Flaco's Tacos
Last inspected: Mar 4, 2026
90
Score
Inspectors have visited Flaco's Tacos 27 times, with records going back to 2010. Flaco's Tacos was last inspected on Mar 4, 2026. A low risk rating suggests inspectors haven't found much to be concerned about lately.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around seven violations to closer to one violation per visit.
When inspectors have written things up, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been the most frequent reason, cited nine times.
The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting Flaco's Tacos on the better side of that line. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 4, 2026
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED AND STAINED CUTTING BOARDS
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN ACCUMULATION OF GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE BOTH FRYER CABINETS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
49
90
Jul 14, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE NOT SANITIZING 0PPM CHLORINE.PRIORITY VIOLATION.CITATION ISSUED.7-38-025.TAGGED DISHMACHINE.
16
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT.MUST PROVIDE.
40
82
Feb 6, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 30, 2024
Routine
4 critical violations. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND MEN'S TOILET ROOM HANDWASHING SINK WATER TEMPERATURE AT 74.7 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A MINIMUM HOT WATER TEMPERATURE OF 100F AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE INADEQUATELY SANITIZING DISHES AT 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO ADEQUATELY SANITIZE DISHES PER MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS. LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO NO LONGER USE DISH MACHINE UNTIL IT IS RE-INSPECTED BY CDPH AND AT AN ADEQUATE SANITIZING SOLUTION PER MANUFACTURES' INSTRUCTIONS. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED. -
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN, SALSA) AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 49F - 50 F LOCATED IN THE REACH IN COOLER, WALK IN COOLER AND STORED IN FOOD PREP AREA. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDS AND DENATURES ALL SAID TCS FOODS, APPROX 90 LBS $300. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN A MINIMUM COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REACH IN COOLER AT AN IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 53F AT TIME OF INSPECTION. REACH IN COOLER TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD ALL TCS FOODS AND NOT USE REACH IN COOLER. UNTIL IT MAINTAINS A COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR BELOW AND IS RE-INSPECTED BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND WASHING SINK BLOCKED BY 2 CASES OF CILANTRO. HANDWASHING SINK INACCESSIBLE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS MAKE HAND WASHING SINK ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES TO ALLOW FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-030(C).CITATION ISSUED
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDWASHING SINK LOCATED IN CUSTOMER/EMPLOYEE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. HANDWASHING SIGNAGE MUST BE POSTED AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER AND HANDLE BEING STORED DIRECTLY IN THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER STORAGE CONTAINER FOR ICE SCOOPER AND TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
16
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND ALL SHELVING INSIDE WALK IN COOLER FILLED WITH MOLD LIKE SUBSTANCE. ALSO NOTED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DUST ON ALL SHELVES LOCATED IN WALK IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FOOD DEBRIS LOCATED ON ALL FLOORS THROUGHOUT FACILITY BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
41
Oct 3, 2023
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE PROVIDED FOR THE CIP EQUIPMENT (MARGARITA MACHINE). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE OR PROVIDE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
86
Sep 25, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111 OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON SITE. OBSERVED ABOUT 30 RAT DROPPINGS LOCATED AROUND THE HOT WATER HEATER IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE RODENT ACTIVITY, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR A SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020(A).
38
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED STANDING WATER BEHIND THE ICE MACHINE. OBSERVED EXCESSIVE FOOD AND GREASE DEBRIS IN THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYERS. OBSERVED A BLACK SUBSTANCE ON THE WALL AROUND THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL.
55
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN LOCATED AT THE HAND WASHING SINKS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA AND IN THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11 OBSERVED A SLIGHT PINKISH SUBSTANCE ON THE INTERIOR PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.13 OBSERVED AN INSECT CONTROL LIGHT MOUNTED ON THE WALL AND EMPTY CONTAINERS BEING STORED UNDERNEATH THE INSECT CONTROL DEVICE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CONTAINERS AND DO NOT STORE ANYTHING UNDER THE INSECT CONTROL DEVICE.
38
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11 OBSERVED A MALE FOOD HANDLER WITHOUT A HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
40
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-603.15 OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE PROVIDED FOR THE CIP EQUIPMENT (MARGARITA MACHINE). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE OR PROVIDE.
51
61
Aug 31, 2022
Recent Inspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 MANAGER ON DUTY AT TIME OF ARRIVAL HAS EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MEET REQUIREMENTS.
58
95
Jun 29, 2022
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STEAK IN 2 DOOR COOLER HELD AT INADEQUATE TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 49-57 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL COLD FOODS ARE HELD AT 41 F OR BELOW. MANAGER DISCARDED 140 POUNDS OF STEAK AND 11 POUNDS OF BARBACOA ($630). PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 DOOR COOLER WITH AN INTERNAL AIR TEMPERATURE OF 60 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL COOLERS HAVE AN INTERNAL AIR TEMPERATURE OF 41 F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A POT OF FOOD BEING MIXED ON FLOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MOVE POT TO COUNTERTOP FOR MIXING.
39
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: MANAGER ON DUTY AT TIME OF ARRIVAL HAS EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MEET REQUIREMENTS.
58
61
May 24, 2021
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12 UNABLE TO LOCATE THE BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED MINOR LEAK UNDER THE RIGHT COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE REAR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE INSIDE OF THE WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
86
Jan 31, 2020
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CHEMICAL SANITZER READING AT LOW TEMP DISH WASHER; MUST CORRECT. CHEMICAL SANITIZER MUST READ AT 100 PPM AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025 ISSUED. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION.
16
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: CLEAN UP KIT ON PREMISES EXPIRED ON 8/2019 INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN ANOTHER CLEAN UP KIT FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF GRILL, FRYER AND STOVE; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CLEAN INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION UNITS WHERE NEEDED.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT, THREE COMP SINK AND BEHIND DISHWASHER. SOME CEILING VENTS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED IN KITCEN; CLEAN VENTS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A HOLE IN THE WALL UNDERNEATH THE THREE COMP SINK; SEAL HOLE UNDERNEATH SINK.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN VENTS IN HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
64
Jun 13, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 major violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TIME TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (PORK, RICE) AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES LOCATED IN 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN SECOND FOOD PREPARATION AREA AT TIME OF INSPECTION ; 25 LBS OF COOKED PORK STORED IN 6 INCH DEEP PAN AT A TEMPERATURE OF 92 F, 90 LBS OF COOKED RICE AT A TEMPERATURE OF 100F STORED IN 6 INCH DEEP PANS. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD AND DENATURE ALL SAID TCS FOODS AND ALWAYS MAINTAIN ALL COLD HOLDING TCS FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER DISCARDED ALL SAID TCS FOODS, COST OF ALL FOODS $125. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS ( PICO DE GALLO , COOKED CHICKEN) HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITH OUT DISCARD DATE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE DISCARD DATE FOR ANY TCS FOODS HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7.38.010.NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE OR MATERIALS TO CLEAN UP SAID INCIDENT. FACILITY MUST PROVIDE PROCEDURES AND MATERIALS FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW AND USE WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
64
Apr 26, 2018
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MINOR ACCUMULATED DUST ON THE VENT LOCATED ABOVE THE PREP TABLE IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
95
Mar 15, 2018
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF THE FRYER WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND GREASE DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLACK SUBSTANCE ON THE WALL LOCATED BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST ON THE FANS LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED MINOR DUST AND GREASE DEBRIS ON THE VENTS LOCATED ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL SAID AREAS AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED A HOLE IN THE WALL LOCATED UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD LOCATED ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
36
86
Mar 8, 2018
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GREASE DUMPSTER LID NOT MAINTAINED WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE ON TOP OF THE OUTSIDE GREASE DUMPSTER LID. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF THE FRYER WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND GREASE DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLACK SUBSTANCE ON THE WALL LOCATED BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST ON THE FANS LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED MINOR DUST AND GREASE DEBRIS ON THE VENTS LOCATED ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL SAID AREAS AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED A HOLE IN THE WALL LOCATED UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD LOCATED ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
36
82
Apr 6, 2017
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYERS WITH DIRT, GREASE AND FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN THE AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FLOOR DRAINS AND THE FLOORS IN THE CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND THE HEAVY EQUIPMENT WITH FOOD AND DIRT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND THE WALLS AND CEILING IN THE FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH DIRT, DUST AND FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS AND CEILINGS. MAINTAIN SAME.
35
86
Mar 30, 2017
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FLOOR DRAINS AND THE FLOORS IN THE CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND THE HEAVY EQUIPMENT WITH FOOD AND DIRT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND THE WALLS AND CEILING IN THE FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH DIRT, DUST AND FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS AND CEILINGS. MAINTAIN SAME.
35
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES: OBSERVED A FEMALE FOOD HANDLER STIRRING FOOD ON THE STOVE, PUTTING HER FINGERS IN HER MOUTH, TOUCHING HER CELL PHONE AND STILL COOKING. ANOTHER FOOD HANDLER PUT ON GLOVES WITHOUT WASHING HER HANDS AND STARTED HANDLING FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS WASH THEIR HANDS WHEN TOUCHING THE BODY, HANDLING MONEY, MULTI-TASKING, ETC. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-010 (A)
6
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FRONT DOOR NOT RODENT/INSECT PROOFED, 1/4" GAP NOTED. ALSO, FOUND 25 SMALL LIVE FLIES IN THE REAR PREP AREA ON THE WALLS/CEILING BY THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, REAR DOOR AND DESK. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT/INSECT PROOOF FRONT DOOR, ELIMINATE FLIES, CLEAN THE AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR ASSISTANCE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY RACKS OBSERVED INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE RUST. MAINTAIN SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYERS WITH DIRT, GREASE AND FOOD BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN THE AREA.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE PLASTIC CONTAINERS AND STAINLESS STEEL POTS TOO BIG TO BE FULLY SUBMERGED INTO THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK OR TO FIT IN THE DISH WASHING MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER GET A LARGER SINK OR DISH MACHINE OR REMOVE LARGE ITEMS FROM THE PREMISES.
38
70
Oct 18, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: Potentially hazardous foods stored at improper temperature, found 20 lbs of cooked rice stored in a large deep container at 57.3f at center, rice stored in walk-in cooler a day before, instructed to cool down food properly and hold at 40f or lower. critical citation issued 7-38-005(A) food discarded valued at $150.
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: food trays stored improperly, instructed to store inverted to prevent dust and debris contamination..
30
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: ceiling vent with dust build-up in kitchen prep area, instructed to clean and maintain.
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: food handlers with beard not wearing beard restraint, instructed to wear.
42
82
Mar 21, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH WASHING MACHINE WITH NO SANITIZER AT FINAL RINSE, MACHINE BEING USED DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MGR TO PROVIDE PROPER SANITIZER CONCENTRATION. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
8
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: IMPROPER STORAGE OF DISPOSABLE FOOD CONTAINERS, INSTRUCTED TO STORE INVERTED TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
31
90
Jun 25, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN, BEEF, PORK, AND COOKED BEANS) ARE BEING SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SANITATION MANAGER AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE HANDLED AND/OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING VENTS AND CEILING TILES OVER THE PREP AREA WITH ACCUMULATED DUST. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL CEILING VENTS AND CEILING TILES.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLOWN LIGHT BULB AND BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD OVER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE PREP AREA AND A BLOWN LIGHT BULB UNDER THE HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITHOUT PROOF OF STATE APPROVED FOOD HANDLER EDUCATION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF STATE APPROVED FOOD HANDLER EDUCATION.
45
82
Dec 15, 2014
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. FLOORS IN WALK IN COOLER IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
34
95
May 15, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR AROUND DISH AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT TIMES.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: AIR VENTS IN PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DUST BUILD UP. AIR VENTS IN WALK IN COOLER IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
90
Apr 4, 2013
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 28, 2013
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND (43) LIVE SMALL FLIES IN THE REAR PREP AREA. ALSO, REAR EXIT DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED-1" GAP NOTED AT LEFT SIDE BOTTOM OF DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE LIVE SMALL FLIES, CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS, RODENT PROOF REAR DOOR AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR ASSISTANCE IN ELIMINATING SMALL FLIES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN FREEZER IN THE PREP AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR/EXTERIOR OF ALL FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS IN CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUCH DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE WALLS AROUND THE 3-COMP SINK AND COOKING EQUIPMENT.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE MOPS HANGING UP TO PROPERLY AIR DRY WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
74
Aug 17, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK FOOD NOT LABELED.(BEANS,FLOUR,ETC.)
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY ON SHELVING UNITS. MUST STORE INVERTED.
31
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND CLUTTER STORED ON SHELVING UNITS.(HELMETS, WASHCLOTHS,ETC.)
41
86
Dec 8, 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. OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE UNUSED REACH IN COOLER UNDER GRILL. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF COOLER.
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. OBSERVED FOOD/DIRT BUILD UP ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR IN PREP AREA.
34
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. NO THERMOMETER INSIDE HOT SAUCE REACH IN COOLER(BY FRONT COUNTER). MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETER FOR COOLER.
40
86
May 17, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. WALK IN COOLER AND PREP REACH IN COOLER(BY COOKLINE)RUBBER DOOR GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR GASKETS.
32
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. OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDER AND AROUND MARGARITA MACHINE AND INSIDE FLOOR DRAINS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINATAIN FLOOR AND INTERIOR OF FLOOR DRAINS.
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. OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON PREP CEILING TILES AND VENTILATION COVER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING TILES/VENTILATION COVER.
35
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. 2-COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET, MENS WASHROOM FAUCET AND MOP SINK FAUCET LEAKING. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS.
38
82
Nov 15, 2010
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOOR DRAIN NOT CLEAN BY 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Found unnecessary clutter stored on shelvng units.(personal items,shoes etc.)
41
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Flaco's Tacos last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Flaco's Tacos on file is from Mar 4, 2026. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Flaco's Tacos?
Across the inspection record, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Flaco's Tacos.
Has Flaco's Tacos' inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Flaco's Tacos have averaged around one violation per visit, down from roughly seven earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Flaco's Tacos 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 Flaco's Tacos inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Flaco's Tacos is inspected around two times per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants