Leon's Chicago's Best
Last inspected: Mar 18, 2024
100
Score
Inspectors have visited Leon's Chicago's Best 17 times, with records going back to 2018. The newest entry in the record is dated Mar 18, 2024. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings. The most recent inspection at Leon's Chicago's Best is from Mar 18, 2024, and nothing newer appears in the public record.
Things are looking better lately, with recent visits averaging around four violations compared to roughly seven violations earlier on.
The pattern that stands out is “insects, rodents, & animals not present”, which has been cited 16 times.
The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting Leon's Chicago's Best on the better side of that line. The file should reassure diners considering a visit.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 18, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 13, 2024
Reinspection
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RODENT INFESTATION ON PREMISES. FOUND 300 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR UNDER SINKS, COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE AREAS, PIT AREA, ON WOODEN BLOCKS, INSIDE CEMENT BLOCKS IN UNSUED PIT AREA, ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS IN FURNACE ROOMS, REAR STORAGE AREA, CLOSETS, INSIDE FRYER CABINETS, ON BOTTOM OF PREP TABLES, ON ELECTRICAL OUTLETS AND PIPING IN SIDE STORAGE AND PREP AREA, ON WINDOW SILLS IN FRONT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-020(A)
38
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: HOT RUNNING WATER NOT GETTING ABOVE 93F AT ANY SINK ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED THAT HOT RUNNING WATER MUST BE MAINTAINED AT A MINIMUM OF 100F AT ALL HANDSINKS AND AT A MINIMUM OF 110F AT THE THREE COMP SINK. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
50
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH NECESSARY DOCUMENTS AS REQUIRED ON PREMISES FROM NEW COMPANY SERVICING ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C)
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, BOTTOMS OF FRYERS, INTERIORS OF HOT HOLDING UNITS AND REFRIGERATION UNITS INCLUDING THE WALK-IN COOLER SHELVES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: FLOORS, WALLS AND CEILING TILES WHERE NEEDED THROUGHOUT KITCHEN AND STORAGE AREAS. CLEAN THE VENT FAN COVER IN THE WASHROOM ON THE CEILING TO REMOVE DUST.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON THE CEILING AND WALL OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT.
55
58
Mar 5, 2024
Complaint
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RODENT INFESTATION ON PREMISES. FOUND 300 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK IN COOLER, ON THE FLOOR UNDER SINKS, COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE AREAS, PIT AREA, INSIDE OF UNUSED PIT IN PIT AREA, REAR STORAGE AREA, CLOSETS, INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER ON THE FLOOR AND ON WINDOW SILLS IN FRONT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: HOT RUNNING WATER NOT GETTING ABOVE 93F AT ANY SINK ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED THAT HOT RUNNING WATER MUST BE MAINTAINED AT A MINIMUM OF 100F AT ALL HANDSINKS AND AT A MINIMUM OF 110F AT THE THREE COMP SINK. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED. HOT RUNNING WATER RESTORED TO 100F AND 112F. CORRECTED ON SITE.
50
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH NECESSARY DOCUMENTS AS REQUIRED ON PREMISES FROM NEW COMPANY SERVICING ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, BOTTOMS OF FRYERS, INTERIORS OF HOT HOLDING UNITS AND REFRIGERATION UNITS INCLUDING THE WALK-IN COOLER SHELVES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON THE CEILING AND WALL OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER; INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: FLOORS, WALLS AND CEILING TILES WHERE NEEDED THROUGHOUT KITCHEN AND STORAGE AREAS. CLEAN THE VENT FAN COVER IN THE WASHROOM ON THE CEILING TO REMOVE DUST.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE HAS AN EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE; INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN A VALID CERTIFICATE.
58
55
Aug 17, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 10, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER WITH GREASE ENCRUSTED TO THE TOP OF CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE FROM GREASE. OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER IN NEED OF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE CONTAINER TIGHT FITTING AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED
54
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SIGNIFICATE NUMBER OF RODENT DROPPINGS REMAINING DURING INSPECTION. OBSERVED DROPPINGS ON THE FRONT PREP TABLE, ON THE FLOOR AT THE FRONT HOLD HOLDING UNIT, DROPPINGS NOTED AT SIDE ROOM ON STORAGE TOTES, RACK WITH WOOD, AND IN REAR AREA LEADING TO GARBAGE. FLY ACTIVITY ALSO NOTED. INSTRUCTED TO CONTINUE WITH PEST CONTROL TO REMOVE ALL ACTIVITY OF RODENTS AND ALL TYPES OF FLIES.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPILLAGE, DEBRIS AND BUILDUP IN COOLER UNITS, COOKING EQUIPMENT AND PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS AND OPEN FLOOR DRAINS WITH GRIME, DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REMOVE AND COVER FLOOR DRAINS. MUST ALSO CLEAN FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Aug 1, 2023
Complaint
2 critical violations. 7 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FOUND REACH IN COOLER HOLDING FISH IN POOR REPAIR. INTERNAL TEMPERATURE IS 57.3 DEGREES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE COOLER CORRECTED. COOLER CAN NOT BE USED UNTIL CORRECTED AND REINSPECTED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
33
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOTH HANDSINKS ON SITE NOT AVAILABLE FOR HANDWASHING. NO WATER AT EITHER SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER AT ALL HANDSINKS TO PROPERLY WASH HANDS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED
10
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE THE FOOD DISPLAY COOLER TO BE IMPROPER: RAW FISH 51.5 DEGREES 2LBS, FISH 52.8 DEGREES 2.5 LBS, AND RAW CHICKEN 48.9 DEGREES 8 LBS. ALL FOOD ITEMS HAVE BEEN DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. TOTAL VALUE $55.00 12 LBS PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
22
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NO STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE TO ADEQUATELY MEASURE TEMPERATURES. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A STEM THERMOMETER AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVERED OVER 1000 DROPPINGS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES, IN MEAT SMOKING ROOM, IN FROM SERVING AREA, ALONG WALL AT COOKING AREA, IN WALK IN COOLER, AND IN REAR STORAGE AREA. OBSERVED SEVERAL SMALL FLIES AND HOUSE FLIES IN REAR PREP AREA. APPROX. 12-15 FLIES ON SITE. CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. MUST PROVIDE AN UPDATED PEST RECEIPT. MUST PROVIDE AN UPDATED COMPLETE PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER WITH GREASE ENCRUSTED TO THE TOP OF CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE FROM GREASE. OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER IN NEED OF CLOSING. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE CONTAINER TIGHT FITTING AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED
54
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CURRENT CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO ENROLL IN SANITATION CLASS. A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE AND PERSON MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN TCS FOODS ARE BEING COOKED, PREPPED, SERVED AND HELD IE... RIBS, CHICKEN, FISH. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED
2
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ADEQUATE SUPPLIES (DISPOSABLE MOP, DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES, DISPOSABLE MASK, AND ADEQUATE SANITIZER *MUST ELIMINATE NOROVIRUS*) ON SITE TO PROPERLY CLEAN UP ANY VOMIT OR DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE SUPPLIES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38- 005 CITATION ISSUED
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: HANDSINKS WITH NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOAP AND TOWELS AT ALL SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE.
1
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS ON SEVERAL SURFACE IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PLACE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WORN AND TORN RUBBER GASKETS ON COOLERS AND HOT-HOLDING CABINET. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND REPLACED.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPILLAGE, DEBRIS AND BUILDUP IN COOLER UNITS, COOKING EQUIPMENT AND PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS AND OPEN FLOOR DRAINS WITH GRIME, DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, REMOVE AND COVER FLOOR DRAINS. MUST ALSO CLEAN FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENT SYSTEM NEEDED IN MEAT SMOKER ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE ON SITE INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN CERTIFICATE.
58
25
Jul 28, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PREP TABLE, COUNTER TOP, EXTERIOR OF EQUIMPENT, AND ALL STORAGE SHELVING VERY DIRTY. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZER UNDER SHELVING AND THROUGHOUT REAR ALONG WALL BASE AND AT CORNERS.CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE SPLATTER. REMOVE POOLING WATER IN PIT ROOM AT EAST WALL, KEEP FLOOR DRY AT ALL TIMES. MUST ALSO REMOVE ALL POOLING WATER ON FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE 2ND PIT. MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN BARBECUE PIT ROOM AND BETTER ORGANIZE REMAINING ITEMS
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NEW FILTERS HOWEVER INTERIOR OF VENTILATION HOOD, LIGHT CAGES, FIRE SUPPRESSION PIPES HAVE ACCUMULATED GREASE AND DUST. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
86
Jul 20, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON THE FLOOR ALONG THE WALL BASE BEHIND DEEP FREEZER. NOTED 25 MICE DROPPING SCATTERED ON THE FLOOR UNDER STORAGE RACKS IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA. MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS AND DETAIL CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS. CALL PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION CITATION ISSUED #7-38-020(A)
38
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR EXIT DOORS IN THE SMOKER ROOM NOT TIGHT FITTING, OBSERVED 1/4" GAPS AT THE BOTTOM OF BOTH DOORS. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT FURTHER ENTRY POINT FOR PESTS.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PREP TABLE, COUNTER TOP, EXTERIOR OF EQUIMPENT, AND ALL STORAGE SHELVING VERY DIRTY. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZER UNDER SHELVING AND THROUGHOUT REAR ALONG WALL BASE AND AT CORNERS.CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE SPLATTER. REMOVE POOLING WATER IN PIT ROOM AT EAST WALL, KEEP FLOOR DRY AT ALL TIMES. MUST ALSO REMOVE ALL POOLING WATER ON FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE 2ND PIT. MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN BARBECUE PIT ROOM AND BETTER ORGANIZE REMAINING ITEMS
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLES AND OPENING INTO THE WALLS AND FLOORS. MUST SEAL TO PREVENT FUTHER PEST ENTRY POINT. ALSO OBERVED THE WALL BASE (COVE) IN POOR REPAIR IN THE REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. ALSO REPLACE MISSING LIGHT SHEILDS AND BRUNT OUT LIGHTS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOKING AND HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. MUST CLEAN THE FILTER ABOVE THE GRILL TO REMOVE DEBRIS.
56
70
Aug 3, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE SUPPLIES FOR THE VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT; INSTRUCTED ON THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES; INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN: CAN OPENER BLADE AT PREP TABLE, EXTERIOR SURFACE OF SMOKER, STORAGE SHELVES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: CLEAN FLOORS UNDER, AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING AND OTHER KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE SPLATTER. ALSO CLEAN WALL SOCKETS TO REMOVE DIRT AND SAUCE. OBSERVED SOME PEELING PAINT FROM THE CEILING OF THE WALK-IN COOLER; REMOVE PEELING PAINT.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO HAVE FOOD HANDLERS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OBTAIN THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
57
74
Jul 27, 2021
Complaint
3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE SUPPLIES FOR THE VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP KIT; INSTRUCTED ON THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES; INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RODENT ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. FOUND 100 MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR IN THE FURNACE ROOM, UNUSED WALK-IN COOLER, BY THE HOT WATER TANK, IN THE PIT AREA, ALONG SIDE OF THE SMOKER AND IN THE STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL SERVICE PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) ISSUED.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK FROM THE PIPE UNDERNEATH THE EXPOSED HANDSINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA; REPAIR LEAK AT PIPE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: CLEAN FLOORS UNDER, AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING AND OTHER KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE SPLATTER. ALSO CLEAN WALL SOCKETS TO REMOVE DIRT AND SAUCE. OBSERVED SOME PEELING PAINT FROM THE CEILING OF THE WALK-IN COOLER; REMOVE PEELING PAINT.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO HAVE FOOD HANDLERS THAT DO NOT HAVE THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OBTAIN THE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
57
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A TWO INCH GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR SIDE DOOR AND TWO 1 INCH GAPS ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE SAME DOOR; INSTRUCTED TO SEAL TO COMPLETELY RODENT PROOF DOOR.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING; CLEAN AND MAINTAIN: CAN OPENER BLADE AT PREP TABLE, EXTERIOR SURFACE OF SMOKER, STORAGE SHELVES.
49
55
Nov 21, 2019
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Removal of suspension sign
Inspector notes: UPON ARRIVAL OBSERVED LICENSE SUSPENSION SIGN POSTED BY CDPH COVERED UP BY OTHER SIGNAGE. PREMISES MAY NOT REMOVE, COVER OR DEFACE SIGN POSTED BY THE HEALTH AUTHORITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-050.
63
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK AT REAR HAND SINK AT ELBOW. MUST REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD ABOVE EAST FRONT PREP, HOT HOLDING AREA. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE COVERAGE AT CEILING, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR/REPLACE MISSING DAMAGED FLOOR TILES AT REAR BY 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
55
78
Nov 5, 2019
Complaint
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE WATER BACKING UP FROM MULTIPLE DRAINS ONTO FLOORS IN PREP AREAS. ALSO NOTED WASTE WATER DEBRIS ON FLOORS IN EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C).
52
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVER 75 MICE DROPPINGS ALONG WALL BASE AND AT CORNERS UNDER SHELVING WHERE PAPER GOODS ARE STORED, ALSO NOTED OVER 75 MICE DROPPINGS ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS OF HOT WATER TANK AREA. OBSERVED OVER 15 SMALL FLYING INSECTS ON WALL AND HANGING SMOCK OF REAR AND EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REMOVE CLEAN/SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A).
38
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH COMPLETE CONTENT FOR REVIEW OR PROOF OF AGREEMENT WITH A LICENSE PEST CONTROL SERVICE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C).
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED WITH GREASE ENCRUSTED ON TOP, LID AND SPILLED ON GROUND AROUND CONTAINER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(B).
54
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS #58 RULE #PA-100-0367 FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2243709 DATED 12/19/2018 NOT CORRECTED. CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. MUST PROVIDE TO ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090.
60
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE UNUSED WASHING CLOTHS IN ADEQUATE CHEMICAL SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILDUP ON FRYERS, OVEN, GRILL, PREP TABLES, ETC. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES SHALL BE KEPT FREE OF ACCUMULATION OF DUST, DIRT, AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE WATER, GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FAUCET LEAKING AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR FAUCET AND MAINTAIN. MUST ALSO RE-ATTACH HAND SINK IN DISH WASHING AREA TO WALL.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE COVERED RECEPTACLE FOR WASHROOM USED BY FEMALE EMPLOYEES.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE PEELING PAINT FROM INTERIOR SIDE OF DOOR OF WALK-IN FREEZER.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING CEILING PANELS AT CEILING ABOVE HOT WATER TANK AT REAR ACROSS FROM WALK-IN COOLER.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZER UNDER SHELVING AND THROUGHOUT REAR ALONG WALL BASE AND AT CORNERS. REMOVE POOLING WATER IN PIT ROOM AT EAST WALL, KEEP FLOOR DRY AT ALL TIMES. MUST RODENT PROOF REAR DOOR IN ATTACHED BARBECUE PIT ROOM. MUST REPAIR OUTSIDE LEAKS FROM EAST SIDE OF THE BARBECUE PIT. MUST ALSO REMOVE ALL POOLING WATER ON FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE 2ND PIT. MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN BARBECUE PIT ROOM AND BETTER ORGANIZE REMAINING ITEMS.
55
39
Dec 19, 2018
Complaint
3 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP POLICY OR PROCEDURES FOR VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY/PROCEDURES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SINK IN EAST PREP AREA(SWEET SHOP). INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL HAND WASHING SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS IN EAST PREP AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHICKEN FLOUR NOT PROPERLY LABELED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EAST ENTRANCE DOOR AND REAR EXIT DOOR (PIT ROOM) NOT RODENT PROOFED, 1/4" GAP ON BOTTOM OF DOOR, INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOOR.
38
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DIPPER WELL AT HAND PACKED ICE CREAM FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL DIPPER WELL. ICE CREAM SCOOPS SHALL BE STORED IN RUNNING WATER OF SUFFICIENT VELOCITY TO FLUSH PARTICULATES TO THE DRAIN.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES NOT INVERTED IN WEST PREP AREA AND STORED ON FLOOR IN EAST PREP AREA. SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES SHALL BE STORED INVERTED AND SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON FRYERS, OVEN, GRILL, PREP TABLES, ETC. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES SHALL BE KEPT FREE OF ACCUMULATION OF DUST, DIRT, AND FOOD DEBRIS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FAUCET LEAKING AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR FAUCET AND MAINTAIN.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AVAILABLE. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
47
Dec 5, 2018
Complaint
3 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP POLICY OR PROCEDURES FOR VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY/PROCEDURES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SINK IN EAST PREP AREA(SWEET SHOP). INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL HAND WASHING SINK WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS IN EAST PREP AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER FOR INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHICKEN FLOUR NOT PROPERLY LABELED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EAST ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED, 1/4" GAP ON BOTTOM OF DOOR, INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOOR.
38
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DIPPER WELL AT HAND PACKED ICE CREAM FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL DIPPER WELL. ICE CREAM SCOOPS SHALL BE STORED IN RUNNING WATER OF SUFFICIENT VELOCITY TO FLUSH PARTICULATES TO THE DRAIN.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES NOT INVERTED IN WEST PREP AREA AND STORED ON FLOOR IN EAST PREP AREA. SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES SHALL BE STORED INVERTED AND SIX INCHES OFF FLOOR TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON FRYERS, OVEN, GRILL, PREP TABLES, ETC. ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES SHALL BE KEPT FREE OF ACCUMULATION OF DUST, DIRT, AND FOOD DEBRIS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FAUCET LEAKING AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR FAUCET AND MAINTAIN.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AVAILABLE. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
47
Apr 11, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 2, 2018
Complaint
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOT HOLDING UNITS NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE 83.7F-120.9F INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR. ALL HOT HOLDING UNITS MUST MAINTAIN 140F OR ABOVE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED CHICKEN WINGS 104F-109.6F, HOT LINKS 114.6F AND RIBS 109.6F-122.3F DISPLAYED FOR SALE AND SERVICE IN HOT HOLDING UNITS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD APPROXIMATELY $430 AND 100LBS OF FOOD . ALL HOT FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 140F OR ABOVE DURING STORAGE, PREPARATION, DISPLAY AND SERVICE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A
3
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON DUTY WHEN COOKED RIBS 122.F, CHICKEN 109.6F, HOT LINKS 114.6F PREPARED AND SERVED. A CERTIFIED MANAGER MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012A
21
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CHEMICAL SANITIZER TEST KIT AVAILABLE DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE TEST KIT FOR PROPER SANITIZER CONCENTRATION IN 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF FRYERS, PREP TABLES, OVEN, SINKS, SHELVING UNITS, HOLDING UNITS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, FURNACE ROOM, WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING BASEBOARD BEHIND WATER HEATER. SEAL ALL OPENINGS ALONG BASEBOARDS IN PREP AND DISHWASHING AREAS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING LIGHT BULB IN WALK-IN COOLER.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKING FAUCET HANDLES ON FRONT EXPOSED SINK.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETERS FOR INTERNAL TEMPERATURES.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELEVATE ALL STOCK OFF FLOOR IN PREP, STORAGE, AND WALK-IN COOLER AREAS.
41
58
Jan 17, 2018
License
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE IN PREP AREA.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING BASEBOARD BEHIND WATER HEATER. SEAL ALL OPENINGS ALONG BASEBOARDS IN PREP AND DISHWASHING AREAS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP/DISH WASHING AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKING FAUCET HANDLES ON FRONT EXPOSED SINK.
38
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Leon's Chicago's Best last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Leon's Chicago's Best on file is from Mar 18, 2024. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Leon's Chicago's Best?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited 16 times, more than any other issue at Leon's Chicago's Best.
Has Leon's Chicago's Best's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Leon's Chicago's Best have averaged around four violations per visit, down from roughly seven earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Leon's Chicago's Best means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
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