TEMPERATURE OF THE SHRIMP DURING THE INSPECTION WAS 35F.
35
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.12 OBSERVED A KNOFE BEING STORED BETWEEN THE PREP COOLER AND THE HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL UTENSILS PROPERLY BETWEEN USE.
43
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: 3-304.15(B-D) OBSERVED FOOD GRADE DISPOSABLE GLOVES NOT BEING USED TO HANDLE RTE FOODS. INSTRUCTED ON PROPER GLOVE USE AND WHEN TO USE GLOVES.
46
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED POTS TOO LARGE TO SUBMERGE IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SAID LARGE POTS OR INSTALL A LARGER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK THAT SUBMERGES THE LARGEST PIECE OF EQUIPMENT OR PROVIDE A WRITTEN PROCEDURE FOR WASHING RINSING AND SANITIZING EQUIPMENT TOO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED A CLOSED RECEPTACLE IS NEEDED INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13 OBSERVED THE FLOORS THRU OUT WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS AND STANDING WATER ON THE FLOOR BY THE REAR EXIT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED A FEMALE FOOD HANDLER WITHOUT A FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
20
May 29, 2018
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTER DEVICE ON UTILITY SINK; MUST INSTALL A BACKFLOW PREVENTER DEVICE AT UTILITY SINK WATER LINE.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Malecon last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Malecon on file is from Feb 24, 2026. The public record contains 10 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Malecon?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 12 times, more than any other issue at El Malecon.
Has El Malecon's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at El Malecon have averaged around six violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at El Malecon means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is El Malecon inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Malecon is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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