Merkle's Bar & Grill

3516 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657
Bar / Pub
Last inspected: May 21, 2025
64
Score
Medium Risk

Merkle's Bar & Grill has been inspected 18 times since 2013. On May 21, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Medium risk typically reflects a handful of issues that inspectors wrote up but didn't deem critical.

Violation counts have held steady across recent visits, averaging around nine violations each.

The pattern that stands out is “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, which has been cited 12 times.

That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.

18
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 21, 2025
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIQUOR AND ITEMS STORED INSIDE WALK-IN AND BASEMENT STORED ON FLOOR. MUST ELEVATE ITEMS OF THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES FOR PRODUCT ELEVATION. MUST USE SHELVING TO ELEVATE ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY AND DIRTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN REPAINT WITH NON-TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT OR REPLACE
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESS ICE BUILD UP INSIDE CHEST FREEZER LOCATED IN THE BASEMNT. MUST REMOVE ICE CLEAN FREEZER AT ALL TIMES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : OBSERVED HEAVILY SOILED FLOOR WITH FOOD DEBRIS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA ALONG THE WALL BASE UNDERNEATH 3-COMAPRTMENT SINK IN FRONT BAR AND REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED SEVERAL OPENINGS ABOVE ICE MACHINE SYRUP MACHINE AND REAR OF BASEMENT. ALSO NOTED WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES BEHIND ICE MACHINE. MUST REPAIR REPLACE CEILING TIMES AND SEAL ALL OPENINGS. OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS BEHIND DISHWASHING AREA AND UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND BEHIND REFRIGERATION UNITS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF CLUTTER, CARDBOARD BOXES AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN REAR OF PREMISES AND THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR DRAINS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN REAR KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST PROVIDE INTENSITY LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
57
64
May 16, 2025
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HOT RUNNING WATER AVAILABLE AT THE HAND WASHING SINK IN MENS WASHROOM. WATER TEMPERATURE WAS 62.2F AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AT THE MINIUM TEMPERATURE OF 100F FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. 2-DAY NOTICE WAS ISSUED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: CHLORINE CHEMICAL DISHWASHING MACHINE NOT PROPERLY DISPENSING CHLORINE SANITIZER. NOTED 0 PPM CHLORINE AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND PROPERLY DISPENSES CHLORINE SANITIZER. DISHES WERE BEING WASHED AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2597191 ON 07/09/2024. #51. DISHWASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING. MUST PROVIDE WORKING STOPPERS FOR DISHWASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. #58. CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
57
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES FOR PRODUCT ELEVATION. MUST USE SHELVING TO ELEVATE ITEMS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY AND DIRTY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN REPAINT WITH NON-TOXIC FOOD GRADE PAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESS ICE BUILD UP INSIDE CHEST FREEZER LOCATED IN THE BASEMNT. MUST REMOVE ICE CLEAN FREEZER AT ALL TIMES.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVILY SOILED FLOOR WITH FOOD DEBRIS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA ALONG THE WALL BASE UNDERNEATH 3-COMAPRTMENT SINK IN FRONT BAR AND REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED SEVERAL OPENINGS ABOVE ICE MACHINE SYRUP MACHINE AND REAR OF BASEMENT. ALSO NOTED WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES BEHIND ICE MACHINE. MUST REPAIR REPLACE CEILING TIMES AND SEAL ALL OPENINGS. OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS BEHIND DISHWASHING AREA AND UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND BEHIND REFRIGERATION UNITS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIQUOR AND ITEMS STORED INSIDE WALK-IN AND BASEMENT STORED ON FLOOR. MUST ELEVATE ITEMS OF THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF CLUTTER, CARDBOARD BOXES AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS IN REAR OF PREMISES AND THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST REMOVE CLEAN AND ORGANIZE AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR DRAINS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN REAR KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA AND BASEMENT FOOD STORAGE AREA. MUST PROVIDE INTENSITY LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
41
Jul 9, 2024
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT BUILD UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE UPPER PORTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 1/4 INCH GAP AT REAR EXIT DOOR SWEEP. MUST RODENT PROOF DOOR.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BAR HANDWASH SINK PIPE LEAKING ALSO WOMENS WASHROOM HOT WATER VALVE LEAKING IN HANDWASH SINK CABINET. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: DISHWASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPERS NOT WORKING. MUST PROVIDE WORKING STOPPERS FOR DISHWASH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES.
58
78
May 18, 2023
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXCESS BURNED FOOD INSIDE THE OVEN,CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO DRAIN HOSE ATTACHED AT POP GUNS AT BARS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. HOSE MUST DRAIN AT FLOOR DRAIN
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: COVER IS NEEDED AT RECEPTACLE INSIDE THE WOMEN'S WASHROOM
53
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: GREASE AND DEBRIS ON GROUND UNDER AND BEHIND WASTE OIL CONTAINER AT OUTDOOR. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OPENING ON WALL, BESIDE THE ICE MACHINE IN BASEMENT AREA,ALSO BRICK WALL CRUMBLE TO THE TOUCH.REPAIR ISSUE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES MUST BE REPLACE.
57
74
Sep 20, 2021
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15-- REAR EXIT DOOR TO THE ALLEY WITH AN OPEN 1 INCH GAP ALONG THE BOTTOM THRESHOLD. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT-FITTING SEAL ON THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: : 5-205.15-- KITCHEN HAND WASHING SINK REPAIRED WITH DUCT TAPE ON PIPING UNDER THE SINK. MUST PROPERLY REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : 6-501.114--- ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED THROUGHOUT THE REAR STORAGE ROOM MUST BE REMOVED AND ALL OTHER ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED. : 6-101.11--- MISSING, BROKEN FLOOR TILES AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE KITCHEN AT THE DISH AREA SIDE. MUST REPLACE. : 6-201.11--- RAW WOOD WITH WATER DAMAGED BEHIND THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK BACKSPLASH. MUST SEAL TO BE NON-ABSORBENT.----HOLES IN THE WALLS IN THE WOMAN'S WASHROOM. MUST SEAL/REPAIR.
55
86
Sep 10, 2021
Routine
3 critical violations. 7 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS BEING HELD AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. CHEESE AT 47.8F & 51.4F, CHICKEN AT 49.4F, EGGS AT 48.5F. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FACILITIES UNABLE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE FOOD TEMPERATURES. WALK-IN COOLER NOTED AT 51.6 WITH FOOD SUCH AS CHEESE AT 51.4F. COOLER TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED, MAINTAINS A TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR BELOW, AND C.D.P.H CONTACTED FOR RE-INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
33
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: CHLORINE CHEMICAL DISHWASHING MACHINE NOT PROPERLY DISPENSING CHLORINE SANITIZER. NOTED 0 PPM CHLORINE AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND PROPERLY DISPENSES CHLORINE SANITIZER. NO DISHES WERE BEING WASHED AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION.NO CITATION ISSUED
16
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE ON ALL ICE CONTACT SURFACES AND DRIPPING DOWN INTO THE ICE BEING USED FOR CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD ALL ICE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: THE PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2288673 ON 5-13-19 WAS NOT CORRECTED. #52- NOTED WASTE WATER FROM THE DRAINPIPE OF THE DISHWASHER DRAINING INTO THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REDIRECT THE DRAIN LINE INTO THE FLOOR DRAIN OR CONTAINER.#57-NOTED SOME EMPLOYEES AT WORK WITH NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES AND ONE MONTH (30 DAYS) GRACE PERIOD FOR NEW HIRES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
60
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN INCHARGE DURING THE INSPECTION DOES NOT HAVE A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE WAS POSTED ON THE PREMISES OR SUCH A PERSON ON-SITE WHILE TCS FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR A VOMIT/DIARRHEA EVENT OR ANY REQUIRED EQUIPMENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: THE MENU DOES NOT DISCLOSE AND INFORM CONSUMERS OF THE SPECIFIC MENU ITEMS THAT ARE RAW OR UNDERCOOKED SUCH AS BURGERS, AND A POTENTIAL HAZARD OF CONSUMING SUCH FOOD. MUST PROVIDE A CONSUMER ADVISORY THAT DISCLOSES AND REMINDS CONSUMERS ON ALL MENUS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
25
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: NO SUMMARY REPORT POSTED FROM REPORT # 2288673 ON 5-13-19 IS VISIBLE TO THE ESTABLISHMENTS CUSTOMERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.NO CITATION ISSUED
61
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: REAR EXIT DOOR TO THE ALLEY WITH AN OPEN 1 INCH GAP ALONG THE BOTTOM THRESHOLD. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT-FITTING SEAL ON THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR.
38
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AN ICE SCOOP WITH A HANDLE FOR THE BAR ICE BIN.
44
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: KITCHEN HAND WASHING SINK REPAIRED WITH DUCT TAPE ON PIPING UNDER THE SINK. MUST PROPERLY REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD WITH WATER DAMAGED BEHIND THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK BACKSPLASH. MUST SEAL TO BE NON-ABSORBENT.----HOLES IN THE WALLS IN THE WOMAN'S WASHROOM. MUST SEAL/REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MISSING, BROKEN FLOOR TILES AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE KITCHEN AT THE DISH AREA SIDE. MUST REPLACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED THROUGHOUT THE REAR STORAGE ROOM MUST BE REMOVED AND ALL OTHER ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
55
21
May 13, 2019
Routine
5 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 9 violations
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. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL READY TO EAT FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME AND USED BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005(A). NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
23
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: 2-102.14 NO PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. CERTIFICATE ON SITE (SAFE SERVE IS EXPIRED). INSTRUCTED TO HAVE THE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE CERTIFICATE 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. NO CITATION ISSUED TODAY
3
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: NOTED WASTE WATER FROM THE DRAIN PIPE OF THE DISH WASHER DRAINING INTO THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AT THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REDIRECT THE DRAIN LINE INTO THE FLOOR DRAIN OR CONTAINER.
52
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENING ON CEILING OF THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT ENTRY PLACES FOR PEST.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NOTED SOME EMPLOYEES AT WORK WITH NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL EMPLOYEES ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES AND ONE MONTH (30 DAYS) GRACE PERIOD FOR NEW HIRES
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 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.
58
50
Aug 29, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD.(HANDLES BURGERS, CHEESE, ETC.) SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-38-012(A). MUST PROVIDE.
21
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT FRONT OF BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOUND EMPLOYEES WITH NO FOODHANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST PROVIDE.
45
86
Jul 28, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 20, 2016
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK OR SERVICE REPORTS ON PREMISES OR AVAILABLE DURING THE INSPECTION. MUST HAVE A LICENSED PEST CONTROL CO. SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT AND PROVIDE LOG BOOK WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
95
Jun 10, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 3, 2016
Reinspection
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATIONS FROM 5-27-16 ARE NOT CORRECTED.#16- OBSERVED BASEMENT ICE MACHINE STORED UNDER A WASTE WATER PIPING FOUND DRIPPING ONTO THE FLOOR NEXT TO MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE ICE MACHINE TO AN AREA WITH PROPER PROTECTION, CEILING, NO WASTE WATER PIPING.#24-CHEMICAL DISH MACHINE NOT MAINTAINED AND FOUND EXTREMELY DIRTY INSIDE AND OUT WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS AND BROWN SLIME SUBSTANCE INSIDE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE FOOD AND SLIME. ALSO, THE NOZZLE ON THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK HAS BEEN REPLACED DURING REPAIRS WITH A NOZZLE THAT DOES NOT REACH ALL THREE COMPARTMENTS OF THE SINK.#29- PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 10-2-15 NOT CORRECTED. #32-INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE THE TORN OR MISSING GASKETS ON THE KITCHEN REFRIGERATION UNITS AND TO MAINTAIN. #34- INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS BEHIND THE BAR, UNDER AND AROUND THE KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, AND THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BASEMENT AND TO MAINTAIN. #38- OBSERVED THE MEN'S WASHROOM WASHBOWL SINK WITH A DAMAGED, BUT STILL OPERATIONAL, HOT HANDLE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-42-090.
14
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #14
16
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #14
24
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #14.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: TIN FOIL BEING USED AS LINER ON HOOD FILTERS. MUST REMOVE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: KITCHEN EXPOSED HAND SINK FOUND WITH ENCRUSTED DEBRIS SURROUNDING THE NOZZLE AND HANDLE AND PIPING UNDER SINK. MUST CLEAN OR REPLACE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MISSING FLOOR TILES AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE BAR. MUST REPLACE.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT AND THROUGHOUT THE REAR GARAGE STORAGE MUST BE REMOVED FROM PREMISES TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORING AND ALL OTHER STORED ITEMS ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED AND ACCESSIBLE
41
67
May 27, 2016
Routine
15 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITIES UNABLE TO MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURES. TWO KITCHEN COOLERS FOUND AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF 53.4F AND 49.9F WITH FOODS SUCH AS CHICKEN AT 50.7 AND BEEF AT 53.1F. BOTH COOLERS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND MAINTAINS A TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS FOUND HELD IN THE ABOVE MENTIONED COOLER AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. CHICKEN AT 50.7F AND 50.3F, BEEF AT 50.2F AND CHEESE AT 49.7F IN THE TALL REACH IN COOLER. BEEF AT 53.1F AND CHICKEN AT 49.7F IN THE SMALL TWO DOOR COOLER. ALL FOODS DISCARDED MANAGEMENT STATES ESTIMATED VALUE TO BE $150.00 AND TOTAL POUNDS TO BE 47 LBS. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-16.
3
Water source: safe, hot & cold under city pressure
Inspector notes: NO HOT WATER AT THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND EXPOSED HAND SINK. WATER TEMPERATURE FOUND AT 91.1 AND 91.2 AT BOTH SINKS. FOUND HOT WATER TANK NOT ON. MANAGEMENT RESTORED HOT WATER DURING THE INSPECTION. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
9
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOODS NOT PROTECTED. OBSERVED CUT, READY TO EAT FRUIT FOR CUSTOMER CONSUMPTION IN OPEN, UNCOVERED CONTAINERS ON TOP OF THE BAR. MANAGEMENT DISCARDED. OBSERVED BOTTLES OF CHAMPAIGN BEING STORED INSIDE ICE USED FOR CONSUMPTION AT THE BAR. ICE DISCARDED.OBSERVED WALK-IN COOLER COMPRESSOR DRIPPING DOWN ONTO FOODS INSIDE THE COOLER. FOODS DISCARDED.COMPRESSOR ALSO DRIPPING INTO A PAN IN THE KITCHEN TALL REACH-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR DRIPPING COMPRESSORS. OBSERVED BASEMENT ICE MACHINE STORED UNDER A WASTE WATER PIPING FOUND DRIPPING ONTO THE FLOOR NEXT TO MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE ICE MACHINE TO AN AREA WITH PROPER PROTECTION, CEILING, NO WASTE WATER PIPING. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FRONT EXIT DOOR TO OUTDOORS FOUND NOT RODENT PROOFED WITH RUBBER DOOR SWEEP ON BOTTOM OF DOOR TORN AND OPEN 1/4 INCH GAP ON THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE STRIP AND MAKE EXIT/ENTRANCE DOOR TIGHT FITTING ON THE BOTTOM.SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: THREE EXCESSIVE LEAKS UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK REPAIRED WITH DUCT TAPE. TAPE ON THE GREASE TRAP CONNECTION TO SINK. NO STOPPERS FOR SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL LEAKS ON THE SINK AND GREASE TRAP, PROVIDE STOPPERS. CHEMICAL DISH MACHINE NOT MAINTAINED AND FOUND EXTREMELY DIRTY INSIDE AND OUT WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS AND BROWN SLIME SUBSTANCE INSIDE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE FOOD AND SLIME. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
24
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 10-2-15 NOT CORRECTED. #32-INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE THE TORN OR MISSING GASKETS ON THE KITCHEN REFRIGERATION UNITS AND TO MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE KITCHEN CHEST FREEZER WITH A DAMAGED LID. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. #34- INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS BEHIND THE BAR, UNDER AND AROUND THE KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, AND THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BASEMENT AND TO MAINTAIN. #38- OBSERVED THE MEN'S WASHROOM WASHBOWL SINK WITH A DAMAGED, BUT STILL OPERATIONAL, HOT HANDLE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE DUCT TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR ON THE BAR COOLERS AND COOLER DOORS ALSO ON THE SHELVING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE THE KITCHEN TWO DOOR TALL REACH-IN COOLER. MUST REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE. TIN FOIL BEING USED AS LINER ON HOOD FILTERS. MUST REMOVE. DIRTY FAN GUARDS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST CLEAN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NEED CLEANING: KITCHEN EXPOSED HAND SINK, ALL COOKS LINE COOLERS INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MISSING FLOOR TILES AT THE ENTRANCE TO THE BAR. MUST REPLACE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE DUST ON CEILING VENTS INSIDE BOTH WASHROOMS AND FOOD SPLATTER ON THE CEILING OF THE MENS ROOM. MUST CLEAN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXTREMELY SLOW DRAIN AT THE WOMANS WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR.
38
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: USED DIRTY LINENS MUST NOT BE STORED HANGING FROM OVEN HANDLES.
39
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE INTERNAL THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COOLERS.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT AND THROUGHOUT THE REAR GARAGE STORAGE MUST BE REMOVED FROM PREMISES TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORING AND ALL OTHER STORED ITEMS ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
41
47
Oct 2, 2015
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE THE TORN OR MISSING GASKETS ON THE KITCHEN REFRIGERATION UNITS AND TO MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE KITCHEN CHEST FREEZER WITH A DAMAGED LID. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE WALL MOUNTED POTATO SLICER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS BEHIND THE BAR, UNDER AND AROUND THE KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, AND THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BASEMENT AND TO MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE MEN'S WASHROOM WASHBOWL SINK WITH A DAMAGED, BUT STILL OPERATIONAL, HOT HANDLE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
82
Sep 25, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLACK, MOLD-LIKE SUBSTANCE ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE THE TORN OR MISSING GASKETS ON THE KITCHEN REFRIGERATION UNITS AND TO MAINTAIN. OBSERVED THE KITCHEN CHEST FREEZER WITH A DAMAGED LID. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE WALL MOUNTED POTATO SLICER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS BEHIND THE BAR, UNDER AND AROUND THE KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, AND THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE BASEMENT AND TO MAINTAIN.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE MEN'S WASHROOM WASHBOWL SINK WITH A DAMAGED, BUT STILL OPERATIONAL, HOT HANDLE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
78
Aug 7, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST ELEVATE BOXES OF LIQUOR 6INCHES OF FLOOR IN BASEMENT LIQUOR ROOM.
34
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MEN'S WASHROOM DOOR NOT SELF-CLOSING. MUST PROVIDE A SELF-CLOSING DEVICE.
37
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: ICE SCOOPS STORED INSIDE ICE BIN AT FRONT BAR. MUST STORE ICE SOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
43
86
Aug 27, 2013
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: PENDING.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PENDING.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: PENDING.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: PENDING.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: PENDING.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PENDING.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: PENDING.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PENDING.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: PENDING.
41
64
Aug 19, 2013
Routine
13 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: Foods not protected during atorage, preparation, display and service. Observed several frozen food items inside deep freezer not protected, covered or properly stored to prevent contamination from elements or other foods not wrapped inside deep freezer and exposed to ice build-up inside freezer chest. Instructed to properly wrapped and store foods to prevent possible contamination. Serious citation issued 7-38-005(A).
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: Outer openings not provided or rodent proofed. Front entry door has 1/4 inch gap across bottom and corners. Instructed to rodent proof door to prevent rodent and insect entry. Serious citation issued 7-38-030.
18
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: Outside greae box not cleaned. maintained, or insect/rodent proofed. Observed waste grease on ground and encrusted grease on exterior on sides and on top of grease box. Instructed to detail clean exterior of grease box and ground to prevent insect and rodent nuisance. Serious citation issued 7-38-020.
19
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: Dish washing facilities not maintained or operated. While draining and running water in middle of three compartment sink, water-cloudy with food debris coming up left and right sides of sink. Instructed to detail clean drainline and grease trap to prevent inadequate disposal of drain water. Serious citation issued 7-38-030.
24
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not properly stored. Instructed to invert utensils to prevent contamination before use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Deep freezer not maintained and has ice build-up. Instructed to remove ice build-up.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Soda gun holders, exhaust and ventialtion covers not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors not maintained through-out premises. Instructed to detail clean floors behind equipment and along wallbase and replace damaged and missing floor tile in bar, toilet room, and kitchen area. Stock stored on floor in basement. Instructed to elevate stock and supplies 6 inches or higher and away from wall.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Walls in toilet room not maintained. Instructed to seal all openings and replace missing wall tile.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Adequate light not provided in prep area. Instructed to replace non-working light bulbs.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventialtion not working in toilet rooms. Instructed to repair ventilation fans in both toilet rooms. Handsink in ladies toielt room leaking at bottom. Instructed to repair to prevent leak. Sink stoppers not provided for three compartment sink. Instructed to stoppers for each compartment.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: Thermometer not provided inside cooler in bar area. Instructed to provide thermometer conspicuous inside all coolers.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Unnecessary articles stored in basement. Instructed to remove all unused articles and elevate supplies 6 inches or higher and away from wall.
41
52

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Merkle's Bar & Grill last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Merkle's Bar & Grill on file is from May 21, 2025. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Merkle's Bar & Grill?

Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 12 times, more than any other issue at Merkle's Bar & Grill.

Has Merkle's Bar & Grill's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Merkle's Bar & Grill have averaged around nine violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a medium risk rating mean?

A medium risk rating at Merkle's Bar & Grill means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.

How often is Merkle's Bar & Grill inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Merkle's Bar & Grill is inspected around two times per year on average.