Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier
Last inspected: Oct 14, 2025
90
Score
Public records show 24 inspections at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier stretching back to 2010. On Oct 14, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near three violations per visit.
Across the inspection history, “proper cooling methods used” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded nine times.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier is comfortably above that bar. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
24
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Oct 14, 2025
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 OBSERVED RUSTED RACKS ON INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAINT OR REPLACE RACKS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.13 OBSERVED STICKY FLOORS IN BAR AREA OF FACILITY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
55
90
Oct 6, 2025
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOLER WITH AN INADEQUATE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF 48 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL COOLERS ARE HELD AT 41 F AND BELOW. MANAGER CONTACTED VENDER PRIOR TO INSPECTION. COOLER TAGGED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS HELD AT INADEQUATE TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 47-59 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL TCS FOODS ARE HELD AT 41 F AND BELOW. MANAGER DISCARDED: 5 POUNDS CUT LEAFY GREENS, 5 POUNDS OF DICED CHICKEN, AND 2 POUND OF SLICED TOMATOES ($120) PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTED RACKS ON INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAINT OR REPLACE RACKS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STICKY FLOORS IN BAR AREA OF FACILITY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
55
67
Sep 10, 2024
Complaint
No violations found.
100
Jul 26, 2024
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD- AND NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT ALONG MAIN COOK LINE TO BE SOILED WITH ENCRUSTED GREASE DEPOSITS (GRILL, SALAMANDER OVEN, STOVETOP). INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FOOD- AND NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT WITH APPROPRIATE CLEANING MATERIALS AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF ENCRUSTED GREASE DEPSOITS AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS AND PLASTIC WRAP USED TO LINE OVERHEAD PLUMBING FIXTURES ABOVE CLEAN EQUIPMENT AND SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES IN THE 2ND FLOOR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE SOILED WIPING CLOTHS AND PLASTIC WRAP AND REPLACE WITH A SMOOTH AND EASILY-CLEANABLE SURFACE FOR LINING PLUMBING FIXTURES AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BASE COVING MISSING IN THE REAR KITCHEN PREP AREA (NEAR EXTERIOR DOOR TO PATIO), WITH ADJOINING WALL AND FLOOR JUNCTION IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WALL JUNCTION AND REPLACE BASE COVING AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE BASE COVING AND SEALING ALONG WALL JUNCTIONS IN ALL AREAS IN WHICH FOOD IS PREPARED AND METHODS OTHER THAN WATER FLUSHING ARE USED FOR CLEANING FLOORS.
55
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING HANDWASHING SINKS MISSING HANDWASHING SIGNAGE: HANDWASHING SINK AT FAR END OF MAIN COOK LINE, HANDWASHING SINK IN COFFEE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SIGNAGE TO ALL HANDWASHING SINKS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
10
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FISH RECEIVED FROM MANUFACTURER IN REDUCED OXYGEN PACKAGING (ROP), BEARING LABEL INDICATING FISH MUST BE KEPT FROZEN WHILE IN ROP, THAWED UNDER REFRIGERATION WHILE STILL CONTAINED IN SEALED REDUCED OXYGEN PACKAGING. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE REDUCED OXYGEN PACKAGED FISH FROM SEALED PACKAGING PRIOR TO THAWING UNDER REFRIGERATION AND MAINTAIN.
35
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLEAN LINENS STORED IN CONTACT WITH FOOD (RIBS) IN UPRIGHT HOT-HOLDING UNIT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE LINENS FROM FOOD AND CEASE USE OF LINENS IN CONTACT WITH FOOD UNLESS USED TO LINE A CONTAINER FOR DIRECT SERVICE TO CONSUMERS AND MAINTAIN.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL AND FOOD-GRADE PLASTIC WRAP USED TO LINE OR TIE DOWN VARIOUS NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT ALONG MAIN COOK LINE (GRILL GREASE PANS, SHELVING, SALAMANDER OVEN BASE). INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALUMINUM FOIL AND FOOD-GRADE PLASTIC WRAP AND MAINTAIN ALL NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES OF EQUIPMENT SMOOTH AND EASILY-CLEANABLE.
47
70
Oct 4, 2023
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: Keeping knives wedged between coolers, instructed to keep on a clean surface. unable to detach ice scoop holder from wall to wash, instructed to wash scoops regularly.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: Old date stickers not removed from pans during washing, instructed to remove.
44
90
Jun 21, 2022
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Soda gun holder not clean at main bar, instructed to clean and maintain.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: leak noted at drain pipe of prep sink at rear prep area, Instructed to repair and maintain.
51
90
Jun 23, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 14, 2021
Routine
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DISH MACHINE IN USE NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING. OBSERVED FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE @ 151F. MUST PROVIDE MINIMUM FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 180F TO PROPERLY SANITIZE UTENSIL IN DISH MACHINE. OPERATOR RESTORED FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 180F DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES INSIDE PREP COOLER AND ON RACKS IN PREP AREA. FOUND CHEESE AND SAUSAGE RAVIOLI @ 51F-49.4F; CHICKEN @ 74.3F; RIBS @ 73.7F; BEEF @ 62F. INSTRUCTED MUST KEEP ALL TCS FOODS @ 41F (OR 135F OR HIGHER) AT ALL TIMES. OPERATOR VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED ALL DENATURED FOODS DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONSUMER ADVISORY NOT CORRECTLY NOTED ON MENUS. MUST PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY FOOTNOTE, DISCLOSURE STATEMENT, AND REMINDERS (*) NEXT TO EACH ITEM ON MENU IT APPLIES TO ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO RECENT PROOF OF PEST CONTROL SERVICE. MUST PROVIDE LOG BOOK FROM A LICENSED, COMMERCIAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE, COMPLETE WITH RECENT PROOF OF SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C).
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE ON SITE WITHOUT PROPER TESTING DEVICE. MUST PROVIDE AN IRREVERSIBLE TEMPERATURE MEASURING DEVICE (SUCH AS HEAT STRIPS) TO ACCURATELY MEASURE THE UTENSIL SURFACE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE SIGNAGE AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS.
10
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST AND GREASE ACCUMULATION ON INTERIOR OF HOOD OVER COOK LINE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE. MUST MAINTAIN SAME.
56
50
May 23, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: - MUST INSTALL A HANDWASH SINK IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA OR PROVIDE FACILITY TO HAVE AN EXISTING HANDWASH SINK BE ACCESSIBLE TO THE REAR PREP AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-030(C). NO CITATION ISSUED. WITH THE ADAPTION OF THE MOST RECENT CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD CODE, A 90 DAY GRACE PERIOD WAS GIVEN FOR THIS NEW PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. IF NOT CORRECTED; CITATIONS WILL BE ISSUED ON THE NEXT INSPECTION AFTER 90 DAY GRACE PERIOD FOR THESE VIOLATIONS. -
10
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: - OBSERVED FOODS, THAT HAVE BEEN PREVIOUSLY COOKED TODAY, COOLING IN THE WALK IN COOLER IN DEEP PANS AND WRAPPED TIGHTLY WITH PLASTIC WRAP. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE A PROPER COOLING METHOD THAT ADEQUATELY PROVIDES ALL FOODS TO BE COOLED FROM 135F TO 41F OR BELOW IN FOUR HOURS OR LESS. -
33
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: - MUST PROVIDE EASILY READABLE AND CONSPICUOUSLY PLACED THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN. -
36
82
May 24, 2018
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SOME FRY AREA REACH IN COOLERS DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR GASKETS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR LITTERED UNDER SHELF RACKS INSIDE LIQUOR STORAGE CAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR AT LIQUOR STORAGE ROOM.
34
90
Jul 6, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND MISSING GROUT AT FLOOR TILES LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE SWINGING DOORWAY ENTRANCE INTO THE MAIN LARGER BAR AREA.MUST REPAIR/REPLACE MISSING GROUT SO AS TO HAVE FLOOR BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. FOUND GRIME BUILD-UP AT FLOOR UNDER ALL SINKS AND BAR EQUIPMENT AT THE OUTSIDE BAR AREA ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE RESTAURANT. MUST CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND A MISSING COLD WATER FAUCET HANDLE AT THE MOP SINK CLOSET. MUST REPAIR BROKEN COLD WATER FAUCET HANDLE AT THE MOP SINK.MUST PROVIDE.
38
90
Aug 8, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE PREP AREA REACH IN COOLERS DOOR RUBBER GASKETS, ON PREP AREA SHELVES, ON LOWER SIDE OF DISHMACHINE DRAIN BOARDS AND SLIGHT CALCIUM BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE (NEXT TO PUMP ROOM). MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING/CRACKED FLOOR TILES UNDER BEER WALK IN COOLER DOOR. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED FLOOR TILES/KEEP FLOOR DRY AND CLEAN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS/DIRT BUILD UP ON WALLS AROUND MOP SINK. MUST CLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: POT WASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK RIGHT SIDE FAUCET LEAKING AT BASE ALSO MENS/WOMENS WASHROOM HANDWASH BOWLS HOT/COLD WATER PUSH BUTTONS NOT WITH CONTINUOUS RUNNING WATER FOR MINIMUM OF 15 SECONDS. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS, WASHROOMS HANDWASH BOWLS PUSH BUTTONS HOT/COLD WATER MUST RUN CONTINUOUS WATER FOR A MINIMAL OF 15 SECONDS.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING SOME COOLERS MISSING THERMOMETERS. MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COOLERS.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FRONT BAR FLOOR CLUTTERED BY UNUSED 1-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST ELEVATE ALL ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE ITEMS.
41
74
Apr 14, 2015
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIFE STORED BETWEEN PREP STATION AND EQUIPMENT IN PREP AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE. INVERT DISHES AT REAR WAITER STATION AND AT OUTSIDE BAR.
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR IN KITCHEN AREA OF FOOD SPILL DEBRIS.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE LIGHTING AT HOOD IN KITCHEN ABOVE STOVE/GRILL AREA. MUST PROVIDE.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: DRAIN AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND WASH SINK BY DISH MACHINE IN KITCHEN WITH SLIGHT SLOW DRAIN. MUST REPAIR.
38
82
Jul 22, 2014
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE IN THE KITCHEN SANITIZING AT 0PPM CHLORINE WITH NO DISHES BEING WASHED AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN 50PPM CHLORINE AT ALL TIMES. NO CITATION ISSUED.
8
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARD ON THE COOKLINE WITH DARK DEEP GROOVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN CUTTING BOARDS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR SODA NOZZLES NEAR OUTDOOR PATIO WITH ACCUMULATED BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SODA NOZZLES.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BLOWN LIGHTS OVER EXPO, COOKLINE AND PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
36
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS OVER EXPO AND PREP LINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING LEAKS:OUTSIDE BAR FAUCET BASE, COLD KNOB OF 3 COMPARTMENT SINK LEFT FAUCET. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREP COOLERS ON COOKLINE WITHOUT THERMOMETERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN THERMOMETERS
40
70
May 13, 2014
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE BOTTOM OF THE FRYERS ON THE PREP LINE WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
33
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CAN OPENER WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FOOD EQUIPMENT.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOOD VENTS ON THE COOK LINE IN THE PREP AREA WITH ACCUMULATED DUST. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD VENTS.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL TILES AT MOP SINK IN DISREPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN WALL TILES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED METERED FAUCETS AT THE WASHBOWLS NOT RUNNING FOR AT LEAST 15 SECONDS IN THE RESTROOMS OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN METERED FAUCETS RUNNING AT LEAST 15 SECONDS.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET MOPS IN THE MOP SINK AND IN THE MOP BUCKET AT THE MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO HANG OR INVERT MOPS.
41
74
Jul 19, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY ON SHELVING UNITS.(MUST STORE INVERTED)
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND SOME SYRUP SPILLAGE BEHIND BAG IN THE BOX SYRUP. MUST CLEAN TO PREVENT FRUIT FLY HARBORAGE.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL SPLASHGUARD BETWEEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND HIGH TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE.
38
86
Jul 19, 2012
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FOUND PREP COOLER AIR TEMPERATURE AT 55.8F, COOLER IS USED FOR MEAT STORAGE. INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP ALL COOLERS AT 40F OR LOWER. COOLER IS TAGGED NOT ALLOWED TO USE, MUST CONTACT CDPH FOR TAG REMOVAL REQUEST WHEN READY.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING FOOD ITEMS STORED IN SAID COOLER AT TEMPERATURE RANGING BETWEEN 56.4F-51.4F. 20LBS OF RAW CHICKEN, 20LBS OF RAW FISH, 5LBS OF HEAVY CREAM, ASLO FOUND 20LBS OF CHILI BEANS STORED IN A LARGE CONTAINER IN WALK-IN COOLER AT 55.4F, CONTAINER PLACED IN COOLER A DAY BEFORE. INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP ALL SUCH FOODS AT 40F OR LOWER, AND ALL HOT FOOD MUST BE COOLED DOWN WITHIN 6 HOURS OR LESS. FOOD DISCARDED VALUED AT $150.
3
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: SODA DISPENSER GUNS IN ALL BAR SERVICE LINES NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: STANDING WATER ALONG WALL BASE, DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS BEHIND COOKING LINE, INSTRUCTED MGR TO CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST CREAT A WALL OR A BARRIER AT THE STAIR CASE ADJACEN TO PIZZA PREP TABLE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION TO PERP TABLE NEXT TO STAIRS.
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: INACCURATE THERMOMETER IN COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE GOOD WORKING THERMOMETERS IN ALL COOLERS IN AN EASY TO VIEW AREA.
40
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOPS STORED ON ICE CUBES, INSTRUCTED TO STORE OFF CUBES.
43
70
Oct 20, 2011
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP/DARK GROOVES MUST BE REPLACED. BROKEN LID ON ICE CREAM CHEST FREEZER MUST BE REPLACED ALSO. SOME GASKETS IN MAIN KITCHEN ARE IN OOR REPAIR-MUST FIX. AN OPEN SEAM ON THE SPRAYER SINK AT THE DISHMACHINE MUST BE SELAED, TO PREVENT WATER SEEPAGE. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: POOR FLOOR GROUTING AT COOK'S LINE & DISHMACHINE AREA MUST BE FIXED, TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
90
Oct 13, 2011
Suspected Food Poisoning
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: (7-38-020) EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. NOTED 12-SMALL/FRUIT FLIES ON WALLS/CEILING AROUND THE SODA SYRUP RACK BY THE BEER COOLER AT BAR AREA; 16-ON WALLS/CEILING AT SMALL SODA SYRUP ROOM AT REAR OF MAIN KITCHEN; 13-ON SHELVES & CEILING AROUND A WAIT STAFF STATION BY ENTRY WAY TO MAIN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE SOURCE & CLEAN/SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines.
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP/DARK GROOVES MUST BE REPLACED. BROKEN LID ON ICE CREAM CHEST FREEZER MUST BE REPLACED ALSO. SOME COOLER GASKETS IN MAIN KITCHEN ARE IN POOR REPAIR-MUST FIX. AN OPEN SEAM ON THE SPRAYER SINK OF THE DISHMACHINE MUST BE SEALED TO PREVENT WATER SEEPAGE, THAT CAN CAUSE PEST HARBORAGE. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOLLOWING NEED CLEANING: GASKETS OF COOLER DOORS, INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE, FILTERS OF HOOD ABOVE OVEN, INTERIOR OF VENTS AT BOTH ENDS OF DISHMACHINE. All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: POOR FLOOR GROUTING AT COOK'S LINE & DISHMACHINE AREA MUST BE FIXED TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS BELOW THE DISHMACHINE DRAINBOARD & BEHIND IT MUST BE KEPT CLEAN. WALLS/CEILINGS AFFECTED BY PEST MUST BE CLEANED/SANITIZED. The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.
35
78
May 19, 2011
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 12, 2011
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE PEST CONTORL (7-38-020). NOTED AT LEAST 16-SMALL/FRUIT FLIES ON WALL & CEILING AROUND WAIT STAFF AREA BY THE BAR; 4-ON SODA SYRUP BOXES BY MOP SINK & 4-ON EXTERIOR DOOR OF BEER COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT P.C.O., ELIMINATE PESTS & CLEAN ALL AFFECTED AREAS. All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines.
18
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE PLUMBING (7-38-030). FOUND BOTTOM PIPE AT LEFT SIDE OF 3-COMP SINK (IN DISHROOM) LEAKING PROFUSELY ONTO THE FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO FIX & MAINTAIN, TO KEEP FLOORS DRY. All dishwashing machines must be of a type that complies with all requirements of the plumbing section of the Municipal Code of Chicago and Rules and Regulation of the Board of Health.
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP GROOVES MUST BE REPLACED. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR DRAINS IN BAR AREA & AT REAR OF KITCHEN (BY SODA SYRUP ROOM) NEED CLEANING-DUE TO FOOD DEBRIS/DIRT. ALL SUPPLIES/STOCK MUST BE ELEVATED OFF THE FLOOR (MEZZANINE LEVEL). The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS IN WALK-IN COOLER & AT DISHROOM, MUST BE REPLACED. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ANY MILK CRATES USED FOR STORAGE RACKS MUST BE REPLACED WITH REGULAR SHELVINGS, FOR EASY CLEANING/PEST MONITORING. 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.
41
74
Sep 3, 2010
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 23, 2010
Complaint
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities. All food establishments that prepare, sell, or store hot food shall have adequate hot food storage facilities. FOUND REACH IN COOLER ON HOT LINE AT IMPROPER TEMERATURE 48.4 DEGREES. COOLER BEING TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AT THIS TIME. COOLER MAY NOT BE USED UNTIL REPAIRED AND REINSPECTED BY THE CDPH. CONTACT CDPOG VIA FAX 312-746-4240. CRITICAL CITATION 7-38-005(A) CITATION ISSUED
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less. All hot food shall be stored at a temperature of 140F or higher. FOUND THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS PRODUCTS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE: COLE SLAW 52.4, COOKED ROAST BEEF 52.5, RAW STEAK 48.2, RAW STEAK 45.9 ALL PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. TOTAL VALUE $300.00 45LBS CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A) CITATION ISSUED
3
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines. FOUND FRUIT FLY ACTIVITY IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: FRONT INSIDE BAR, OUTSIDE BAR, COFFEE STATION, REAR PREP AREA. APPROX 35 FLIES NOTED. MUST CLEAN ALL AREAS AND CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020 CITATION ISSUED.
18
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: All dishwashing machines shall maintain proper water pressure and must be provided with suitable thermometers, chemical test kits, and gauge cocks. FOUND DISHMACHINE WITH TEMPERATURE GAUGE IN POOR REPAIR. GAUGE STUCK ON 152.0 DEGREES. MACHINE TEMPERATURE AT 182.0O ECOLAB ARRIVED ON SITE TO CORRECT GAUGE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030 CITATION ISSUED.
22
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. CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACEING WHERE WORN AND DISCOLORED. MUST REPLACE 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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: INTERIOR OF REACH-IN COOLER, COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REM0VE BUILD-UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. FLOORS THROUGHOUT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE BUILD-UP AND MUST BE KEPT DRY. CLEAN UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT . AREAS IN NEED OF REGROUTING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
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. Use dustless cleaning methods. CEILING AREA IN WAIT STATION IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. 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. LEAK AT 2ND FLOOR HOT WATER HEATER, OUTSIDE BAR BEER TAP AND ICE MACHINE LEAK IN NEED OF REPAIR. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
38
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: Soiled and clean linens, coats, and aprons shall be properly stored. LINEN AND LINEN BAGS MUST BE STORED IN AN ORDERLY FASHION.
39
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Between uses and during storage ice dispensing utensils and ice receptacles shall be stored in a way that protects them from contamination. ALL ICE SCOOPS MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN SANITIZE CONTAINER. NOT STORED IN ICE.
43
58
Feb 9, 2010
License
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier on file is from Oct 14, 2025. The public record contains 24 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier.
Has Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier have averaged around three violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier 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 Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Harry Caray's Tavern Navy Pier is inspected around two times per year on average.
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