Harold's Chicken
Last inspected: Dec 16, 2025
90
Score
The health department has logged 21 inspections at Harold's Chicken, the earliest from 2017. The newest entry in the record is dated Dec 16, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
Recent inspections have found fewer violations than earlier ones, averaging around two violations lately and about four violations before that.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 10 times across the record.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Harold's Chicken is comfortably above that bar. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Dec 16, 2025
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS, STAINLESS STEEL STORAGE SHELVES AND PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 CLEAN THE FLOORS IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS.
55
90
Dec 9, 2025
Complaint
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN THE FRONT PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR USE. THE SINK IS CLOGGED WITH WATER BACKED UP IN THE SINK AND WILL NOT DRAIN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK SO THAT IT CAN USED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS, STAINLESS STEEL STORAGE SHELVES AND PREP TABLES IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FLOORS IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS.
55
82
Oct 24, 2025
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 23, 2025
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: 5-103.11(B): NO HOT WATER PROVIDED THROUGHTOUT THE PREMISES. THE HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK WAS AT 70F. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HOT WATER ABOVE 110F AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND ABOVE 100F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
50
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14: CLEAN THE GREASE BUILDUP ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES FOR ANY OF THE FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
74
Oct 16, 2025
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: NO HOT WATER PROVIDED THROUGHTOUT THE PREMISES. THE HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK WAS AT 70F. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HOT WATER ABOVE 110F AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND ABOVE 100F AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
50
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN THE FOOD PREP AREA, PREP TABLES, STORAGE SHELVES AND DEEP FRYERS.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN THE WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE BUILDUP ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES FOR ANY OF THE FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
61
Dec 20, 2024
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
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
95
Oct 1, 2024
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNED OUT BULB IN WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB.
56
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR ON STAIRS LEADING TO UPSTAIRS OFFICE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR.
39
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBERSERVED CARDBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR MATS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CARDBOARD SO FLOOR IS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
78
Jun 13, 2024
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON THE FAN IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE COOKING AREA, AND CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS, LIGHT SHIELDS, AND CEILING/WALL VENTS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 OBSERVED THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
56
90
Jun 6, 2024
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE WALK-IN COOLER. FOUND APPROXIMATELY 30 LBS OF RAW CHICKEN AT 70.1F. ALL REFRIGERATED FOODS MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: NOTED IMPROPER COLD-HOLD TEMPERATURE OF 69.5F IN THE WALK-IN COOLER. INFORMED ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS SHALL MAINTAIN A PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. TAGGED WALK-IN UNIT WITH STICKER. 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
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2584174 ON 10/27/23 WERE NOT CORRECTED:37-OBSERVED CONTAINERS OF BULK INGREDIENTS SUCH AS FLOUR, ETC. WITHOUT LABELS. 47-OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION. 53-OBSERVED NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE INSIDE ALL-GENDER TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. 58- OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT THE INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE TO COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT AVAILABLE DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE TEST KIT FOR PROPER CONCENTRATION IN SANITIZING SOLUTIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
48
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS. OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON THE FAN IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE COOKING AREA, AND CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS, LIGHT SHIELDS, AND CEILING/WALL VENTS.
55
58
Oct 27, 2023
Reinspection
2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SUMMARY POSTED FOR PUBLIC VIEW FROM PREVIOUS INSPECTION #2583736 DATED 10/20/2023. LEFT NEW SUMMARY AND INSTRUCTED TO POST FOR PUBLIC VIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B). CITATION ISUSED.
61
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS ITEMS, SUCH AS CHICKEN, WERE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN AN EMPLOYEE HOLDING A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE INSIDE ALL GENDER TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF GREASE, GRIME, AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS AND FLOOR OF FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF GREASE ON HOOD OVER COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION. Friday, October 20, 2023
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 MISSING LIGHTBULBS IN HOOD OVER COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONTAINERS OF BULK INGREDIENTS SUCH AS FLOUR ETC. WITHOUT LABELS. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED URNINAL IN ALL GENDER TOILET ROOM DOES NOT FLUSH AND EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINK IN FRONT COOK LINE IS SLOW DRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
51
55
Oct 20, 2023
Complaint
3 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING REPEAT CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2549356 DATED 2/3/2022: #47 "4-501.11-OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK IN COOLER LOCATED NEXT TO 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVES." #49 "4-602.13-OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE OF COOKING FRYERS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN." INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND COME INTO COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA MADE IN INACCESSIBLE BY BUCKET BEING PLACED INSIDE OF IT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINKS IN A FREE AND ACCESSIBLE MANNER.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION COMBINED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT BOTH EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONTAINERS OF BULK INGREDIENTS SUCH AS FLOUR ETC. WITHOUT LABELS. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKET ON DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED URNINAL IN ALL GENDER TOILET ROOM DOES NOT FLUSH AND EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINK IN FRONT COOK LINE IS SLOW DRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE INSIDE ALL GENDER TOILET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT BUILD UP OF TRASH ON GROUND AROUND DUMPSTERS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF GREASE, GRIME, AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS AND FLOOR OF FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF GREASE ON HOOD OVER COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 MISSING LIGHTBULBS IN HOOD OVER COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
47
Feb 3, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11-OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK IN COOLER LOCATED NEXT TO 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13-OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE OF COOKING FRYERS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
90
Jan 27, 2022
Complaint
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER OVERFLOWING WITH TRASH PREVENTING LID CLOSURE. TRASH MUST BE STORED INSIDE RECEPTACLE TO PREVENT ENTRY FOR PESTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE WALK IN COOLER LOCATED NEXT TO 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE OF COOKING FRYERS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES FOR CURRENT EMPLOYEES.
57
78
Apr 21, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010.
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-602.11(A; B:1-4,6,7; C; D) OBSERVED PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS LOCATED AT FRONT REGISTER (CAKE SLICES) NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS WITH IDENTITY, NET WEIGHT, INGREDIENTS, BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS WHERE MADE AND PACKAGED.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.11 OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN WALK-IN FREEZER AND BULK FLOUR CONTAINERS UNCOVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED FOOD GRADE LIDS AND/OR COVERINGS WHEN STORING ALL FOOD ITEMS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED LEAK AT DRAINPIPE OF 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOM COVERED RECEPTACLE
53
74
Apr 14, 2021
Complaint
3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE GARBAGE DUMPSTERS NOT MAINTAINED AS REQUIRED; MUST CORRECT. FOUND THE TWO OUTSIDE DUMPSTERS LOCATED IN THE ALLEY FOR HAROLDS CHICKEN OVERFLOWING AND LIDS NOT TIGHT FITTING AS REQUIRED. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED/ADVISED OWNER TO MAINTAIN OR REMOVE THOSE UNITS FROM AREA AS OWNER STATES UNITS ARE BEING USED BY SURROUNDING BUILDING TENANTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CURRENT PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK ON THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A LICENSED PEST CONTROL COMPANY AND OPERATOR MUST PROVIDE AT LEAST 2 PEST INSPECTIONS A YEAR AND THE REPORTS MUST BE MAINTAINED IN THE LOG BOOK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CURRENT PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK AND PEST INSPECTION REPORT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(C).
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS LOCATED AT FRONT REGISTER (CAKE SLICES) NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL PACKAGED FOOD ITEMS WITH IDENTITY, NET WEIGHT, INGREDIENTS, BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS WHERE MADE AND PACKAGED.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN WALK-IN FREEZER AND BULK FLOUR CONTAINERS UNCOVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED FOOD GRADE LIDS AND/OR COVERINGS WHEN STORING ALL FOOD ITEMS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK AT DRAINPIPE OF 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
64
Dec 1, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. OWNER HAS VERIFICATION THAT HE PASSED THE EXAM ON FEBRUARY 11, 2020 BUT HAS NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN THROUGH KENNEDY KING COLLEGE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 ISSUED.
2
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING OBSERVED FROM PIPE UNDER THE THREE COMP SINK; MUST REPAIR.
51
86
Nov 19, 2020
Complaint
2 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. OWNER HAS VERIFICATION THAT HE PASSED THE EXAM ON FEBRUARY 11, 2020 BUT HAS NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN THROUGH KENNEDY KING COLLEGE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 ISSUED.
2
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE GARBAGE DUMPSTERS NOT MAINTAINED AS REQUIRED; MUST CORRECT. FOUND THE DUMPSTERS FOR HAROLDS CHICKEN SLIGHTLY OVERFLOWING AND LIDS ON CONTAINERS NOT TIGHT FITTING AS REQUIRED; INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. ADDITIONALLY 2 GARBAGE UNITS WERE OVERFLOWING AND ARE OWNED BY THE OWNER OF HAROLDS CHICKEN FOR A SEPARATE UNLICENSED BUSINESS THAT IS NOT OPERATING AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED/ADVISED OWNER TO MAINTAIN OR REMOVE THOSE UNITS FROM AREA AS OWNER STATES UNITS ARE BEING USED BY BUILDING TENNANTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) ISSUED.
54
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING OBSERVED FROM PIPE UNDER THE THREE COMP SINK; MUST REPAIR.
51
78
Feb 24, 2020
Complaint
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEA 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
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO LABEL THE BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS WITH THE NAME OF THE PRODUCT INSIDE OF THE CONTAINER (FLOUR, CORN MEAL).
37
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN INTERIOR BOTTOM AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE OBSERVED.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS AND WALLS AROUND UNDER AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT WHERE NEEDED.
55
78
Sep 25, 2018
Routine
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2.102.14(N) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE ON-SITE DURING THE INSPECTION FOR REVIEW. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE FORM 1B OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2.501.11 NO CLEAN-UP KIT AVAILABLE ONSITE DURING THE INSPECTION FOR REVIEW. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KIT & PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT INVOLVE HE DISCHARGE OF FECAL OR VOMITUS MATTER ONTO SURFACES IN THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3.302.12(C) ALL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN THE PREP AREA MUST BE LABELED, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3.304.14(C) MUST BE STORED IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6.201.11 MUST DETAIL CLEAN FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREP AREAS UNDER AND BEHIND HEAVY EQUIPMENT, AND IN THE UPSTAIRS DRY STORAGE AREA. ALSO, CLEAN DUST FROM CEILING VENTS AND WALLS IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. 6.501.114 MUST REMOVE OR ORGANIZE CLUTTER UNDERNEATH STAIRS IN REAR AND SMALL STORAGE CLOSET UPSTAIRS, ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOORS TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6.501.14(A) MUST DETAIL CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM KITCHEN HOOD & FILTERS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
67
Aug 25, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 14, 2017
License
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL COOLER COMING, NOT ON SITE AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE UPON NEXT INSPECTION,
2
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: NO EXPOSED HAND SINK IN KITCHEN PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE,
11
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: COUNTER AND PREP TABLES NOT SET-UP IN KITCHEN AREA, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE,
32
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Harold's Chicken last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Harold's Chicken on file is from Dec 16, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Harold's Chicken?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Harold's Chicken.
Has Harold's Chicken's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Harold's Chicken have averaged around two violations per visit, down from roughly four earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Harold's Chicken 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 Harold's Chicken inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Harold's Chicken is inspected around three times per year on average.
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