Lalo's Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Mar 17, 2026
90
Score
Across the available record, Lalo's Mexican Restaurant has 26 inspections on file, the first dated 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Mar 17, 2026. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.
The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around five violations each, up from closer to three violations before.
When inspectors have written things up, “proper cooling methods used” has been the most frequent reason, cited 11 times.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Lalo's Mexican Restaurant is comfortably above that bar. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
26
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 17, 2026
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKETS AT 3-DOOR PREP COOLER, USING DUCT TAPE TO SEAL. INSTD TO REMOVE DUCT TAPE, REPLACE GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ON FAUCET HANDLES OF EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK IN PREP AREA. INSTD TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
53
90
Aug 18, 2025
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.112 OBSERVED DEAD COCKROACHES ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE, ON THE WALL OF THE DISH WASHING AREA AND IN THE MEN'S WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL DEAD INSECTS FROM THE AFFECTED AREAS.
38
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED ALMOST ALL OF THE FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITH AN EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE A VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.
57
90
Aug 5, 2025
Routine
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SANITIZER DETECTED AT THE FINAL RINSE OF THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISH WASHING MACHINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE MACHINE AND PROVIDE A FINAL RINSE OF 100 PPM CHLORINE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025.
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS STORED ALONG THE TOP RAIL OF THE PREP COOLER. OBSERVED CHEESE AT 55F, SOUR CREAM AT 49F, PICO DE GALLO AT 46F, CUT TOMATOES AT 47F, GUACAMOLE AT 48F, AND CUT LEAFY GREENS AT 51F. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL COLD FOODS BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY POSTED ON THE PREMISES IN PUBLIC VIEW. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN THE PUBLIC VIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B). CITATION ISSUED.
61
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIVE INSECT ACTIVITY IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS. OBSERVED 1 LIVE COCKROACH UNDERNEATH THE CONVECTION OVEN IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. ALSO OBSERVED 2 LIVE HOUSE FLIES AND 5 LIVE SMALL FLYING INSECTS ON THE WALLS AND FLYING AROUND THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA. 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 THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK BEHIND THE BAR NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR USE. THERE WAS A CONTAINER OF UTENSILS STORED INSIDE OF THE SINK BASIN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS MUST BE USED FOR HAND WASHING ONLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AVAILABLE AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK BEHIND THE BAR. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). SEE VIOLATION #10 ABOVE FOR CITATION.
10
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE ON THE DINNER MENU AND NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE LUNCH MENU. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE AND DESCRIBE ALL FOODS WHICH CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED AND LINK THOSE ITEMS TO THE REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. MUST INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING SENTENCE BEFORE THE REMINDER STATEMENT:"THESE FOODS CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED OR MAY CONTAIN RAW OR UNDERCOOKED INGREDIENTS." PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEAD COCKROACHES ON THE FLOOR BEHIND THE ICE MACHINE AND ON THE WALL OF THE DISH WASHING AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL DEAD INSECTS FROM THE AFFECTED AREAS.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: REPLACE THE TORN DOOR GASKETS ON BOTH DOORS OF THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE WIRE STORAGE SHELF IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA, HOT HOLDING UNIT IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA, AND THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYERS AND OVENS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE WALLS AND FLOOR OF THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALMOST ALL OF THE FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES WITH AN EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE A VALID FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE.
57
35
Jun 28, 2024
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR LEADING TO THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA.
55
95
Jun 21, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: NOTED IMPROPER COLD-HOLD TEMPERATURE OF COLD-HOLD UNIT AT 52.1F. INFORMED ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS SHALL MAINTAIN A PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. THE REFRIGERATOR UNIT MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY THE CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH (CDPH). PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU WITH A FOOTNOTE REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MISSING DISCLOSURE BY ASTERICKS FOR RELATED MENU ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BOTH DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND REMINDER ON THE MENU FOR RAW OR UNCOOKED ANIMAL-BASED FOOD ITEMS OFFERED (STEAKS AND CEVICHE). (REFER TO THE ONLINE CDPH CONSUMER ADVISORY GUIDE). PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR LEADING TO THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA.
55
74
Aug 7, 2023
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT THE WOMENS WASHROOM HANDWASHING SINKS. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETER INSIDE THE HOT-HOLDING UNIT IN THE REAR PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MULTIPLE BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. MUST PROVIDE COMMON NAME OF FOOD ON EACH CONTAINER AND MAINTAIN.
37
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE COOK'S LINE HANDWASHING SINK SLOW DRAINING. OBSERVED THE LEFT HANDWASH SINK IN THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM (1 OUT OF 2) WITH HOT WATER AT 91F. MUST REPAIR BOTH SINKS AND PROVIDE HOT WATER AT 100-120F AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS.
51
82
Aug 17, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E)OBSERVED PINK RESIDUE INSIDE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13-- OBSERVED EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. MUST PROVIDE CURRENT ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
90
Aug 15, 2022
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF PREP COOLER AT 53.8F. PROPER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE MUST BE AT 41.0F OR BELOW INSIDE OF A COLD HOLDING UNIT. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHICKEN FLAUTAS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 45.8F IN PREP COOLER. ALSO OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE. BEEF FOUND AT 44.9F, RICE FOUND AT 44.2F, DICED TOMATOES FOUND AT 44.5F, SLICED CHEESE FOUND AT 48.5F. TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES AT 41.0F OR BELOW. FOOD HAS BEEN DISCARDED AND DENATURED. FOOD WEIGHING APPROXIMATELY 25LBS AT A COST OF $100.00. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONCENTRATION OF CHLORINE SANITIZER READING AT 200 PPM INSIDE OF LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED. EMPLOYEE FIXED DISH MACHINE DURING INSPECTION AND SANITIZER LEVEL IS READING AT 100 PPM.
48
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PINK RESIDUE INSIDE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. MUST PROVIDE CURRENT ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS.
58
61
May 26, 2021
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 OBSERVED TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE 2-DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 5-501.17 OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF SANITARY NAPKINS IN THREE WOMEN'S WASHROOM STALLS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
53
90
May 18, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DISCLOSURE/REMINDER FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY ON MENU PRESENTED FOR ALL ANIMAL FOOD PRODUCTS THAT CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED (EX: RAW SHRIMP CEVICHE). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY ON ALL MENUS. (REFER TO CDPH CONSUMER ADVISORY GUIDE ON CDPH WEBSITE - LINK BELOW). PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005.
25
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO INVERT PLATES AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN DOOR GASKET INSIDE OF THE 2-DOOR REFRIGERATOR IN 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF SANITARY NAPKINS IN THREE WOMEN'S WASHROOM STALLS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
53
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED NO LABELS FOR BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS IN 1ST FLOOR KITCHEN NEAR ICE MACHINCE. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
74
Dec 11, 2019
Complaint
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS READY TO EAT TCS FOODS (RICE, SALSA, DELI MEAT, MARINATED STEAK, SHREDDED CHICKEN) PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS WITHOUT DISCARD/EXPIRE DATES (NOT TO EXCEED 7 DAYS). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY OR REMINDER STATEMENT INCLUDING ASTERISKING AVAILABLE IN MENU FOR ANY RAW OR UNDER-COOKED ITEMS PROVIDED.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATED ON ALL EXTERIOR SURFACES OF HEAVY EQUIPMENT.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: ALL PIPES IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA MUST BE ENCASED OR ABOVE A DROPPED CEILING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. PER SUPERVISOR L.OWENS FACILITY IS INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTS FROM UIC BUILDING IN REGARDS TO PIPING AND CORRECTIVE ACTION.
55
74
Jan 11, 2019
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 4, 2019
Routine
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND LOW TEMP DISH MACHINE WITH 0 PPM AT THE RINSE DUE TO EMPTY BUCKET OF CHEMICAL SANITIZER. FOUND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITH 0 PPM AT RINSE COMPARTMENT DUE TO EMPTY BUCKET OF SANITIZER. BOTH UNITS WERE REPLACED AND CORRECTED DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025 CITATION ISSUED
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND 2 PANS OF COOKED RICE IN THE COLD HOLD DRAWER AT FOOD LINE. PAN 1 AT 49.3 DEGRESS, PAN 2 AT 48.9 DEGREES. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. TOTAL VALUE 10 LBS RICE $30 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE 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: 2-501.11 NO CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NO CONSUMER ADVISORY POSTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO POST WHERE VISIBLE TO ALL CONSUMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NO STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE TO TAKE TEMPERATURE OF POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN STEM THERMOMETERS AND OBTAIN IN GOOD WORKING ORDER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
36
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK QUAT TEST STRIPS INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED DISH REPAIR PERSON ARRIVED WITH STRIPS.
48
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS BEING HELD IN A BUCKET OF SANITIZER MUST BE HELD AT ADEQUATE SANITIZER. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
41
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS AROUND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. FLOORS IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING UNDER ALL SHELVES. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: ALL PIPES IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA MUST BE ENCASED OR ABOVE A DROPPED CEILING. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
55
39
Mar 6, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL SUGAR CONTAINER LOCATED IN DRY STORAGE AREA IN BASEMENT.
30
95
Feb 26, 2018
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 APPROXIMATELY 15 LIVE SMALL FLIES ON THE WALL AROUND THE SERVER STATION WHERE BEVERAGES AND FOOD ARE PICKED UP. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE FLIES, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREAS, CONTACT PEST CONTROL PROVIDER FOR SERVICE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL SUGAR CONTAINER LOCATED IN DRY STORAGE AREA IN BASEMENT.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM LOWER SHELVES ON PREP TABLES AND SLICER. CLEAN UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE FROM INSIDE SODA NOZZLES AND CADDY'S BEHIND BAR, AND CLEAN DUST FROM HANGING RACK ABOVE BAR WHERE GLASSES AREA STORED. CLEAN INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR, AND CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACE OF MICROWAVE OVEN IN PREP AREA.
33
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS IN ALL REACH-IN COOLERS IN PREP AREA WHERE NEEDED.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE STAFF PERSONAL ITEMS FOR PREP AREAS, PERSONAL ITEMS MUST BE KEPT IN A DESIGNATED AREA.
41
78
Jul 7, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOK ON GRILL PLATING FOODS WITH BARE HANDS, FOODS SUCH AS TORTILLA, ADDING TOMATOES, CHEESE AND LETTUCE WITH BARE HANDS, NO GLOVES BEING WORN AT THIS TIME OF INSPECTION, INSTRUCTED TO RESTRICT BARE HAND CONTACT AT ONCE, INSTRUCTED THAT HANDS MUST BE WASHED AND GLOVES MUST BE WORN, CRITICAL CITATION: 7-38-010 (A)
6
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD LINERS IN USE ON SEVERAL SHELVING UNITS LOCATED IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA. ADVISED MANAGER THAT ALL SURFACES NEED TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. MANAGER REMOVED CARDBOARD LINER DURING INSPECTION. 5 WIRE RACKS IN LOWER BASEMENT STORAGE AREA WITH RUST AND CRACKED PAINT ON SURFACES. INSTD TO SMOOTH AND REMOVE RUST AND MAINTAIN SURFACE. OBSERVED CAN OPENER IN BASEMENT PREP AREA WITH DEBRIS. INSTRD MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL LIGHT SHIELDS IN REAR PREP AREA WITH DEBRIS.INSTRD MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALSO OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILE IN REAR STORAGE WALK WAY, TO BASEMENT AREA. INSTD MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CRACKED LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRD MANAGER TO REPLACE.
36
82
Jul 15, 2016
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS IN BASEMENT NOT LABELED. INSTD TO PROPERLY LABEL SAME.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL WIRE RACKS IN BOTH WALK-IN COOLERS WITH RUSTY SURFACES. INSTD TO REMOVE RUST AND MAINTAIN SURFACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM AND WHEELS OF FRYERS NOT CLEAN, GREASE ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR IN REAR BY DISHWASHING AREA AND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN POOR REPAIR, WORN, CHIPPED SURFACES. INSTD TO REPAIR SAME SO AS TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, EASILY CLEANABLE, NON-POROUS SURFACE. FLOOR UNDER SYRUP BOXES AND LINES NOT CLEAN, SYRUP ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALL BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK NOT CLEAN AND WITH GLUE RESIDUE FROM PREVIOUSLY POSTED SIGNS. INSTD TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SURFACE SO AS TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN, AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
78
Dec 22, 2015
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL PREPAREED FOODS STORED IN COOLERS AND FREEZERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: SIDES OF ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT(STOVES, DEEP FRYERS, COOLERS) IN BOTH PREP AREAS, MEAT SLICER IN REAR PREP AREA, EXTERIOR OF DISH MACHINE IN DISH WASHING AREA, CAN OPENER AND SLEEVE CONNECTED TO THE PREP TABLE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS IN FRONT SERVICE AREA BEHIND REFRIGERATED UNITS, UNDERNEATH DISH MACHINE, AND THROUGHOUT ALL SECTIIONS OF BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN WALLS THROUGHOUT DISH WASHING AREA INCLUDING LOWER SECTIONS UNDERNEATH DISH MACHINE. RE-SEAL LOOSE SECTIONS BETWEEN THE WALL AND DISH MACHINE COUNTER AREAS(REMOVE PLASTIC).
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELIMINATE CLUTTER IN CORNER OF SMALL EQUIPMENT STORAGE AREA, FLOOR MUST BE ACCESIBLE FOR CLEANING AND SERVICING BY PEST CONTROL.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HANDLE OPEN FOODS MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL ICE SCOOPS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
70
Dec 15, 2015
Routine
12 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Source sound condition, no spoilage, foods properly labeled, shellfish tags in place
Inspector notes: FOUND A BAG 2/3 FULL OF FRESH CLAMS IN BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER STORED WITHOUT TAG. ALL SHELL FISH MUST BE KEPT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGING WITH TAGS UNTIL PREPARED AND SOLD. PRODUCT DISCARDED VALUED AT $20. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(B)
1
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: IMPROPER PEST CONTROL NOTED ON PREMISES. 15 RAT DROPPINGS NOTED IN BASEMENT LIQUOR STORAGE AREA IN LEFT CORNER UNDERNEATH UNUSED MARGARITA MACHINE. ALSO NOTED 15 RAT DROPPINGS SCATTERED ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS THROUGHOUT THE MIDDLE AND FRONT SECTIONS OF THE FOOD STORAGE AREAS ON OPPOSITE SIDES FROM WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER. REAR EXIT DOOR LEADING TO REAR COMMON AREA NOT ADEQUATELY RODENT-PROOFED , LARGE OPENING FOUND AT THE BOTTOM GREATER THAN 1/4 INCH FROM THE FLOOR. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND REPAIR REAR DOOR. SERIOUS VIOLATION SERIOUS 7-38-020.
18
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: REAR OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA NOT PROPERLY MAINTAINED, OVERFLOWING BOXES FOUND IN CARD BOARD BOX DUMPSTER AND LID NOT ATTACHED TO RECEPTACLE. ALSO FOUND GREASE DUMPSTERS IMPROPERLY MAINTAINED, GREASE FOUND ALL OVER THE EXTERIORS AS WELL AS ON THE GROUND AROUND THE RECEPTACLES. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LID ON CARD BOARD DUMPSTER, CLEAN EXTERIORS OF GREASE DUMPSTERS AND CLEAN GREASE FROM GROUND SURROUNDING THE THE GREASE RECETACLES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL PREPAREED FOODS STORED IN COOLERS AND FREEZERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED IN BETWEEN SINK AND COOLER BEHIND THE BAR, AND MULTI-USE EATING UTENSILS IMPROPERLY STORED IN FRONT SERVICE STATION AREA WITH HANDLES NOT INVERTED. MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL KNIVES IN A STORAGE RACK AND UTENSILS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED INVERTED WITH HANDLES UP OR OUT.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT RUSTY SHELVES IN PREP AREAS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: SIDES OF ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT(STOVES, DEEP FRYERS, COOLERS) IN BOTH PREP AREAS, MEAT SLICER IN REAR PREP AREA, EXTERIOR OF DISH MACHINE IN DISH WASHING AREA, CAN OPENER AND SLEEVE CONNECTED TO THE PREP TABLE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS IN FRONT SERVICE AREA BEHIND REFRIGERATED UNITS, UNDERNEATH DISH MACHINE, AND THROUGHOUT ALL SECTIIONS OF BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN WALLS THROUGHOUT DISH WASHING AREA INCLUDING LOWER SECTIONS UNDERNEATH DISH MACHINE. RE-SEAL LOOSE SECTIONS BETWEEN THE WALL AND DISH MACHINE COUNTER AREAS(REMOVE PLASTIC).
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELIMINATE CLUTTER IN CORNER OF SMALL EQUIPMENT STORAGE AREA, FLOOR MUST BE ACCESIBLE FOR CLEANING AND SERVICING BY PEST CONTROL.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HANDLE OPEN FOODS MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL ICE SCOOPS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
55
Mar 16, 2015
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: REPLACE BULK RICE STORAGE BIN IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA, SURFACE(INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR) IS NO LONGER EASILY CLEANABLE. MUST ALSO MAKE SURE THE CONTAINER IS LABELED IF PRODUCT IS REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING ONCE PLACED IN CONTAINER.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN CABINET INTERIORS OF DEEP FRYERS.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN VENTS IN HOOD IN REAR FOOD AREA.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR MIXING VALVE ON WASHBOWL NEXT TO WASHROOM STALL IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM.
38
82
Feb 26, 2015
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: REPLACE BULK RICE STORAGE BIN IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA, SURFACE(INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR) IS NO LONGER EASILY CLEANABLE. MUST ALSO MAKE SURE THE CONTAINER IS LABELED IF PRODUCT IS REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING ONCE PLACED IN CONTAINER.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT RUSTY SHELVES UNDERNEATH PREP TABLES IN REAR AND FRONT FOOD PREP AREAS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: CAN OPENER AND HOLSTER CONNECTED TO PREP TABLE, CABINET INTERIORS OF DEEP FRYERS, LOWER SHELF AND EQUIPMENT STORED IN SAME AREA UNDERNEATH PREP TABLE IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA, AND EXTERIOR OF DISH MACHINE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN FOOD PLATTERS AND STAINS FROM WALLS IN DISH WASHING AREA, AND IN FOOD PREP AREAS. CLEAN VENTS IN HOOD IN REAR FOOD AREA. CLEAN DUST BUILD-UP FROM LIGHT SHIELDS IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA AND WHERE NEEDED.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE ALL MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS IN DISH WASHING AND FOOD PREP AREAS. REPAIR/REPLACE BLOWN LIGHT FIXTURE IN DISHWASHING AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET AT PRE-WASH SINK IN DISHWASHING AREA.
38
74
Sep 15, 2014
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS STAINED AND WITH DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE CUTTING BOARDS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW CONCRETE EXPOSED ON FLOOR AT THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED DUST ON CEILING VENTS IN THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENTS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BLOWN LIGHT BULBS OVER DISH MACHINE AND UNSHIELDED LIGHTS THROUGHOUT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING AND SHIELDS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PREP AREA 1 COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET BASE LEAKING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
78
May 24, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: NOTED LIGHT SHIELD MISSING OVER DISH WASHING AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAK AT FRONT HAND SINK AT THE BASE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
90
May 7, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF FRYERS TO REMOVE EXCESS GREASE BUILD-UPN AND EXTERIOR DOOR OF 2DR REFRIGERATOR.MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE RUSTED SHELVING RACKS AT 2DOOR REFRIGERATORS AT MAIN KITCHEN AREA.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR HOLE AT CEILING ABOVE UTILITY SINK AREA. MUST REPAIR WALL CLOSEST TO UTILITY SINK AND EXIT DOOR AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SHATTER PROOF LIGHT BULB AT 2DOOR REFRIGERATOR AT MAIN KITCHCEN AREA.
36
86
Apr 12, 2011
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Water source: safe, hot & cold under city pressure
Inspector notes: All food establishments shall be provided with an adequate supply of hot and cold water under pressure properly connected to the city water supply ALL SINKS CHECKED UPON INSPECTION AND THE HIGHEST TEMPERATURE IS 89 F. 110 F MINIMUM IS REQUIRED FOR WARE WASHING. PLUMBERS ARRIVED DURING THE INSPECTION. 115 F HOT WATER WAS RESTORED AT THE TIME OF THIS INSPECTION.
9
Sewage and waste water disposal, no back siphonage, cross connection and/or back flow
Inspector notes: In food establishments, there shall be adequate sewage and waste water disposal facilities that comply with all the requirements of the plumbing section of the Municipal Code of Chicago. THE FLOOR DRAIN IN THE KITCHEN IS BACKING UP WASTE WATER ALL OVER THE KITCHEN FLOOR. PLUMBERS ARRIVED DURING THE INSPECTION AND RODDED OUT THE DRAIN UNTIL IT FLOWED PROPERLY.
10
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. THE CAN OPENER HAS METAL FILEINGS AND WORN PARTS, CLEAN AND REPAIR THE CAN OPENER TO REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF POSSIBLE METAL ADULTERATION. THE ICE MACHINE INTERIOR LIP IS DIRTY, WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE ALL OF THE FOOD DISPENSING UTENSILS AND EQUIPMENT UNTIL IT IS CLEAN, SANITARY AND MAINTAINED ON A DAILY BASIS.
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. THE FLOOR AND BASEBOARD BEHIND THE GREASE TRAP ARE FILTHY AND WATER DAMAGED, SANITIZE AND REPAIR SAID AREA.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: All rooms in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be lighted so that a minimum of 50-foot candles of light is available on all work surfaces. REPLACE THE BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE REAR KITCHEN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE REAR DISH SCRAPEING SINK AND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK HAVE CRACKS OR GAPS THAT LEAK WATER ONTO THE FLOOR, REPAIR THE SINKS SO THEY NO LONGER LEAK.
38
74
May 4, 2010
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE THE CAN OPENER. THE HOT LINE DRAWER COOLER DOORS ARE NOT CLOSING PROPERLY, REPAIR DAMAGED DOORS SO THEY CLOSE TIGHT. SANITIZE THE LIGHT BUILDUP FROM THE ICE MACHINE INTERIOR.
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 OFF THE DUST BUILDUP FROM THE KITCHEN CEILINGS. RECAULK THE WALL JOINT ABOVE THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK BACK SPLASH.
35
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Lalo's Mexican Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Lalo's Mexican Restaurant on file is from Mar 17, 2026. The public record contains 26 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Lalo's Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Lalo's Mexican Restaurant.
Has Lalo's Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Lalo's Mexican Restaurant have averaged around five violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Lalo's Mexican 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 Lalo's Mexican Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Lalo's Mexican Restaurant is inspected around two times per year on average.
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