El Solazo
Last inspected: Jan 8, 2026
90
Score
El Solazo appears in inspection records 25 times, starting in 2010. Inspectors last stopped by on Jan 8, 2026. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
The trend has been favorable: violation counts have eased from around six violations to closer to three violations per visit over the last few inspections.
“Proper cooling methods used” comes up most often, recorded 14 times in the inspection record.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so El Solazo is doing better than most peers. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
25
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 8, 2026
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS STATING COMMON NAME. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL IN REAR NEAR STAND MIXER WITH DAMAGE. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR WALL TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
90
Aug 7, 2024
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: BOTH 2 DRAWER COOLER UNITS AT FRONT PREP AREA UNABLE TO MAINTAIN PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE, AIR TEMPERATURES OF 49.0F AND 50.0F. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005 PRIORITY
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES IN COOLER DRAWERS AT FRONT PREP AREA: STEAK 49.5F, PORK 50.5F, CHICKEN 47.7F, COOKED NOPALES 48.0F, TRIPE 48.9F, SHRIMP 50.2F. ALL DISCARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME. APPROX 50LBS $300 VALUE. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005 PRIORITY
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND DRYING PROVISION AT EITHER HANDWASH SINKS IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED PER REQUEST DURING INSPECTION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030(C) PRIORITY FOUNDATION
10
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: MISSING ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER. INSTD TO OBTAIN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN VERIFICATION ON SITE.
58
64
Oct 11, 2023
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING IN THE PREP AND STORAGE AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF SANITARY NAPKINS IN ALL-GENDER WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND SPILLS ON THE FLOORS AND SURFACES IN FRONT GRILL AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN UNDER ALL SHELVING UNITS, PREP TABLES AND DEEP FRYERS TO REMOVE SPILLS, FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT BUILDUP AND/OR GREASE. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
86
Oct 18, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 14, 2021
Reinspection
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NO CONSUMER ADVISORY POSTED OR STATEMENT ON MENU TO DESIGNATE RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOOD PRODUCTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
25
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION DATED OCTOBER 7, 2021 R#2534472 #3 NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICIES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #38 NO PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK ON SITE OR PROOF OF PEST CONTROL AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK AND AND MAINTAIN. AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED
59
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #59
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #59
38
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
57
70
Oct 7, 2021
Routine
2 critical violations. 8 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Required records available: shellstock tags, parasite destruction
Inspector notes: NO LETTER ON SITE FOR RAW FISH USED IN CEVICHE PREPARATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE LETTER FROM FISH COMPANY. PRIORITY VIOLATION
14
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: CHEMICAL DISH MACHINE IN FRONT BAR AREA NOT SANITIZING AT TIME OF INSPECTION AFTER SEVERAL CYCLES INSTRUCTED MANAGER NOT TO USE MACHINE. MACHINE WILL BE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AT THIS TIME. ALL GLASS WARE MUST BE WASHED IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK OR KITCHEN DISH MACHINE. PRIORITY VIOLATION
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND SOAP AVAILABLE AT HAND SINK IN PREP AREA TO PROPERLY WASH HANDS. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN SOAP AND MAINTAIN AT HAND SINK AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED MANAGER HAD SOAP BROUGHT OVER.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT HAND SINK TO PROPERLY DRY HANDS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE HAND DRYING DEVICES AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION MANAGER HAD PAPER TOWELS BROUGHT OVER.
10
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NO CONSUMER ADVISORY POSTED OR STATEMENT ON MENU TO DESIGNATE RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOOD PRODUCTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK ON SITE OR PROOF OF PEST CONTROL AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK AND AND MAINTAIN. AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS ON SITE TO PROPERLY TEST SANITIZING WATER AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK OR CHEMICAL DISH MACHINES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN STRIPS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
48
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO ONE ON SITE WITH VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE OR IS THERE A VALID SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION WHILE HANDLING TCS FOODS. IE.... BEEF, CHICKEN, DAIRY PRODUCTS ETC... INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN CERTIFICATE AT ALL TIMES PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICIES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION
5
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO ONE ON SITE WITH VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE.
1
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
10
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
57
29
Jun 13, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON BREAKFAST AND LUNCH MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON MEN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON CEILING VENTS AND LIGHT SHIELDS IN REAR PREP AREA AND INTERIOR CEILING SURFACES OF WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE BASBOARDS ALONG POP MACHINE IN DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL OPENINGS ALONG BASEBOARDS AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED HOLE IN WALL NEAR SWINGING DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN WALL AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AVAILABLE. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS AT HAND WASHING SINKS IN PREP AND DISH WASHING AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO POST HAND WASHING SIGNS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS USED BY EMPLOYEES.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF SUGAR, SALT, ETC NOT LABELED IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME.
37
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE MULTI-USE POTS STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE ALL CLEAN MULTI-USE EQUIPMENT SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.
44
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE CONTAINERS NOT INVERTED ON COUNTER IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SINGLE SERVICE CONTAINERS TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DOOR GASKET IN POOR REPAIR ON UPRIGHT FREEZER IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR DOOR GASKET AND MAINTAIN.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE FAUCET ON REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR FAUCET AND MAINTAIN.
51
47
Aug 7, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALK-IN COOLER STORAGE SHELVES NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STANDING WATER UNDER THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, AND AROUND DISH MACHINE, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE STANDING WATER/DRY MOP.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE SECOND LIGHT SHIELD IN THE WALK-IN COOLER FILLING UP WITH WATER, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/REMOVE WATER FROM LIGHT SHIELD. ALSO OBSERVED BLACK SUBSTANCE AROUND THE FRONT PREP AREA HAND SINK, AND BEHIND THE REAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE/RECAULK.
35
86
Jul 21, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 15, 2017
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR CUTTING BOARDS NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.ALSO CLEAN INTERIOR OF REACH IN FREEZER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR IN THE REAR PREP/DISH AREA NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, AND REMOVE ANY STANDING WATER.
34
90
Dec 29, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF THE PREP COOLER CUTTING BOARD. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE WET WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZER BUCKET WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
95
Dec 16, 2016
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY-TO-EAT FOODS (STEAK, ONIONS, CILANTRO, TORTILLAS, ETC.) BY THE COOKS BEHIND THE GRILL. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT NO BARE HAND CONTACT IS ALLOWED WITH READY-TO-EAT FOODS. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-010A.
6
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM REPORT #1946927 ON 7/21/16 NOT CORRECTED: 34 - FLOOR TILES IN DISH AREA MUST BE REPLACED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE DRAIN LINE AT THE REAR PREP AREA HANDWASHING SINK IS LEAKING. MUST REPAIR.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF THE PREP COOLER CUTTING BOARD. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE WET WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZER BUCKET WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
82
Jul 21, 2016
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: HANDLE NEEDED AT REAR PREP COOLER. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN ALL STORAGE RACKS IN WALK IN COOLER, CLEAN AIR VENTS IN WALK IN COOLER, AND CLEAN ALL SINKS TO REMOVE BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AND REAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS. FLOOR TILES IN DISH AREA MUST BE REPLACED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKS AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN NEED OF REPAIR. STOPPER NEEDED FOR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
38
82
Mar 10, 2016
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN DISCOLORED WITH DEEP CUTS. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEANONG TO COOKING EQUIPMENT, DISH WASHING AREA AND FRONT PREP LINE. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL BUULD UP
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
36
86
Jan 21, 2016
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN DISCOLORED WITH DEEP CUTS. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEANONG TO COOKING EQUIPMENT, DISH WASHING AREA AND FRONT PREP LINE. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL BUULD UP
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
36
86
Jan 13, 2016
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION #1516327 JUNE 22, 2015 INSPECTOR #372 #31 OBSERVED COOKING UTENSILS STORED IN BETWEEN PIPES BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE SAID UTENSILS, SANITIZE, AND STORE PROPERLY #34 OBSERVED FLOORS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS AND OLD GREASE ALONG THE WALLS AND IN EACH CORNER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN #45 INSTRUCTED TO ENROLL ALL FOOD HANDLERS IN COURSE. ALL MINOR VIOLATIONS MUST BE CORRECTED AND MAINTAINED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN DISCOLORED WITH DEEP CUTS. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEANONG TO COOKING EQUIPMENT, DISH WASHING AREA AND FRONT PREP LINE. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL BUULD UP.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
36
82
Jun 22, 2015
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A REACH IN COOLER NOT MAINTAINING THE 40F OR BELOW. TEMPERATURE AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION IS 52.0F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER FIX SAID COOLER AND MAINTAIN. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A). COOLER'S TAGGED AT THIS TIME.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD NOT MEETING TEMPERATURE REQUIREMENTS. PICO DE GALLO AT 52.1F, CEVICHE AT 47.3, SHRIMP AT 50.3, AND SOUR CREAM AT 52.1F. MANAGER DISCARD AND DENATURE THE ABOVE ITEMS 35LBS $53.00. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK FOODS NOT PROPERLY LABELED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL FOODS OUT OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKING UTENSILS STORED IN BETWEEN PIPES BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE SAID UTENSILS, SANITIZE, AND STORE PROPERLY.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GRILL IN THE REAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE OLD FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. NOZZLES AT SODA MACHINE NEED CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS AND OLD GREASE ALONG THE WALLS AND IN EACH CORNER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING ABOVE FOOD PREP AREA IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO FIX AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LIGHT SHIELD HANGING BY THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETERS AT THE COOLER OF THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO ENROLL ALL FOOD HANDLERS IN COURSE.
45
61
Oct 3, 2014
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: SHELVES AT WALK IN COOLER, ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLE, TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN THE FRONT PREP AREA, AND REAR AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR WHERE TILES ARE BROKEN. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS AT PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CEILING AT REAR PREP IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST AND DIRT BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD HANGING DOWN FROM THE CEILING ABOVE THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST SECURE IT BACK INTO PLACE.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
41
78
Sep 26, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK THE PIPE UNDERNEATH HAS A SMALL HOLE AND SOME WATER IS DRAINING INTO A BUCKET. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE THE PIPE SO THE SO THE WATER CAN DRAIN PROPERLY AND NOT INTO A BUCKET.
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: IMPROPER STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER STOPPERS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: SHELVES AT WALK IN COOLER, ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLE, TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN THE FRONT PREP AREA, AND REAR AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR WHERE TILES ARE BROKEN. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS AT PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CEILING AT REAR PREP IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST AND DIRT BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD HANGING DOWN FROM THE CEILING ABOVE THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST SECURE IT BACK INTO PLACE.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
41
70
Sep 30, 2013
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: LARGE 30 GALLON POT OF COOKED REFRIED BEANS ON WALK-IN COOLER FLOOR AT 74.9F. MGR STATES BEANS COOKED YESTERDAY. NO TEMPERATURE LOGS ON SITE. DISCUSSED WITH MGR ON PROPER COOLING TECHNIQUES WITHIN 6 HOURS (TRANSFERING PRODUCT TO SHALLOW PANS, ICE, ETC). MGR IMMEDIATELY DISCARDED AND DENATURED SAME. APPROX 20LBS $50 VALUE. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A CRITICAL.
3
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INDADEQUATE SHELVING FOR WALK-IN COOLER. INSTD TO PROVIDE SAME TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD 6 INCHES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AT FRONT PREP LINE INCLUDING FLAT TOP GRILL, FRYERS, LEGS, WHEELS, AND ALL ATTACHED PIPING NOT CLEAN, EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: REPLACE WORN/MISSING FLOOR TILES IN PREP AREAS.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE LIGHTSHIELDS FOR LIGHTS AT INTERIOR OF HOOD AT FRONT LINE.
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PROVIDE INTERNAL THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COOLERS.
40
74
Jun 11, 2013
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED INBETWEEN PREP TABLES. INSTD TO STORE PROPERLY.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: IMPROPER STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER STOPPERS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM AND EXTERIOR SIDES OF FRYERS, CUTTING BOARDS, NOT CLEAN. CLEAN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA NOT CLEAN OR DRY. INSTD TO KEEP CLEAN AND DRY AT ALL TIMES. INSTD TO REPLACE MISSING, CRACKED FLOOR TILES IN REAR SO AS TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE ALL STAINED CEILING TILES THRU-OUT. REMOVE ALL GRAFFITI FROM MENS TOILET ROOM WALLS AND CEILING. WORN SURFACES ON WALLS IN REAR PREP AREA NEAR BASE. INSTD TO PAINT SAME.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTD TO STORE PROPERLY IN SANITIZING SOLUTION. IMPROPER FOOD DISPENSING UTENSILS BEING USED AND ALSO IMPROPERLY STORED IN FOOD. INSTD TO USE PROPER LADLES, SCOOPS, ETC AND STORE PROPERLY.
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74
Aug 9, 2012
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED THROUGHOUT PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN WALK IN COOLER, FRONT PREP AREA, AND REAR AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF REPAIR WHERE TILES ARE BROKEN. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. CEILING TILES IN NEED OF REPLACING. FOOD SPLATTERS. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MOLDING IN LADIES WASHROOM IN NEED OF REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAK AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN NEED OF REPAIR. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: ALL REACH 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: ANY AND ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES MUST BE REMOVED.
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70
Feb 17, 2012
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 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. KNIFE HOLDER NEED FOR ALL KNIVES. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: SODA DISPENSORS, REACH IN COOLERS, AND REAR COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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 AT FRONT COOKING AREA IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS AT ALL TIMES.
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. Use dustless cleaning methods. WALLS WITH FOOD SPLATTER IN NEED OF CLEANING. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. 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. FLOOR DRAINS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors. Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Between uses and during storage ice dispensing utensils and ice receptacles shall be stored in a way that protects them from contamination. ALL WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE STORED IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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70
Feb 14, 2011
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 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. CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN, DISCOLORED WITH DEEP CUTS. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: SHELVES AT WALK IN COOLER, ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLE, TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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 IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD OF FOOD DEBRIS. FLOOR AT 3 COMP SINK IN NEED OF REPAIR AT COVING TO ELIMINATE STANDING WATER. ALL ITEMS MUST BE UP OFF THE FLOOR AT ALL TIMES. 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: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. Use dustless cleaning methods. WALLS AT PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CEILING AT REAR PREP IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST AND DIRT BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: All rooms in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be lighted so that a minimum of 50-foot candles of light is available on all work surfaces. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. 1 LIGHT SHEILD IN POOR REPAIR ABOVE THE HAND SINK MUST REPLACE. ALL LIGHT SHEILDS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. 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. MUST REPAIR SLOW DRAINING HAND SINKS. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. ALL REACH IN COOLERS MUST HAVE IN GOOD WORKING ORDER THERMOMETERS THAT ARE VISIBLE AT ALL TIMES. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors. Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. ANY AND ALL CLUTTER MUST BE REMOVED AND OR ORGANIZED. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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67
Apr 5, 2010
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: The licensee shall inform the public in writing of the Chicago Department of Public Health?s Consumer Advisory relating to consuming raw and undercooked animal products.LABEL THE LARGE FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE PREP AREA RICE,BEANS ECT.
30
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. CLEAN THE VENTS THROUGHOUT PREMISES HAS DUST BUILDUP.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. CLUTTER IN BACK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND ORGNIZE SO NO INSECT OR RODENT HARBORAGE.
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86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was El Solazo last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at El Solazo on file is from Jan 8, 2026. The public record contains 25 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at El Solazo?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at El Solazo.
Has El Solazo's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at El Solazo have averaged around three violations per visit, down from roughly six earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at El Solazo 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 Solazo inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, El Solazo is inspected around two times per year on average.
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