L C Pho Restaurant
Last inspected: Mar 10, 2025
95
Score
Inspectors have visited L C Pho Restaurant 21 times, with records going back to 2015. The most recent report on file is from Mar 10, 2025. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
Recent visits have flagged more than earlier ones: around seven violations per visit lately, up from roughly four violations before.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” comes up most often, recorded 10 times in the inspection record.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; L C Pho Restaurant is comfortably above that bar. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 10, 2025
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 4-301.16--OBSERVED NO SINK USED FOR DUMPING LIQUID WASTE AT FRONT BEVERAGE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT A MINIMUM OF 1 COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE INSTALLED FOR OBTAINING WATER AND DISCARDING LIQUID WASTE AND MAINTAIN.
51
95
Mar 5, 2025
Reinspection
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2612677 DATED:02/24/2025 #38--CONTINUED TO OBSERVE EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 50 LIVE COCKROACHES ON THE WALLS BEHIND THE REFRIGERATION UNITS IN THE REAR KITCHEN PREP/DISHWASHING AREA AND 2 LIVE COCKROACH ON THE WALL UNDERNEATH THE KITCHEN COOKING WOK STATION AND 1 LIVE COCKROACH INSIDE THE DISHWASHER TOP MECHANICAL COMPARTMENT.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AND REMOVE ALL EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY FROM ALL AFFECTED AREAS. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED.
59
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12--OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS/FRONT BEVERAGE PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13--INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS INTERIOR BOTTOM COMPARTMENT OF THE KITCHEN DEEP FRYER, SIDES OF COOKING STOVES/GRILL/WOK EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR OF COOLERS AND GASKETS ALL AROUND THE KITCHEN COOLERS, TOP OF THE DISH MACHINE, ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD-UP ON GAS PIPES BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND ON TOP OF THE DISHMACHINE WITH SPILLED DRIED UP-DEBRIS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 4-301.16--OBSERVED NO SINK USED FOR DUMPING LIQUID WASTE AT FRONT BEVERAGE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT A MINIMUM OF 1 COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE INSTALLED FOR OBTAINING WATER AND DISCARDING LIQUID WASTE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11--INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD-UP ON THE FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE COOKING STOVE/DEEP FRYER/WOK EQUIPMENT AND DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS IN THE REAR PREP AREA TO REMOVE FOOD SPLASHED DEBRIS AND SPIDER WEBS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114--INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE THE REAR PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS, UNUSED FOOD EQUIPMENT DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE MOPS, BROOMS CLEANING EQUIPMENT OFF THE FLOOR AT LEAST 6 INCHES TO FACILITATE CLEANING. (NO MILK CRATES ARE TO BE USED FOR ELEVATING STOCK ITEMS.).
55
70
Feb 24, 2025
Routine
5 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND PAPER TOWELS AVAILABLE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN HAND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VILATION 7-38-030(C);CONSOLIDATED WITH THE ABOVE CITATION.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT,TCS FOODS HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS (VEGETARIAN PHO COOKED NOODLES WITH BROCCOLI,SAUCES,COOKED SHREDDED CHICKEN,PHO SOUPS ETC.) NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE CONSUMED OR DISCARDED.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DATE MARK ALL READY-TO-EAT,(TCS FOODS) HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED.PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010;CITATION ISSUED.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES.OBSERVED 5 LIVE COCKROACHES ON THE WALL NEXT TO THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER ABOVE THE UTILITY MOP SINK AND 2 LIVE COCKROACHES ON TOP OF THE GREASE TRAP BOX NEXT TO THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AND REMOVE ALL EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY FROM ALL AFFECTED AREAS.ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A),CITATION ISSUED.
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SOAP WAS AVAILABLE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO MAINTAIN ALL HANDWASHING SINKS WITH HAND SOAP AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C);CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIGHT DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ENCRUSTED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MAKER.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DEBRIS,DETAIL CLEAN INSIDE ICE MAKER AND HAVE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN ICE MAKER AT ALL TIMES.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS IN THE REAR PREP/STORAGE AREA WITHOUT LABELS.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE COMMON NAME ON ALL BULK CONTAINERS TO PROPERLY IDENTIFY ITEM (SALT, SUGAR, FLOUR ETC).
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREAS/FRONT BEVERAGE PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS INTERIOR BOTTOM COMPARTMENT OF THE KITCHEN DEEP FRYER,SIDES OF COOKING STOVES/GRILL/WOK EQUIPMENTS,INTERIOR OF COOLERS AND GASKETS ALL AROUND THE KITCHEN COOLERS,TOP OF THE DISH MACHINE, ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD-UP ON GAS PIPES BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND ON TOP OF THE DISHMACHINE WITH SPILLED DRIED UP-DEBRIS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SINK USED FOR DUMPING LIQUID WASTE AT FRONT BEVERAGE PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT A MINIMUM OF 1 COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE INSTALLED FOR OBTAINING WATER AND DISCARDING LIQUID WASTE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE ON THE WASHROOM DOORS.INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICES ON ALL OF THE THREE WASHROOM DOORS AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD-UP ON THE FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE COOKING STOVE/DEEP FRYER/WOK EQUIPMENTS AND DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS IN THE REAR PREP AREA TO REMOVE FOOD SPLASHED DEBRIS AND SPIDER WEBS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND ORGANIZE THE REAR PREP/DRY STORAGE AREA AND REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS,UNUSED FOOD EQUIPMENTS DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE AND ELEVATE MOPS,BROOMS CLEANING EQUIPMENTS OFF THE FLOOR AT LEAST 6" INCHES TO FACILITATE CLEANING.(NO MILK CRATES TO BE USED FOR ELEVATING STOCK ITEMS).
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE KITCHEN EXHAUST HOODS/FILTERS TO REMOVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ON SITE.
58
37
Mar 8, 2024
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE BOTTOM COMPARTMENT OF DEEP FRYER, DIRTY METAL STORAGE RACK IN KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE FOR THE ICE MAKER. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL WATER LEAK AT DRAIN PIPE UNDER 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR PLUMBING LEAK AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME FOOD SPLASHED DEBRIS ON THE WALLS AND CEILING AND DUSTY FAN COVERS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB AT KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
56
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A MOP SINK NEXT TO THE GAS COOKING STOVE. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL WASHABLE AND DURABLE SPLASH GUARD ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF MOP SINK TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF FOOD ON GAS COOKING STOVE.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OSERVED LOOSE DOOR GASKET IN PREP LINE COOLER NEXT TO HOT WOK COOKING STATION. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUST ON RACK INSIDE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAINT OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
67
Feb 28, 2023
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF COOLER WITH SOIL BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN.
49
95
Apr 21, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR SURFACES OF DISHMACHINE WITH GREASE ACCUMULATION.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN REAR PREP AND STORAGE AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CONDENSER FAN COVER WITH DUST ACCUMULATION INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
86
Apr 4, 2022
Routine
1 critical violation. 7 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINE AT IMPROPER FINAL SANITIZING RINSE AT 0 PPM CHLORINE CONCENTRATION (DISHMACHINE NOT IN USED AT THIS TIME) INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO FIX AND MAINTAIN. A MECHANICAL DISHWASHING MACHINES SHOULD PROVIDE A FINAL SANITIZING RINSE OF EITHER 50 ? 100 PPM CHLORINE (FOR CHEMICAL SANITIZING MACHINE) OR 180F FINAL RINSE (FOR HOT WATER SANITIZING MACHINE). DISHMACHINE TAGGED ?HELD FOR INSPECTION?. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL REPAIRED. SEE COMMENTS BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025.
16
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE WITH MINIMAL CALCIUM BUILD-UP.
16
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS.
36
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR SURFACES OF DISHMACHINE WITH GREASE ACCUMULATION.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTER DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT MOPSINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SO THAT IT CAN BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN REAR PREP AND STORAGE AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CONDENSER FAN COVER WITH DUST ACCUMULATION INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND INCOMPLETE APPROVED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
61
Jun 1, 2021
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER AND STORAGE SHELVES NEXT TO THE WOK STATION.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: THE WASHROOM ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE DINING AREA LACKS A SELF-CLOSING DOOR DEVICE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
86
Feb 18, 2020
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: A SIGN OR POSTER THAT NOTIFIES FOOD EMPLOYEES TO WASH THEIR HANDS NOT PROVIDED ON EXPOSED AND WASHROOM HAND WASHING SINKS .PROPER SIGNS SHALL BE PROVIDED AT ALL HANDSHAKING SINKS USED BY FOOD EMPLOYEES
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE
37
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO DRAINBOARD PROVIDED AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO DRY DISHES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN EXTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE COVERED WITH FOOD DEBRIS
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN LADY'S BATHROOM
53
78
Feb 7, 2020
Routine
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CHLORINE SANITIZER TEST STRIP KIT ON SITE TO TEST CONCENTRATION OF CHLORINE AT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A TEST STRIP KIT ON SITE AT ALL TIMES TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER PF. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005
48
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED
3
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUSLY CITED CORE VIOLATION FROM 3/18/2019 REPORT #2279557 OBSERVED NOT TO BE CORRECTED VIOLATION # 48 OBSERVED POT FOR MAKING PHO SOUPS TO BE BIGGER THAN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND CANT BE SUBMERGED IN WASH WATER IN SINK.MUST PROVIDE CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR POT.MUST SUBMIT THE PROCEDURES TO CDPH AT FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG FOR APPROVAL VIOLATION # 51 BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT UTILITY MOP SINK. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION:7-42-090,CITATION ISSUED
60
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMIT OR DIARRHEA PROCEDURE OR CLEANING KIT ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: A SIGN OR POSTER THAT NOTIFIES FOOD EMPLOYEES TO WASH THEIR HANDS NOT PROVIDED ON EXPOSED AND WASHROOM HAND WASHING SINKS .PROPER SIGNS SHALL BE PROVIDED AT ALL HANDSHAKING SINKS USED BY FOOD EMPLOYEES
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT BAKED FISH IS STORED WITH OUT COVERAGE ON LARGE TRAYS IN WALK IN COOLER , ALSO OBSERVED RAW FISH TO BE STORED IN PROPER CONTAINERS BUT ABOVE VEGETABLES IN WALK IN COOLER
39
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO DRAINBOARD PROVIDED AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO DRY DISHES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN EXTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE COVERED WITH FOOD DEBRIS
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE WITH COVER FOR SANITARY NAPKINS IN LADY'S BATHROOM
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED THE BATHROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT THE DOOR AND MAINTAIN
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPIDER WEBS ON CEILING OVER ENTRANCE TO KITCHEN FROM FRONT CHECK OUT STATION
55
45
Mar 18, 2019
Reinspection
3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010,NO CITATION ISSUED. - - -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON THE PREMISES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN UP PROCEDURE AND THE NECESSARY CLEANING ITEMS ON THE PREMISES . PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005,NO CITATION ISSUED. - - -
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS (BEEF,RICE) NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE CONSUMED OR DISCARDED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DATE MARK ALL READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
23
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POT FOR MAKING PHO SOUPS TO BE BIGGER THAN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND CANT BE SUBMERGED IN WASH WATER IN SINK.MUST PROVIDE CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR POT.MUST SUBMIT THE PROCEDURES TO CDPH AT FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG FOR APPROVAL.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT UTILITY MOP SINK. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED. -
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO LIGHT SHIELD AT LIGHT BULBS ABOVE THE DISH WASHING 3 COMP SINK.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD FOR LIGHT FIXTURE OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND TO MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY FOR CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
58
58
Mar 15, 2019
Routine
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES INSIDE OF THE 3 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER. OBSERVED PORK AT 47.7F, BEEF AT 48.2F,SHRIMPS AT 46.4F,RICE AT 50.0F,NOODLES AT 58.5F,BEAN SPROUTS AT 50.1F,TOFUS AT 50.1F,. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 35# OF FOOD WORTH $200.00. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED. COS.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: EQUIPMENT NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE. NOTED TEMPERATURE INSIDE THE 3 DOOR STAND-UP COOLER AT THE PREP AREA AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF 49.6F-UNIT IS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION.MUST EMPTY THE UNIT AND HAVE IT REPAIRED SO THAT IT MAINTAINS AN AIR TEMPERATURE BELOW 41F. COLD FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 41F OR COLDER AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
33
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010,NO CITATION ISSUED. - - -
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON THE PREMISES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN UP PROCEDURE AND THE NECESSARY CLEANING ITEMS ON THE PREMISES . PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005,NO CITATION ISSUED. - - -
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS (BEEF,RICE) NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE CONSUMED OR DISCARDED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DATE MARK ALL READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED. -
23
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND INVERT DISH WARE ON KITCHEN SHELVINGS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POT FOR MAKING PHO SOUPS TO BE BIGGER THAN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND CANT BE SUBMERGED IN WASH WATER IN SINK.MUST PROVIDE CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR POT.MUST SUBMIT THE PROCEDURES TO CDPH AT FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG FOR APPROVAL.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE NOT LOCATED AT UTILITY MOP SINK. MUST INSTALL SO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAINED. -
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO LIGHT SHIELD AT LIGHT BULBS ABOVE THE DISH WASHING 3 COMP SINK.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD FOR LIGHT FIXTURE OR SHATTER-PROOF LIGHT BULBS AND TO MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY FOR CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATES ON SITE.
58
41
Mar 15, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CAULK WORN OUT ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE 3 COMPT SINK. MUST RE CAULK AND MAINTAIN. MUST INSTALL A PHYSICAL BARRIER IN THE ENTRANCE OF THE PREP AREA IN THE FRONT COUNTER TO PREVENT CUSTOMER ENTERING THE PREP AREA AND PREVENT POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF FOOD IN THE PREP AREA.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS BY THE 3 COMPT SINK WITH FOOD STAINED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BROKEN/CRACKED SOLID LIGHT SHIELD ABOVE THE 3 COMPT SINK.
36
86
Nov 16, 2017
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO LABEL/DATE COOKED/PREPARED FOODS INSIDE THE COOLERS WHEN FOODS ARE HELD OVER 24 HOURS AND MAINTAIN.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND INVERT CLEAN MULTI-USE UTENSILS(SPOONS,FORKS ETC,(HANDLES-UP),POTS/PANS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BEFORE USE AND MAINTAIN.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES MUST BE SANDED/BLEACHED OR REPLACED.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD/FILTERS TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
35
82
Apr 4, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 24, 2017
Routine
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: OBSERVED REAR EXIT DOOR LEADING TO ALLEY NOT RODENT-PROOFED APPROXIMATELY 1/4" INCH MODE OF ENTRY AT BOTTOM RIGHT CORNER OF SAID REAR EXIT DOOR.INSTRUCTED TO MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING ALL ACROSS THE BOTTOM TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY AND MAINTAIN.SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE BULK FOOD CONTAINER IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA NOT LABELED.INSTRUCTED TO LABEL DRY BULK FOOD CONTAINER AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIFES STORED IN BETWEEN 2 DOOR COOLER AND PREP TABLE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KNIFE RACKS FOR PROPER STORAGE AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE WORNED-OUT CAULK ALONG THE DISHWASHING 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND MAINTAIN.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE DUSTS ACCUMULATIONS ON CEILING VENTILATIONS THROUGHOIUT THE PREMIDSES AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNT-OUT LIGHT BULB AT KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD.INSTRUCTED TO REPALCE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
36
78
Dec 19, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 12, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND EVIDENCE OF RATS AT PREMISES. OBSERVED 5 RAT DROPPINGS ALONG WALLS AT REAR STORAGE AREAS. SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-38-020.
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT REAR STORAGE AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
90
Mar 4, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Sewage and waste water disposal, no back siphonage, cross connection and/or back flow
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE WATER NOT DISPOSED OF PROPERLY: WHEN WATER IS DRAINED FROM THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, WASTE WATER THEN OVERFLOWS OUT THE TOP OF THE ATTACHED GREASE TRAP ONTO THE FLOOR OF THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SO WASTE WATER IS DISPOSED OF PROPERLY WITHOUT OVERFLOWING, LEAKING, OR ANY SEEPAGE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
10
95
Mar 3, 2016
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Source of cross contamination controlled i.e. cutting boards, food handlers, utensils, etc
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOODHANDLER WITH GLOVES ON GRAB RAW BEEF, THEN TOUCH A DISH TOWEL, TONGS, AND SHREDDED COOKED CHICKEN, ALL WITHOUT WASHING HANDS AND CHANGING GLOVES. OPERATOR DISCARDED SAID FOOD AND SANITIZED AFFECTED AREAS/UTENSILS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY THAT EQUIPMENT MUST BE SANITIZED AND HANDS MUST BE WASHED AFTER EVERY FOOD TYPE AND GOING FROM RAW TO READY TO EAT FOODS. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
4
Sewage and waste water disposal, no back siphonage, cross connection and/or back flow
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE WATER NOT DISPOSED OF PROPERLY: WHEN WATER IS DRAINED FROM THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, WASTE WATER THEN OVERFLOWS OUT THE TOP OF THE ATTACHED GREASE TRAP ONTO THE FLOOR OF THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SO WASTE WATER IS DISPOSED OF PROPERLY WITHOUT OVERFLOWING, LEAKING, OR ANY SEEPAGE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
10
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLICER, RICE COOKER, RICE WARMER, AND PREP TABLE IN THE SIDE CLOSET (LEADING TO BASEMENT STAIRWAY) WITHOUT AN EXPOSED HANDSINK CONVENIENTLY ACCESSIBLE, AREA IS THROUGH A DOOR AS WELL.. OPERATOR WAS LICENSED WITH ONE PREP AREA IN THE MAIN KITCHEN ONLY. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CEASE ALL PREP IN SAID SIDE CLOSET AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AN EXPOSED HANDSINK OR TO CEASE PREP IN CLOSET PERMANENTLY. FACILITY REMOVED ALL SAID EQUIPMENT AT TIME OF INSPECTION. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
11
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CONTAINER OF RAW BEEF STORED ABOVE READY TO EAT FOODS (VEGETABLES, COOKED SHRIMP, COOKED BEEF). INSTRUCTED FACILITY THAT ALL FOODS SHALL BE STORED IN ORDER OF FINAL COOKING TEMPERATURE WITH HIGHEST TEMPERATURE STORED LOW AND READY TO EAT FOODS STORED HIGHER. OPERATOR PLACED RAW BEEF ON BOTTOM SHELF. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF-FOUND A QUARTER INCH GAP ALONG THE BOTTOM EDGE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SO DOOR IS TIGHT FITTING. FACILITY INSTALLED A NEW DOOR SWEEP AT TIME OF INSPECTION- DOOR IS NOW TIGHT FITTING. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020.
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS USED FOR FOOD STORAGE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO USE ONLY FOOD GRADE MATERIALS AND TO MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT ACCUMULATION ON THE REFRIGERATION GASKETS. ALSO OBSERVED GREASE ACCUMULATION ON THE LOWER COMPARTMENTS OF THE FRYERS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON THE FLOORS IN THE SIDE CLOSET, UNDER AND AROUND THE COOKING LINE, AND ALONG WALLS THROUGHOUT. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS TO HAVE GREASE BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE WALL BEHIND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND ADJACENT EXPOSED HANDSINK TO HAVE DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS AS WELL AS DIRTY WORN CAULKING. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REMOVE ALL OLD CAULK AROUND THE SINKS, CLEAN WALLS COMPLETELY, RECAULK, AND MAINTAIN.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE ICE SCOOP STORED INSIDE THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A SEPARATE CLEAN AND SANITARY FASHION AND TO MAINTAIN.
43
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OUT OF COMPLIANCE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLY AND MAINTAIN.
45
58
Jan 27, 2015
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HAND SINK IN BATHROOM SLOW DRAINING, NO 3 SINK STOPPERS AND NO MOP SINK ON SITE, MUST REPAIR AND PROVIDE SINK,
38
95
Frequently Asked Questions
When was L C Pho Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at L C Pho Restaurant on file is from Mar 10, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at L C Pho Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at L C Pho Restaurant.
Has L C Pho Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at L C Pho Restaurant have averaged around seven violations per visit, up from roughly four earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at L C Pho Restaurant means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
How often is L C Pho Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, L C Pho Restaurant is inspected around two times per year on average.
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