Great American Bagel
Last inspected: Mar 13, 2026
100
Score
Public records show 25 inspections at Great American Bagel stretching back to 2010. Great American Bagel was last inspected on Mar 13, 2026. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near two violations each time.
“Approved thawing methods used” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 10 times across the record.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Great American Bagel is doing better than most peers. The file should reassure diners considering a visit.
25
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 13, 2026
Routine
No violations found.
100
May 9, 2025
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES BEING STORED IMPROPERLY ON TOP OF 3-COMPARTMENT DRAINBOARD IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE KNIVES PROVIDE A PROPER KNIFE HOLDER.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW ITEMS NOT ELEVATED FROM THE FLOOR IN REAR FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST ELEVATE ITEMS FROM THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING VENTILATION VENTS INSIDE WASHROOMS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED A FEW WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES ABOVE PREP TABLE IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Jan 2, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED DEEPLY CUT CUTTING BOARDS IN FRONT BAGEL PREP AREA AND BAGEL PRODUCTION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO RESTORE TO A SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN SURFACE OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
95
Jan 4, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 1-DOOR PREP COOLER MISSING THERMOMETER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A WORKING THERMOMETER INSIDE COOLER.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: SOME BULK CONTAINTERS NOT LABELED INSIDE BAGEL PREP ROOM. MUST LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.
37
90
Mar 9, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 2, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE/FOOD NOT PROTECTED. BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE AND RUST DRIPPING DOWN INTO THE ICE AT INTERIOR OF THE SELF SERVE ICE MACHINE UPPER WATER RESERVOIR, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE INTERIOR OF UNIT, INCLUDED ICE CHUTE . ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMTPTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM 6-27-22,REPORT#2559924 #52) 5-403.12: NOTED DRAIN TUBES FROM THE CAPPUCCINO MACHINE AT THE THE FRONT PREP AREA DRAINING INTO THE HANDWASH SINK. INSTRUCTED TO RE-DIRECT THE TUBES INTO A FLOOR DRAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-42-090,CITATION ISSUED
60
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS AT BAGEL PREP AREA AND STORAGES. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: BROKEN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLERS(WEST SITE) AT FRONT PREP AREA REPAIR/REPLACE
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN SPILLAGE INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER UNDER SHELVE. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
70
Jun 27, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD CERTIFICATE OR PROOF OF WHILE TCS FOODS (SANDWICHES, DELI, SOUPS ETC.) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED, AND ALSO THE PERSON IN CHARGE MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE BY THE NEXT INSPECTION (UPON BEING INSPECTED) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES DRINKING AND STORING DRINKS AT THE PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA WHERE EMPLOYEES CAN DRINK AND STORE THEIR FOOD.
39
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING AT THE SPRAYER NOZZLE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: NOTED DRAIN TUBES FROM THE CAPPUCCINO MACHINE AT THE THE FRONT PREP AREA DRAINING INTO THE HAND WASH SINK. INSTRUCTED TO RE-DIRECT THE TUBES INTO A FLOOR DRAIN.
52
70
Jan 19, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE OR REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR A VOMIT/DIARRHEA EVENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED KNIVES BEING IMPROPERLY STORED BETWEEN PREP COOLER AND BAGEL STORAGE SHELVING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER KNIFE HOLDER.
43
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM TOILET BOWL DIRTY. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DAMAGED/MISSING BASEBOARD COVING ON THE NORTH WALL OF THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED RAW WOODEN BRACKETS BETWEEN THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND BACK WALL. ALL RAW WOOD MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED.--- WALL AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT THE WALL MOUNTED METAL RACK SHELVING IN THE REAR PREP WITH CHIPPING PLASTER AND PEELING PAINT. MUST REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MUST NOT USE PAPER AS WALL LINER AT THE REAR PREP MEAT SLICER. WALL MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN THE DESIGNATED CONTAINERS OF SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
67
Apr 22, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED ON PREMISES (PHOTO COPY) WHILE TCS FOODS- CREAM CHEESE, SALMON, ETC.- ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED MUST HAVE AN ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE WITH MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012. NO CITATION ISSUED.
2
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME PREP AREA BULK CONTAINERS IN NEED OF RELABELING. MUST LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS IN PREP AREA.
37
86
May 17, 2019
Routine
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WHILE WEARING GLOVES AND SLICING DELI MEATS WENT TO THE WALK IN COOLER, OPENED THE WALK IN COOLER DOOR (MULTIPLES TIMES) AND THE BACK TO CONTINUE SLICING THE DELI MEATS ALL WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES OF WASHING HANDS. STILL NOTED ANOTHER EMPLOYEE WHILE WEARING GLOVES AT THE BAGEL PRODUCTION PREP AREA WIPED THE NOSE AND FACE WITH THE GLOVES AND CONTINUED TO WORK WITH BAGELS ALL WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES OR WASHING HANDS.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT HANDS MUST BE WASHED AND GLOVED CHANGED WHEN THERE IS A CHANGE OF TASK OR MOVING FROM ONE AREA TO ANOTHER. PRIORITY VIOLATION CITATION ISSUED 7-38-010.
8
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER:-EGG SALAD 46.4F, SALMON FISH 48.2, TUNA 46.2F,/44.6F, HAM 48.6F, ROAST BEEF 47.2F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 11 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $72.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS AND SUPPLIES NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO SOAP AT REAR HAND WASH SINK/DISH WASHING AREA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO PAPER TOWELS AT HAND WASH SINK OF THE REAR/DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-030(C) CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE CITATION
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL READY TO EAT FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME AND USED BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005(A). NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
23
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: NOTED A PIECE OF FROZEN SALMON FISH ON BREAD RACK AT THE BAGEL PREP AREA. MANAGER STATED THAT THE FISH WAS THERE FOR DEFROSTING. DISCUSSED WITH MANAGEMENT THE DIFFERENT METHODS OF DEFROSTING FOOD:- EITHER UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER OF INSIDE THE REFRIGERATION UNIT. PRODUCT WAS STILL FROZEN.
35
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED SLOW WATER DRAIN AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT ESPECIALLY AT THE BAGEL PREP AREA AND REAR FOOD/DISH WASHING AREA WITH DIRT, FOOD PARTICLES AND BREAD CRUMBS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY CLUTTER THROUGHOUT ESTABLISHMENT ON SHELVES, FLOORS INSIDE UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND IN STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
35
Feb 13, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD. (HANDLES CREAM CHEESE, SALMON, ETC.) SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-38-012A. MUST PROVIDE.
21
95
Jan 31, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD. (HANDLES CREAM CHEESE, SALMON, ETC.) SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-38-012. MUST PROVIDE.
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: FOUND PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT DATED 8-25-17. INSPECTION # 1898062. 34. FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN THROUGHOUT PREMISES. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE. VIOLATION 38. FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE AND DRIP COFFEE MACHINE WATERLINES. MUST INSTALL BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE AND DRIP COFFEE MACHINE. SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-42-090.
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK FOOD NOT LABELED.(FLOUR, SUGAR,ETC.) MUST LABEL.
30
86
Aug 25, 2017
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN MOP SINK AND ICE MACHINE. MUST PROVIDE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN THROUGHOUT PREMISES. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND HOLES ON WALLS AT DISHWASHING AREAS. MUST SEAL/REPAIR.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE AND DRIP COFFEE MACHINE WATERLINES. MUST PROVIDE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND CLOTHES STORED ON FOOD SHELVING UNITS. MUST RELOCATE.
41
78
Dec 28, 2016
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GRAFFITI ON INTERIOR SIDE OF THE DOOR OF THE MENS TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE GRAFFITI AND MAINTAIN.
38
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE BAGEL PREP AREA BLOCKED BY SPEED RACKS AND OTHER KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. ALSO, A FOOD CONTAINER WITH DOUGH, WAS BEING STORED INSIDE THE EXPOSED HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED THAT THE EXPOSED HAND SINK MUST BE ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES, AND NOT BLOCKED WITH EQUIPMENT, ETC. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
11
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE DURING COMPLAINT INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS; DELI MEAT, EGGS, ETC., ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR RACKS, SO THEY ARE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION ON CEILING AND AIR VENTS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES. ALSO, STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE CUSTOMER SEATING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL VENTS, REPAIR/REPLACE CEILING TILES, AND MAINTAIN.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN THE REAR PREP AREA, NEAR THE EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD CARDBOARD. ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOORS TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE PREPARING FOOD IN THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES WHEN PREPARING FOOD, AND MAINTAIN.
42
70
Oct 24, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM #1734481 ON 3-21-16 NOT CORRECTED. #32- INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE DINING ROOM WOODEN CABINETS DIRTY WITH COFFEE SPILLAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#34-FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN COOLER WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD SPILLAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#35- WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR PREP. MUST REPLACE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ANY FOODS STORED NOT IN THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINERS, IE: POPPY AND SESAME SEEDS, MUST BE LABELED.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: PLASTIC ICE SHOOT AT THE SODA DISPENSING SYSTEM IN THE DINING ROOM FOUND DIRTY WITH SLIME LIKE SUBSTANCE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES IN THE FRONT PREP, AT THE DISPLAY COOLERS. MUST REPLACE. EXCESSIVE DUST ON CEILING TILES AROUND DINING ROOM VENTILATION. MUST CLEAN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MISSING VENTILATION IN THE LADIES WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE VENTILATION. DAMAGED WASH BASINS IN THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH RUST. MUST REMOVE RUST AND BLACKENED DAMAGE METAL OR REPLACE SINK.
38
78
Mar 21, 2016
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM 4-7-15 #1532643 NOT CORRECTED.#45-FACILITY NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS. NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE OR ON SITE FOR ANY FOOD HANDLERS DURING THIS INSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED FOODS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER MUST BE LABELED AND DATED.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PAPER OR CARDBOARD AS LINERS FOR SHELVING IN THE FRONT OR REAR PREP AREAS. INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE DINING ROOM WOODEN CABINETS DIRTY WITH COFFEE SPILLAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MISSING FLOOR DRAIN COVER IN THE REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE/PROVIDE. FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN COOLER WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD SPILLAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR PREP. MUST REPLACE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REAR MOP SINK NOT MAINTAINED. FOUND EXTREMELY DIRTY. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: FOOD PREP WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
70
Apr 7, 2015
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: UPON ARRIVAL, NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED/SERVED (CHEESE, SLICED TOMATOES, MILK). INSTRUCTED FACILITY THAT A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOODSERVICE MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND/OR SERVED. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012(A).
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS ON THE 1 DOOR COOLER NEXT TO THE HOT WATER TANK AND ON BOTH DOORS OF THE 2 DOOR FRONT PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SPLASHGUARDS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE EXPOSED HANDSINK IN THE BAGEL PRODUCTION AREA AND AT THE LEFT/SOUTH SIDE OF THE FRONT COUNTER EXPOSED HANDSINK.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT DIRT BUILDUP ON UPPER INTERIOR PORTION OF ICE MACHINE AND IN GASKETS AT THE SMOOTHIE COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: NSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT FACILITY WITH FOCUS ON AREAS ALONG WALLS, BEHIND EQUIPMENT, AND UNDER THE SODA MACHINE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR WALL COVING NEAR THE GREASE TRAP AND TO MAINTAIN.
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FACILITY NOT IN COMPLIANCE. INFORMATION PROVIDED, INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO COMPLY WITH IDPH FOODHANDLER REQUIREMENT AND TO MAINTAIN.
45
78
Feb 17, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM REPORT# 1441502 DATED 10-16-14 NOT CORRECTED. REPORT STATES: "MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD AT THE REAR PREP EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK." INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS ON THE 1 DOOR COOLER NEXT TO THE HOT WATER TANK AND ON BOTH DOORS OF THE 2 DOOR FRONT PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SPLASHGUARDS ON BOTH SIDES OF THE EXPOSED HANDSINK IN THE BAGEL PRODUCTION AREA AND AT THE LEFT/SOUTH SIDE OF THE FRONT COUNTER EXPOSED HANDSINK.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT DIRT BUILDUP ON UPPER INTERIOR PORTION OF ICE MACHINE AND IN GASKETS AT THE SMOOTHIE COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT FACILITY WITH FOCUS ON AREAS ALONG WALLS, BEHIND EQUIPMENT, AND UNDER THE SODA MACHINE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR WALL COVING NEAR THE GREASE TRAP AND TO MAINTAIN.
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FACILITY NOT IN COMPLIANCE. INFORMATION PROVIDED, INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO COMPLY WITH IDPH FOODHANDLER REQUIREMENT AND TO MAINTAIN.
45
78
Oct 16, 2014
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD AT THE REAR PREP EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BASEBOARD BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN REAR PREP AREA.
35
90
Oct 9, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED FROM CONTAMINATION DURING STORAGE. INSIDE OF ICE MACHINE OOBSERVED BLACK AND BROWN SLIMY SUBSTANCE ON THE INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES OF THE ICE MACHINE. ICE IS BEING USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMTION. MUST TURN OFF MACHINE REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES CLEANED AND SANITIZED. ICE MACHINE WAS CLEANED AND SANITIZED DURING INSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 02/10/14 RREPORT# 1092817 (32)RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE. 34 BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR. MUST CLEAN FLOOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND AT FRONT PREP AREAS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT. 35 WATER DAMAGE CEILING TILES ABOVE PREP TABLE AT FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE. 38 ADDITIONAL WATER PRESSURE IS NEEDED AT REAR EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK. MUST REPAIR. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD AT THE REAR PREP EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BASEBOARD BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN REAR PREP AREA.
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE AT FRONT PREP AREA PREPARING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS PREPARED AND SERVED.
42
78
Feb 10, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR. MUST CLEAN FLOOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND AT FRONT PREP AREAS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WATER DAMAGE CEILING TILES ABOVE PREP TABLE AT FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL WATER PRESSURE IS NEEDED AT REAR EXPOSED HANDWASHB SINK. MUST REPAIR.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHES STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHES IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
42
78
Mar 18, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD. (HANDLES CREAM CHEESE, DELI MEATS,MILK,ETC.) SERIOUS VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED.
21
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND COATS STORE ON SHELVING UNITS.
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND MOPS AND BROOMS IMROPERLY STORED.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: FOODHANDLERS NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT.
42
82
Oct 12, 2012
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS AT REAR PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK WHILE FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED. ALSO SINK FILLED WITH STORED CLEAN DISHES AND NOT ACCESSIBLE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
12
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED MANAGER PRESENT DURING INSPECTION WHILE FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-012.
21
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST NOT STORE CLEAN BLENDERS AT FRONT PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SPLASH GUARD AT REAR PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK AND PREP TABLE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND NEED CLEANING: THROUGHOUT WALK-IN COOLER, UNDER THREE COMPARTMENT SINK ALONG BASEBOARD. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: HOLE IN WALL IN MENS WASHROOM. MUST SEAL/REPAIR.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WATER DAMAGED CIELING TILE IN REAR MUST REPLACE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUST INSIDE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REMOVE.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AN INTERNAL THERMOMETER FOR WALK-IN COOLER.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: DIRTY UNUSED COOLER IN REAR MUST BE REMOVED FROM PREMISES OR STORED CLEAN.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES IN FOOD PREP AREA MUST WEAR HAT/HAIR RESTRAINT.
42
58
Feb 1, 2010
Consultation
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKY FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPAIR LEAK.
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. OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF CIGARETTE BUTTS ON THE GROUND OUTSIDE OF THE REAR EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN AND PROVIDE A CONTAINER FOR CIGARETTE BUTTS.
41
90
Jan 27, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: All food should be properly protected from contamination during storage, preparation, display, service, and transportation. FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. OBSERVED PINK MOLD GRWOTH ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF THE ICE MACHINE. UNIT TAGGED BY CDPH. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REMOVE ICE FROM MACHINE, AND HAVE INTERIOR OF UNIT CLEANED AND SANITIZED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
16
Toilet rooms enclosed clean, provided with hand cleanser, sanitary hand drying devices and proper waste receptacles
Inspector notes: In all food establishments, toilet facilities shall be kept clean and in good repair and shall include an adequate supply of hot and cold or tempered water, soap, and approved sanitary towels or other approved hand-drying devices. NO HANDSOAP WAS PROVIDED AT THE SOAP DISPENSER IN THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT HAD A STORE EMPLOYEE LEAVE THE STORE TO BUY A HANDSOAP DISPENSER FOR THE WASHROOM. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
27
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKY FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPAIR LEAK.
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. OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF CIGARETTE BUTTS ON THE GROUND OUTSIDE OF THE REAR EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN AND PROVIDE A CONTAINER FOR CIGARETTE BUTTS.
41
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Great American Bagel last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Great American Bagel on file is from Mar 13, 2026. The public record contains 25 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Great American Bagel?
Across the inspection record, “approved thawing methods used” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Great American Bagel.
Has Great American Bagel's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Great American Bagel have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Great American Bagel 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 Great American Bagel inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Great American Bagel is inspected around two times per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants