Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi
Last inspected: Aug 18, 2025
61
Score
Going back to 2021, Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi has 13 inspections in the public record. The most recent visit was on Aug 18, 2025. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
The trend has been favorable: violation counts have eased from around 12 violations to closer to nine violations per visit over the last few inspections.
When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited 16 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
13
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
10
Minor latest
Inspection History
Aug 18, 2025
Reinspection
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 10 DEAD COACKROACHES ON PREP TABLE BELOW THE MICROWAVE IN THE TOASTER AREA ON NORTHERN MOST PORTION OF PANCAKE CAFE NEAR THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER. OBSERVED 3 DEAD ROACHES ON THE SHELF NEXT TO THE REAR/NORTH ENTRANCE TO THE KITCHEN OF THE PANCAKE CAFE. OBSERVED ADDITIONAL 2 DEAD COCKROACHES UNDER THE SHELVES DIRECTLY ACROSS DEEP FRYER AND CONVECTION OVEN IN THE REAR HALL PREP AREA OF PANCAKE CAFE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE OF DEAD COCKROACHES AND INSECTS.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO (2) DOOR COOLER AT THE TOASTER PREP AREA AT THE NORTHERN MOST END OF THE PANCAKE CAFE TO HAVE SEVEREALY TORN AND LOOSE GASEKTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE TORN GASKETS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO (2) DOOR COOLER AT THE TOASTER PREP AREA AT THE NORTHERN MOST END OF THE PANCAKE CAFE TO HAVE SEVEREALY TORN AND LOOSE GASEKTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE TORN GASKETS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE GASKETS AND DOOR HINGES OF THE TWO (2) DOOR COOLER LOCATED AT NORTHERN MOST END OF THE PANCAKE CAFE/TOASTER PREP AREA TO BE EXTREMELY DIRTY, WITH FOOD DEBRIS, GREASE, AND TRASH BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL GASKETS AND HINGES AND CREVICES AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD UP.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOT WATER HANDLE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE MAIN DISHWASHING AREA TO BE MISSING. HOT WATER AND SINK IS STILL FUNCTIONAL. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE AND REPLACE. OBSERVED LEAK FROM 3 COMPARTMENT SINK DRAIN IN THE FRONT BAR AREA IN THE PANCAKE CAFE SOUTHERN MOST ENTRANCE. WATER DRIPPING ON FLOOR BELOW 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE PRESENT AT THE COFFEE MAKER/MACHINE AT THE NORTH SIDE COFFEE PREP AREA IN THE PANCAKE CAFE PORTION OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT THE COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL THREE BATHROOMS AT FACILITY TO BE WITHOUT A SELF CLOSING DOOR AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING MECHANISM FOR ALL BATHROOM DOORS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS GAPS AND OPEN CORNERS IN THE AJI SUSHI COUNTER PREP LINE, SURROUNDING THE REACH IN/PREP COOLERS AS WELL AS THE HAND SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL JUNCTURES AND ENCLOSE/SEAL ALL GAPS TO PROVIDE A CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORING BELOW THE SINGLE FRYER AND THE CONVECTION OVEN IN THE REAR PREP HALL LEADING TO THE NORTH END TOASTER TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH GREASE BUILD UP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND PIECES OF TRASH. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE TRASH AND DEBRIS BUILD UP. OBSERVED THE MAIN PREP LINE ON THE PANCAKE CAFE UNDER THE DRAWER COOLERS AND FRYERS, AS WELL AS THE FLOOR UNDER THE COOLERS IN THE AJI PREP/BAR LINE TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND TRASH BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE TRASH AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LIGHTS AVAILABLE IN THE OVERHEAD EXHAUST OF THE REAR EXHAUST/PREP AREA OVER THE CONVECTION OVEN/FRYER IN THE REAR HALL PREP, AS WELL AS NO LIGHTS AVAILABLE IN THE HOOD AT THE FRONT/MAIN PREP LINE AT THE SOUTH END OF PANCAKE CAFE. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE/PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL PREP AREAS.
56
61
Aug 11, 2025
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 14 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE WITH A CHEMICAL CONCENTRATION OF 0PPM AT TIME OF INSPECTION. MACHINE WAS IN USE AT TIME OF INSPECTION, WITH SANITIZER TUBE NOT CONNECTED TO ANY BUCKETS OR CHEMICALS. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE TO MAINTAIN APPROPRIATE SANITIZING SOLUTION CONCENTRAION. DISH MACHINE WAS REPAIRED AT TIME OF INSPECTION AND TESTED 50 PPM BY END OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION, 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THREE (3) LIVE ROACHES AT THE GASKETS/HINGE OF THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AT THE NORTHERN MOST PREP/TOASTER AREA OF PANCAKE CAFE, ONE (1) LIVE ROACH IN THE CAN OPENER LOCATED IN REAR PREP HALL NEXT TO PREP TABLE, TWO (2) LIVE ROACHES BELOW THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AREA, AND ONE (1) LIVE ROACH NEXT TO DEEP FRYER IN THE REAR. ALSO OBSERVED TWO (2) LIVE COCKROACHES IN THE NORTHEASTERN MOST CORNER OF THE PREP COUNTER/WOODEN BAR WALL IN THE AJI SUSHI PREP AREA. RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE TO REMOVE ALL EVIDENCE OF LIVE COCKRACH ACTIVITY, AND CLEAN AND SANITIZE BY DATE OF REINSPECTION AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO TREAT AREAS FOR PESTS AND MAINTAIN FREE OF LIVE COCKROACHES. ADVISED TO CALL PEST CONTROL OPERATOR FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION, 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO (2) DOOR COOLER AT THE TOASTER PREP AREA AT THE NORTHERN MOST END OF THE PANCAKE CAFE TO HAVE SEVEREALY TORN AND LOOSE GASEKTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE TORN GASKETS.
47
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED AT DUMP SINK IN THE AJI SUSHI PREP AREA. INSTRCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND ENSURE SERVICE/DUMP SINK IS NOT SET UP OR USED FOR HAND WASHING.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 10 DEAD COACKROACHES ON PREP TABLE BELOW THE MICROWAVE IN THE TOASTER AREA ON NORTHERN MOST PORTION OF PANCAKE CAFE NEAR THE 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER. OBSERVED 3 DEAD ROACHES ON THE SHELF NEXT TO THE REAR/NORTH ENTRANCE TO THE KITCHEN OF THE PANCAKE CAFE. OBSERVED ADDITIONAL 2 DEAD COCKROACHES UNDER THE SHELVES DIRECTLY ACROSS DEEP FRYER AND CONVECTION OVEN IN THE REAR HALL PREP AREA OF PANCAKE CAFE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE OF DEAD COCKROACHES AND INSECTS.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS BOXED FOOD ITEMS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA NEAR THE WALK IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES STORED IN BETWEEN PREP COOLERS AND PREP COUNTERS THROUGHOUT FACILITY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE AND PROVIDE A CLEAN STORAGE LOCATION FOR ALL KNIVES AND UTENTILS IN BETWEEN USE.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS BOXED SINGLE SERVICE ITEMS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE PANCAKE CAFE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE ALL BOXES AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS PIECES OF WOOD ON THE BAR/PREP STATION SURROUNDING WALLS IN THE AJI SUSHI SIDE TO BE UNSEALED, NOT PAINTED, AND NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL PIECES OF UNFINISHED WOOD IN THE AJI SUSHI BAR AND SURROUNDING PIECES OF WOOD HOLDING ALL PREP COOLERS AT THE COUNTER.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE GASKETS AND DOOR HINGES OF THE TWO (2) DOOR COOLER LOCATED AT NORTHERN MOST END OF THE PANCAKE CAFE/TOASTER PREP AREA TO BE EXTREMELY DIRTY, WITH FOOD DEBRIS, GREASE, AND TRASH BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL GASKETS AND HINGES AND CREVICES AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD UP.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HOT WATER HANDLE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE MAIN DISHWASHING AREA TO BE MISSING. HOT WATER AND SINK IS STILL FUNCTIONAL. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE AND REPLACE. OBSERVED LEAK FROM 3 COMPARTMENT SINK DRAIN IN THE FRONT BAR AREA IN THE PANCAKE CAFE SOUTHERN MOST ENTRANCE. WATER DRIPPING ON FLOOR BELOW 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE PRESENT AT THE COFFEE MAKER/MACHINE AT THE NORTH SIDE COFFEE PREP AREA IN THE PANCAKE CAFE PORTION OF THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE AT THE COFFEE MACHINE WATER LINE.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALL THREE BATHROOMS AT FACILITY TO BE WITHOUT A SELF CLOSING DOOR AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING MECHANISM FOR ALL BATHROOM DOORS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VARIOUS GAPS AND OPEN CORNERS IN THE AJI SUSHI COUNTER PREP LINE, SURROUNDING THE REACH IN/PREP COOLERS AS WELL AS THE HAND SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL JUNCTURES AND ENCLOSE/SEAL ALL GAPS TO PROVIDE A CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORING BELOW THE SINGLE FRYER AND THE CONVECTION OVEN IN THE REAR PREP HALL LEADING TO THE NORTH END TOASTER TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH GREASE BUILD UP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND PIECES OF TRASH. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL FLOORS AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE TRASH AND DEBRIS BUILD UP. OBSERVED THE MAIN PREP LINE ON THE PANCAKE CAFE UNDER THE DRAWER COOLERS AND FRYERS, AS WELL AS THE FLOOR UNDER THE COOLERS IN THE AJI PREP/BAR LINE TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND TRASH BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE TRASH AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LIGHTS AVAILABLE IN THE OVERHEAD EXHAUST OF THE REAR EXHAUST/PREP AREA OVER THE CONVECTION OVEN/FRYER IN THE REAR HALL PREP, AS WELL AS NO LIGHTS AVAILABLE IN THE HOOD AT THE FRONT/MAIN PREP LINE AT THE SOUTH END OF PANCAKE CAFE. INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE/PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING AT ALL PREP AREAS.
56
39
Mar 25, 2025
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HANDWASHING SINKS IN FRONT BAR AREA, SUSHI PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
95
Mar 20, 2025
Reinspection
3 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE BLACK AND PINK SLIMY SUBSTANCE BUILD UP ON INSIDE INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE AND DRIPPING ONTO ICE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. MUST REMOVE ICE CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE. MACHINE HAS BEEN CLEANED AND SANITIZED AT THE END OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED FOUND TO HAVE GREASE ENCRUSTED ON TOP LIP LID, SIDES AND WALL BEHIND GREASE CONTAINER. THIS IS A FOOD SOURCE FOR RODENTS AND OTHER PESTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED.
54
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2596735 ON 06/28/2024 #37. BULK RICE CONTAINER IN THE SUSHI PREP MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME. #45. ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS. #43. NOTED IN-USE COOKS LINE UTENSILS BEING STORED IN A CONTAINER OF WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF 87.8FF. IF STORED IN HOT WATER, MUST MAINTAIN A MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 135F OR STORE ON/IN A CLEAN SURFACE/CONTAINER AND WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE AS NEED OR EVERY 4 HOURS. #49. MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. ALL RAW WOODEN SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR PREP AREA IE: CABINETS, SHELVING ETC. MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED TO BE SMOOTH, CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT #55. DIRTY FLOOR DRAIN AT THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. HOLE IN THE WALL AROUND PIPING AT THE DISH WASHING MACHINE FILLED WITH TINFOIL. MUST PROPERLY SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-101.11--- BROKEN, CRACKED, MISSING AND DAMAGED FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE AND DISH AREA. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL AFFECTED AREAS.MUST REMOVE ALL UNEVEN, SPRAY FOAM SEALANT ALONG BASEBOARD COVING THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AREA TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-501.114----ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS INCLUDING CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT DRY FOOD STORAGE AND REAR STORAGE AREAS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES AND ALL OTHER NEED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED. #57. NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPELY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES STORED ON SHELVING IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE 2-DOOR TALL REFRIGERATOR IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA AND BOTTOM OF PREP TABLE IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVING.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING VENTILATION VENTS IN ALL WASHROOMS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER IN SUSHI PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED BIG OPENING INTO WALL NEXT TO COFFEE STATION AREA ALSO OBSERVED OPENINGS INTO CEILING IN FRONT AND REAR OF BASEMENT. MUST SEAL ALL OPENING AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW BURNS OUT BULBS ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPLACE BURN OUT BULBS AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ON SITE WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HANDWASHING SINKS IN FRONT BAR AREA, SUSHI PREP AREA, REAR DISHWASHING AREA AND INSIDE ALL WASHROOMS.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR ALL HAND WASHING SINKS.
10
45
Mar 18, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 15 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SNEEZEGUARD OR OTHER PROTECTION PROVIDED IN FRONT SUSHI FOOD PREPARATION AREA COUNTER. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL BARRIER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BY THE PUBLIC. 2-DAY NOTICE GIVEN TO COME INTO COMPLIANCE.PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
39
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER NOT MAINTAINED FOUND TO HAVE GREASE ENCRUSTED ON TOP LIP LID, SIDES AND WALL BEHIND GREASE CONTAINER. THIS IS A FOOD SOURCE FOR RODENTS AND OTHER PESTS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED.
54
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE BLACK AND PINK SLIMY SUBSTANCE BUILD UP ON INSIDE INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE AND DRIPPING ONTO ICE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. MUST REMOVE ICE CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE. MACHINE HAS BEEN CLEANED AND SANITIZED AT THE END OF INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT# 2596735 ON 06/28/2024 #37. BULK RICE CONTAINER IN THE SUSHI PREP MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME. #45. ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS. #43. NOTED IN-USE COOKS LINE UTENSILS BEING STORED IN A CONTAINER OF WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF 87.8FF. IF STORED IN HOT WATER, MUST MAINTAIN A MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 135F OR STORE ON/IN A CLEAN SURFACE/CONTAINER AND WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE AS NEED OR EVERY 4 HOURS. #49. MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. ALL RAW WOODEN SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR PREP AREA IE: CABINETS, SHELVING ETC. MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED TO BE SMOOTH, CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT #55. DIRTY FLOOR DRAIN AT THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. HOLE IN THE WALL AROUND PIPING AT THE DISH WASHING MACHINE FILLED WITH TINFOIL. MUST PROPERLY SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-101.11--- BROKEN, CRACKED, MISSING AND DAMAGED FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE AND DISH AREA. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL AFFECTED AREAS.MUST REMOVE ALL UNEVEN, SPRAY FOAM SEALANT ALONG BASEBOARD COVING THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AREA TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-501.114----ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS INCLUDING CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT DRY FOOD STORAGE AND REAR STORAGE AREAS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES AND ALL OTHER NEED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED. #57. NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON SITE FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR HANDWASHING SINKS IN FRONT BAR AREA, SUSHI PREP AREA, REAR DISHWASHING AREA AND INSIDE ALL WASHROOMS.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNS OR POSTERS NEAR ALL HAND WASHING SINKS.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES. MUST PROPELY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES STORED ON SHELVING IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE 2-DOOR TALL REFRIGERATOR IN FRONT COFFEE STATION AREA AND BOTTOM OF PREP TABLE IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE SHELVING.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING VENTILATION VENTS IN ALL WASHROOMS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER IN SUSHI PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED BIG OPENING INTO WALL NEXT TO COFFEE STATION AREA ALSO OBSERVED OPENINGS INTO CEILING IN FRONT AND REAR OF BASEMENT. MUST SEAL ALL OPENING AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW BURNS OUT BULBS ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPLACE BURN OUT BULBS AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ON SITE WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
58
35
Jun 28, 2024
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12-- BULK RICE CONTAINER IN THE SUSHI PREP MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.12--- NOTED IN-USE COOKS LINE UTENSILS BEING STORED IN A CONTAINER OF WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF 87.8FF. IF STORED IN HOT WATER, MUST MAINTAIN A MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 135F OR STORE ON/IN A CLEAN SURFACE/CONTAINER AND WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE AS NEED OR EVERY 4 HOURS.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: : 4-903.11(A;C)--- ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT 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 TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR FOR BLENDER ON SITE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13--- MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT.----ALL RAW WOODEN SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR PREP AREA IE: CABINETS, SHELVING ETC. MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED TO BE SMOOTH, CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11-----DIRTY FLOOR DRAIN AT THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----HOLE IN THE WALL AROUND PIPING AT THE DISH WASHING MACHINE FILLED WITH TINFOIL. MUST PROPERLY SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-101.11--- BROKEN, CRACKED, MISSING AND DAMAGED FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE AND DISH AREA. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL AFFECTED AREAS.----MUST REMOVE ALL UNEVEN, SPRAY FOAM SEALANT ALONG BASEBOARD COVING THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AREA TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. 6-501.114----ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS INCLUDING CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT DRY FOOD STORAGE AND REAR STORAGE AREAS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES AND ALL OTHER NEED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13---- NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES ON SITE FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
57
70
Jun 17, 2024
Routine
4 critical violations. 6 major violations. 14 minor violations.
View 24 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: COOKS LINE HAND WASHING SINK UNABLE TO DISPOSE OF WASTE WATER. SINK COMPLETELY CLOGGED AND DOES NOT NOT DRAIN ANY OF THE WASTE WATER. MUST REPAIR TO PROPERLY DRAIN AND DISPOSE OF WASTE WATER. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
52
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: CHLORINE CHEMICAL DISH WASHING MACHINE NOT PROPERLY DISPENSING CHLORINE SANITIZER. NOTED AFTER SEVERAL WASH CYCLES LESS THAN 10 PPM CHLORINE WITH A FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 135.7F. INSTRUCTED TO WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE ALL DISHWARE AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND PROPERLY DISPENSES CHLORINE, C.D.P.H CONTACTED FOR RE-INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING FOODS IN TWO COOLERS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES: SAUSAGE INSIDE THE SMALL WALK-IN COOLER AT 45F, PRE-COOKED POTATOES AT 45.9F. IN THE COOKS LINE COOLER: HAM AT 48.9F, CORNED BEEF HASH AT 48F. ALL TCS FOODS DISCARDED IN BOTH COOLERS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: NOTED THE ABOVE MENTIONED COOKS LINE COOLER AND SMALL WALK-IN COOLER UNABLE TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE TEMPERATURES. WALK-IN COOLER AT 49.6F WITH PRE-COOKED POTATOES AT 45.9F. COOKS LINE COOLER AT 49.4F WITH HAM AT 48.9F. BOTH COOLERS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL REPAIRED, MAINTAINS AN ADEQUATE TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR BELOW AND C.D.P.H CONTACTED BY WRITTEN REQUEST FOR RE-INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
33
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES OR SUCH A PERSON ON SITE DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED THE BAR HAND WASHING SINK FOUND BEING USED AS A SLOP SINK WITH A METAL STRAINER INSIDE THE SINK MAKING THE SINK NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR HAND WASHING USE. HAND SINKS MUST BE USED FOR HAND WASHING PURPOSES ONLY AND ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES.----NOTED THE WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM ON THE SUSHI PREP HAND WASHING SINK MUST BE REMOVED. HAND SINKS MUST BE USED FOR HAND WASHING PURPOSES ONLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS LOCATED AT THE BAR HAND WASHING SINK. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. SEE THE ABOVE VIOLATION #10 FOR CITATION.
10
Required records available: shellstock tags, parasite destruction
Inspector notes: NO RECORDS OR DOCUMENTATION ON SITE OR AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW FOR PARASITE DESTRUCTION OF SUSHI FISH AND CUT/PORTIONED FROZEN SALMON WRAPPED IN PLASTIC WRAP, UNLABELED INSIDE THE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST PROVIDE THE PROPER PARASITE DESTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
14
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: NOTED THE UPPER WATER RESERVOIR OF THE BASEMENT ICE MACHINE AND INSIDE THE BIN WITH PINK AND BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE DRIPPING DOWN INTO THE ICE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL SLIME, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLER IN THE FOOD PREP AREA WITH AN OPEN BEVERAGE. REVIEWED PROPER AREAS, METHODS FOR EMPLOYEES TO CONSUME BEVERAGES AND FOODS.
6
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK RICE CONTAINER IN THE SUSHI PREP MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: REAR EXIT SCREENED DOOR WITH TORN RUBBER STRIP ON THE BOTTOM THRESHOLD AND AN OPEN 1/4 INCH GAP. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE RUBBER STRIP AND PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL ON THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR.
38
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED IN-USE COOKS LINE UTENSILS BEING STORED IN A CONTAINER OF WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF 87.8FF. IF STORED IN HOT WATER, MUST MAINTAIN A MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 135F OR STORE ON/IN A CLEAN SURFACE/CONTAINER AND WASH, RINSE, SANITIZE AS NEED OR EVERY 4 HOURS.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AND THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR FOR BLENDER ON SITE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: METAL RACK SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE SMALL WALK-IN COOLER WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT.----TOP OF THE DISH WASHING MACHINE WITH DIRT AND DEBRIS.----EXTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE GARBAGE CANS WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS AND IN THE HANDLE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----ALL RAW WOODEN SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR PREP AREA IE: CABINETS, SHELVING ETC. MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED TO BE SMOOTH, CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAK UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE INTO BUCKET. MUST REPAIR.--
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BROKEN, CRACKED, MISSING AND DAMAGED FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE AND DISH AREA. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL AFFECTED AREAS.----MUST REMOVE ALL UNEVEN, SPRAY FOAM SEALANT ALONG BASEBOARD COVING THROUGHOUT THE SUSHI BAR AREA TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OUTDOOR BUS PANS, WATER FOR CONSUMPTION DISPENSER, UNUSED COOKING EQUIPMENT MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE REAR OUTDOOR WALKWAY.----MOTORIZED SCOOTERS MUST NOT BE STORED IN THE SUSHI PREP AREA.----ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS INCLUDING CONTRUCTION MATERIAL STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT DRY FOOD STORAGE AND REAR STORAGE AREAS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES AND ALL OTHER NEED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE DUST/DIRT ON WALLS AND CEILING AT THE SMALL WALK-IN COOLER AND ENTRANCE TO DISH AREA.----DIRTY FLOOR DRAIN AT THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER THE DISH WASHING MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----HOLE IN THE WALL AROUND PIPING AT THE DISH WASHING MACHINE FILLED WITH TINFOIL. MUST PROPERLY SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES PERSONAL BAGS BEING STORED IN FOOD PREP AREAS. MUST PROVIDE DESIGNATED EMPLOYEE STORAGE NOT IN FOOD PREP OR FOOD CONTACT AREAS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES ON SITE FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES.
57
15
Apr 14, 2023
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN MERGE AT REAR EXIT OF ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT ENTRY POINTS FOR PESTS.
38
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA 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 PLASTIC WRAP USED TO HOLD THE DOOR OF THE DRAWER COOLER UNDER THE GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENINGS THROUGH OUT THE SUSHI SECTION ON FIRST FLOOR AND BASEMENT, INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL HOLES AND OPENINGS TO PREVENT ENTRY PLACES FOR PEST.
55
82
Apr 12, 2023
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED COLD RUNNING WATER FAUCETS AT THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA AND 3 COMPARTMENT IN POOR REPAIRS ((NO COLD RUNNING WATER)FAUCETS WORN OUT). TEMPERATURE OF HOT RUNNING WATER AT THE HAND WASH SINK WAS 104.5F AND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK 134.7F. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED
51
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER AND SURROUNDING NOT MAINTAINED WITH GREASE ON THE GROUND, WALL AND AROUND THE GREASE CONTAINER AND ON TOP OF CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN GREASE CONTAINER AND ITS SURROUNDING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(B).CITATION ISSUED.
54
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED CLOGGED HAND WASH SINK (WATER NOT DRAINING AT ALL) AT THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA.DISCUSSED WITH MANAGER THAT ALL HAND WASH SINKS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NOTED OVER 50 RAT DROPPINGS ON FLOOR ALONG WALL BASE AT THE SUSHI PREP AREA, ON STAIR WAYS LEADING TO THE BASEMENT, ON FLOOR AT THE BASEMENT OF SUSHI AREA AND ON BASMENT FLOOR OF PANCAKE HOUSE BASEMENT AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS, ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY. INSTRUCTED TO CONSULT WITH PEST CONTROL COMPANY AND HAVE PREMISES TREATED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEES DRINKING AND PREPARING FOOD AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO DRINK AND EAT AND NOT AT THE PREP AREAS.
6
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NOTED TORN MERGE AT REAR EXIT OF ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT ENTRY POINTS FOR PESTS.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE DRINKS STORED AT THE SAME REFRIGERATION UNIT WITH CUSTOMER FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA WHERE EMPLOYEES CAN STORE THEIR FOOD.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON FLOOR IN PREP, STORAGE AND WALK-IN COOLERS. MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF FLOOR.
39
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED MISSING KNOBS ON LIDS OF SERVICE PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA 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 PLASTIC WRAP USED TO HOLD THE DOOR OF THE DRAWER COOLER UNDER THE GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED CARDBOARD BOXES USED TO LINE SHELVES AT THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL CARDBOARD BOXES TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED MULTIPLE HOLES AND OPENINGS THROUGH OUT THE SUSHI SECTION ON FIRST FLOOR AND BASEMENT. --INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL HOLES AND OPENINGS TO PREVENT ENTRY PLACES FOR PEST. ----INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE FLOORS ESPECIALLY WHERE DROPPING WERE FOUND. --CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASE AND UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT AT THE REAR PREP AREA.
55
41
May 4, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS IN THE PREP AREA, REACH-IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS, AND ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE DISHMACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 PREP AREA HANDWASH SINK PIPE DRAINING SLOWLY (HAND SINK LOCATED ADJACENT TO FOOD WALK-IN COOLER). INSTRUCTED SAID HAND WASH SINK MUST DRAIN QUICKLY.
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 Inspector Comments: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-PREMISES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-PREMISES.
58
86
Apr 27, 2022
Complaint
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED PINK AND BLACK DIRT/SLIME BUILD-UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE DRIPPING INTO ICE, ICE USED FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE. ALL ICE INSIDE THE ICE MACHINE WAS VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005.
16
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON-PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS- HAM, EGGS, ETC.- ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE ON-PREMISES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-30-012.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS IN THE PREP AREA, REACH-IN COOLER RUBBER DOOR GASKETS, AND ON THE EXTERIOR OF THE DISHMACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: PREP AREA HANDWASH SINK PIPE DRAINING SLOWLY (HAND SINK LOCATED ADJACENT TO FOOD WALK-IN COOLER). INSTRUCTED SAID HAND WASH SINK MUST DRAIN QUICKLY.
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-PREMISES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST HAVE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON-PREMISES.
58
70
Dec 14, 2021
License
No violations found.
100
Nov 30, 2021
License
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NO SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN FRONT BAR EXPOSED HAND SINK AND SUSHI PREP TABLE AT THE SUSHI BAR. MUST INSTALL A WASHABLE SPLASH GUARD.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA 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 DIRTY AND RUSTY CAN OPENER ATTACHED TO THE REAR PREP TABLE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED LOOSE LINING ON LID OF SERVICE PREP COOLERS AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED CLUTTER AT THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA OF THE PANCAKE HOUSE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL, CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY OR UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PESTS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A LARGE CRACK ON THE WALL AT THE BASE OF THE BASEMENT FOOD/DRY STORAGE AREA AND ENTRANCE OF THE STAIRWAY OF THE PANCAKE HOUSE WITH CRACKS ON THE FLOOR ALSO. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN, SEAL ALL HOLES AND OPENINGS TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PESTS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED MISSING LIGHTING AT THE SUSHI PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIGHTING WITH SHATTERPROOF BULBS OR PROTECTIVE SHIELD FOR THE BULBS
56
70
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi on file is from Aug 18, 2025. The public record contains 13 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 16 times, more than any other issue at Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi.
Has Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi have averaged around nine violations per visit, down from roughly 12 earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi 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 Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Pancake Cafe/Aji Sushi is inspected around three times per year on average.
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