Harry Caray's Restaurant
Last inspected: Nov 3, 2025
67
Score
The health department has logged 20 inspections at Harry Caray's Restaurant, the earliest from 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Nov 3, 2025. A medium risk score generally means inspectors found things to fix, though most weren't urgent.
The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around eight violations each, up from closer to three violations before.
The most common issue across all inspections has been “insects, rodents, & animals not present”, showing up nine times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. Taken together, the history looks like that of a busy facility working through the usual inspection cycle.
20
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
8
Minor latest
Inspection History
Nov 3, 2025
Complaint
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LITTER DEBRIS AROUND THE OUTSIDE LARGE GARBAGE COMPACTOR UNIT.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN SAID AREA TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS WITH GREASE AND DRIED FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN PREP/COOKING AREAS ESPECIALLY UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD SYSTEMS ON BOTH KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREAS 1ST AND 2ND FLOORS TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED BEHIND PREP TABLE AND WALL. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE KNIVES IN A KNIFE RACK TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE.(MANAGER CORRECTED ISSUE).
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST ON THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE 1ST AND 2ND FLOOR WALK-IN-COOLERS.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST AND REPAINT OR REPLACE THE SHELVES AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A TORN DOOR GASKETS INSIDE OF THE KITCHEN SALAD PREP LINE COOLER AND PREP COOLER DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM THE COOKING EQUIPMENTS.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN INTERIORS OF BAR COOLERS AND BAR GUNS AND HOUSINGS AT FRONT MAIN BAR AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE BASEMENT EMPLOYEE WOMEN WASHROOM.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
67
Aug 13, 2025
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF (TCS FOODS) INSIDE OF ONE (1) WALK-IN-COOLER LOCATED ON THE 2ND FLOOR KITCHEN FOOD PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.OBSERVED RAW CHICKEN INTERNAL TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 44.2F-45.7F,SHRIMP INTERNAL TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 44.7F-55.1F AND HAM AT 46.6F.MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 78#'S OF FOOD WORTH $520.00.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO MONITOR AND MAINTAIN ALL COLD (TCS FOODS) AT 41F OR COLDER AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE (1) WALK-IN-COOLER LOCATED ON THE 2ND FLOOR KITCHEN FOOD PREP/DISHWASHING AREA WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 51.2F.THE COOLER WAS USED TO STORE (TCS FOODS) SUCH AS CHICKEN AND SHRIMPS ETC.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SAID COOLER AT 41F OR COLDER AT ALL TIMES.MANAGEMENT IMMEDIATELY NOTIFIED REFRIGERATION REPAIR SERVICE.THE SAID COOLER IS TAGGED "HELD FOR INSPECTION" AT THIS TIME.INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL REPAIRED.(SEE COMMENTS BELOW).PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
33
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCES ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MACHINE,DRIPPING INTO ICE "ICE IS USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION".INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO TURN OFF MACHINE,REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MAKER CLEANED AND SANITIZED AND MAINTAINED.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS IN THE BASEMENT CAGED DRY STORAGE AREA WITHOUT A LABEL. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE COMMON NAME ON ALL BULK CONTAINERS TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY ITEM (NAME (SALT, SUGAR, FLOUR ETC).
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: ALL PREP AREA WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FIRST FLOOR AND SECOND FLOOR FOOD PREP AREAS.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST ON THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE 1ST AND 2ND FLOOR WALK-IN-COOLERS.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CHIPPED PAINT AND RUST AND REPAINT OR REPLACE THE SHELVES AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE PROVIDED IN THE BASEMENT EMPLOYEE WOMEN WASHROOM.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILE NEAR THE HANDWASHING SINK NEXT TO THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE LOCATED IN THE 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS WITH GREASE AND DRIED FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN PREP/COOKING AREAS ESPECIALLY UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD SYSTEMS ON BOTH KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREAS 1ST AND 2ND FLOORS TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIM LIGHTING INSIDE ONE (1) WALK-IN-COOLER LOCATED IN THE 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BRIGHTER BULB AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
56
43
Oct 22, 2024
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15: OBSERVED OPENINGS IN MIDDLE OF OUTER FRONT ENTRANCE DOUBLE DOORS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPEINGS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRANCE.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19: OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL ON ON LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALUMINUM FOIL FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP. OBSERVED RUST ON SHELVES OF SHELVING UNIT NEXT TO PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST FROM SHELVES OF SHELVING UNIT NEXT TO PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. NONFOOD CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED OF A CORRISON RESISTANT, NONABSORBENT AND SMOOTH MATERIAL.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15: OBSERVED DRAIN LINES LEADING FROM FOUNTAIN NOZZLE AND BEER DISPENSER DRAINING INTO BOTH HANDWASHING SINKS AT FIRST FLOOR BAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RELOCATE DRAIN LINES FROM FOUNTAIN NOZZLE AND BEER DISPENSER TO FLOOR DRAINS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11: OBSERVED DAMAGED WALL NEAR HANDWASHING SINK IN PANTRY STATION INSTRUCTED TO SMOOTHLY REPAIR WALL FOR EASE OF CLEANABILITY NEAR HANDWASHING SINK IN PANTRY STATION.
55
82
Oct 15, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVER 20 SMALL FLIES IN SECOND FLOOR OF FACILITY. OBSERVED SMALL FLY ACTIVITY IN DISHWASHING AND BEVERAGE AREA OF SECOND FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE SMALL FLY ACTIVITY AND CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS IN DISHWASHING AND BEVERAGE AREA. RECOMMENDED PEST CONTROL SERVICE FACILITY ON OR AFTER 10/15/2024. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPENINGS IN MIDDLE OF OUTER FRONT ENTRANCE DOUBLE DOORS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPEINGS TO PREVENT PEST ENTRANCE.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL ON ON LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALUMINUM FOIL FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP. OBSERVED RUST ON SHELVES OF SHELVING UNIT NEXT TO PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST FROM SHELVES OF SHELVING UNIT NEXT TO PREP TABLE NEAR COFFEE STATION IN FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. NONFOOD CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT SHALL BE CONSTRUCTED OF A CORRISON RESISTANT, NONABSORBENT AND SMOOTH MATERIAL.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DRAINPIPE OF THREE COMPARTMENT SINK IN FIRST FLOOR DISHWASHING AREA LEAKING ON TO FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR DRAINPIPE OF THREE COMPARTMENT SINK IN FIRST FLOOR DISHWASHING AREA AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED DRAIN LINES LEADING FROM FOUNTAIN NOZZLE AND BEER DISPENSER DRAINING INTO BOTH HANDWASHING SINKS AT FIRST FLOOR BAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RELOCATE DRAIN LINES FROM FOUNTAIN NOZZLE AND BEER DISPENSER TO FLOOR DRAINS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED WALL NEAR HANDWASHING SINK IN PANTRY STATION AND LOWER RIGHT SIDE OF WALL NEAR EXIT DOOR NEAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK ON SECOND FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO SMOOTHLY REPAIR WALLS FOR EASE OF CLEANABILITY IN PANTRY STATION AND LOWER WALL NEAR EXIT DOOR NEAR THREE COMPARTMENT SINK IN DISHWASHING AREA ON SECOND FLOOR.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PROOF OF ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING PROVIDED FOR ONE EMPLOYEE WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE.
58
70
Dec 19, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 12, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RINSE GAUGE ON HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE LOCATED IN 2ND FLOOR DISH AREA NOT WORKING PROPERLY. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINK LOCATED ON COOK LINE ON FIRST FLOOR AND BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE INSIDE EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM LOCATED OFF OF COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP OF DEBRIS ON HOOD FILTERS ABOVE MAIN COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
56
78
Sep 20, 2021
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: THE SODA GUN HOLDER LOCATED AT THE END OF THE BAR IS MISSING A DRAIN HOSE. MUST PROVIDE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND HEAVY BLACK MOLD-LIKE BUILD UP ON GASKETS OF 4-DOOR PREP COOLER THAT IS BEING USED FOR CLEAN DISH STORAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND MISSING WALL TILES BEHIND THE FIRST TOILET IN THE 1ST FLOOR WOMENS RESTROOM. MUST REPAIR TILES AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Feb 7, 2020
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS IN FIRST FLOOR PREP KITCHEN NEAR SALAD PREP AREA WITH DEEP GROOVES AND DARK STAINS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN SMOOTH, CLEANABLE SURFACES.
47
95
Apr 4, 2019
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MEAT SLICER NOT CLEANED PROPERLY BEHIND BLADE, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
95
Jun 19, 2018
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DINING ROOM TABLES PRE-SET WITH UNCOVERED SILVERWARE AND CUPS STORED OPEN-SIDE UP. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL PRE-SET UTENSILS MUST BE COVERED OR INVERTED.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATION OF OILY RESIDUE IN THE LOWER COMPARTMENT OF THE 1ST FLOOR FRYERS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING GROUTING AT WALL TILES BELOW 1ST FLOOR DISH MACHINE DRAIN BOARD, CREATING LARGE GAPS BETWEEN WALL TILES. ALSO NOTED THE SAME AT THE WALL TILES TO THE LEFT OF THE 1ST FLOOR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WALL TO BE SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE AND FREE OF UNNECESSARY GAPS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LIGHT FIXTURE IN THE BASEMENT 4 DOOR DESSERT COOLER TO BE UNSHIELDED. ALSO NOTED THE LIGHT FIXTURES ABOVE BASEMENT DRY FOOD AND PAPER PACKAGING PRODUCT STORAGE AREAS TO BE UNSHIELDED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELDS OR SHATTER PROOF BULBS IN THESE AREAS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EXHAUST VENT IN THE BASEMENT WOMEN'S EMPLOYEE RESTROOM TO BE INOPERABLE. MUST REPAIR.
38
78
Apr 11, 2017
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND SINK IN DESSERT STATION/ SALAD PREP INACCESSIBLE BEING USED AS A DIPPER WELL WITH A METAL CONTAINER INSIDE EXPOSED HAND SINK WITH AN ICE CREAM SCOOPER INSIDE METAL CONTAINER WITH COLD WATER RUNNING SLIGHTLY. EXPOSED HAND SINK IS TO BE USED FOR HANDWASHING ONLY AND CANNOT BE USED FOR DIPPER WELL. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
12
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1 COMPARTMENT SINK BEHIND COOKING LINE CONVERTED TO EXPOSED HAND SINK. SPLASH GUARDS MUST BE INSTALLED TO PROTECT ADJACENT FOOD.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2ND FLOOR ICE MACHINE UNCLEAN WITH DIRT ON INTERIOR. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR IN BASEMENT IN CORNER UNDER SHELVES IN SUMP PUMP ROOM WITH STANDING WATER. REMOVE STANDING WATER AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED STANDING WATER UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN MAIN BAR ON 1 ST FLOOR. REMOVE STANDING WATER AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED FLOORS IN MAIN KITCHEN NEAR 3 IN BETWEEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND DISH MACHINE IN DISREPAIR WITH CRACKED AND MISSING FLOOR TILES AROUND FLOOR DRAIN AND IN BETWEEN 3 COMPARTEMNT AND DISH MACHINE. OBSERVED TILES CRACKED AND DAMAGED IN SAME AREA NEAR EXIT DOORS. OBSERVED ALOT OF COLLECTED WATER UNDER FLOOR MATS IN THIS SAME AREA. REPAIR FLOOR AND MAINTAIN SO THAT IT IS CLEAN AND DRY.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING VENT IN STAFF WASHROOM ON 2ND FLOOR MISSING. REPLACE CEILING VENT AND MAINTAIN IN A WORKING ORDER. OBSERVED CDILING VENT IN BASEMENT MENS LOCKER ROOM WASHROOM WITH HEAVY DUST ACCUMULATION. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING CONDITION UNDER 2 COMPARTMENT SINK ON SECOND FLOOR BANQUET KITCHEN. 3 COMPARTMENT AT BAR ON MAIN FLOOR LEAKING AT FAUCET. REPAIR AND MAINTAIN FAUCET. OBSERVED NO DIPPER WELL FOR ICE CREAM SCOOPER. INSTALL AND MAINTAIN DIPPER WELL.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMTERS IN SMALL BAR REFRIGERATORS AT BASE OF STAIRS LEADING TO SECOND FLOOR. INSTALL AND MAINTAIN THERMOMETRS IN REFRIGERATORS.
40
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS ON COUNTERS OF COOKING LINE. WIPING CLOTHS NEED TO BE STORED IN SANITIZER WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
67
Mar 10, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 3, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1/2 INCH GAP AT DOOR SWEEP BETWEEN ENTRANCE DOUBLE DOORS ALSO OBSERVED ONE LIVE ROACH AT MAIN BAR ON 1-COMPARTMENT DUMP SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RODENT PROOF FRONT DOORS ALSO MUST REMOVE INSECT ACTIVITY BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. ADVISED TO CALL PEST CONTROL OPERATOR FOR SERVICE AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREA. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020. CITATION ISSUED.
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE BUILD UP ON REACH IN PREP COOLER CONDENSER #17 AT 2ND FLOOR PREP AREA. MUST REMOVE/MELT ICE BUILD UP.
32
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETERS INSIDE MAIN BAR REACH IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE/MAKE VISIBLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE BAR REACH IN COOLERS.
40
86
Apr 20, 2015
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE FOOD STORAGE ROOM, PREP AREA ALSO ALL FOOD CONTAINERS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLERS MUST HAVE A LABEL(NAME OF THE PRODUCT)AND DATE.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE LIDS FOR THE BIG ICE BIN AND SMALL ICE BIN BEHIND THE BAR IN THE IST FLOOR, ALSO SERVICE BAR ICE BIN IST FLOOR AND 2ND FLOOR FLOOR ROLLING BAR AND SERVICE BAR ICE BIN NEEDS A LID.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST RE GROUT THE FLOOR TILES IN THE PREP KITCHEN 2ND FLOOR. NOTED STANDING WATER IN BETWEEN THE FLOOR TILES
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: LOOSE PLASTIC BASEBOARD AND MISSING PART OF THE BASEBOARD IN THE EMPLOYEE'S LUNCH ROOM, MUST RE GLUE AND REPAIR. VENT COVER INSIDE THE EMPLOYEES MEN'S WASHROOM IN THE BASEMENT WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. MUST SEAL ALL THE GAP AROUND THE CONDUIT AND PIPES IN THE 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN AND 2ND FLOOR PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BROKEN CRACKED SOLID LIGHT SHIELD IN THE KITCHEN COOK LINE. MUST REPLACE SOLID LIGHT SHIELD. ALSO CLEAN ALL LIGHT SHIELD ON THE HOOD/CANOPY IN THE COOK LINE(WITH GREASE ACCUMULATED)AND MAINTAIN.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SELF CLOSER DEVICE ON THE DOOR OF THE EMPOYEES MEN'S WASHROOM.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE CONNECTED TO THE WATER LINE ON THE EXPRESSO/COFFEE MACHINE OR SHOW THE EXISTANCE OF THE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE. MUST INSTALL EXPOSED HAND SINK ON THE DELI STATION 1ST FLOOR,CLOSE TO THE BAR. WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST ORGANIZE, ELEVATE ALL ITEMS/ARTICLES OFF THE FLOORIN THE 4TH FLOOR STORAGE AREA TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE AND HAVE AN EASY ACCESS IN CLEANING THE FLOOR.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES HANDLING AND PREPARING FOOD MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINT TO CONFINE THE HAIR.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL WASH CLOTH USED FOR WIPING TH PREP TABLE, COOLERS,CHOPPING BOARDS MUST BE STORED ON A BUCKET WITH SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
61
Apr 29, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE OF SERVICE COOLER AT THE FIRST FLOOR FOOD PREP AREA TO BE IMPROPER AT 45.1F. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT IS MAINTAINING TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY CALLED SERVICE COMPANY FOR REPAIRS. PREMISES HAS OTHER COOLERS MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 40F AND BELOW.BY END OF INSPECTION TEMPERATURE OF COOLER WAS READING 34.7F (11:00 AM) CITATION ISSUED FOR CRITICAL VIOLATION #7-38-005(A)
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER TO BE IMPROPER BETWEEN 46F TO 48F (CHOPPED SPINACH 46.1F, MUSHROOM 48.4, CHEESE 47.2F,CHERRY TOMATOES 46.4F). MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF14 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $76.0 THROUGH THE DENATURING PROCESS. INSTRUCTED TO MONITOR AND MAINTAIN. CITATION ISSUED FOR CRITICAL VIOLATION #7-38-005(A)
3
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WASHING DISHES AT THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH WASHER AT THE FIRST FLOOR FOOD PREP AREA WITH TEMPERATURE READING OF FINAL RINSE TO BE 170F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY CALLED ECO-LAB FOR MAINTENANCE. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE EQUIPMENT UNTIL PROPER SANITIZING TEMPERATURE OF 180F OR ABOVE IS ATTAINED.REPAIR PERSON ARRIVED ON LOCATION AT ABOUT 1045 AM AND REAPIRED THE DISH WASHER THAT IS NOW READING 190F FOR THE RINSE CYCLE. CITATION ISSUED FOR CRITICAL VIOLATION #7-38-030
8
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: NOTED OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER ENCRUSTED WITH GREASE ON TOP, LID,LIPS AND DRIPPING FROM THE SIDES ON TO THE GROUND. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY HAD EMPLOYEE START CLEANING THE GREASE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO MONITOR AND MAINTAIN. CITATION ISSUED FOR SERIOUS VIOLATION #7-38-020
19
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED MULTI USE UTENSILS(PLATES, CUPS,BOWLS ETC) ON SHELVES NOT PROPERLY STORED.INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL UTENSILS DURING STORAGE OR PROVIDE A PROTECTIVE COVER TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION AND CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY CONDENSATION INSIDE WALK IN FREEZER AT TH BASEMENT DRY STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRT AND UNEVEN FLOORS INSIDE WALK IN COOLERS AT THE FIRST AND SECOND FLOORS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTED SOME FOOD STAINS ON CEILING BY THE DISH WASHER AT THE SECOND FLOOR FOOD PREP AREA, STAINED CEILING TILES AT THE EMPLOYEES LOCKER ROOM OF THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA AND DUSTY CEILING INSIDE WALK IN COOLER OF SECOND FLOOR FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALSO NOTED CRACKS ON COVING ALONG WALL UNDERNEATH THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE FIRST FLOOR FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR.
35
67
Aug 20, 2013
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: DISPOSABLE PAPER CUPS USED AS A SCOOP AND SPICE CONTAINER, INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER CONTAINERS.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARD STORED ON FLOOR, SEVERAL FOOD STAINER WITH LOOSE WIRING . INSTRUCTED TO USE SOUND UTENSILS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: WALK-IN COOLER FLOORING AT 2ND FLOOR IN POOR REPAIR, CRACKS AND UNEVEN, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: STAGANET WATER AT CORNER OF 1ST FLOOR BEHIND ICE CREAM FREEZER, INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN 1ST FLOOR WALK-IN COOLER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: DIPPER WELL AT ICE CREAM STATION CLOGGED, A PIPE DRIPPING ON FLOOR NEXT TO IT. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN PLUMBING.
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74
Jun 4, 2012
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MISSING LABELS AT SPICE AND BULK-FOOD CONTAINERS, INSTRUCTED TO LABLE AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ICE BINS AT BAR AREA MISSING COVERS, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: GREASE AND DUST BUILD-UP NOTED ON PIPES AT KITCHEN CEILING, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SEAL OPENING.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: LARGE OPENING ON THE WALL BEHIND 2COMP SINK AT 2ND FLOOR KITCHEN, INSTRUCTED TO SEAL. ALSO SEVERAL CRACK SND CREVICES NOTED ON KITCHEN WALLS, INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN.
35
82
Mar 31, 2011
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. REPLACE THE FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM ON THE 1ST FLOOR. REGROUT THE FLOOR TILES WHERE NEEDED IN THE 1ST FLOOR PREP AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. SEAL THE WALL OPENINGS IN THE 1ST FLOOR EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. REPAIR THE WALL TILES OUTSIDE THE 1ST FLOOR EMPLOYEE RESTROOM SO THAT THE WALL IS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
90
Jun 17, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. 1st floor prep area coolers rubber door gaskets ripped also missing grates at ventilation hood (2nd floor prep). Must replace/replair damaged gaskets and ventilation grates.
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. Observed food debris on lower side of prep table tops at 2nd floor prep area. Must clean and maintain equipment.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. Observed debris build up inside floor drains and unclean floor at basement outside of beer keg walk in cooler. Must clean interior of all unclean floor drains and keep basement floor clean.
34
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. Pipe leaks under 2nd floor dishmachine sprayer. Must repair and maintain.
38
82
Feb 24, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. Must clean interior of plate reach in cooler and clean coolers door rubber gaskets.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. Must repair damaged floor tiles by ice cream freezer and by 2nd floor 2-compartment sink.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. Wall tiles missing under 2-compartment sink (2nd floor) and observed cracks/crevices in wall under 1st floor dishmachine drain board.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. 1st floor pot wash 3-compartment sink hot water faucet leaks also 1st floor Womens washroom handwash bowls draining slowly. Must repair and maintain plumbing.
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82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Harry Caray's Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Harry Caray's Restaurant on file is from Nov 3, 2025. The public record contains 20 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Harry Caray's Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Harry Caray's Restaurant.
Has Harry Caray's Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Harry Caray's Restaurant have averaged around eight violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Harry Caray's Restaurant means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Harry Caray's Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Harry Caray's Restaurant is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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