Fontano Foods

1058 W Polk St, Chicago, IL 60607
Grocery / Market
Last inspected: Jul 25, 2025
70
Score
Medium Risk

Fontano Foods appears in inspection records 21 times, starting in 2010. The most recent visit was on Jul 25, 2025. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.

Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near five violations per visit.

“Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” comes up most often, recorded nine times in the inspection record.

The city-wide average sits at 81, which Fontano Foods' 70 doesn't quite reach. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.

21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
2
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 25, 2025
Routine
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES WERE PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES TO RESPOND TO A VOMIT OR DIARRHEAL EVENT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES IN PUBLIC VIEW. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN THE PUBLIC VIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B). CITATION ISSUED.
61
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER LABELING OF PREPACKAGED POPCORN AND OIL. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL PREPACKAGED FOODS WITH AN INGREDIENT LIST, NET CONTENTS AND NAME AND ADDRESS OF PLACE OF MANUFACTURE.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE WALLS OF THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA WHERE THE OVEN IS LOCATED.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE LIGHTING PROVIDED IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AND DRY STORAGE ARE WHERE THE OVEN IS LOCATED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING IN ALL AREAS WHERE FOOD IS PREPARED.
56
70
Mar 11, 2024
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11 OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS PREPPING FOOD WITHOUT HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT.
40
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-903.11(A;C) OBSERVED A SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLE STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE FURNACE ROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND STORE IN REAR STORAGE AREA AND ELEVATE SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 4-903.11(A;C) OBSERVED A SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLE STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE FURNACE ROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND STORE IN REAR STORAGE AREA AND ELEVATE SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR.
55
86
Mar 8, 2024
Complaint
2 critical violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER TOUCH READY-TO-EAT FOOD (SLICING CHEESE AND LUNCHMEAT) WITH BARE HAND. FOOD EMPLOYEES MAY NOT CONTACT EXPOSED, READY-TO-EAT FOOD WITH THEIR BARE HANDS AND SHALL USE SUITABLE UTENSILS SUCH AS DELI TISSUE, SPATULAS, TONGS, SINGLE-USE GLOVES, OR DISPENSING EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
9
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: "NOTED IMPROPER COLD-HOLD TEMPERATURE OF 50F AT DELI COLD HOLDING UNIT. INFORMED ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS SHALL MAINTAIN A PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. THE REFRIGERATOR UNIT MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH (CDPH). PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: "OBSERVED LOOSE DEBRIS, DIRT, AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY OF FLOORS. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. "
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS PREPPING FOOD WITHOUT HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT.
40
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLE STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE FURNACE ROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND STORE IN REAR STORAGE AREA AND ELEVATE SIX INCHES FROM FLOOR.
45
61
Mar 23, 2023
Complaint
1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HANDWASHING SINK LOCATED NEXT TO THE OVEN IN THE REAR PREP ROOM WAS NOT ACCESSIBLE. THE HANDWASHING SINK WAS COVERED WITH A LARGE PLASTIC CRATE COVERING THE SINK BASIN AND HANDLES. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE ALL HANDWASHING SINKS ACCESSIBLE AND MAINTAINED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(c). CONSOLIDATED WITH THE ABOVE CITATION. MANAGEMENT REMOVED THE CRATE FROM THE SINK.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS IN THE CUSTOMER WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH A HAND DRYING PROVISION. MUST PROVIDE. 7-38-030(c). CITATION ISSUED. PAPER TOWELS ARE NOW PROVIDED AT SAID SINK.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER INSIDE THE DELI MEAT DISPLAY COOLER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY READABLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS TO MONITOR THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT PROPERLY.
36
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS ON THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING USED AS A SHELF LINER ON THE BOTTOM SHELVES OF TABLES THROUGHOUT THE DISH/PREP AREAS. MUST REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD CURRENTLY BEING USED AS SHELF LINERS AND PROVIDE SURFACES NON-ABSORBENT AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE AND DIRT BUILD UP ON THE MEATL SHELVING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER, ON THE FAUCET AND SPRAYER ARM ATTACHED TO THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK, AND ON THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER GASKETS AND DOOR HINGES. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE UNISEX CUSTOMER OR UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOMS. IT MUST PROVIDE IN EACH WASHROOM AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR MATS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE FLOOR COVERINGS THAT ARE A NON-ABSORBENT, NON-CORROSIVE, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A THICK LAYER OF GREASE COVERING THE FLOOR SURROUNDING THE GREASE TRAP, AS WELL AS ON THE COVER THAT IS PLACED OVER THE GREASE TRAP. MUST REMOVE GREASE BUILD UP FROM SAID AREAS, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES TO BE EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL EMPLOYEES WHO PREPARE OR HANDLE FOOD MUST PROVIDE A VALID CERTIFICATE AND KEEP IT ON SITE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES TO BE EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGERS MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND KEEP NON-EXPIRED CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
58
55
Jun 6, 2022
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PACKAGED RAW MEAT FOR CUSTOMER SELF SERVICE WITHOUT A LABEL. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL WITH Identity (name of food), Net Quantity of Contents, Ingredient List, Major Food Allergens, Business Name and Address, Nutrition Facts (if applicable), Safe Handling Instructions (applicable to raw Meat and Poultry.
37
95
Sep 3, 2020
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE DISHWASHING AREA AROUND AND UNDER THE THREE COMP SINK AND OTHER EQUIPMENT IN THAT AREA.
55
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACE OF THE COVER ON TOP OF THE GREASE RECEPTOR AT THE THREE COMP SINK.
49
90
Nov 5, 2019
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN PREP AREA WHERE COOKING OVEN AND FREEZERS ARE STORED. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL OTHER PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENTS.
58
90
Nov 1, 2019
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HANDSINK LOCATED IN REAR PREP AREA NEXT TO 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITH NO HOT RUNNING WATER. HANDSINK NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HOT RUNNING WATER AT LEAST 100F AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-030 (C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE THE COLD-HOLD UNITS OF PREP COOLER LOCATED BEHIND THE SANDWICH SERVICE LINE @ IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES. THEY ARE AS FOLLOWS... 10LBS OF CHOPPED TOMATOES @48.4F, 8 LBS TUNA @49.0F,5 LBS OF SLICED SALAMI @47.0F , 5 LBS SLICED CHEESE @49.9F, AND 5 LBS OF READY TO EAT COLESLAW @48.0F . MANAGER DISCARDED ALL SAID ITEMS DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE ALL COLD HELD ITEMS @ 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOODS (DELI MEATS, TOMATOES, MEATBALLS, CHICKEN ) NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE PRODUCT'S NAME AND DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE SOLD, DISCARDED OR CONSUMED WITHIN 7 DAYS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING AND DISCARD DATE FOR REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS PLACED IN ALL COLD-HOLDING UNITS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GRAB & GO FOOD ITEMS ON DISPLAY NOT PROPERLY LABELED (COLESLAW, POTATO SALAD, PASTA SALAD, PUDDINGS ETC.). INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS WITH IDENTITY, NET WEIGHT, INGREDIENTS, LIST MAJOR ALLERGENS, BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS WHERE MADE AND PACKAGED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITHOUT PROPER HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE PREPPING AND HANDLING FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
40
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN PREP AREA WHERE COOKING OVEN AND FREEZERS ARE STORED. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ALL OTHER PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENTS.
58
52
Mar 6, 2018
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS IN REAR PREP AREA WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING. ALSO, PUT INGREDIENT LABELS AND SELL BY DATES ON ALL DESSERTS SOLD AT THE FRONT COUNTER.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM STORAGE RACKS IN WALK-IN COOLER, AND REPALCE BROKEN DOOR GASKET ON SAID COOLER. DISCONTINUE USING SODA AND MILK CRATES AS STORAGE RACKS THROUGHOUT PREP AREA, PROVIDE CORRECT RACKS FOR FOOD STORAGE. PAINT OR STAIN RAW WOOD SHELVES IN REAR DRY STORAGE ROOM.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED DEBRIS FROM FLOORS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, STAFF TOILET ROOM IN REAR, ALSO, FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER IS IN NEED OF REPAIRS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR MISSING CEILING TILES IN STAFF TOILET ROOM IN REAR. CLEAN EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION FROM FAN GUARDS IN WALK-IN COOLER BEHIND SERVICE COUNTER.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR SLOW DRAIN AT EXPOSED HAND SINK IN REAR PREP NEXT TO 3-COMP SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST ORGANIZE OR REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THROUGHOUT REAR STORAGE AREA AND OFFICE. ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE. ALSO, STORE STAFF PERSONAL ITEMS IN DESIGNATED AREA, NOT IN PREP AREAS.
41
74
Jun 13, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BASEMENT AREA FLOOR NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DAILY,
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ORGANIZE STORAGE CLOSETS FIRST FLOOR, ALL ARTICLES MUST BE ELEVATED 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. ELIMINATE CLUTTER IN OFFICE/STORAGE AREA,
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Any food handler working in the City of Chicago, unless that person has a valid Food Service Sanitation Manager Certificate is required to meet the food handler training requirement. If someone working in a facility that is not a food handler on a regular basis, but fills in as a food handler when needed, they too must have food handler training.
45
86
Nov 30, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CONDENSOR LEAKING AT INTERIOR BOTTOM OF PREP COOLER CAUSING WATER ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXPOSED HANDSINK IN MEAT PREP AREA LOOSE FROM WALL. INSTD TO REPAIR AND HAVE TIGHT FITTING. LEAK AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET. REPAIR SAME.
38
90
Mar 11, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SHELF LINING ON STORAGE SHELF UNIT ACROSS FROM 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME AND PAINT RUSTY SURFACES UNDERNEATH. CONDENSOR LINE LEAKING IN PREP COOLER. INSTD TO REPAIR SAME. CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES, AND OPEN SEAMS IN MEAT PREP AREA. INSTD TO MAINTAIN CUTTING BOARDS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR AROUND GREASE INTERCEPTOR NOT CLEAN, EXCESSIVE DEBRIS. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MISSING WALL TILE BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. REPLACE SAME. BOTH SIDES OF DOOR LEADING TO STORAGE ROOM IN REAR 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: STOPPER GASKETS OF 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN POOR REPAIR. INSTD TO REPAIR SAME.
38
82
Oct 6, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED FOODS AND FOODS REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL CONTAINERS AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE LABELED AND DATED.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT INTERIOR PANEL OF WALK-IN COOLER DOOR AND FLOOR.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: IN REAR PIZZA PREP AREA(0VEN,SINKS, AND PREP TABLES).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG THE BASES OF TH WALLS, IN CORNERS, UNDERNEATH AND BEHIND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT ALL AREAS INCLUDING BASEMENT(DIRT, DEBRIS NOTED).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPAIR WALL UNDERNEATH KNIFE RACK AND BASEBOARD UNDERNEATH EXPOSED HAND SINK BOTH IN FRONT FOOD PREP AREA. CLEAN WALLS THROUGHOUT ALL PREP AND STORAGE AREAS CLEAN ALL DUST BUILD-UP ROM CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT. ON FIRST FLOOR(STAINS, FOOD SPLATTERS, DIRT, DUST).
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ORGANIZE STORAGE CLOSETS ON FIRST FLOOR, ALL ARTICLES MUST BE ELEVATED 6 INCHES OFF THW FLOOR. ELIMINATE CLUTTER IN OFFICE/STORAGE AREA.
41
70
Aug 12, 2014
Reinspection
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: REMOVE SOILED MULTI-USE UTENSILS FROM PREP TABLES AND CUTTING BOARDS AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AS NEEDED.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SEPARATION BETWEEN THE END OF THE FRONT PREP AREA AND THE CUSTOMER SERVICE AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WINDOW SILLS IN DINING AREA AND IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA. MUST REMOVE DEAD FLIES AND OTHER INSECTS. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN COOLERS.PREP TABLES,CUTTING BOARD,COUNTER TOPS AND SINKS AND REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST ALSO CLEAN THE SINK, TOILET AND ALL DIRTY SURFACES IN REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE BLACK RESIDUE AND DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS IN THE MEAT SLICING AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AND CEILINGS IN ALL PREP AREAS. MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT THE REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BROKEN WATER LINE IN BASEMENT AND REMOVE LEAKS
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN THE BASEMENT AND BETTER ORGANIZE REMAINING ITEMS. MUST STORE ALL ITEMS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
41
67
Aug 5, 2014
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: DISH WASHING FACILITIES IN POOR REPAIR. THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET SPOUT IS MISSING. NOTED WATER SHOOTING FROM OPENING WHERE THE FAUCET SHOULD BE LOCATED WHEN THE WATER TURNER ON AT THE SINK. INSTRUCTED OWNER TO REPAIR FAUCET SPOUT. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030
24
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: REMOVE SOILED MULTI-USE UTENSILS FROM PREP TABLES AND CUTTING BOARDS AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AS NEEDED.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SEPARATION BETWEEN THE END OF THE FRONT PREP AREA AND THE CUSTOMER SERVICE AREA. MUST ALSO EXTEND THE BARRIER ALONG THE PREP TABLE AT THE END OF THE LARGE DISPLAY COOLER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WINDOW SILLS IN DINING AREA AND IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA. MUST REMOVE DEAD FLIES AND OTHER INSECTS. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN COOLERS.PREP TABLES,CUTTING BOARD,COUNTER TOPS AND SINKS AND REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST ALSO CLEAN THE SINK, TOILET AND ALL DIRTY SURFACES IN REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE BLACK RESIDUE AND DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS IN THE MEAT SLICING AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AND CEILINGS IN ALL PREP AREAS. MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE MORE ADEQUATE LIGHTING IN THE REAR DISHWASHING AREA.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT THE REAR EMPLOYEE WASHROOM DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BROKEN WATER LINE IN BASEMENT AND REMOVE LEAKS. MUST ALSO REPAIR HEAVY LEAK UNDER THE HAND SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN THE BASEMENT AND BETTER ORGANIZE REMAINING ITEMS. MUST STORE ALL ITEMS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
41
61
Mar 25, 2013
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE FOOD PROTECTION, FOUND A VACUUM PACKAGING MACHINE IN PREMISES WITHOUT STATE NOR CITY APPROVAL, FOUND 20LBS OF ROASTED PORK IN VACUUM PACKAGED BAGS, 10 LBS OF COOKED MEAT BALL TOO THAT WAS VACUUM PACKGED ON SITE. INSTRUCTED MGR NOT TO USE MACHINE, MACHINE TAGGED. MUST CONTAC CDPH FOR FURTHER INQUIRIES. FOOD ITEMS DISCARDED VALUED AT $30.
16
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: 3-COMP SINK FAUCET IN POOR REPAIR, WEAK PRESSURE, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE UNDER CITY PRESSURE.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: MUST HAVE FOOD HANDLERS WEARING PROPER HAIR RESTRAINT.
42
86
Aug 17, 2012
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR DAMAGED, CRACKED AND CURLED UP FLOOR AT REAR HALLWAY LEADING TO EXIT DOOR.MUST PROVIDE RACKS AT WALK-IN COOLER TO ELEVATE ITEMS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE MISSING AND WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES AT REAR STAFF RESTROOM.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SELF-CLOSING DEVICES AT BOTH CUSTOMER AND STAFF RESTROOMS.
37
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS AT ALL FREEZERS AND COOLERS ON PREMISES AT ALL TIMES.
40
82
Aug 11, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 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. THE WOOD RISER UNDER THE MEAT GRINDER IS UNSANITARY, REMOVE UNSANITARY OLD WOOD AND REPLACE WITH A SMOOTH AND SANITARY SURFACE.
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. THE BASEBOARD UNDER THE FRONT SANDWICH IS DAMAGED AND NEEDS TO BE REPAIRED. THE FLOORS ARE DIRTY AROUND THE BACK ROOM, CLEAN THE FLOORS AND MAINTAIN THEM. THE BASEMENT FLOORS ARE DIRTY CLEAN THE FLOORS.
34
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. THE BASEMENT HAS UNECESSARY CLUTTER, CLEAN OUT THE BASEMENT.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: A FOOD HANDLER WAS PREPARING GROUND BEEF WITHOUT A HAIR NET. All employees shall be required to use effective hair restraints to confine hair.
42
82
Nov 29, 2010
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 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. Clean the stained cutting board in the rear prep area.
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. The floor under the deli prep table needs to be cleaned and damaged tiles repaired under said table and under the 3-compartment sink.
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. Clean the stained ceiling in the rear prep area.
35
86
Sep 29, 2010
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Repair the damaged baseboards along the sandwich prep line. Repair the gap in the floor behind the deli case.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Fill in the gaps in the paneling.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Repair the basement sink (unused)drain where it leaks. Install an exposed handsink easily accessable ot the rear prep area.
38
86
Aug 16, 2010
Complaint
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. Clean and maintain the floors and baseboards so they are smooth and sanitary from corner to corner. Repair the damaged baseboards along the sandwich prep line. Repair the gap in the floor behind the deli case.
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. Clean and maintain the walls and ceilings so they are smooth and sanitary from top to bottom. Fill in the gaps in the paneling.
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. Repair the basement sink (unused)drain where it leaks. Install an exposed handsink easily accessable ot the rear prep area.
38
86

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Fontano Foods last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Fontano Foods on file is from Jul 25, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Fontano Foods?

Across the inspection record, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Fontano Foods.

Has Fontano Foods' inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Fontano Foods have averaged around five violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a medium risk rating mean?

A medium risk rating at Fontano Foods 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 Fontano Foods inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Fontano Foods is inspected roughly once per year on average.