Fat Albert
Last inspected: Feb 6, 2026
86
Score
Across the available record, Fat Albert has 33 inspections on file, the first dated 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Feb 6, 2026. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around five violations, down from roughly 14 violations earlier in the record.
When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited 16 times.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Fat Albert is comfortably above that bar. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
33
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 6, 2026
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: Open coffee cups for staff placed on prep table, instructed to keep off food contact surface.
6
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: Live pottery plant placed in kitchen above food prep area.
39
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: Sink stoppers in poor repair, unable to hold water in 3-comp sink, instructed to obtain good working sink stoppers.
48
86
Mar 20, 2025
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-202.12 (B-D) : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE SLOW DRAIN AT HAND SINK IN TOILET ROOM AND DRIPPING HOT WATER FAUCET AT FRONT HAND SINK.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 : MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
47
90
Mar 13, 2025
Routine
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2592086 4/3/24 NOT CORRECTED:#37-3-302.12 : MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.#41-3-304.14 : MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE ON STEAM TABLE AND COUNTER SURFACES.#47-4-501.11 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 1- DOOR PREP COOLER IN FRONT PREP AREA LID ON CHEST FREEZER IN BASEMENT IN POOR REPAIR. #47-4-101.19 : MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS. #49-4-601.11(C) : MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM STEAM TABLE,GRILL TABLE,FRYER CABINETS,OVERHEADSHELVING UNITS IN REAR PREP AREA, 2- DOOR COOLER STORAGE,WALK IN COOLER- SHELVING UNITS,COMPRESSOR UNIT.#51-5-205.15 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE MISSING SUMP PUMP LID IN BASEMENT. #55-6-501.114 : MUST ELEVATE,REMOVE AND ORGANIZE ARTICLES OFF OF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS IN BASEMENT. #55-6-501.13 : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR UNDER,AROUND AND ALONG WALL BASES THROUGHOUT PREP,DISH WASHING ,WALK IN COOLER AND BASEMENT.#55- 6-201.11 : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM WALLS & CEILING IN WALK IN COOLER AND PREP AREA/DISH WASHING AREAS.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A HOOKING SYSTEM TO HANG UP WET MOPS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED FLOOR TILE UNDER 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
55
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE SLOW DRAIN AT HAND SINK IN TOILET ROOM AND DRIPPING HOT WATER FAUCET AT FRONT HAND SINK.
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN BASEMENT AND 1ST FL NEAR REAR EXIT DOOR MUST STORE OFF OF FLOOR AND PROPER MANNER.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM BOTH MICROWAVES & EXTERIOR OF GARBAGE CANS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY FAUCET AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
51
61
Apr 3, 2024
Reinspection
14 minor violations.
View 14 violations
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 : OBSERVED MISSING AND EXPIRED FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 : OBSERVED MISSING AND EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR FOOD MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN
58
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: 2-401.11 : OBSERVED MALE EMPLOYEE CHEWING WHILE HANDLING FOODS IN FRONT PREP AREA MUST EAT IN DESIGNATED AREA AWAY FROM FOOD PREP AREA.
6
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 : MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 : MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE ON STEAM TABLE AND COUNTER SURFACES.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) : MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON OVERHEAD SHELF OF COOKING EQUIPMENT AND WHERE NEEDED.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 1- DOOR PREP COOLER IN FRONT PREP AREA AND 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA,LID ON CHEST FREEZER IN BASEMENT IN POOR REPAIR.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 : MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-102.11 : OBSERVED BREAD BAGS BEING REUSED TO STORE COOKED FOODS IN WALK IN COOLER MUST USE ONLY FOOD GRADE BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) : MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM STEAM TABLE,GRILL TABLE,INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE,FRYER CABINETS,OVERHEADSHELVING UNITS IN REAR PREP AREA, 2- DOOR COOLER STORAGE,WALK IN COOLER- SHELVING UNITS,COMPRESSOR UNIT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY OVERHEAD PIPE AND LOWER PIPES WITH A BUCKET STORED UNDERNEATH IN BASEMENT. MISSING SUMP PUMP LID IN BASEMENT.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM WALLS & CEILING IN WALK IN COOLER AND PREP AREA/DISH WASHING AREAS
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13 : MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR UNDER,AROUND AND ALONG WALL BASES THROUGHOUT PREP,DISH WASHING ,WALK IN COOLER AND BASEMENT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 : MUST ELEVATE,REMOVE AND ORGANIZE ARTICLES OFF OF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS IN BASEMENT.
55
50
Mar 27, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 17 minor violations.
View 22 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MALE EMPLOYEE RINGING THE REGISTER AND HANDLING MONEY WITH PLASTIC GLOVES ON HE WOULD CHANGE GLOVES SEVERAL TIMES THEN GOT A BAG OF HAMBURGER BUNS FROM SHELF WITH THE GLOVES ON AND NOT WASHING HANDS AFTER EVERY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION.(PRIORITY 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
8
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 50 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON OVER THE STAIRS FOOD & PAPER STORAGE AREA AND ON & BETWEEN ARTICLES AND IN LOWER VANITY OF HAND SINK IN TOILET ROOM.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 3/27/24.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICIES FOR EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN-UP POLICY PROCEDURE AND ITEMS FOR VOMITING AND DIARRHEA MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)
5
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MALE EMPLOYEE GO TO 3- COMPARTMENT SINK AND PUT SOAP IN HIS HAND TURNED ON WATER AND WASHED HANDS IN 3- COMPARTMENT SINK IN FRONT OF ME AND THE FOOD MANAGER.INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS ONLY AT DESIGNATED HAND WASHING SINKS.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
8
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MALE EMPLOYEE CHEWING WHILE HANDLING FOODS IN FRONT PREP AREA MUST EAT IN DESIGNATED AREA AWAY FROM FOOD PREP AREA.
6
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 A GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF FRONT ENTRY DOOR MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING TO PREVENT RODENT ENTRY.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE ON STEAM TABLE AND COUNTER SURFACES.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON OVERHEAD SHELF OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
44
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER CHANGING GLOVES AND NOT WASHING HANDS.
46
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BREAD BAGS BEING REUSED TO STORE COOKED FOODS IN WALK IN COOLER MUST USE ONLY FOOD GRADE BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE .
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 1- DOOR PREP COOLER IN FRONT PREP AREA AND 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA,LID ON CHEST FREEZER IN BASEMENT IN POOR REPAIR.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM STEAM TABLE,GRILL TABLE,INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE,FRYER CABINETS,OVERHEADSHELVING UNITS IN REAR PREP AREA, 2- DOOR COOLER STORAGE,WALK IN COOLER- SHELVING UNITS,COMPRESSOR UNIT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY OVERHEAD PIPE AND LOWER PIPES WITH A BUCKET STORED UNDERNEATH IN BASEMENT. MISSING SUMP PUMP LID IN BASEMENT.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN TOILET ROOM AND LOBBY.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM WALLS & CEILING IN WALK IN COOLER AND PREP AREA/DISH WASHING AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR UNDER,AROUND AND ALONG WALL BASES THROUGHOUT PREP,DISH WASHING ,WALK IN COOLER AND BASEMENT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST ELEVATE,REMOVE AND ORGANIZE ARTICLES OFF OF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS IN BASEMENT.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING AND EXPIRED FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING FOR EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING AND EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR FOOD MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
58
25
Sep 15, 2023
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE DELI MEAT SLICER AND FRENCH FRY CUTTER, DIRTY. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE IN BETWEEN USES.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR EXIT DOOR OPEN AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER IF DOOR IS LEFT OPEN, MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A SCREEN DOOR TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY POINT.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN NEED OF DEEP CLEANING TO REMOVE SPILLS, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE: INTERIOR SHELVING & FLOORS OF WALK IN COOLER, PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF PREP COOLERS AND EXTERIOR OF HOT HOLDING UNITS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAKY PIPE UNDERNEATH THE 3 COMP SINK. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FIXTURE IN THE WASHROOM DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WALLS AND FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN PREP, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FILTER IN THE REAR PREP AREA ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
70
Feb 8, 2022
Complaint
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AT FRONT HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGN AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS USED BY EMPLOYEES.
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED SPLASHGUARD ON RIGHT SIDE OF REAR HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES NOT INVERTED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INVERT ALL SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING IN PREP AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILDUP ON INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, PREP TABLES, HOLDING UNITS, COOLERS, AND FREEZERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSESRVED DAMAGED WALL AND BASEBOARDS BEHIND ICE MACHINE, STAINED CEILING TILES AND PEELING PAINT ON WALLS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WALLS AND FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN PREP, STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
56
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO EMPLOYEES AND FIVE CUSTOMERS NOT WEARING FACE COVERINGS INSIDE ESTABLISHMENT. INDIVIDUALS REGARDLESS OF VACCINATION STATUS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK SECURELY COVERING NOSE AND MOUTH WHEN INDOORS AND ANY PUBLIC PLACE. PUBLIC HEALTH ORDER 2-112-340 CITATION ISSUED
64
61
Mar 11, 2021
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOTTOM STORAGE SHELVES OF PREP TABLES, AND SHELVES INSIDE WALK IN COOLER NOT CLEAN OF DEBIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS INBASEMENT AND STAIRS TO BASEMENT NOT MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL DEBRIS. MUST MAINTAIN.
55
90
Mar 31, 2020
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14: MISSING HANDWASH SIGNAGE AT HANDWASH SINKS. INSTD TO OBTAIN SIGNAGE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11: SMALL HOLES IN CEILING AROUND PIPING AND ELECTRICAL WIRING. INSTD TO SEAL SMALL HOLES NOTED.
55
90
Mar 24, 2020
Complaint
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OVER 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR AND ALONG WALLBASE IN CORNERS. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A).
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: MISSING HANDWASH SIGNAGE AT HANDWASH SINKS. INSTD TO OBTAIN SIGNAGE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SMALL HOLES IN CEILING AROUND PIPING AND ELECTRICAL WIRING. INSTD TO SEAL SMALL HOLES NOTED.
55
82
Nov 18, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: CONTINUED NON COMPLIANCE FOR VIOLATION 58 NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST TAKE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND PROVIDE PROOF THE REQUIREMENTS WERE MET. CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED IN THE TIME FRAME SPECIFIED ON THE INSPECTION REPORT IS CLASSIFIED AS A PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090
60
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK IN THE DRAINAGE PIPE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE FOR FOOD HANDLER ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN
57
82
Dec 7, 2018
Routine
3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND COOKED AND FOODS REMOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING NOT PROPERLY LABELED IN THE WALK/REACH IN COOLERS LOCATED IN THE FRONT/REAR OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL RTE TCF FOODS THAT HAVE BEEN PREPARED AND/OR REMOVED FROM THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND WILL BE HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
23
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT A PROCEDURE AND PROVIDE ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES FOR HANDLING THESE EVENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO IMPLEMENT A POLICY IN WHICH ALL MANAGERS, FOOD/CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES ACKNOWLEDGES THEIR RESPONSIBILITIES FOR REPORTING ANY ILLNESSES TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 NO CITATION ISSUED
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK INGREDIENT CONTAINERS STORED IN THE REAR NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL. MAINTAIN SAME.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FLOORS IN THE CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND THE HEAVY EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT AND REAR WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST TAKE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND PROVIDE PROOF THE REQUIREMENTS WERE MET.
58
64
Aug 15, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PREP COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKET, TORN, LOOSE. INSTD TO REPAIR SAME.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WORN AND UNCLEAN SURFACE ON TOILET ROOM DOOR. INSTD TO PAINT, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: MISSING STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE STOPPERS.
39
86
Jun 22, 2017
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FLOORS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
34
95
Aug 19, 2016
Complaint
No violations found.
100
Jul 19, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 12, 2016
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER. OBSERVED ROAST BEEF AT 45-47F INSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 60# OF FOOD WORTH $180. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
3
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WAS NOT PROVIDED DURING THE INSPECTION. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT THE PEST CONTROL BOOK MUST BE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES DURING THE INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MAINTAIN THE FLOOR DRY IN THE BASEMENT. CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE LEAK FROM THE DRAIN LINE IN THE BASEMENT. REPAIR THE LEAKING FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
82
Jun 23, 2016
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MAINTAIN THE FLOOR DRY IN THE BASEMENT. CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE LEAK FROM THE DRAIN LINE IN THE BASEMENT. REPAIR THE LEAKING FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
90
Dec 9, 2015
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY WALK-IN COOLER STORAGE SHELVES, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST/ OR REPLACE.
32
95
Jan 29, 2015
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: PIZZA NOT PROTECTED DURING PREPARATION, COOKS PLASTIC WRAPPED PIZZA IN MICROWAVE, WHICH CAUSES IT TO MELT ON PIZZA. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A SERIOUS. INSTD TO REMOVE PLASTIC WRAP PRIOR TO COOKING AND DISCUSSED WITH OWNER ON PROPER TECHNIQUES FOR COOKING PIZZA.
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS PITTED, WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES. INSTD TO REPAIR/REPLACE SAME AND MAINTAIN. RUSTY SURFACES ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLES AND WIRE STORAGE RACKS. REMOVE RUSTY SURFACES. PROVIDE SPLASHGUARD INBETWEEN HANDSINK AND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: VENT COVER AND SURROUNDING CEILING TILES IN REAR NOT CLEAN, DUST ACCUMULATION. CLEAN SAME. TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT CLEAN AND WORN SURFACES. INSTD TO CLEAN AND PAINT SAME.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: STOPPERS IN POOR REPAIR FOR 3-COMPARMENT SINK. INSDT TO REPLACE STOPPERS AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS NOT MET. NO RECORDS, LOGS ON FILE. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER REQUIREMENTS.
45
78
Nov 14, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN CHEST FREEZERS HAS SOME ICE BUILDUP INSIDE THEM LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT ALONG THE WALLS AND IN THE CORNERS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE FAUCET AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IS DRIPPING WATER WHEN WATER IS OF. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IT.
38
86
Jan 10, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOLERS, FRYER CABINETS, COOKING EQUIPMENT. DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN CHEST FREEZERS HAS ICE BUILDUP INSIDE THEM LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL THE HEAVY EQUIPMENT IST FLOOR AND CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT ALONG THE WALLS AND IN THE CORNERS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE FAUCET AT THE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK SPRAYS WATER ALL OVER WHEN THE WATER IS ON . MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE IT.
38
86
Mar 26, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: NOTED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD, TWO DOZEN EGGS, IN PREP COOLER AT 57.2 DEGREES F. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DENATURED AND DISPOSED OF EGGS. APPROX. COST $3.00, WT. 4LBS. MUST MAINTAIN AT PROPER TEMPERATURE, 40 DEGREES F. OR BELOW. PREP COOLER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE AT 39.5 DEGREES. CRITICAL VIOLATION, 7-38-005(A).
3
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE CAN OPENER AGAINST WALL OF FOOD BUILD-UP AT REAR. MUST CLEAN.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE FOLLOWING; MEAT SLICER AND KNIVES/KNIFE RACK AT REAR. MUST CLEAN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS; UNDER MEAT SLICER AT REAR, IN PREP AREA AROUND HEAVY EQUIPMENT AND IN BASEMENT UNDER SHELVING. MUST CLEAN.
34
82
Mar 2, 2012
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MISSING COVER FOR FRONT ICE BIN. PROVIDE SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: UNDERNEATH STORAGE SHELF NEXT TO COOKING LINE NOT CLEAN, EXCESSIVE GREASE. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: DOOR LEADING TO PREP AREA AND TOILET ROOM DOOR NOT CLEAN. CLEAN AND PAINT SAME.
35
86
Dec 12, 2011
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
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. CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOLERS, FREEZERS, FRYER CABINETS, COOKING EQUIPMENT
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. CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT (GREASE SPILLS).
34
90
Sep 22, 2011
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
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. CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOLERS, FREEZERS, FRYER CABINETS, COOKING EQUIPMENT
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. CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT (GREASE SPILLS).
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKING OVERHEAD PIPE IN BASEMENT.
38
86
Apr 21, 2011
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 5, 2011
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
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. INSTALL EXPOSED SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER, SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTALL UTILITY SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER AND BACK FLOW DEVICE FOR PROPER WASTE WATER DISPOSAL.
38
95
Mar 14, 2011
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
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. CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL PREP TABLES UNDER GRILL, FRYERS, STEAM TABLES, ETC.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. FLOORS NEED CLEANING UNDER ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AREA AND LOBBY (CIGARETTE BUTTS).
34
90
Feb 23, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
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. CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL PREP TABLES UNDER GRILL, FRYERS, STEAM TABLES, ETC.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. FLOORS NEED CLEANING UNDER ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AREA.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAK UNDER FRONT 3-COMP SINK AND LEAKING FAUCET ON REAR 3-COMP SINK.
38
86
Aug 10, 2010
Tag Removal
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN BASEMENT.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXTEND WASTE LINE TO FLOOR DRAIN IN BASEMENT.
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. ORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA.
41
86
Aug 2, 2010
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities. IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF PREP COOLER 55.6F INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR COOLER MUST MAINTAIN 40F OR BELOW. COOLER IS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A CITATION ISSUED H64465
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less. IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF RAW EGGS 56.3F, COOKED CHICKEN 54.7F, FISH 67.4F, SAUSAGE 55.3F STORED IN PREP COOLER INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD 25LBS APPROXIMATELY $50. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A CITATION ISSUED H64465
3
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 NEED CLEANING IN BASEMENT (STANDING WATER)
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXTEND WASTE LINE TO FLOOR DRAIN IN BASEMENT.
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. ORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA.
41
78
Jan 28, 2010
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
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. REPAIR WEST WALL IN REAR STORAGE AREA NEAR EXIT DOOR (PEELING PAINT). WALLS NEED CLEANING BEHIND SLICER(FOOD DEBRIS). CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS AND TILES (DUST BUILDUP). INSTALL SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN EXPOSED SINK AND PREP TABLE.
35
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. REMOVE LITTER CARDBOARD BOXES, ETC OUTSIDE REAR DOOR.
41
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Fat Albert last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Fat Albert on file is from Feb 6, 2026. The public record contains 33 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Fat Albert?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 16 times, more than any other issue at Fat Albert.
Has Fat Albert's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Fat Albert have averaged around five violations per visit, down from roughly 14 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Fat Albert 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 Fat Albert inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Fat Albert is inspected around two times per year on average.
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