Hot Woks Cool Sushi

2032 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618
Japanese / Sushi
Last inspected: Mar 19, 2025
78
Score
Low Risk

Public records show 23 inspections at Hot Woks Cool Sushi stretching back to 2010. The most recent visit was on Mar 19, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.

Recent visits have flagged more than earlier ones: around six violations per visit lately, up from roughly three violations before.

When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited seven times.

That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. Taken together, the history looks like that of a busy facility working through the usual inspection cycle.

23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 19, 2025
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOIL BEING USED AS LINER ON SHELVING UNITS THROUGHOUT THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE FOIL AND ESNURE ALL NONFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES REMAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANBALE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO DETAIL CLEAN FLOOR UNDERNEATH ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE REAR PREP AREA.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER WITHOUT ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO ENSURE ALL CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS OBTAIN ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE EXPOSED HANDWASHING SINKS IN THE REAR PREP AND BASEMENT PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS USED BY FOOD EMPLOYEES AND MAINTAIN.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOAP DISPENER ATTACHED TO WALL ABOVE TWO COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO REMOVE SOAP DISPENSER AND ENSURE EMPLOYEES ARE ONLY WASHING THEIR HANDS AT SINKS DESIGNATED FOR HANDWASHING.
10
78
Jul 30, 2024
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES DRINKING AND PREPARING FOOD AT THE SUSHI PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO DRINK AND EAT AND NOT AT THE PREP AREAS.
6
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE DOOR OF 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNIT AT THE 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN PREP. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE. ALSO NOTED LID OF CHEST FREEZER IN POOR REPAIRS WITH BROKEN LID WRAPPED IN SCOTCH TAPE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED FOIL PAPER USED TO LINE SHELVES AT THE FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL FOIL PAPER TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE BOTTOM PIPE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA. ALSO NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE SAME SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOOR DRAIN UNDERNEATH THE DISH WASHING MACINE AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRTY AND DUSTY CEILING FANS AT THE FOOD PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALSO NOTED PEELING PAINT ON CEILING BY THE DISH WASHING AREA AT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
70
Jan 18, 2023
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINK IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA AND IN BASEMENT PREP AREA.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IDENTIFIES WITH COMMON NAME (POTATO FLOUR, SALT, PANKO ETC)
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CARDBOARD LINER ON STORAGE SHELVES IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF THE FOLLOWING: 3 COMPARTMENT SINK, 2 COMPARTMENT SINK AND HANDSINK IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR SURFACES OF DISHMACHINE, PREP AND STORAGE SHELVES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN BASEMENT PREP/STORAGE AREA AND IN REAR PREP/COOKING AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS IN THE BASEMENT PREP/DISHWASHING AREA TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
74
Dec 7, 2021
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER INSIDE PREP COOLERS LOCATED IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
90
Oct 5, 2020
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDSINKS AT SUSHI PREP AREA AND IN MEN AND WOMENS BATHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DARK YELLOWING STAINS ON CUTTING BOARDS AT SUSHI PREP AREA. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MINOR GREASE BUILD UP ON EXTERIOR OF GREASE TRAP IN REAR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
52
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LID ON TRASH CAN IN EMPLOYEE BATHROOM IN BASEMENT. MUST PROVIDE.
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE BATHROOM DOOR IN BASEMENT NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON DOOR TO PREVENT ANY OBNOXIOUS ODORS.
53
78
Oct 1, 2019
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SOME CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD HANDLERS WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD HANDLERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.
58
95
Sep 23, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NO CONSUMER ADVISORY WITH REMINDER ON MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A CONSUMER ADVISORY WITH REMINDER(1. ASTERIK NEXT TO THE FOOD AND 2. STATEMENT ABOUT THE FOOD) ON MENU OR TABLE TENTS/PLACARDS ON ALL TABLES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BLACK AND PINK SLIME BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE DRIPPING INTO ICE, ICE USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. ALL ICE INSIDE ICE MACHINE VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
16
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE 3-DOOR REACH IN PREP COOLER UPPER DOORS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF SAID REACH IN COOLER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS/DIRT BUILD UP ON WALLS BEHIND 1ST FLOOR 2-COMPARTMENT SINK ALSO OBSERVED FOOD/DIRT BUILD UP INSIDE BAR AND PREP AREA FLOOR DRAINS. MUST CLEAN WALLS AND INTERIOR OF ALL DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GAP AT CAULK BETWEEN HANDWASH BOWL AND WALL AT REAR PREP AREA. MUST RECAULK HANDWASH BOWL TO WALL.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SOME CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD HANDLERS WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD HANDLERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.
58
67
Aug 14, 2018
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOOR DRAINS UNDER THE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE BASEMENT AND THE DRAIN UNDER THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE, TO REMOVE BROWN DEBRIS BUILDUP ON THE INTERIOR WALLS OF DRAIN.
51
95
Jul 31, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 24, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PINK/BLACK SLIME BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE UPPER PORTION DRIPPING INTO ICE, USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. ALL ICE INSIDE ICE MACHINE VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DIRT BUILD UP INSIDE FLOOR DRAIN UNDER 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AT BAR. MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF FLOOR DRAIN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: 2-COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET LEAKING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINK.
38
86
Sep 19, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY DATE AND LABEL ALL FOODS NOT FOUND IN THEIR ORIGINAL PACKAGING. FOUND CUT VEGETABLES, SOUPS, SAUCES IN FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED.ALSO MUST LABEL LARGE BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT AREA.MUST PROVIDE.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE MISSING SMALL GLASS SLIDING DOOR TO THE SUSHI COLD HOLDING UNIT ACROSS FROM THE SERVICE WINDOW.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE HOT WATER HEATER TANK ROOM TO REMOVE DEBRI.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CAULK THE CEILING/WALL ABOVE THE SIDE OF THE 3-COMP SINK TO SEAL SLIGHT OPENINGS. MUST REMOVE EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION AT CEILING VENT COVER AT 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN ABOVE THE 1-COMP SINK.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR NON-WORKING COLD WATER FAUCET AT THE 1-COMP PREP SINK ON THE 1ST FLOOR PREP KITCHEN.FOUND NON-WORKING.
38
78
Nov 17, 2015
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Nov 12, 2015
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect infestation, no birds, turtles or other animals
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF MORE THAN 200 LIVE ADULT AND INFANT ROACH INFESTATION THROUGHOUT FOOD PREPARATION AREAS SUCH AS CRAWLING ON TOP AND BETWEEN OF FRONT SUSHI PREP STATION COOLERS AND IN BETWEEN CRACKS AND CREVICES BEHIND SAME FRONT COUNTER SUSHI PREP STATION,ON WALL CRAWLING BENEATH THE EXPOSED HANDSINK AT FRONT SUSHI PREP STATION,INSIDE MOTORS OF COOLER(S),FREEZER(S),ON FLOORS UNDER PREP COOLERS AT FRONT SUSHI STATION (ROTTEN WOODEN SURFACES),INSIDE THE WATER COMPONENTS OF ICE MACHINE(BASEMENT),BEHIND 2 SOILED WOODEN DRY STORAGE SHELVINGS IN KITCHEN AREAS,ETC.MASSIVE AMOUNTS OF DEAD ROACHES IN SAME AREAS AND INSIDE THE TOFU COOLER IN BASEMENT PREP AREA.ALSO 10 OR MORE LIVE FRUIT FLIES FLYING AROUND THE PREMISES.MUST REMOVE DEAD ROACHES.ALSO,THE REAR EXIT DOOR IS NOT RODENT-PROOFED APPROXIMATELY 1/4" MODE OF ENTRY AT BOTTOM LEFT CORNER OF EAST EXIT DOOR.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND PEST PROOF SAID DOOR AND PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NOW RECCOMENDED.DURING INSPECTION ACCOMPANIED BY CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER CHANIDA SOMMART AS CRAWLING ROACHES WHERE OBSERVED IN SAID AREAS SHE WAS REMOVING THEM WITH HER BARE HANDS. (CRITICAL 7-38-020)
13
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCE ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MACHINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: CLEAN MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND KITCHEN POTS AND PANS AND KITCHENWARE MUST BE PROPERLY STORED AND INVERTED TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE AND MAINTAIN.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM SHELVING UNITS IN BASEMENT PREP AREAS,BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES ETC.MUST REPLACE DAMAGED ROTTEN WOODEN BOARDS THAT ARE HOLDING FRONT PREP SUSHI COOLERS AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN HEAVY GREASE AND FOOD DEBRI FROM ALL COOKING EQUIPMENTS SUCH AS FRONT INTERIOR CABINETS SUSHI PREP STATION,DEEP FRYERS,PREP TABLES,WOK STATION,ICE MACHINE,USED AND UNUSED COOLERS,ALL PREP TABLES,FILTER,HOOD,STOVE,PIPES OF COOKING EQUIPMENTS,ALL SHELVING UNITS ,MICROWAVE,EXTERIOR OF ALL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS,ETC.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL FLOORS BEHIND AND UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASE IN ALL CORNERS THRU-OUT THE FRONT SUSHI PREP STATION, KITCHEN, AND BASEMENT PREP AND DISHWASHING AREAS AND FLOOR IS PEELING THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT PREP AREA AND DISHWASHING AREAS MUST BE REPAIRED TO SMOOTH,EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACES AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE DUSTS ACCUMULATIONS FROM CEILING VENTILATION COVERS IN KITCHEN AREA AND DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL WALLS AND CEILINGS THROUGHOUT THE FRONT SUSHI PREP STATION AND KITCHEN AND BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREAS AND DISHWASHING AREAS AND MAINTAIN.ALSO,INTERIORS OF LIGHT SHIELDS THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND KITCHEN AREAS AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAK AT BASE OF FAUCET OF THE BASEMENT PREP 2 COMPARTMENT SINK AND REMOVE PLASTIC WRAP FROM BENEATH THE BASEMENT 3 COMPARTMEBNT SINK IN BASEMENT DISHWASHING AREAS AND MAINTAIN,ALSO SAME SINK HAS LOW WATER PRESSURE,MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE,ELIMINATE MASSIVE AMOUNT OF CLUTTER AT FRONT SUSHI PREP STATION,ON TOP OF COOLERS AND FREEZERS,ALL SHELVING UNITS,BENEATH THE STAIRS LEADING TO BASEMENT AREAS,OFFICE ROOM IN BASEMENT,IN ROOM WHERE THE WALK-IN-COOLER IS STORED,INSIDE ALL EMPLOYEES METAL LOCKER IN REAR OF BASEMENT AREAS AND MAINTAIN. .
41
64
May 15, 2015
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE BROKEN GASKET AT 2 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER IN 1ST FLR KITCHEN AREA AND MAINTAIN.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE SMELLY ODORS NEAR THE WASHING MACHINES IN BASEMENT AND MAINTAIN.
38
90
May 6, 2015
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITIES DO NOT MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE. OBSERVED THE KITCHEN FOOD PREP COOLER WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 59.7F. THE COOLER IS USED TO STORE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS SUCH AS PASTAS,SHRIMPS,CHICKEN,PORK AND DICED TOMATOES ETC.UNIT TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. MUST EMPTY THE UNIT AND HAVE IT REPAIRED SO THAT IT MAINTAINS AN AIR TEMPERATURE BELOW 40F AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. OBSERVED SHRIMP AT 55.7F,SALMON 59F,CHICKEN 56.1F-81.2F,BEEF 50F,COOKED PORK,58.8,NOODLES 71.0,CURRY SAUCE 55.2F ETC. ALSO,OBSERVED COOKED CHICKEN STORED ON BASEMENT PREP AREA TABLE AT 92F-101.1F.MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 30#'S OF FOOD WORTH APPROX. $300.00 AS STATED BY MANAGER.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MONITOR,MAINTAIN ALL COLD FOODS AT 40F OR BELOW AND ALL HOT FOODS 140F OR ABOVE.CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
3
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK CENTER COMPARTMENT AND HAVE SPLIT SEAMS AT THE TOP EDGES AND CENTER OF SAID SINK LEAKS, REPAIR THE LEAKING SINK , AND HAVE THE TOP OF THE SINK WELDED AND TO A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE AND MAINTAIN. 7-38-030.
24
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#1473922 DATED:06/20/2014.. 32 RUSTED BOTTOM SHELF AND WALLS IN OF REACH IN COOLERS IN THE BASEMENT, MUST REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE, REPAIR CHESTER FREEZER DOORS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA, AND PROVIDE SPLASH GUARDS AT EXPOSED HAND SINK AT SUSHI PREP AREA, 09/20/2014 33 THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN, MUST CLEAN/SANITIZE; COOLERS, FREEZERS, BOTTOM PANELS OF PREP TABLES, COOKING EQUIPMENT, CARTS, STORAGE CONTAINERS THRU-OUT BASEMENT, MOP SINK AND CABINETS BEHIND SUSHI BAR. 09/20/2014 34 INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL FLOOR BEHIND AND UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASE IN ALL CORNERS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN, AND BASEMENT AREAS, 09/20/2014 35 INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/REPAIR WALLS AND CEILINGS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN AND BASEMENTS AREAS, 09/20/2014 41 MUST REMOVE CLUTTER IN BASEMENT UTILITY CLOSET, CLEAN AND BETTER ORGANIZE AREA, 09/20/2014 INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT NOTED VIOLATIONS AND MAINTAIN BY 5/13/15. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE BROKEN GASKET AT 2 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER IN 1ST FLR KITCHEN AREA AND MAINTAIN.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE DUSTS ACCUMULATIONS FROM CEILING VENTILATION COVERS IN KITCHEN AREA AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE BURNT-OUT LIGHT BULBS THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREA AND STORAGE AREA AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR SMALL WATER LEAK AT COMPRESSOR OUTSIDE THE REAR BASEMENT WALK-IN-COOLER AND REMOVE SMELLY ODORS NEAR THE WASHING MACHINES IN BASEMENT AND MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN VISIBLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN.
40
64
Jun 20, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: EXPOSED HAND SINKS AT SUSHI BAR AND BASEMENT PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR HAND WASHING, FOOD PREPPING IN SINK, AND NO SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT SINK, INSTRUCTED ON HAND WASHING PRACTICES, AND HAVING SINK ACCESSIBLE FOR HAND WASHING AT ALL TIMES ONLY, CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED: 7-38-030
12
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTED BOTTOM SHELF AND WALLS IN OF REACH IN COOLERS IN THE BASEMENT, MUST REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE, REPAIR CHESTER FREEZER DOORS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA, AND PROVIDE SPLASH GUARDS AT EXPOSED HAND SINK AT SUSHI PREP AREA,
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN, MUST CLEAN/SANITIZE; COOLERS, FREEZERS, BOTTOM PANELS OF PREP TABLES, COOKING EQUIPMENT, CARTS, STORAGE CONTAINERS THRU-OUT BASEMENT, MOP SINK AND CABINETS BEHIND SUSHI BAR.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL FLOOR BEHIND AND UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASE IN ALL CORNERS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN, AND BASEMENT AREAS,
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/REPAIR WALLS AND CEILINGS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN AND BASEMENTS AREAS,
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE 3 SINK STOPPERS FOR ALL 3 COMPARTMENT SINKS,
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER IN BASEMENT UTILITY CLOSET, CLEAN AND BETTER ORGANIZE AREA,
41
70
Aug 21, 2013
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTED BOTTOM SHELVE AND WALLS IN ONE OF THE REACH IN COOLER IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE. MUST PROVIDE LID FOR THE ICE BY THE SUSHI AREA.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL THE FLOOR BEHIND AND UNDER ALL COOLERS, COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASE ALL CORNER THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN,PREP AREA 1ST FLOOR AND BASEMENT, DISH WASHING AREA IN THE BASEMENT, FLOOR UNDER THE WIRE RACK DRY FOOD SUPPLY SHELVINGS IN THE STORAGE AREA IN THE BASEMENT AND MAINTAIN.
34
90
Aug 13, 2013
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE IN THE SUSHI REACH IN COOLER. SUCH AS PLAIN RAW TUNA AT 47.9F, MARINATED TUNA AT 50.0F, SCALLOP AT 48.7F, SALMON AT 47.9F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST MAINTAIN A TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW DURING STORAGE /DISPLAY INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER. COOLER TEMPERATURE AT 38.9F. NO TIME/TEMPERATURE LOG AVAILABLE. MANAGER DISCARDED THE SAID PRODUCT WORTH $192.00 TOTAL 10.5 LBS. CITATION ISSUED CRITICAL 7-38-005(A).
3
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRUIT FLIES IN THE BASEMENT DISH WASHING AREA OVER 30 TOTAL. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE FRUIT FLIES, CLEAN THE FLOOR DRAIN AND INFORM THE PEST CONTROL TECHNICIAN. CITATION ISSUED SERIOUS 7-38-020.
18
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: FOUND OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED. WITH DEBRIS AND FRESH GREASE ON THE TOP OF THE LID AND DRIPPING GREASE AROUND THE RIM OF THE CONTAINER. SURROUNDING AREA NOT MAINTAINED WITH DEBRIS BEHIND THE DUMPSTER AND GREASE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE GREASE CONTAINER AND SURROUNDING AREA. CITATION ISSUED SERIOUS 7-38-020.
19
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE THE CARDBOARD IN THE SHELVE IN THE PREP COOLER BEING USED AS A SHELVE LINER. RUSTED BOTTOM SHELVE AND WALLS IN ONE OF THE REACH IN COOLER IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE. MUST PROVIDE LID FOR THE ICE BY THE SUSHI AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL THE BULK FOOD CONTAINERS,ALL THE PREP TABLES, SHELVINGS, ALL POTS AND PAN,INTERIOR BOTTOM SHELVE OF THE REACH IN COOLERS, EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE BASEMENT DISH WASHING AREA,DRY STORAGE AREA AND PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN IN DETAIL THE FLOOR BEHIND AND UNDER ALL COOLERS, COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG THE WALL BASE ALL CORNER THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN,PREP AREA 1ST FLOOR AND BASEMENT, DISH WASHING AREA IN THE BASEMENT, FLOOR UNDER THE WIRE RACK DRY FOOD SUPPLY SHELVINGS IN THE STORAGE AREA IN THE BASEMENT AND MAINTAIN.
34
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: NO SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE WASHROOM DOOR IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAKING FROM THE CEILING IN THE BASEMENT ABOVE THE SUSHI AREA EXPOSED HAND SINK. MUST REPAIR TO STOP THE LEAK. MUST PROVIDE X3 DRAIN STOPPER S FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE BASEMENT.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN THE SMALL STORAGE ROOM IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO ORGANIZE AND DISPOSE ITEMS NOT BEING USED TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE.
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64
Jun 4, 2012
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: PREP FOODS INSIDE BASEMENT WALK IN COOLER NOT LABELED, INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN, MUST CLEAN/SANITIZE; COOLERS, FREEZERS, BOTTOM PANELS OF PREP TABLES, COOKING EQUIPMENT, CARTS, STORAGE CONTAINERS THRU-OUT BASEMENT, MOP SINK AND CABINETS BEHIND SUSHI BAR.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD UP UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, BASEMENT AND STORAGE AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS, UNDER, BEHIND EQUIPMENT AT CORNERS AND ALONG WALLS THRU-OUT AND FLOOR DRAINS UNDER SINKS. ALSO INSTRUCTED TO REPAINT FLOORS THRU-OUT BASEMENT PREP AREA AND DISH WASHING AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS THRU-OUT THE KITCHEN AND REPLACE MISSING BASEBOARDS THRU-OUT BASEMENT PREP AREA AND DISH WASHING AREA AT BOTTOM OF WALLS.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FAUCETS FOR BOTH 2PART SINKS AND PIPES UNDER 3PART SINK IN BASEMENT.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE CLUTTER THRU-OUT STORAGE AREAS AND BASEMENT, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEAN AND ORGANIZE TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. ARTICLES MUST BE STORED OFF FLOORS, AWAY FROM WALLS.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED, CLEANING TOWELS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED.
43
70
Jan 14, 2011
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
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. MUST LABEL PREP FOODS IN WALK IN COOLER AND DRIED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. MUST CLEAN-SANITIZE; COOLERS, CHEST FREEZERS, EXTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND DRIED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
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 CLEAN FLOORS UNDER EQUIPMENT AT CORNERS AND ALONG WALLS IN KITCHEN AND TRHU-OUT BASEMENT.
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. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE BROKEN FAUCET AT 3PART SINK IN BASEMENT AND PROVIDE STOPPERS FOR SAME SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN-ORGANIZE BASEMENT, ARTICLES MUST BE STORED OFF FLOORS, AWAY FROM WALLS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
78
Jul 6, 2010
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 1, 2010
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: STILL WORKING ON BASEMENT WALLS.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: STILL REMOVING CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL.
41
90
Jun 29, 2010
License
6 minor violations.
View 6 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.FRONT COOLER READING 50*F INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR MUST BE ABLE TO MAINTAIN FOOD PRODUCT AT 40*F OR BELOW
2
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: Adequate and convenient toilet facilities shall be provided. They should be properly designed, maintained, and accessible to employees at all times.FRONT 2 SUSHI HANDSINKS NOT INSTALLED INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
11
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.OBSERVED SIDE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE DOOR STRIP AND MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.(NO LIGHT).
18
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 THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN BASEMENT UPRIGHT FREEZERS, FRONT BAR SINK.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
33
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.CLEAN AND RESEAL BASEMENT WALLS.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. 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.REMOVE ALL CONSTRUCTION ITEMS.
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74

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Hot Woks Cool Sushi last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Hot Woks Cool Sushi on file is from Mar 19, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Hot Woks Cool Sushi?

Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Hot Woks Cool Sushi.

Has Hot Woks Cool Sushi's inspection record improved over time?

No. Recent inspections at Hot Woks Cool Sushi have averaged around six violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Hot Woks Cool Sushi 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 Hot Woks Cool Sushi inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Hot Woks Cool Sushi is inspected around two times per year on average.