Essence of India
Last inspected: Nov 19, 2025
67
Score
Inspectors have visited Essence of India 16 times, with records going back to 2013. On Nov 19, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around eight violations to closer to four violations per visit.
The pattern that stands out is “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable”, which has been cited 11 times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Essence of India trails the local norm. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
16
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
8
Minor latest
Inspection History
Nov 19, 2025
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE DRY FOOD STORAGE AND BULK SPICES ON THE COOKS LINE NOT STORED IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SPLASH GUARD ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE KITCHEN HAND WASHING SINK BETWEEN THE SINK AND STORED DISHES/SPICES.
39
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: NOTED ALL OF THE KITCHEN STAFF WITHOUT BEARD RESTRAINTS. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES.
40
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TINFOIL AS LINER INSIDE THE COOKS LINE SMALL COOLER OR CLOTH TOWELS AS LINER ON THE TOP OF THE SAME COOLER. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE SURFACE.----NOTED INTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE COOLER DIRTY WITH FOOD SPILLAGE AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED EXTREMELY DIRTY AND DAMAGED PLASTIC SPICE CONTAINERS ON TOP SHELVING ON THE COOKS LINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS. MUST NOT USE CLOTH CARPETING MATS IN THE KITCHEN OR DISH AREAS OF THE KITCHEN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT MUST BE REMOVED TO PREVENT PEST HARBORING AND ALL OTHER NEEDED ITEMS FOR THE BUSINESS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NOTED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
57
67
May 6, 2024
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS IN REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM WITHOUT A LABEL.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE COMMON NAME ON ALL BULK CONTAINERS TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY ITEM (SALT, SUGAR, FLOUR ETC).
37
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND INVERT KITCHENWARE MULTI-USE UTENSILS (SPOONS,FORKS,KNIVES ETC.)TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE (HANDLES-UP).
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE KITCHEN 2 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKET AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING SECTION OF CEILING OVER THE KITCHEN 2 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER.INSTRCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN CEILING SO THAT IT IS SMOOTH,EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
82
Nov 27, 2023
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RACKS ABOVE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITH SLIGHT RUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAINT RACKS
47
95
Oct 7, 2022
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER (COCNUT MILK, TOMATO SAUCE ETC) INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR SURFACES OF 3 COMPARTMENT BAR SINK BEHIND THE FRONT BAR, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF PREP COOLER AND REACH-IN COOLERS, SHELVINGS WITH GREASE ACCUMULATION, STORAGE RACKS INSIDE COOLERS, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS/BINS OR REPLACE AND STORAGE SHELVES IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. MUST REORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS WITH INCOMPLETE PROOF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CERTIFICATE FOR EACH EMPLOYEE.
57
82
Aug 30, 2021
Routine
12 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIGHT DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ENCRUSTED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE.MUST REMOVE DEBRIS, DETAIL CLEAN INSIDE ICE MACHINE/HAVE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS IN REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM WITHOUT A LABEL.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE COMMON NAME (SALT, SUGAR, FLOUR ETC). ON ALL BULK CONTAINERS TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY ITEM.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SPLASHGUARD IN BETWEEN THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND UTILITY MOP SINK IN KITCHEN AREA. MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASHGUARD AND MAINTAIN.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND INVERT KITCHENWARE (SPOONS,FORKS,KNIVES ETC,)TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE (HANDLES-UP).
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE KITCHEN 2 DOOR PREP COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKET.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WOODEN STORAGE SHELVES WITH STAINS AND PEELING DEBRIS IN THE REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM.INSTRUCTED TO PAINT OR SEAL THE SHELVES AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR SHELFS WITH MOLD-LIKE BUILD UP INSIDE THE KITCHEN 2-DOOR STAND-UP COOLER NEXT TO THE REAR EXIT DOOR.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN WALL TILES UNDERNEATH THE KITCHEN 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE THE FURNACE ROOM AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE MOPS,BROOMS CLEANING EQUIPMENTS OFF THE FLOOR AT LEAST 6" INCHES TO FACILITATE CLEANING.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE THE KITCHEN 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.MUST REPLACE LIGHT SHIELD FOR LIGHT FIXTURE AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR EMPLOYEES.MUST PROVIDE CURRENT FOOD HANDLER CERTICATES AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND MAINTAIN CERTIFICATE ON SITE.
58
55
Mar 6, 2020
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES AT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT UTENSILS IN USE ARE STORED IN WARM WATER TEMP 85 F ,MUST STORED UTENSILS UNDER RUNNING COLD WATER, UNDER HOT WATER (135 F AND ABOVE),IN FOOD HANDLE NOT TOUCHING FOOD AND IN CLEAN PLACE PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED CARDBOARD BOXES USED TO LINE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD BOXES TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR TO REACH IN COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE POTS USED FOR COOKING TO BE BIGGER THAN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK(AND CANT BE SUBMERGED IN WASH WATER IN SINK.MUST PROVIDE CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR EACH SEPARATE PIECE OF FOOD-CONTACT EQUIPMENT WITH DESCRIPTION HOW TO BE CLEANED IN PLACE AND/OR MUST SUBMIT THE PROCEDURES TO CDPH AT FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG FOR APPROVAL OR PRESENT PROCEDURE TO DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE PRIOR INSPECTION FOR ON SITE REVIEW AND APPROVAL.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM COOKING AND BAKING EQUIPMENT,WHEEL BASES OF ALL EQUIPMENT.MUST CLEAN DUST BUILD UP SHELVING UNITS IN DISH WASHING AREA
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF REACH IN FREEZER UNIT IN KITCHEN AREA
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SIGNIFICANT ACCUMULATION OF DUST AND DEBRIS ON ELECTRIC LINE BY REAR EXIT DOOR. MAST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN
55
64
Feb 28, 2020
Routine
3 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLEAN-UP OF VOMITING AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE ON SITE BUT CLEAN-UP KIT ON PREMISES DURING INSPECTION OBSERVED TO BE SPILL CLEAN UP KIT WITH OUT PROPER SANITIZING SOLUTION AND NO MOP FOR VOMIT CLEAN UP . INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SAID PROCEDURE ALONG WITH REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR CLEAN-UP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT, TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN,MARSALA, RICE)NOT PROPERLY DATED , STORED LONGER THAN 24 HOURS IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DATE MARKING WITH DISPOSITION DATE FOR RTE FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD OVER 24 HOURS IN COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005
23
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUSLY CITED CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 5/20/2019 REPORT #2289125 OBSERVED NOT TO BE CORRECTED AS FOLLOWS. VIOLATION # 51 BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ICE MACHINE. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED. VIOLATION # 58 PA 100-0367: All certified food service sanitation managers employed by a restaurant must receive or obtain training in basic allergen awareness principles within 30 days after employment and every 3 years thereafter. Training programs must be accredited by the American National Standards Institute or another reputable accreditation agency under the ASTM International E2659-09 (Standard Practice for Certificate Programs). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090,CITATION ISSUED.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF REACH IN FREEZER UNIT IN KITCHEN AREA
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM COOKING AND BAKING EQUIPMENT,WHEEL BASES OF ALL EQUIPMENT.MUST CLEAN DUST BUILD UP SHELVING UNITS IN DISH WASHING AREA
49
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NO SPLASH GUARD IN FRONT MOP SINK SIDE TO 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND DRAINBOARD OF 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASH GUARD.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP TABLES AT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT UTENSILS IN USE ARE STORED IN WARM WATER TEMP 85 F ,MUST STORED UTENSILS UNDER RUNNING COLD WATER, UNDER HOT WATER (135 F AND ABOVE),IN FOOD HANDLE NOT TOUCHING FOOD AND IN CLEAN PLACE PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED CARDBOARD BOXES USED TO LINE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD BOXES TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR TO REACH IN COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND/OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE POTS USED FOR COOKING TO BE BIGGER THAN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK(AND CANT BE SUBMERGED IN WASH WATER IN SINK.MUST PROVIDE CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR EACH SEPARATE PIECE OF FOOD-CONTACT EQUIPMENT WITH DESCRIPTION HOW TO BE CLEANED IN PLACE AND/OR MUST SUBMIT THE PROCEDURES TO CDPH AT FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG FOR APPROVAL OR PRESENT PROCEDURE TO DEPARTMENT REPRESENTATIVE PRIOR INSPECTION FOR ON SITE REVIEW AND APPROVAL.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SIGNIFICANT ACCUMULATION OF DUST AND DEBRIS ON ELECTRIC LINE BY REAR EXIT DOOR. MAST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN
55
45
May 20, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010,CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: CLEAN UP PROCEDURE POLICY ON SITE FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS BUT NO NECESSARY CLEAN-UP ITEMS AS OUTLINED IN POLICY. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN THE NECESSARY CLEAN-UP ITEMS OR KIT FOR THE PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005,NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2240874 DATED:11/30/2018 58 PA 100-0367: **C** Allergen Training - All certified food service sanitation managers employed by a restaurant must receive or obtain training in basic allergen awareness principles within 30 days after employment and every 3 years thereafter. Training programs must be accredited by the American National Standards Institute or another reputable accreditation agency under the ASTM International E2659-09 (Standard Practice for Certificate Programs). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. - Mar 1, 2019 INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING REQUIREMENT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090,CITATION ISSUED.
60
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABEL FOR WHEELED BULK FOOD CONTAINERS TO IDENTIFY FOODS STORED AND TO MAINTAIN.
37
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIORS OF STORAGE DRAWERS AT PREP WORK STATION.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT ICE MACHINE. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND WATER LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE KITCHEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAKS AND TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND DIRTY AND GREASY FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND BEHIND HOT COOKING EQUIPMENTS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN DETAIL.
55
58
Nov 30, 2018
Complaint
2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE FOR VOMITING AND DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP PROCEDURE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: YOGURT IS BEING MADE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO STOP MAKING YOGURT AND CONTACT CDPHFOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG.
29
Variance obtained for specialized processing methods
Inspector notes: YOGURT IS BEING MADE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD. CONTACT CDPHFOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG. MANAGER DISCARDED THE YOGURT WORTH $150.00 TOTAL 10 GALLON. NO CITATION ISSUED.
32
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD ON THE LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE OF THE MOP SINK DUE TO LOCATION.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ICE SCOOP ON A SEPARATE CONTAINER TO PREVENT POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION.
43
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: INTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
64
Apr 17, 2018
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ALUMINUM FOIL FROM THE BOTTOM SHELF OF THE PREP TABLE AND THE EXTERIOR SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT. CAULK HAS BUILDUP AND IS BLACK IN COLOR AROUND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND PREP AREA SINK. MUST RE CAULK AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DUST BUILD UP ON FAN GUARD IN TWO DOOR REACH IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: GREASE BUILDUP ON THE HOOD ABOVE THE GRILL. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE GREASE AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAK ON FAUCET CONNECTOR ON THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND SINK LOCATED IN THE BAR AREA. MUST CORRECT BY REPAIRING THE LEAK IN BOTH SINKS.
38
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: THREE OF THE FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE EXPIRED. MUST RENEW AND TAKE THE TRAINING AGAIN.
45
78
Jun 2, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 26, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCES ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MACHINE--ICE IS BEING USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE,REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED AND MAINTAINED.SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM INSPECTION REPORT#1621366 DATED:01/29/2016 NOT CORRECTED------------------------------------ 32 OBSERVED THE BAG IN BOX SODAS IN THE BASEMENT DIRECTLY UNDER A WASTE WATER PIPE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO RELOCATE SO THE SODAS ARE NOT DIRECTLY UNDER ANY WASTE WATER PIPES AND TO MAINTAIN. 04/29/2016 34 OBSERVED FOOD AND DIRT ACCUMULATION ON THE FLOORS UNDER THE REFRIGERATION UNITS AND COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH BUILDUP NEAR THE WALLS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 04/29/2016 38 OBSERVED THE BAR AREA SODA GUN HOLDER'S DRAIN LINE (THAT IS NOW CONNECTED TO THE FLOOR DRAIN) DAMAGED AND LEAKING. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SO PIPE DOES NOT LEAK AND REMAINS CONNECTED TO FLOOR DRAIN. 04/29/2016. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT ABOVE NOTED VIOLATIONS AND MAINTAIN BY 6/2/2017. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES MUST BE SANDED/BLEACHED OR REPLACED AND REMOVE ALUMINUM FOILS FROM GAS CONNECTED PIPES AT COOKING EQUIPMENTS ALSO,REPLACE TORN GASKET AT ONE DOOR TO THE KITCHEN PREP COOLER.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FAN COVERS AND SHELVINGS INSIDE THE REFRIGERATION UNITS AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO SECURE LEFT SIDE DOOR FRAME AT THE REAR EXIT DOOR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN 3 ADEQUATE WORKING STOPPERS FOR THE BAR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM AND ELEVATE STOCK ITEMS AT LEAST 6"INCHES OFF THE FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.
41
70
Jan 29, 2016
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EMPLOYEE WASHING AND RINSING DISHES IN THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT PUTTING DISHES INTO THE SANITIZING COMPARTMENT. UPON INSPECTION OF COMPARTMENT, FOUND NO CHEMICAL SANITIZER PRESENT. OPERATOR ADDED BLEACH TO THE SANITIZING COMPARTMENT TO REACH A READING OF 150PPM. INSTRUCTED FACILITY THAT ALL DISHES MUST BE WASHED, RINSED, AND SANITIZED WITH AN APPROVED CHEMICAL SANITIZER. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
8
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE BAG IN BOX SODAS IN THE BASEMENT DIRECTLY UNDER A WASTE WATER PIPE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO RELOCATE SO THE SODAS ARE NOT DIRECTLY UNDER ANY WASTE WATER PIPES AND TO MAINTAIN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD AND DIRT ACCUMULATION ON THE FLOORS UNDER THE REFRIGERATION UNITS AND COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH BUILDUP NEAR THE WALLS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE BAR AREA SODA GUN HOLDER'S DRAIN LINE (THAT IS NOW CONNECTED TO THE FLOOR DRAIN) DAMAGED AND LEAKING. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SO PIPE DOES NOT LEAK AND REMAINS CONNECTED TO FLOOR DRAIN.
38
82
Jul 31, 2015
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PLASTIC SPLASH GUARD AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINK IN POOR REPAIR, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR,
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DEBRIS/FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOORS; MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS; UNDER, BEHIND EQUIPMENT AT CORNERS AND ALONG WALLS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: SODA GUN DRAIN LINE GOING INTO EXPOSED HAND SINK IN BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE WASTE DRAIN LINE AND REROUTE LINE TO BOTTOM DRAIN LINE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: CLUTTER REAR STORAGE AREA, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND BETTER ORGANIZE WANTED ITEMS,
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING IN ILLINOIS CERTIFICATES AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION, MUST PROVIDE,
45
74
Jul 11, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOODS INSIDE COOLERS AND BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED OR DATED. INSTRUCTED TO LABLE AND DATE ALL FOODS NOT IN ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MULTI USE UTENSILS NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT UTENSILS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: THREE COMPARTMENT SINK IN BAR AREA NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PLUMBERS PUDDY AND WELD SEEMS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS AND CAN OPENER ATTACHED TO PRE TABLE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL FOOD CONTACT SURFACES.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: SODA GUN DRAINLINE GOING INTO EXPOSED HANDSINK IN BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE WASTE DRAINLINE AND REROUTE LINE TO BOTTOM DRAINLINE.
38
78
Aug 15, 2013
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: DRIED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS INSIDE DRIED FOOD STORAGE CLOSET NOT LABELED; INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT AND STAINS ON STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE THE DRIED FOOD STORAGE ROOM; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT AND REPAINT SHELVES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE ON EQUIPMENT INSIDE THE KITCHEN; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/SANITIZE; COOLERS, FREEZERS, COOKING EQUIPMENT, BOTTOM PANELS OF PREP TABLES, CAN OPENER, MICROWAVE OVEN AND EXTERIOR OF DRIED FOOD STORAGE BINS/CONTAINERS; ALSO MUST CLEAN GAS PIPES BEHIND EQUIPMENT AND REMOVE FOIL FROM SAME PIPES; AND MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD COVERING FROM EQUIPMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DEBRIS/FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOORS; MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS; UNDER, BEHIND EQUIPMENT AT CORNERS AND ALONG WALLS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: PEELING PAINT FROM WALLS AND CEILING INSIDE THE DRIED STORAGE ROOM/WALLS IN POOR REPAIR; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT, REPAIR WALLS AND REPAINT IN LIGHT COLOR. DRIED FOOD AND GREASE ON WALLS IN THE KITCHEN; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REPAINT IN LIGHT COLOR. EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD-UP ON HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN; MUST DETAIL CLEAN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUST ON GREASE TRAP AND MOP SINK AND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCETS IN POOR REPAIR, (LEAKING); INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND REPAINT GREASE TRAP AND REPAIR OR REPLACE FAUCETS.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETER FOR PREP REACH IN COOLER; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER.
40
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: CLEANING TOWELS IMPROPERLY STORED; INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORED IN AN APPROVED SANITIZER.
43
67
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Essence of India last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Essence of India on file is from Nov 19, 2025. The public record contains 16 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Essence of India?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Essence of India.
Has Essence of India's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Essence of India have averaged around four violations per visit, down from roughly eight earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Essence of India 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 Essence of India inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Essence of India is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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