Little Wok
Last inspected: May 2, 2025
35
Score
Public records show 18 inspections at Little Wok stretching back to 2016. On May 2, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. The high risk label is a heads-up that the most recent visit didn't go well.
The picture has gotten worse over the last few visits, with the average climbing from around one violation to closer to six violations.
“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” comes up most often, recorded 11 times in the inspection record.
The city-wide average sits at 81, which Little Wok's 35 doesn't quite reach. Diners may want to scan the inspection details before deciding to visit.
18
Inspections
2
Critical latest
2
Major latest
11
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 2, 2025
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENS TOILET ON LEFT SIDE TO OVERFLOW WHEN FLUSHED, CAUSING A BACK UP OF WASTE WATER ONTO THE FLOOR IN THE MENS BATHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE AND TO ENSURE WASTE WATER IS NOT BACKING UP THROUGH ANY DRAINS OR TOILET. PRIORITY VIOLATION, 7-38-030(c). TOILET ROOM WAS NOT IN USE AT TIME OF INSPECTION, AND A SIGN WAS PLACED ON DOOR PRIOR TO INSPECTION. UPON RETURNING ON 5/5/2025, MANAGER HAD TOILET SERVICED AND ALL WASTE EFFECTIVELY DISPOSED WITH NO BACK UP. PRIORITY VIOLATION CORRECTED, TWO BATHROOMS PROVIDED.
52
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE WITH A FINAL SANITIZING RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 131F AT TIME OF INSPECTION. MACHINE WAS NOT IN USE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. MACHINE WAS RECENTLY INSTALLED REPLACING OLDER, LOW TEMP MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE TO MAINTAIN APPROPRIATE FINAL SANITIZING RINSE TEMPERATURE. DISH MACHINE TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL EQUIPMENT IS ABLE TO MAINTAIN FINAL SANITIZING RINSE TEMPERATURE OF AT LEAST 165F AND REINSPECTED BY CDPH. PRIORITY VIOLATION, 7-38-025. UPON RETURNING ON 5/5/2025, MANAGER HAD MACHINE SERVICED AND INSTALLATION COMPLETE. FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 165.2F ACHIEVED.
16
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA SPILL CLEAN UP KIT OR PROCEDURE IN PLACE AT FACILITY AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN COMPLETE KIT AND PROCEDURE PER FOOD CODE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION, 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED. UPON RETURNING ON 5/5/2025, MANAGER PROVIDED PROOF OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEA SPILL CLEAN UP KIT AS WELL AS A PROCEDURE IN PLACE. PRIOIRTY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED.
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 06/13/2024, REPORT #2596242: #49) THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT WAS FOUND DIRTY: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR ALL MICROWAVE OVENS.EXTERIOR/INTERIOR OF ALL KITCHEN FREEZERS AND COOLERS WITH DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS, ESPECIALLY THE DOOR HANDLES AND INSIDE DOOR RUBBER GASKETS. EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. VENTILATION HOOD/FILTERS WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND GREASE BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #55) INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:- FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE COOKING STOVE AND FRYERS AT PREP AREA. FLOORS ALONG THE WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH SHELVING, ESPECIALLY AT THE FAR END CORNER, WITH HEAVY DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DUST. MUST ALSO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AT BAR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR THROUGHOUT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION: 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED. UPON RETURNING ON 5/5/2025, MANAGER ADDRESSED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS AND CLEANED THE EQUIPMENT AS WELL AS THE FLOORS BELOW THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION CORRECTED.
60
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD AND BOXES OF DRIED GOODS STORED BENEATH UNPROTECTED/NOT SHIELDED WASTEWATER AND SEWER LINES IN THE CRAWL SPACE BASEMENT STORAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SHIELDING OR MOVE FOOD ITEMS AND BOXES OF FOOD FROM BELOW ANY UNPROTECTED SEWER AND WASTEWATER LINES IN BASEMENT CRAWL SPACE.
39
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN AVAILABLE AT REAR HAND WASHING SINK IN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SIGNAGE REMINDING EMPLOYEES THEY MUST WASH HANDS.
10
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SCOOPS THROUGHOUT FACILITY IN DRY STORAGE BINS WITH HANDLES IN CONTACT WITH FOOD ITEMS IN BINS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE ALL SCOOPS AND UTENSILS WITH HANDLES NOT IN CONTACT WITH FOOD ITEMS IN BETWEEN USE.
43
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXES OF FOOD, BAGS OF VEGETABLES, AND VARIOUS BOXES STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT CRAWL SPACE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. OBSERVED VARIOUS BOXES OF FOODS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE MAIN KITCHEN PREP AREA AS WELL AS IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
39
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ENTIRTIY OF THE BASEMENT CRAWL SPACE TO BE FULL OF SINGLE SERVICE AND BOXED SINGLE SERVICE ITEMS STORED ON THE FLOOR THROUGHOUT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SHELVES AT SIDE OF GRILL AREA/NEXT TO DOOR FOR REAR ENTRANCE TO KITCHEN TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SHELVES FREE OF EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD UP.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND SINK IN REAR PREP AREA TO HAVE A SEVERELY LEAKING COLD WATER HANDLE THAT IS ALSO RUSTED AWAY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE AND MAINTAIN HAND SINK IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT, POTS, PANS, ETC STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT CRAWL SPACE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
44
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR MAJORITY OF FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES FOUND AT FACILITY AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL EMPLOYEES COMPLETE AND MAINTAIN FOOD HANDLER TRAINING, AND ALL NEW EMPLOYEES COMPLETE WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGERS TO COMPLETE AND MAINTAIN CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER TRAINING FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO MANAGERS.
58
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT AND UTENSILS STORED BENEATH UNPROTECTED/NOT SHIELDED WASTEWATER AND SEWER LINES IN THE CRAWL SPACE BASEMENT STORAGE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SHIELDING OR MOVE ALL EQUIPMENT AND STORAGE BINS FROM BELOW ANY UNPROTECTED SEWER AND WASTEWATER LINES IN BASEMENT CRAWL SPACE.
44
35
Jun 13, 2024
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: PREP AREA 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER (RIGHT SIDE COOLER) ALONG COOKLINE DOOR RUBBER GASKET RIPPED. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKET.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT WAS FOUND DIRTY: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR ALL MICROWAVE OVENS.EXTERIOR/INTERIOR OF ALL KITCHEN FREEZERS AND COOLERS WITH DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS, ESPECIALLY THE DOOR HANDLES AND INSIDE DOOR RUBBER GASKETS. EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. VENTILATION HOOD/FILTERS WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND GREASE BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BAR HANDWASH SINK FAUCET LEAKING ALSO WOMENS WASHROOM SINK COLD WATER LINE WITH LOW PRESSURE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:- FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE COOKING STOVE AND FRYERS AT PREP AREA. FLOORS ALONG THE WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH SHELVING, ESPECIALLY AT THE FAR END CORNER, WITH HEAVY DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DUST. MUST ALSO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AT BAR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR THROUGHOUT.
55
82
Dec 8, 2023
Recent Inspection
No violations found.
100
Nov 13, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Nov 6, 2023
Complaint
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED OVER 50 LIVE SMALL FLIES THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES: IN THE MOP SINK AREA IN THE KITCHEN, DISHROOM, BOXES ON SHELVES IN STORAGE(REAR AREA), WASHROOMS, AND DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. CONTACT PEST CONTROL. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-020(A),CITATION ISSUED
38
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINT IS REQUIRED FROM ALL EMPLOYEE HANDLING FOOD
40
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD-UP ON FLOORS:ALONG BASEBOARD WALLS,UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT,UNDER DISHMACHINE,MOP SINK AND ALL FLOOR DRAINS.CLEAN AND MAINTAINS
55
82
Sep 1, 2023
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11 EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINT IS REQUIRED FROM ALL EMPLOYEE HANDLING FOOD
40
95
Aug 25, 2023
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 20 LIVE SMALL FLIES ON WALLS AT PREP AREA AND 10 LIVE SMALL FLIES ON WASHROOMS WALLS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST REMOVE FLY ACTIVITY BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. ADVISED TO CALL PEST CONTROL OPERATOR FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDAION 7-38-020(A).
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULTED FOOD DEBRIS ON EXTERIOR OF ALL SINKS AND ON SHELVES THROUGHOUT PREP AREA AND DISHWASH AREA. MUST CLEAN CLEAN EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
49
82
Oct 13, 2022
Routine
3 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED READY-TO-EAT TCS FOODS SUCH AS COOKED CHICKEN, ASSORTED COOKED MEATS, AND SHRIMP WITH NO LABELS OF ANY KIND, NO EXPIRATION DATES, AND NO WRITTEN POLICY/PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFYING THE EXPIRATION OF SUCH FOODS. ALL FOODS ARE DISCARDED. REVIEWED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS MUST BE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 1000 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $5000 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: NOTED EXPIRED SUSHI LAB ANALYSES TEST LETTER DATED 3/30/2017. INSTRUCTED TO UPDATE THE LAB ANALYSES LETTER OR OBTAIN A TEST KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
29
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER OVERLOADED AND PREVENTING PROPER LID CLOSURE. INSTRUCTED ALWAYS TO HAVE DUMPSTER LID CLOSED TO PREVENT FOOD SOURCE FOR PEST PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-020(B).
54
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAMES, INCLUDING BULK FOOD CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: BEVERAGE BOTTLES (LIQUOR) ARE STORED UNDERNEATH THE WASTE WATER PIPELINES AT THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE OR RELOCATE ITEMS FROM UNDER PIPES OR ENCASE PIPES.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: FOOD CONTAINERS ARE STORED ON THE FLOOR IN PREP, STORAGE, AND WALK-IN COOLERS/FREEZERS. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF THE FLOOR.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AND SUSHI PREP ARE NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ICE BUILD UP INSIDE CHEST FREEZER AT THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST, CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED RUSTY AND DIRTY SHELVES UNDERNEATH THE PREP TABLES IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, REPAINT WITH NON-TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT, AND REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE COOLERS AND REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FOOD STORED INSIDE GROCERY BAGS AND TIN CANS. INSTRUCTED PROPERLY TO STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD-GRADE CONTAINERS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE SERVICE PREP COOLER AND SPILLS ON SHELVES, COUNTERTOPS, ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND AROUND THE SERVICE COOLERS WITH DIRT, FOOD PARTICLE, AND GREASE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE KITCHEN 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:- FLOORS UNDERNEATH THE COOKING STOVE AND FRYERS AT THE FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA ..FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT, AND FOOD DRY STORAGE. FLOORS ALONG THE WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH SHELVING, ESPECIALLY AT THE FAR END CORNER, WITH DIRT ROACHES, HEAVY DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DUST. MUST ALSO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AT THE FIRST FLOOR BAR AND WHERE NECESSARY.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NOTED UPPER COMPARTMENT OF THE ICE MACHINE WAS NOT CLEANED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN
16
41
Jan 28, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 19, 2022
Complaint
4 major violations. 17 minor violations.
View 21 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR SEVERAL EMPLOYEES WORKING IN THE FACILITY AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE A VERIFIED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR ALL EMPLOYEES AND MAKE AVAILABLE DURING EACH HEALTH INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 300 LBS COOKED, READY TO EAT TCS FOODS SUCH AS COOKED CHICKEN, ASSORTED COOKED MEATS, SHRIMP WITH NO LABELS OF ANY KIND, NO EXPIRATION DATES, AND NO WRITTEN POLICY/PROCEDURE FOR IDENTIFYING THE EXPIRATION OF SUCH FOODS. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. REVIEWED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS MUST BE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE TO MEASURE HOT AND COLD FOOD TEMPERATURES. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
36
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2510386 ON 5-26-21 WERE NOT CORRECTED. #45- 4-903.11(A; C)-- ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE DISHWASHING AREA IN THE KITCHEN MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.#47- 4-101.11(B, C, D, E)-- MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS OR CARDBOARD BOXES AS FOOD CONTAINERS. FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE WASHABLE, FOOD-GRADE MATERIAL.#49-4-602.13- CLEAN DISH STORAGE SHELVING IN THE DINING ROOM/SUSHI PREP IN POOR REPAIR. NOTED CHIPPING AND PEELING PRESSED WOOD. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS, CARDBOARD, OR TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR ANY SHELVING OR COOKING EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT. 4-601.11(B)--EXCESSIVE GREASE ON COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT, METAL RACK SHELVING, AND FOOD CART. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.#55-: 6-201.11-- FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, THROUGHOUT THE DISHWASHING AREA, COOKS LINE, WALK-IN COOLER, ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT NOTED DIRTY WITH DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS, AND GREASE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL EMPLOYEES EATING THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN AND DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEE MEALS MUST BE CONSUMED IN THE DESIGNATED DINING AREA.
6
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN FISH BEING IMPROPERLY THAWED IN STANDING WATER. REVIEWED ALL METHODS OF THAWING FROZEN FOODS.
35
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS INCLUDING BULK SPICE CONTAINERS MUST BE PROPERLY LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: ALL PREP AREA WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN CONTAINERS WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOP MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN CONTAINER. NOT ON THE TOP OF THE ICE MACHINE.
43
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR OF THE DISHWASHING MACHINE IS EXTREMELY DIRTY WITH SLIME SUBSTANCE BUILD-UP AND THE EXTERIOR OF THE MACHINE WITH DIRT AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT WAS FOUND DIRTY: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR ALL MICROWAVE OVENS.EXTERIOR/INTERIOR OF ALL KITCHEN FREEZERS AND COOLERS WITH DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS, ESPECIALLY THE DOOR HANDLES AND INSIDE DOOR RUBBER GASKETS. EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXTREMELY DIRTY INTERIOR HAND SINK AT THE FRONT SUSHI PREP AREA. SINK WITH BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: DIRTY HAND WASH WASHBOWLS INSIDE BOTH WASHROOMS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SOILED MOP HEADS IMPROPERLY STORED INSIDE THE MOP SINK. WET/SOILED MOPS MUST BE STORED INVERTED AT THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED EXTREMELY DIRTY/DUSTY FLOOR FANS THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR SEVERAL EMPLOYEES ON SITE DURING THE INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR THE ABOVE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD HANDLERS WORKING IN THE KITCHEN WITHOUT FACE MASKS OR FACE COVERINGS. VIOLATION OF RULES AND ORDER 2-112-340 CITATION ISSUED.
64
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: NO POSTING OF MASK REQUIREMENT SIGNAGE FOR BUSINESS AT ENTRANCE AND INSIDE ESTABLISHMENT.MUST PROVIDE.
64
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN PROTOCOL FOR IMPLEMENTING AND ENFORCING THE ORDER. MUST PROVIDE.
64
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: NO RECORDS OF EMPLOYEE VACCINATION STATUS OR WEEKLY TESTING.
64
29
May 26, 2021
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.12--COOKS LINE KNIVES STORED IN BETWEEN COOLER AND SINK BACKSPLASH. MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL IN-USE UTENSILS.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-903.11(A;C)-- ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE DISH WASHING AREA IN THE KITCHEN MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.11(B, C, D, E)-- MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS OR CARDBOARD BOXES AS FOOD CONTAINERS. FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE WASHABLE, FOOD GRADE MATERIAL.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13- CLEAN DISH STORAGE SHELVING IN THE DINING ROOM/SUSHI PREP IN POOR REPAIR. NOTED CHIPPING AND PEELING PRESSED WOOD. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS, CARDBOARD, OR TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR ANY SHELVING OR COOKING EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT. 4-601.11(B)--EXCESSIVE GREASE ON COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT, METAL RACK SHELVING, AND FOOD CART. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : 6-201.11-- FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, IN WASHROOMS, THROUGHOUT THE DISHWASHING AREA, COOKS LINE, WALK-IN COOLER, ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT NOTED DIRTY WITH DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
55
78
May 18, 2021
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED CHICKEN IN A PLASTIC TUB ON TOP OF MILK CRATES USED AS SHELVING NEXT TO THE COOKS LINE AT AN IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF 65.3F. REVIEWED HOT FOOD MUST BE HELD HOT AT 135F OR GREATER. FOOD DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
21
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATLY 90 LBS COOKED CHICKEN, PREPARED CREAM CHEESE FILLING, COOKED EGG ROLLS NOT DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. NO DATES ON ANY FOODS. REVIEWED PROPER DATE LABELING REQUIREMENTS. FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2366070 ON 3-19-20 NOT CORRECTED. #49- OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS BOTH EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF PREP AREA REACH-IN COOLERS. #53- NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
60
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: ALL COOKS IN ALL PREP AREAS NOTED WITHOUT HAT/HAIR RESTRAINTS. MUST PROVIDE.
40
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST NOT STORE THE ICE SCOOP INSIDE THE ICE IN THE ICE MACHINE.----COOKS LINE KNIVES STORED IN BETWEEN COOLER AND SINK BACKSPLASH. MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL IN-USE UTENSILS.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE DISH WASHING AREA IN THE KITCHEN MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS OR CARDBOARD BOXES AS FOOD CONTAINERS. FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE WASHABLE, FOOD GRADE MATERIAL.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED EXTREMELY DIRTY TOASTER OVEN AT THE FRONT SUSHI PREP.----EXCESSIVE GREASE ON COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT, MICROWAVE OVEN INTERIOR, AND EXTERIOR, TABLETOP CAN OPENER WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS, METAL RACK SHELVING, AND FOOD CART. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.---MUST REMOVE PLASTIC SEALANT PROTECTOR DISHWASHING MACHINE AND CLEAN TOP OF THE MACHINE.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN DISH STORAGE SHELVING IN THE DINING ROOM/SUSHI PREP IN POOR REPAIR. NOTED CHIPPING AND PEELING PRESSED WOOD. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS, CARDBOARD, OR TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR ANY SHELVING OR COOKING EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, IN WASHROOMS, THROUGHOUT THE DISHWASHING AREA, COOKS LINE, WALK-IN COOLER, ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT NOTED DIRTY WITH DIRT, FOOD DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.-----CEILING TILES ABOVE THE COOKS LINE WITH EXCESSIVE DUST MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SOILED MOP HEADS MUST BE STORED INVERTED IN THE MOP SINK. NOT ON THE FLOOR OF ANY OTHER AREA.
55
47
Mar 19, 2020
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN- OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS BOTH EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF PREP AREA REACH IN COOLERS, FOOD AND GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLE IN WOMENS WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING TILES ABOVE TABLES AT REAR PREP AREA AND ON WALLS OUTSIDE OF WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Mar 21, 2019
Complaint
1 critical violation. 6 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER:-EGGS 51.1F, BEEF 60.3F, CHICKEN 63.7F, TOFU 59.0F, CHICKEN 95.3F, DUMPLING 73.0F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 50 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $150.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005
22
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED (SUSHI, SOUP, SEAFOOD,ETC) INSTRUCTED TO HAVE THE ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-012.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-010
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS AND SUPPLIES NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND SOME PREPARED FOOD READY TO EAT WITH NO SEVEN DAY CONSUME BY DATE. KIM CHEE. MUST LABEL ALL TIME TEMPERATURE FOR SAFETY FOOD HELD MORE THAN 24HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 37-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: FOUND NO REMINDER AND DISCLOSURE INSIDE MENUS FOR SUSHI BEING SOLD AT BUSINESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.
25
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 RULE #PA-100-0367 NOT CORRECTED. NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090
60
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: NOTED NO PERSON IN CHARGE ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE AS A REQUIREMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT THE PERSON IN CHARGE ON DUTY MUST HAVE A CURRENT CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE AT ALL TIMES.
1
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY CLUTTER THROUGHOUT ESTABLISHMENT ON SHELVES, FLOORS THROUGH OUT THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ESPECIALLY ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA AND DISH WASHING AREA. MUST MAINTAIN FLOORS DRY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOOR DRAINS AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA. NOTED THE FOLLOWING:- -FLOORS THROUGHOUT PREMISE ESPECIALLY ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT WITH DIRT, GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS, INCLUDING LIVE AND DEAD ROACHES. -WALLS WITH FOOD DIRT AND FOOD SPILLS -CRACKS ON THE WALLS INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ESPECIALLY AREAS WITH PEST ACTIVITY, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WALLS WITH CRACKS AND SPILLS. MUST UPGRADE HOUSEKEEPING.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: UPGRADED TO VIOLATION #60
58
39
Aug 10, 2018
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL CLEANUP PROCEDURE. PRIORITY VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-012A. MUST PROVIDE.
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND SOME PREPARED FOOD READY TO EAT WITH NO SEVEN DAY CONSUME BY DATE. KIM CHEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST LABEL ALL TIME TEMPERATURE FOR SAFETY FOOD HELD MORE THAN 24HOURS.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: FOUND NO REMINDER AND DISCLOSURE INSIDE MENUS FOR SUSHI BEING SOLD AT BUSINESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
25
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT KITCHEN AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE.
58
55
Feb 20, 2018
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: FOUND NO SOAP AT EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN KITCHEN. CRITICAL VIOLATION. 7-38-030. SOAP SUPPLIED AT EXPOSED HAND SINK AT MAIN KITCHEN PREPARATION AREAS BY THE END OF THE INSPECTION.
12
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND BROKEN HOT WATER HANDLE AT EXPOSED HAND SINK AT SUSHI STATION. FOODHANDLER CURRENTLY WASHING HANDS AT SECOND SINK AT BAR (ABOUT 10FT AWAY FROM PREPARATION). MUST REPLACE BROKEN HOT WATER HANDLE.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND CLUTTER STORED ON TOP OF WALK IN COOLER.(OLD PLATES, ETC.) MUST CLEAR/CLEAN TOP OF WALK IN COOLER.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND FOODHANDLERS AT PREMISES WITH NO FOODHANLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES. MUST PROVIDE.
45
82
Mar 24, 2017
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD STORED AT AMBIENT TEMPERATURE. NOTED 2 LBS/$20 OF SUSHI RICE AT 85 DEGREES. OPERATOR UNABLE TO PROVIDE PROOF THAT SUSHI HAS BEEN PROPERLY ACIDIFIED TO REMOVE FROM TEMPERATURE CONTROL. OPERATOR VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED THE PRODUCT. INSTRUCTED THAT POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD MUST BE HELD AT 40 DEGREES OR BELOW OR AT 140 DEGREES OR ABOVE UNTIL PROPER pH TESTING AND/OR DOCUMENTATION IS PROVIDED ON SITE. CRITICAL VIOLAION: 7-38-005(A).
3
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST NOT STORE KNIVES IN THE GAP BETWEEN COOK LINE EQUIPMENT.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS AND RESIDUE FROM THE STOVE TOP AND ATTACHED SHELF AND THE SHELF BELOW THE LEFT STOVE BURNER. MUST CLEAN SOILED KNIVES STORED ON THE KNIFE STRIP. MUST CLEAN OIL ACCUMULATION FROM HOOD AND VENTS ABOVE COOK LINE. MUST CLEAN RESIDUE FROM HANDLES OF THE RICE WARMERS AND THE PREP TOP COOLERS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR IN AND NEXT TO THE WALK IN COOLER.
34
82
Jul 19, 2016
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SEE RETAIL FOOD INSPECTION REPORT.
32
95
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Little Wok last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Little Wok on file is from May 2, 2025. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Little Wok?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Little Wok.
Has Little Wok's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Little Wok have averaged around six violations per visit, up from roughly one earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Little Wok means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is Little Wok inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Little Wok is inspected around two times per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants