Mezquite Pollo Express
Last inspected: Oct 16, 2025
74
Score
The health department has logged 15 inspections at Mezquite Pollo Express, the earliest from 2013. The most recent report on file is from Oct 16, 2025. The medium risk tier sits in the middle: not spotless, but not alarming either.
Things are looking better lately, with recent visits averaging around six violations compared to roughly eight violations earlier on.
Looking across the full record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” is the recurring theme, flagged 13 times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Mezquite Pollo Express trails the local norm. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
15
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Oct 16, 2025
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PRE PACKAGED COOKIES AND PECAN BARS MADE ON SITE WITHOUT LABEL OF BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED IN BETWEEN WIRE AND WALL IN FOOD PREP AREA NEAR GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER STORAGE FOR UTENSILS AND MAINTAIN.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN RAW CHICKEN STORED IN PLASTIC LINER IN BULK FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS FOR STORING. OBSERVED CRATES IN TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR USED TO STORE PRODUCE. INSTRUCTED TO USE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE UNISEX TOILET ROOM WITH NO COVERED RECEPTACLE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE LIGHTING INTENSITY TO ENSURE VISIBILITY. MUST MAINTAIN.
56
74
Oct 6, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW FOODS STORED ABOVE READY TO EAT FODOS IN MULTIPLE COOLERS. RAW CONTAINERS OF STEAK STORED DIRECTLY ON TOP OF READY TO EAT CONTAINERS OF SALSA IN COOLER. OBSERVED RAW EGGS STORED IMMEDIATELY ABOVE CONTAINERS OF READY TO EAT TOMATOES AND LETTUCE IN ADDITIONAL COOLER. OBSERVED CONTAINER OF RAW STEAK STORED IMMEDIATELY ABOVE SLICED ONIONS IN REAR UPRIGHT COOLER. INSTD TO STORE RAW FOODS PROPERLY AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005 PRIORITY
15
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MISSING DISCLOSURE FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY ON MENU FOR UNDERCOOKED FOOD (EX. STEAK) . INSTRUCTED TO IDENTIFY SUCH FOODS BY ASTERISKING THEM TO A FOOT NOTE THAT STATES: "THESE ITEMS ARE COOKED TO ORDER" IN ADDITION TO CONSUMER ADVISORY ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO HANDWASHING SINK NOT ACCESSIBLE NOR MAINTAINED. MISSING PIPE UNDER HAND SINK NEXT TO DISHWASHER AND MISSING PIPE IN EMPLOYEE UNISEX TOILET ROOM HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030 (C)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING CLEANSER AT HAND SINK NEXT TO 2-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST PROVIDE HAND SOAP AT ALL HAND SINKS AT ALL TIMES. SEE VIOLATION ABOVE FOR CITATION. 7-38-030 (C)
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PRE PACKAGED COOKIES AND PECAN BARS MADE ON SITE WITHOUT LABEL OF BUSINESS NAME AND ADDRESS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED IN BETWEEN WIRE AND WALL IN FOOD PREP AREA NEAR GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER STORAGE FOR UTENSILS AND MAINTAIN.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN RAW CHICKEN STORED IN PLASTIC LINER IN BULK FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS FOR STORING. OBSERVED CRATES IN TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR USED TO STORE PRODUCE. INSTRUCTED TO USE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE CONTAINERS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE UNISEX TOILET ROOM WITH NO COVERED RECEPTACLE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE LIGHTING INTENSITY TO ENSURE VISIBILITY. MUST MAINTAIN.
56
50
Oct 3, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW PRESSURE AT HANDSINK IN REAR EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE IN REAR EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
90
Aug 31, 2023
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF SUGAR AND RICE NOT LABELED IN THE DRY STORAGE CLOSET. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF THE FOOD ITEM.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY USING LARGE 50 GALLON GARBAGE CONTAINERS TO STORE RAW CHICKEN. INSTRUCTED TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS ON THE TWO DOOR TALL COOLER IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARD WITH VERY DEEP SEAMS AT THE CHICKEN STEAM TABLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING USED AS A LINER ON THE SHELVING IN THE DRY STORAGE CLOSET. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE OR REPLACE WITH A MATERIAL THAT IS SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET MOP STORED IN THE BUCKET IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HANG MOPS WHEN NOT IN USE TO ALLOW TO DRY.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PAPER TOWEL HOLDER COVER BROKEN IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE LID.
55
67
Sep 30, 2022
Routine
3 critical violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOOD SUCH AS (2OLBS. COOKED BEANS 81.3F) IN A LARGE PLASTIC BUSS PAN INSIDE OF 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER. PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F OR BELOW.APPX. 20LBS. $40.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)(CITATION ISSUED)
22
Food obtained from approved source
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN ASSORTMENT OF READY TO EAT FOODS(16LBS. COOKIES AND 4LBS. GRANOLA BARS)FROM AN UNAPPROVED SOURCE PREPACKAGED/UNWRAPPED ON DISPLAY FOR SALE TO CUSTOMER.NO RECEIPTS OR INVOICE AVAILABLE TO VIEW.PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER. MUST MAINTAIN RECEIPT/INVOICES FROM AND USE AN APPROVED SUPPLIER.APPX. 20LBS. $230. (COS)(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)
11
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOODS SUCH AS (10LBS. COOKED STEAK 110.8F) IN A PAN ON PREP TABLE.PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER MUST HAVE HOT HOLDING FOODS AT 135.0F OR ABOVE. APPX. 10LBS. $200. (PRIORITY 7-38-005)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED)
21
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN DISH WASHING AREA.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LID ON GARBAGE CAN IN WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE HOLE IN LOWER WALL NEAR GLASS REACH IN COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE CRACKED LIGHT SHIELD IN CHICKEN PREP AREA AND MISSING IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA.
56
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS AT HAND SINKS IN PREP/TOILET AND DISH WASHING AREAS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE SCOOPS STORED INSIDE OF DRY BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS MUST STORE SCOOPS HANDLE ABOVE RIM OR IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
43
45
Apr 1, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO PROCEDURE IN PLACE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROCEDURE AND NECESSARY SUPPLIES EFFECTIVE AGAINST NOROVIRUS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
5
Toxic substances properly identified, stored, & used
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTD TO STORE PROPERLY IN DESIGNATED AREA.
28
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: PLASTIC LINING FOR WRAPPING PALLETS (AS STATED ON ORIGINAL BOX) BEING USED TO STORE LARGE AMOUNTS OF CHICKEN. ALSO USING LARGE 50 GALLON GARBAGE CONTAINERS TO STORE RAW CHICKEN. INSTD TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE EQUIPMENT.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: WARPED CUTTING BOARD IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTD TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CRACKED FLOOR TILES IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTD TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NO VENTILATION ABOVE LARGE 6 BURNER STOVE IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER VENTILATION OR REMOVE STOVE.
56
70
Sep 20, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PROCEDURES FOR CLEANING UP VOMIT, AND DIARRHEA, BUT MISSING SOME NECESSARY ITEMS, AND A DISINFECTANT RATED FOR NOROVIRUS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005, NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REMOINDER ON THE MENU AT THIS TIME, BUT MISSING THE DISCLOSUER BY ASTERICK AND FOOTNOTE(*STEAK COOKED TO ORDER)
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO REAR FREEZERS LIDS BROKEN, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR, AND OR REPLACE FREEZERS. ALSO OBSERVED THE TWO DOOR COOLER RUBBER GASKET BROKEN/TORN, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE TRASH RECEPTACLE WITHOUT A COVER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE REAR FLOOR IN THE CHICKEN PREP AREA NOT CLEAN, EXCESSIVE WATER ON THE FLOOR, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, AND KEEP FLOOR DRY.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WALL BEHIND THE THREE COMPARTMENT, AND DISH MACHINE NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE EXPIRED, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE UPDATED CERTIFICATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION # 60.
58
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NON COMPLIANCE ON VIOLATION #58 NO ALLERGEN TRAINING, FROM REPORT 2232341, DATE10/26/2018, CORRECT BY DATE 12/14/2018. 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
61
Oct 26, 2018
Complaint
5 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY IN PLACE. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012(A).
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-204.11(A) NO HANDWASHING SINK IN REAR PREP AREA WHERE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED. INSTD TO RE INSTALL HANDWASHING SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE IN SAME AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3.501.17(A) VARIETY OF FOODS NOT PROPERLY LABELED, DATED (COOKED RICE, BEANS, SALSAS, ETC. FOOD PREPARED AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS SHALL BE CLEARLY MARKED TO INDICATE THE DAY OR DATE BY WHICH FOOD SHALL BE SOLD OR DISCARDED FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3.501.17(A) VARIETY OF FOODS NOT PROPERLY LABELED, DATED (COOKED RICE, BEANS, SALSAS, ETC. FOOD PREPARED AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS SHALL BE CLEARLY MARKED TO INDICATE THE DAY OR DATE BY WHICH FOOD SHALL BE SOLD OR DISCARDED FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 DRY STRORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTD TO PROPERLY LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.11 (B-E). PLASTIC TYPE LINING BEING USED INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS TO STORE LARGE AMOUNTS OF CHICKEN. INSTD TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE EQUIPMENT MADE OF MATERIAL THAT IS A SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABE SURFACE
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 WALL COVERING UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AT SOUTH END IN DISREPAIR, LOOSE SURFACE. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 EXTREME CLUTTER/UNUSED EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL AND ORGANIZE AREA. MUST BE ABLE TO ACCESS ALL AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 202.11(A) MISSING LIGHTSHIELD ON LIGHTS IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED. INSTD TO OBTAIN TRAINING AND PROVIDE VERIFICATION FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGERS
58
45
Sep 21, 2018
Reinspection
6 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 12 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: 2-102.12 NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN, BEANS, ETC). INSTD TO HAVE ON DUTY AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY IN PLACE. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012(A).
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-204.11(A) NO HANDWASHING SINK IN REAR PREP AREA WHERE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED. INSTD TO RE INSTALL HANDWASHING SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE IN SAME AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3.501.17(A) VARIETY OF FOODS NOT PROPERLY LABELED, DATED (COOKED RICE, BEANS, SALSAS, ETC. FOOD PREPARED AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS SHALL BE CLEARLY MARKED TO INDICATE THE DAY OR DATE BY WHICH FOOD SHALL BE SOLD OR DISCARDED FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11(A) NO DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 DRY STRORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTD TO PROPERLY LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.11 (B-E). PLASTIC TYPE LINING BEING USED INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS TO STORE LARGE AMOUNTS OF CHICKEN. INSTD TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE EQUIPMENT MADE OF MATERIAL THAT IS A SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABE SURFACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 EXTREME CLUTTER/UNUSED EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL AND ORGANIZE AREA. MUST BE ABLE TO ACCESS ALL AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 WALL COVERING UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AT SOUTH END IN DISREPAIR, LOOSE SURFACE. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-202.11(A) MISSING LIGHTSHIELD ON LIGHTS IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED. INSTD TO OBTAIN TRAINING AND PROVIDE VERIFICATION FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGERS
58
41
Sep 14, 2018
Routine
7 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.111 OVER 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON FLOOR IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. CONTACT PEST CONTROL AND HAVE UPDATED SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY IN PLACE. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012(A).
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-204.11(A) NO HANDWASHING SINK IN REAR PREP AREA WHERE 2-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED. INSTD TO RE INSTALL HANDWASHING SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE IN SAME AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-204.11(A) HANDWASHING SINK IN EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM HAS BEEN REMOVED. INSTD TO RE INSTALL HANDWASHING SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE IN SAME AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3.501.17(A) VARIETY OF FOODS NOT PROPERLY LABELED, DATED (COOKED RICE, BEANS, SALSAS, ETC. FOOD PREPARED AND HELD FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS SHALL BE CLEARLY MARKED TO INDICATE THE DAY OR DATE BY WHICH FOOD SHALL BE SOLD OR DISCARDED FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11(A) NO DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER FOR CONSUMER ADVISORY. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 NO HANDWASHING SIGNS AT HANDSINKS. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 DRY STRORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTD TO PROPERLY LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.11 (B-E). PLASTIC TYPE LINING BEING USED INSIDE CHEST FREEZERS TO STORE LARGE AMOUNTS OF CHICKEN. INSTD TO USE PROPER FOOD GRADE EQUIPMENT MADE OF MATERIAL THAT IS A SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABE SURFACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 EXTREME CLUTTER/UNUSED EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL AND ORGANIZE AREA. MUST BE ABLE TO ACCESS ALL AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 WALL COVERING UNDERNEATH 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AT SOUTH END IN DISREPAIR, LOOSE SURFACE. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-202.11(A) MISSING LIGHTSHIELD ON LIGHTS IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED. INSTD TO OBTAIN TRAINING AND PROVIDE VERIFICATION FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGERS
58
35
Sep 19, 2017
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Source sound condition, no spoilage, foods properly labeled, shellfish tags in place
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 7 BAGS OF BAKERY GOODS (COOKIES) NO LABEL, NO INVOICE, UNKNOWN SOURCE, INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OPEN DENATURE WITH BLEACH, AND DISPOSE OF.ONLY BY FOOD PRODUCTS FROM LICENSE ESTABLISHMENTS ONLY.CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005B.
1
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 4 KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED BETWEEN THE FRONT TABLE AND STEAM TABLE, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KNIFE RACK
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED RICE STORED IN GROCERY BAG IN THE REAR 2 DOORS COOLER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER FOOD GRADE CONTAINER, OR FOOD GRADE BAGGIES/ZIP LOC. ALSO IN REAR PREP AREA FREEZER LID TO BOX FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/OR REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT 4 KNIVES NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STANDING WATER ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE/DRY MOP.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WALL AND CEILING PEELING PAINT ABOVE THE LADIES RESTROOM DOOR IN HALLWAY, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND RESEAL.
35
74
Jun 7, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM REPORT #1516528 ON 9/22/15 NOT CORRECTED: 45 - OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES AT THIS TIME, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. GIVEN COPY OF IDPH'S FOOD HANDLER INFO. AT THIS TIME. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER ON THE FLOOR OF THE BASEMENT. MUST MAINTAIN THE BASEMENT FLOOR DRY.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPAIR THE LARGE HOLE IN THE DRYWALL WALL INSIDE OF THE DRY STORAGE ROOM. REPLACE THE WATER STAINED CEILING TILE INSIDE OF THE DRY STORAGE ROOM.
35
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL FOOD HANLING EMPLOYEES WITHOUT HAIR RESTRAINTS. ALL FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
82
Sep 22, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT JET SPRAY MACHINE DRIP TRAYS, NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL VENT NOT CLEAN GOING INTO THE REAR AREA, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN BASEMENT, INSTRUCTED TO ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ITEMS NOT BEING USED.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES AT THIS TIME, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. GIVEN COPY OF IDPH'S FOOD HANDLER INFO. AT THIS TIME.
45
82
Jul 21, 2014
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED AND COULD NOT BE PRODUCED AT TIME OF INSPECTION WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD IS BEING PREPARED, COOKED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
95
Dec 9, 2013
License
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Mezquite Pollo Express last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Mezquite Pollo Express on file is from Oct 16, 2025. The public record contains 15 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Mezquite Pollo Express?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 13 times, more than any other issue at Mezquite Pollo Express.
Has Mezquite Pollo Express' inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Mezquite Pollo Express have averaged around six violations per visit, down from roughly eight earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Mezquite Pollo Express 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 Mezquite Pollo Express inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Mezquite Pollo Express is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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