Grota Restaurant
Last inspected: May 6, 2025
90
Score
Grota Restaurant has been inspected 23 times since 2010. Inspectors last stopped by on May 6, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around one violation, down from roughly 10 violations earlier in the record.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” comes up most often, recorded nine times in the inspection record.
Grota Restaurant's latest score of 90 sits above the Chicago average of 81. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 6, 2025
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN WALK-IN COOLER WITH MOLD AN FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED REMOVE AND DEEP CLEAN/SANITIZE.
47
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING AND MAINTAIN DOCUMENTATION ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
90
Nov 13, 2024
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRACKED FLOOR TILE IN FRONT OF DISH MACHINE. MUST REPAIR.
55
95
Aug 11, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 21, 2023
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-501.114 (A, B, C, D, E, F: 1 & 2)--OBSERVED TWO (2) LOW TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINES LOCATED IN KITCHEN AND MAIN BAR AREA AT IMPROPER FINAL SANITIZING RINSE AT "0" PPM CHLORINE CONCENTRATION.(DISHMACHINES IS NOT IN USE AT THIS TIME).INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.A MECHANICAL DISHWASHING MACHINE SHOULD PROVIDE A FINAL SANITIZING RINSE OF EITHER 50 ? 100 PPM CHLORINE (FOR CHEMICAL SANITIZING MACHINE) OR 180F FINAL RINSE (FOR HOT WATER SANITIZING MACHINE). DISHMACHINE TAGGED "HELD FOR INSPECTION" AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL REPAIRED (SEE COMMENTS BELOW). PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111--WE CONTINUE TO OBSERVE EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY APRROX 30-40 MICE DROPPINGS IN ACCESS PANEL IN FRONT OF BAR AND IN CLUTTERED STORAGE ROOM LOCATED ACROSS FROM MAIN BAR ALSO,IN THE CLUTTERED SIDE SMALL BAR ON FLOOR AND INSIDE CABINETS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MICE DROPPING AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A).
38
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(A)--OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCES ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MAKER,DRIPPING INTO ICE "ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION". MANAGEMENT WAS INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. MUST HAVE TOP ICE MAKING PORTION OF EQUIPMENT ACCESSIBLE.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12--OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE PREP AREA IN POOR CONDITION. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11--OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS INSIDE OF TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15--OBSERVED A WATER LEAK AT DRAIN PIPE UNDERNEATH THE HANDWASHING SINK AT THE END OF COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.ADDITIONAL WATER LEAKS NOTED AT THIS TIME FROM OVERHEAD PIPES FROM BASEMENT CEILING AND INSIDE THE FRONT WATER METER ROOM AND MAINTAIN. MUST REPAIR ALL LEAKS, DRY AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114--OBSERVED UNUSED REFRIGERATION STORED OUTSIDE IN THE BACK OF PREMISES AND MULTIPLE BOXES OF TO-GO CONTAINERS. MUST REMOVE REFRIGERATION AND ALL OTHER ITEMS FROM OUTSIDE REAR OF PREMISES.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114--OBSERVED CLUTTERED CONDITIONS IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS & UTILITY MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND RE-ORGANIZE MENTIONED AREAS AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES AND UNUSED EQUIPMENTS DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B:4)--OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED. SEE REPORT #2560585 DATED 7/12/2022 VIOLATION #51 FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE.
60
52
Jul 7, 2023
Routine
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HOT RUNNING WATER AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE ESTABLISHMENT WATER TEMPERATURE AT (70.0 F-70.2F). INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE HOT RUNNING WATER ABOVE 110F AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND MINIMUM 100F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS THROUGHOUT THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C), CITATION ISSUED.
50
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO (2) LOW TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINES LOCATED IN KITCHEN AND MAIN BAR AREA AT IMPROPER FINAL SANITIZING RINSE AT "0" PPM CHLORINE CONCENTRATION.(DISHMACHINES IS NOT IN USE AT THIS TIME).INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.A MECHANICAL DISHWASHING MACHINE SHOULD PROVIDE A FINAL SANITIZING RINSE OF EITHER 50 ? 100 PPM CHLORINE (FOR CHEMICAL SANITIZING MACHINE) OR 180F FINAL RINSE (FOR HOT WATER SANITIZING MACHINE). DISHMACHINE TAGGED "HELD FOR INSPECTION" AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL REPAIRED (SEE COMMENTS BELOW). PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025,NO CITATION ISSUED.
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED. SEE REPORT #2560585 DATED 7/12/2022 VIOLATION #57 FOOD HANDLERS WITHOUT FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED THAT ANY FOOD HANDLERS OBTAIN FOOD HANDLER TRAINING.VIOLATION #58 NO ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING ON SITE. INSTRUCTED THAT EVERY CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE HOLDER MUST OBTAIN ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING. VIOLATION #51 FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE WHERE THEY CAN BE LOCATED AND SERVICED. VIOLATION #51 FOUND HAND SINK NOT FASTENED PROPERLY AT BAR AT SMALLER BANQUET ROOM. MUST REPAIR. VIOLATION #53 FOUND TRASH CANS NOT COVERED IN THE WOMEN RESTROOM. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION,7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED.
60
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APRROX 50 MICE DROPPINGS IN ACCESS PANEL IN FRONT OF BAR AND IN CLUTTERED STORAGE ROOM LOCATED ACROSS FROM MAIN BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE MICE DROPPING AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A), CITATION ISSUED.
38
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PERSON IN CHARGE WITH VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DESIGNATE PERSON IN CHARGE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE OR VALID CERTIFICATE POSTED WHEN TCS FOOD PREPARED AND SERVED. A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES TCS FOOD PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCES ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MAKER,DRIPPING INTO ICE "ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION".MANAGEMENT WAS INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED AND MAINTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
16
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OLD LEFT-OVER FOOD DEBRIS ON THE CAN OPENER IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A WATER LEAK AT DRAIN PIPE UNDERNEATH THE HANDWASHING SINK AT THE END OF COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET MOP STORED IN BUCKET IN THE UTILITY AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HANG MOPS WHEN NOT IN USE TO ALLOW TO DRY.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILES IN THE STORAGE ROOM NEXT TO MAIN BAR AND BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN IN KITCHEN ENTRY WAY NEXT TO TWO DOOR COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNUSED REFRIGERATION STORED OUTSIDE IN THE BACK OF PREMISES. MUST REMOVE REFRIGERATION FROM PREMISES IF NOT IN USE.
55
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ICE SCOOP ON A CLEAN SURFACE.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS INSIDE OF TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE PREP AREA IN POOR CONDITION. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
30
Jul 12, 2022
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK FOOD WITH NO LABELS.(FLOUR, RICE,ETC.)MUST PROVIDE.
37
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE WHERE THEY CAN BE LOCATED AND SERVICED.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND HAND SINK NOT FASTENED PROPERLY AT BAR AT SMALLER BANQUET ROOM. MUST REPAIR.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: FOUND TRASH CANS NOT COVERED IN THE WOMEN RESTROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOUND FOODHANDLER WITH NO FOODHANDLER CERTIFICATES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND SANITATION MANAGER WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE.
58
74
Nov 3, 2020
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT ALL HAND SINK (PREP/BAR/WASHROOMS)
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL FOOD CONTAINERS/BINS IDENTIFIED WITH COMMON NAME (FLOUR, SALT, SUGAR ETC)
37
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SLOW DRAINING HANDSINK IN PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT ON AROUND VENT ABOVE PREP AREA.
55
82
Apr 10, 2019
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LATCH AT WALK-IN COOLER DOOR LOOSE .INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPAIR DOOR LATCH. CORE VIOLATION
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING TILE STAINED ABOVE DISH MACHINE AT FOOD PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILE ABOVE DISH MACHINE AT FOOD PREP AREA. CORE VIOLATION
55
90
Nov 13, 2018
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROGRAM ON SITE.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CREATE A CLEAN UP POLICY WITH KIT. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CREATE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING FLOOR TILES AT FRONT DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPLACE FLOOR TILES. CORE VIOLATION
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATION ON SITE.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO GET ALLERGEN CERTIFICATION. CORE VIOLATION.
58
70
Oct 4, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Sep 26, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 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 EVIDENCE OF MICE DROPPINGS ALONG THE WALL BASE ALL CORNER IN THE DANCING AREA 6 TOTAL, COAT ROOM 8 TOTAL, BASEMENT BEHIND THE WATER HEATER 10 TOTAL, BEHIND THE ROUND SMALL TABLE 8 TOTAL, BESIDE THE SHELVE IN THE COFFEE STATION 8 TOTAL, BESIDE THE DISH MACHINE IN THE MAIN BAR 10 TOTAL, APPROXIMATELY 50 TOTAL IN ALL. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REMOVE THE MICE DROPPINGS, SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREAS AND INFORM THE PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN. HAVE ADDITIONAL INSPECTION BY THE PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL AND DATE ALL FOOD CONTAINERS WITH READY TO EAT POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
30
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: DAMAGED,STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE COFFEE STATION/OFFICE AND INSIDE THE COAT ROOM. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. CEILING VENT COVER INSIDE THE MEN'S WASHROOM WITH DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PROVIDE MISSING THERMOMETER INSIDE THE SMALL REACH IN COOLER BEHIND THE SMALL BAR AND MAINTAIN.
40
82
Jun 2, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO SPLASH GUARD AT FRONT BAR AREA, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE,
32
95
May 31, 2016
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: CONTINUED NON COMPLIANCE ON PREVIOUS ORDER ISSUED, DATED 05/24/2016, REPORT #1931532, VIOLATION LISTED BELOW: 38 INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE BEHIND EACH (2) BAR, EQUIPPED WITH HAND SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL. BAR TAGGED INSTRUCTED TO RESTRICT USE, CRITICAL CITATION: 7-42-090
14
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: CONTINUED NON COMPLIANCE ON PREVIOUS ORDER ISSUED, DATED 05/24/2016, REPORT #1931532, VIOLATION LISTED BELOW: 38 INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE BEHIND EACH (2) BAR, EQUIPPED WITH HAND SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL. SEE VIOLATION #14,
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving/racks that had peeling paint/rust, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED REORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" AWAY FROM WALL, TO PREVENT A RODENT HARBORAGE,
41
82
May 24, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: CONTINUED NON COMPLIANCE ON PREVIOUS ORDER ISSUED, DATED 05/20/2015, REPORT #1546248, VIOLATION LISTED BELOW: 38 INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE BEHIND EACH (2) BAR, EQUIPPED WITH HAND SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL. 41 INSTRUCTED REORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING. 45 FOUND NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. INFORMATION PROVIDED. SERIOUS CITATION: 7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving/racks that had peeling paint/rust, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED REORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" AWAY FROM WALL, TO PREVENT A RODENT HARBORAGE,
41
86
May 20, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF SODA GUN HOLDER WITH PINKISH MOLD LIKE BUILD UP BEHIND BARS.--------MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREP/COOKING AREA ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS INCLUDING FLOORS BEHIND 2 BAR AND IN BASEMENT.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE BEHIND EACH (2) BAR, EQUIPPED WITH HAND SOAP AND PAPER TOWEL.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED REORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. INFORMATION PROVIDED.
45
78
Oct 31, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving/racks that had peeling paint/rust, shall be repaired/replaced. Reach in cooler shelving that had peeling paint, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Non food contact surfaces of walk in cooler shelving/racks not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices), kitchen storage shelving not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors under heavy equipment, cooking equipment not clean, need detailed cleaning(corners).Floor in walk in cooler under shelving not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Damaged/stained ceiling tiles in rear kitchen areas, shall be repaired/replaced.
35
82
May 14, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Bulk dry food containers in kitchen not labeled.Instructed to label all foods not in original containers.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Large pots and pans not properly stored.Instructed to properly store,invert to prevent contamination before use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Cutting boards with deep, dark grooves must be sanded/bleached or replaced and provide and maintain ice bin covers for ice bins at bars.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Can opener attached to food prep table,hood/filters above cooking equipments and sides of hot cooking equipments,fan covers inside the walk-in-cooler,bar guns and housing attached are not cleaned.Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Ceiling vent in kitchen and inside the toilet rooms are dusty.Instructed to remove and maintain.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Must Repair non-working lights in the kitchen areas and maintain.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Additional cleaning and reorganizing of basement storage area and remove unnecessary articles due to potential pest harborage. Items kept must be properly stored to 6" off floor/wall for easier cleaning.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Ice dispensing utensil for ice machine must be properly stored and inverted to prevent contamination before use.
43
67
May 16, 2013
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Found food items not properly dated/labeled in walk in cooler, reach in cooler, and reach in freezer, must date and label food items in walk in cooler, reach in cooler, reach in freezer.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving that had peeling paint/rust in walk in cooler, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Non food contact surfaces of walk in cooler shelving/racks not clean, need detailed cleaning, kitchen shelving, prep table lower shelving need cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors under heavy equipment, cooking equipment not clean, need detailed cleaning(corners). Floors in bar areas, and in bsmt storage areas need cleaning(corners).
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Light shields in kitchen prep areas not clean, need detailed cleaning.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Exhaust vents(ventilation) in walk in cooler, kitchen areas need cleaning.
38
74
Jul 24, 2012
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL CLEANING AND REORGANIZING OF BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. USABLE ITEMS MUST BE STORED 6" OFF THE FLOOR FOR EASY ACCESS ON CLEANING.
41
95
Jul 13, 2012
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 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 OVER 20 MICE DROPPINGS BEHIND BAR (RESTAURANT ROOM) AND SOME IN PREP AREA BEHIND REACH-IN COOLER UNDER STORAGE RACKS ALONG THE WALLS, ALSO FOUND 5 LIVE HOUSE FLIES IN FOOD PREP AREA AND OVER 10 LIVE SMALL FLIES BEHIND MAIN BAR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREAS. RECOMMEND TO CALL LICENSED PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020
18
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED ISSUED FROM INSPECTION REPORT #557341 ON 05-18-2011. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-42-090 #33 - Bulk storage container not labeled. Instructed to label all foods not in original containers. #33 - Exhaust hood, filters, interior panel of ice machine not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize. #34 - Floor under equipment in prep area and in basement not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean daily. #35 - Wall behind three compartment sink not maintained. Instructed to seal opening in wall. Tile coving missing in corner behind freezer. Instructed to replace missing tile. #36 - Light bulbs in prep area not shielded. Instructed to install shields with end caps. #38 - Faucet not maintained at three compartment sink. Instructed to repair faucet or replace washer. #41 - Unnecessary articles stored in basement. Instructed to remove all unused articles and elevate supplies 6 inches off floor or higher and away from wall. #43 - Ice scoop not properly stored. Instructed to store in sanitize holder or container.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TIGHT FITTING LID/COVER FOR ALL ICE BIN BEHIND 3 BARS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACE'S OF COOKING EQUIPMENT (STOVE/OVEN/STEAM TABLE ETC), INTERIOR SURFACES 3 COMPARTMENT BAR SINK BEHIND 2 BARS, SODA GUN HOLDER BEHIND 3 BARS, STORAGE RACKS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER, STORAGE RACKS IN FOOD PREP AREA WITH GREASE AND DUST BUILD-UP, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOLER AND WALK-IN COOLER WITH DRIED FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATION, PREP SHELVES IN PREP AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE MISSING FLOOR TILES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER (BY DOOR).
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENT COVER ABOVE REAR FOOD PREP AREA AND INSIDE MEN'S TOILET ROOM WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP.------- INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT ON CEILING ABOVE DISH MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE SODA GUN DRAIN LINE DRAINING INTO ONE COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT BAR SINK BEHIND MAIN BAR.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE COOLERS.
40
67
May 18, 2011
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Bulk storage container not labeled. Instructed to label all foods not in original containers.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Exhaust hood, filters, interior panel of ice machine not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floor under equipment in prep area and in basement not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean daily.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Wall behind three compartment sink not maintained. Instructed to seal opening in wall. Tile coving missing in corner behind freezer. Instructed to replace missing tile.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Light bulbs in prep area not shielded. Instructed to install shields with end caps.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Faucet not maintained at three compartment sink. Instructed to repair faucet or replace washer.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Unnecessary articles stored in basement. Instructed to remove all unused articles and elevate supplies 6 inches off floor or higher and away from wall.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Ice scoop not properly stored. Instructed to store in sanitize holder or container.
43
67
Mar 16, 2010
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CAN OPENER UNCLEAN,MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN;WORN OUT WOODEN SHELF IN PREP AREA MUST BE REPLACED CAN OPENER HAS BEEN CLEANED; WORN OUT WOODEN SHELF IN PREP AREA MUST BE REPLACED-NEXT REGULAR INSPECTION
33
95
Mar 9, 2010
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Minor violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority. PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT # 165169,DATED 04-09-09,VIOLATIONS AS FOLLOWS #33 RACKS/SHELVES INSIDE WALK IN COOLER RUSTY, MUST BE REPLACED;#35 CEILING TILES IN WALK IN COOLER DIRTY,MUST BE CLEAN AND MAINTAIN;#36 BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD IN WALK IN COOLER MUST BE REPLACED; CITATION ISSUED,GIVEN 5 DAYS 03-16-10 TO CORRECT THE VIOLATIONS
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. FOODS INSIDE WALK IN COOLER MUST BE PROPERLY LABELLED AND DATED
30
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. FAUCETS IN 1 HAND SINK IN PREP AREA GREASY,UNCLEAN,MUST BE CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
32
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. CAN OPENER UNCLEAN,MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN;WORN OUT WOODEN SHELF IN PREP AREA MUST BE REPLACED
33
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. DOOR IN BASEMENT MUST BE SEALED,ADDITIONAL RUBBER OR METAL STRIP MUST BE INSTALLED
38
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Grota Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Grota Restaurant on file is from May 6, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Grota Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Grota Restaurant.
Has Grota Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Grota Restaurant have averaged around one violation per visit, down from roughly 10 earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Grota Restaurant 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 Grota Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Grota Restaurant is inspected around two times per year on average.
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