Gao's Kabob
Last inspected: Oct 3, 2025
39
Score
Across the available record, Gao's Kabob has 13 inspections on file, the first dated 2018. On Oct 3, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. High risk usually means inspectors flagged either critical violations or a stack of smaller ones.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near nine violations per visit.
The most common issue across all inspections has been “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, showing up 10 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. This restaurant has more on its record than most do.
13
Inspections
1
Critical latest
5
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Oct 3, 2025
Complaint
1 critical violation. 5 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA, SUCH AS 30LBS OF CHICKEN AT 75.5F. MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED A TOTAL 30LBS AT $200. ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
Required records available: shellstock tags, parasite destruction
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SHELLSTOCK TAG ATTACHED TO CONTAINERS OF OYSTERS, LOCATED IN KITCHEN TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR. AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INFORMED MANAGER THAT SHELLFISH SHELLSTOCK TAG MUST REMAIN ATTACHED TO CONTAINER UNTIL CONTAINER IS EMPTY. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE APPROVAL SOURCES OF SHELLFISH AND MAINTAIN TAGS FOR 90 DAYS ON PREMISES. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 20LB, AT A VALUE OF $100. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION # 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
14
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDSINKS IN PREP AREA AND BASEMENT EMPLOYEE RESTROOM NOT STOCKED WITH HAND SOAP. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT HAND SOAP MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HANDSINKS AT ALL TIMES. FOOD HANDLER OBTAINED HAND SOAP FOR HAND SINK DURING TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS IN THE BASEMENT EMPLOYEE WASHROOM AT THE WASHBOWL SINK NOR AT THE HAND-SINK IN THE PREP AREAS. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT PAPER TOWELS MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HAND SINKS AT ALL TIMES. FOOD HANDLER OBTAINED PAPER TOWELS FOR HAND SINK DURING TIME OF INSPECTION PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). SEE ABOVE.
10
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE DUMPSTER WITH LIDS NOT CLOSED DUE TO TRASH OVERFLOWING. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN TO ENSURE TIGHT FITTING LIDS. MANAGER CLEANED AFEA AND CLOSED LIDS DURING INSPECTION.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED, HANDLED AND SERVED SUCH AS (CHICKEN, LAMB, BEEF, KABOBS) MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE.
1
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE IN THE BASEMENT EMPLOYEE WASHROOM OR KITCHEN PREP AREA HANDSINKS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTABLE IN EMPLOYEE BASEMENT WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
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
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO COMPLY WITH THE IDPH FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENT.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
39
Feb 20, 2025
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 4 DEAD ROACHES IN BASEMENT, INSTRCUTED TO REMOVE DEAD ROACHES CLEAN AND SANITIZE SAID AREA
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LID OF THE DEEP FREEZER IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING FLOOR GROUT IN REAR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO CREATE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. -
55
78
Feb 10, 2025
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS OUT IN BASEMENT ON TOP OF DEEP FREEZER. TO BE IMPROPER: CHICKEN FEET 48.7F BEEF 51.3F FISH TOFU 50.4F, SAUSAGE ON STICK 48.9F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 20 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $300.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 10 LIVE GERMAN ROACHES AT SITE DURING INSPECTION IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: 2 REAR PREP (NEAR WATER HEATER), 3 UNDER COOKING LINE IN REAR PREP, 4 IN BASEMENT NEAR REACH IN FREEZER AND ON WALL NEAR DEEP CHEST FREEZERS, 1 IN STAFF TOILET ROOM. RECOMMEND CONTACTING PEST CONTROL. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY WITHOUT A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ONSITE FOR FOOD EMPLOYEES. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE CITY OF CHICAGO ORIGINAL FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE MUST BE POSTED ALONG WITH THE CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE WHEN TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY(TCS) FOODS ARE STORED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED
2
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE REAR PREP AREA WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LID OF THE DEEP FREEZER IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING FLOOR GROUT IN REAR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO CREATE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE KITCHEN REAR PREP (NEAR WATER HEATER) AND IN STAFF BATHROOM IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE AND REPAINT CHIPPED AREAS TO ENSURE WALLS ARE SEALED, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A MISSING LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP IN HOOD / EXHAUST. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD EMPLOYEE WITH PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS OBTAIN THIS CERTIFICATE.
58
47
Jul 1, 2024
Routine
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Food obtained from approved source
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VACUUM PACKAGED, FOOD ITEMS (BEEF, LAMB, SQUID) STORED IN THE DEEP FREEZERS, IN THE BASEMENT WITH NO PROOF OF WHERE THE FOOD IS SORUCED FROM. THERE WAS NO FACTORY LABELS ON THE MENTIONED FOOD ITEMS AND NO VACUUM SEALING DEVICE WAS OBSERVED ON SITE. PER MANAGER, THE FOOD ITEMS ARE FROM THE COMPANY'S FACTORY, NO VALID DOCUMENTS OF THE SOURCE FOR THE FOOD ITEMS WERE PROVIDED BY PERSON IN CHARGE. MUST MEET REQUIREMENT AND MAINTAIN. APPROXIMATELY 90LBS OF PRODUCT AT $800 WERE VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED.
11
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW-TEMPERATURE DISHWASHING MACHINE (NOT IN USE AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION) NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING. SANITIZING STRENGTH OF SANITIZER (CHLORINE) AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WAS 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT IS PROPERLY SANITIZING. DISHWASHING MACHINE WAS REPAIRED BEFORE THE CONCLUSION OF THE INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025, NO CITATION ISSUED
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF PREVIOUSLY COOKED AND COOLED TCS FOODS. CHICKEN (50.0F), 2 BINS OF PORK (67.1F-82.2F) WERE FOUND IN THE TWO DOOR COLD HOLDING UNIT IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. MANAGER DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 45LBS WORTH OF PRODUCT AT $200. MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F OR BELOW. PRIORITY 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED
22
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMITING AND DIARRHEA PROCEDURE AND CLEAN-UP KIT ON PREMISES DURING THE INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SAID PROCEDURE ALONG WITH REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR CLEAN-UP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. UNDERCOOKED FOOD (RAW OYSTERS) ON MENU NOT MARKED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PUT CONSUMER ADVISORY ON DIGITAL MENU AND DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE FOODS WITH AN ASTERISK (*). PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005, NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROBE STEM THERMOMETER FOR TAKING FOOD TEMPERATURES. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED
36
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS IN THE COLD HOLDING UNITS ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EXIT DOOR IN THE BASEMENT NOT RODENT PROOF AT THE BOTTOM. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT ROOF MENTIONED DOOR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK DRY INGREDIENT STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT COVERED WHILE NOT IN USE. INSTRUCTED TO COVER ALL FOOD ITEMS, WHILE NOT OPEN AND OPRATING TO PREVENT POTENTIAL CONTAMINATION.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOT WATER KNOB ON THE HANDWASHING SINK NEAR THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISHWASHING MACHINE NOT ABLE TO OPERATE HOT WATER. SINK HAS HOT WATER BUT HAS TO BE OPERATED BY THE LOWER WATER VALVE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THE MECHANICAL SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK NOT WORKING; DOES NOT MAINTAIN WATER IN BASINS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR PROVIDE ADEQUATE SINK STOPPERS AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT PINK SUBSTANCE BUILD UP ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LOWER RIGHT SIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE LEAKING IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. LEAK IS CREATING STANDING WATER IN THE MENTIONED AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPIAR AND MAINTAIN.
55
33
Jul 31, 2023
Routine
3 critical violations. 1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND INADEQUATE TEMPERATURES OF COLD FOODS IN A TWO DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT. VARIOUS MEAT KABOBS FOUND AT 55F AND 60F INCLUDING BEEF, CHICKEN, AND FISH. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND AN INADEQUATE TEMPERATURE OF A REFRIGERATION UNIT. ONE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT WAS HOLDING AT 50F; INSTRUCTED THAT UNIT MUST BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION CITATION 7-38-005 ISSUED. UNITS RIGHT SIDE DOOR IS BROKEN AND NEEDS REPAIR. ESTABLISHMENT HAS A SUFFICIENT AMOUNT OF OTHER UNITS IN KITCHEN THAT ARE WORKING. UNIT TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND CAN NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CDPH.
33
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NO CLEANING AGENT (DETERGENT) INSIDE OF DISHMACHINE COMPARTMENT AS REQUIRED TO WASH DISHES AND UTENSILS; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AND THAT MACHINE MUST BE OPERATING PROPERLY. THE PERSON IN CHARGE CALLED ECOLAB AND A TECHNICIAN CAME WITHIN TEN MINUTES. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO CHECK THE MACHINE DAILY TO ENSURE IT IS WORKING PROPERLY BEFORE OPENING. PRIORITY VIOLATION CITATION ISSUED 7-38-025.
16
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICIES ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 ISSUED.
3
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND ONE DOOR TO A TWO DOOR COOLER IN POOR REPAIR; INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/REPLACE DOOR.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE BOTTOM AREA OF THE FRYER AND OTHER EQUIPMENT WHERE NEEDED.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CEILING IN THE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM IN THE BASEMENT IN VERY POOR REPAIR; INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR CEILING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL FLOOR DRAINS UNDER SINKS IN KITCHEN AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE VENTILATION FANS ON THE CEILING OF THE WASHROOMS TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING; INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN VENTS.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: FOUND NO LIGHT SHIELD ON ONE SET OF LIGHTS IN THE KITCHEN NEAR THE MEAT SLICER; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A LIGHT SHIELD FOR THAT SET OF LIGHTS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST HAVE A VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: THE FOOD SERVICE MANAGER HAS AN EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE; INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN A VALID CERTIFICATE.
58
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: FOUND RICE, SUGAR AND OTHER ITEMS NOT LABELED IN CONTAINERS THAT THEY WERE STORED IN; INSTRUCTED TO LABEL CONTAINERS AS REQUIRED.
37
37
Apr 28, 2020
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, INTERIOR SURFACES OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, FRYERS (EXTERIOR SURFACE AND INTERIOR BOTTOM), WOK STATION AREA AND PREP TABLES.
49
95
Apr 20, 2020
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CHEMICAL READING AT THE LOW TEMP DISHMACHINE IN THE PREP AREA AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT THE CHEMICAL READING MUST BE AT 100 PPM CHLORINE (BASED ON SOLUTION USED). MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. MUST FAX A LETTER TO 312 746-4240 WHEN READY TO HAVE TAG REMOVED AFTER MACHINE IS PROPERLY SANITIZING. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RODENT ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. FOUND 40 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT BY STORED ITEMS ON AND OFF SHELVES AND BY DEEP FREEZERS. MUST CLEAN ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED THAT THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICES ESABLISHMENT PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A).
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, INTERIOR SURFACES OF REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, FRYERS (EXTERIOR SURFACE AND INTERIOR BOTTOM), WOK STATION AREA AND PREP TABLES.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE COLD WATER KNOB AT THE EXPOSED HANDSINK BY THE DISHMACHINE IS IN POOR REPAIR; REPAIR OR REPLACE FAUCET KNOB.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOORS AND WALLS AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND KITCHEN AND OTHER EQUIPMENT AND FLOOR IN BASEMENT AREA AS MENTIONED IN VIOLATION #38. ALSO CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS AT ALL SINKS AND IN DISHWASHING AREA AND MAINTAIN. MUST CLEAN CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN WHERE NEEDED TO REMOVE DUST AND CEILING VENTS IN WASHROOMS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
64
May 1, 2019
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE VENTS INSIDE OF THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT NEED CLEANING; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
95
Apr 24, 2019
Complaint
4 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 10 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE ON PREMISES HAS NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE; INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. ALL PERSONS IN CHARGE ON A GIVEN DAY OR SHIFT ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 ISSUED.
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM JANUARY 8, 2019 AS REQUIRED; MUST CORRECT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 ISSUED. #47 FOUND NON FOOD GRADE BAGS BEING USED FOR STORAGE IN FREEZER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS; INSTRUCTED TO REFRAIN FROM USING GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE AND TO USE FOOD GRADE BAGS. #49 OBSERVED THE BOTTOM OF THE FRYERS, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE FRYER, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS AND EXTERIOR SURFACE OF CHARCOAL BLOCK NOT CLEAN; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #55 OBSERVED THE FLOORS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE OBSERVED AND FOOD PARTICLES. ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT AND SINKS. #57 INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL EMPLOYEES THAT ARE NOT CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. #58 INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
60
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: SEE VIO. 60
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: SEE VIO. 60
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SEE VIO 60
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: THE VENTS INSIDE OF THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT NEED CLEANING; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: SEE VIO. 60
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SEE VIO. 60
58
50
Jan 8, 2019
Complaint
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PIC TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND NON FOOD GRADE BAGS BEING USED FOR STORAGE IN FREEZER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS; INSTRUCTED TO REFRAIN FROM USING GROCERY BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE AND TO USE FOOD GRADE BAGS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE BOTTOM OF THE FRYERS, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE FRYER, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS AND EXTERIOR SURFACE OF CHARCOAL BLOCK NOT CLEAN; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE PIPE UNDERNEATH THE EXPOSED HANDSINK IN THE DISH WASHING AREA; REPAIR LEAK AT PIPE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE OBSERVED AND FOOD PARTICLES. ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOOR DRAINS UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT AND SINKS.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL EMPLOYEES THAT ARE NOT CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PIC THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
61
May 22, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 18, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: LOGBOOK MUST BE COMPLETE FRONT DOOR MUST BE RODENT PROOFED CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
18
95
Mar 8, 2018
License
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: ALL REFRIGERATION MUST BE ON AND AVAILABLE FOR TESTING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN
2
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: ALL HAND TOWEL DISPENSORS MUST BE IN OPERATION. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN
12
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: LOGBOOK MUST BE COMPLETE FRONT DOOR MUST BE RODENT PROOFED CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ALL EQUIPMENT MUST BE CLEANED AND SANITIZED CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
33
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: WASHROOMS MUST BE CLEANED AND PAPER PRODUCTS CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL EQUIPMENT MUST BE UNDER THE HOOD VENTILATION. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN
38
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Gao's Kabob last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Gao's Kabob on file is from Oct 3, 2025. The public record contains 13 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Gao's Kabob?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Gao's Kabob.
Has Gao's Kabob's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Gao's Kabob have averaged around nine violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Gao's Kabob means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is Gao's Kabob inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Gao's Kabob is inspected around two times per year on average.
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