Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Apr 3, 2025
90
Score
Pepe's Mexican Restaurant has been inspected 25 times since 2010. The newest entry in the record is dated Apr 3, 2025. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit.
Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around three violations each.
The pattern that stands out is “proper cooling methods used”, which has been cited 10 times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Pepe's Mexican Restaurant is doing better than most peers. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
25
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 3, 2025
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT THE WASHBOWLS IN THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: LIGHT BULBS BY THE VENTILATION HOOD IS BLOWN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
56
90
Mar 27, 2025
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2608963 DATED 12/11/2024 NOT CORRECTED AND/OR MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN: -40. FOOD HANDLERS/EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS TO WEAR A HAIR RESTAINT. -51. THERE IS A LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE COLD WATER KNOB ON THE REAR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN LEAK. -53. TRASH RECEPTACLES IN BOTH TOILET ROOMS HAVE NO LIDS/COVERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH RECEPTACLES WITH LIDS/COVERS AND MAINTAIN. -55. TRASH RECEPTACLES IN BOTH TOILET ROOMS HAVE NO LIDS/COVERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH RECEPTACLES WITH LIDS/COVERS AND MAINTAIN. -55. REAR WALL IN WALK IN COOLER WITH RUST. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND MAINTAIN A RUST FREE, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE. -58. CFMs WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A VALID ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT THE WASHBOWLS IN THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: LIGHT BULBS BY THE VENTILATION HOOD IS BLOWN. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
56
82
Dec 11, 2024
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS/EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREAS TO WEAR A HAIR RESTAINT.
40
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: THERE IS A LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE COLD WATER KNOB ON THE REAR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN LEAK.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: TRASH RECEPTACLES IN BOTH TOILET ROOMS HAVE NO LIDS/COVERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH RECEPTACLES WITH LIDS/COVERS AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN THE CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND THE HEAVY EQUIPMENT WITH DIRT/DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: REAR WALL IN WALK IN COOLER WITH RUST. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST AND MAINTAIN A RUST FREE, SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONLY ONE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE. MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CFMs WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A VALID ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
70
Jan 30, 2024
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLER ON SITE WITH NO PROOF THAT SHE MET THE FOOD HANDLER'S REQUIREMENTS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS MEET THE REQUIREMENTS AND PROVIDE PROOF. MAINTAIN SAME.
57
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE STORAGE RACKS THAT THE MULTI USE UTENSILS ARE STORED ON, IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN TO REMOVE FOOD AND DIRT. MAINTAIN SAME.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS UNDER THE FRYERS WITH FOOD, GREASE AND DIRT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAID FLOORS.
55
86
Feb 16, 2023
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SMALL OPENING AT THE BOTTOM OF THE DOOR IN THE UPPER-LEVEL DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO RODENT PROOF SAID DOOR.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A DAMAGED RUBBER GASKET ON THE TWO DOOR COOLER NEAR THE MANAGER'S OFFICE IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE SAID GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE MICROWAVE AT THE HOT COOKING LINE WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND FOOD SPLATTERS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAID EQUIPMENT.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNDER THE STAIRCASE IN THE REAR DRY FOOD/WALK-IN COOLING UNIT AREA WITH CLUTTER AND UNNECESSARY ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESARY ITEMS, ORGANIZE AND MAINTAIN SAID AREA.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ALL FOOD HANDLERS TAKE THE FOOD HANDLING COURSE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
78
Nov 4, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 25, 2022
Complaint
2 major violations.
View 2 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WHICH IS SLOW DRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
48
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE RECEPTACLE TO BE OVERFLOWING AND UNABLE TO CLOSE. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO MAINTAIN OUTSIDE RECEPTACLES AND THE SURROUNDING AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED
54
82
May 19, 2022
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREP COOLER NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE 51.4F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER AT 41F OR BELOW. PREP COOLER IS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. PRIORITY 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE FRONT PREP COLD HOLDING UNIT RANGING FROM 46.4F TO 52.8F, SUCH AS TOMATOES, LETTUCE, DICED TOMATOES, SHREDDED CHEESE, SOUR CREAM AND RAW BEEF. MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED A TOTAL 15LBS AT $100. ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW . PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP INSIDE OF CUP WHICH WAS INSIDE THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE CUP AND STORE ICE SCOOP HANDLE UP OUTSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. COS
43
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
67
Feb 8, 2021
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL PREP FOOD ITEMS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER WITH DATES.
37
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INVERT THE DISH ABOVE THE PREP AREA.
44
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A GREASE TRAP FOR THE 3 COMP SINKS.
52
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN LIDS FOR GARBAGE CONTAINER IN THE WASHROOMS.
53
82
Feb 24, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 7 minor violations.
View 8 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER ON SITE AT START TIME OF INSPECTION WHILE STEAK, RICE AND CHICKEN WERE BEING COOKED AND SERVED. THE DESIGNATED PERSON IN CHARGE, WHO IS PHYSICALLY ON SITE, MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION LICENSE. VIOLATION CORRECTED ON SITE; THE CERTIFIED CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER, MARIA VELASQUEZ, ARRIVED ON SITE AT 12:20PM WHILE TYPING INSPECTION REPORT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE IN AVAILABLE IN ENGLISH IN THE PUBLIC WASHROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NOTED ANALOG METAL STEM THERMOMETER INSIDE 2-DOOR DISPLAY COOLER LOCATED IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA WHERE CUT VEGGIES AND SOUR CREAM IS STORED (NEAR OFFICE). FACILITY ADVISED TO UTILIZE AMBIENT AIR REFRIGERATOR THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATED UNITS.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS (EX. SALSA, SOUR CREAM, PEPPERS, STEAK ETC.). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED NO LABELS FOR BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS CONTAINING SPICES AND SALT. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERS PROVIDED INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER FOR CONTAINERS FILLED WITH PEPPERS AND SHREDDED LETTUCE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED LID/COVER TO CONTAINERS CONTAINING FOOD ITEMS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SCOOPS FOR DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS BEING STORED DIRECTLY INSIDE OF BULK CONTAINERS (SALT, SPICES ETC.). INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL UTENSILS BETWEEN USE.
43
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHTBULBS IN BOTH 2-DOOR DISPLAY COOLERS (ONE LOCATED NEAR ICE MACHINE AND ONE NEAREST THE OFFICE). INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED LIGHTING IN EACH UNIT.
56
64
Feb 19, 2019
Complaint
5 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PIC HAS NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. MUST PROVIDE
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO PERSON IN CHARGE OR EMPLOYEE ON DUTY WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE WHEN (TCS)FOODS,( BEEF TACOS,ETC) ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-012
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: : 2-102.14(N) OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY IN PLACE/ AVAILABLE FOR EMPLOYEE HEALTH.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-010. REPEAT
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO CLEAN VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-005
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION (58) NOT CORRECTED FROM LAST INSPECTION REPORT # 2222824, DATED SEPTEMBER 24-2018. INSTRUCTED PIC TO PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED FOR ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090
60
Proper date marking and disposition
23
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MOP SINK ON PREMISES REMOVED. INSTRUCTED TO RE-INSTALL MOP SINK.
51
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDERS CERTIFICATE FOR EMPLOYEE WITH EXPIRED DATES. INSTRUCTED MANAGERS TO HAVE EMPLOYEES RE-TAKE TRAINING.
57
52
Sep 24, 2018
Complaint
2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012(A)
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP POLICY FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
5
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: 3-302.12 OBSERVED BULK NOT PROPERLY LABELED UNDER PREP TABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.11(A)(3) OBSERVED FOOD STORED ON FLOOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS OF FLOOR.
39
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)(C) CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, FRYER CABINETS, COOLERS, FREEZERS, PREP TABLES, HOLDING UNITS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 OBSERVED DRAINPIPE LEAKING UNDER HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR LEAKING DRAINPIPE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11 OBSERVED CEILING TILES MISSING AND MOLD-STAINED NEAR WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. 6-501.12 OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON WALLS, CEILINGS, ELECTRICAL WIRING IN REAR OFFICE AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN ALL WALLS AND CEILINGS AND MAINTAIN. 6-501.114 OBSERVED CLUTTER IN REAR STORAGE AREA EAR WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST ORGANIZE AND MAINTAIN ALL STORAGE AREAS.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED ONLY ONE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE AVAILABLE. MUST PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING AVAILABLE. ALL CERTIFIED MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
58
Apr 6, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE TWO DOOR COOLER STORING JALAPENOS AND SAUCE WITH A BROKEN DOOR HANDLE; REPAIR/REPLACE HANDLE.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: THE METAL PANEL IN THE FRONT OF AND AT THE LOWER BASE OF THE WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER IS LOOSE; REATTACH WHERE NEEDED. CLEAN THE CEILING VENT ON THE CEILING OUTSIDE OF THE WALK-IN COOLERS.
35
90
Dec 19, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS UNDER EQUIPMENT AND SHELVING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK RIGHT FAUCET'S LEFT KNOB LEAKING AND SPRAYING WATER. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
90
Feb 18, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: DISCARD BROKEN MULTI-USE CONTAINERS AND LIDS ON SITE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FRYERS AND REFRIGERATION UNITS ON SITE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOORS UNDER THE COOKING AND HOLDING EQUIPMENT IN THE PREP AREA. ALSO DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER THE SHELVING RACKS IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY WATER LINE UNDERNEATH THE STEAM TABLE. MUST ALSO REPAIR THE LEAKY SPRAYER AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. REMOVE FOUL ODORS IN THE WASHROOMS.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE THE CLUTTER IN THE REAR STORAGE AREA.
41
78
Oct 28, 2015
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT IN THE INTERIOR OF THE COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNCOVERED HOLE IN FLOOR IN THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, PROVIDE COVER AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE PREP AREA, ALSO HOLE IN CEILING TILE ABOVE PREP TABLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY LIGHT SHEILD IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DEAD INSECTS, CLEAN SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE FAUCET ON 3 COMP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO STORE SOILED LINEN PROPERLY. STORE IN SANITIZER WATER WHILE NOT IN USE.
39
74
Jul 28, 2015
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.MUST LABEL AND DATE COOKED FOODS IN WALK IN COOLER.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRI FROM DISH RACK,GREASE AND FOOD DEBRI FROM OVEN,FRYER,GRILL TABLE,PREP COOLER,WALK IN COOLER SHELVING UNITS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOOR IN WALK IN COOLER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILE IN PREP AREA,LOWER TRIM IN POOR REPAIR ON EXTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER & FREEZER,THRESHOLD AT FRONT DOOR.MUST CLEAN LIGHT SHIELD IN ENTRY WAY.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNT OUT LIGHT IN ENTRY WAY
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS.
40
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: IDPH FOOD HANDLERS REQUIREMENTS NOT MET.MUST ENROLL AND MAINTAIN.
45
70
Jan 3, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE COOKED FOOD PRODUCTS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR OF PREMISES
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE INTERIOR COMPARTMENT OF THE DEEP FRYERS,HAS ACCUMILATION OF GREASE BUILD-UP AT THE REAR PREP REAR INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A FLOOR DRAIN COVER NEXT TO THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE PREP AREA AND FLOORS NEED GENERAL CLEANING AT THE PREP AREA AND REAR STORAGE AREA,ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: THE WALL BEHIND THE 2 DOOR REACH-IN COOLER AT THE PREP AREA NEEDS DETAIL CLEANING OF GREASE AND DIRT BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE VENTILATION IN THE CUSTOMER'S AND EMPLOYEE'S WASHROOM IS NOT WORKING. MUST REPAIR.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR OF PREMISES AND ONE INSIDE THE PREP COOLER ACROSS FROM STOVE IN THE PREP AREA
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE SOME CLUTTER FROM UNDERNEATH PREP TABLE IN REAR OF PREMISES,TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE
41
70
Jul 30, 2013
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND EXTERIOR/HANDLES OF INSIDE GARBAGE CANS NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
41
95
Feb 27, 2013
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: 2-DOOR REACH-IN COOLER AND REFRIGERATED PREP TABLE HOLDING AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES, AIR TEMPS RECORDED AT 43.5F AND 45.7F. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS FRO UNIT AND HAVE IT SERVICED. CITATION ISSUED-CRITICAL 7-38-005(A).
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: SOUR CREAM-45.7F, TAMALES-46.8F, STEAK-46.5F, MILK-45 5F. PRODUCTS FOUND AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. CITATION ISSUED-CRITICAL 7-38-005(A).
3
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN CABINET INTERIORS OF DEEP FRYERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG THE BASES OF THE WALLS AND IN CORNERS IN OFFICE AND THROUGHOUT WHERE NEEDED.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: SEAL ALL CRACKS AND HOLES IN WALLS THROUGHOUT. FINISH PAINTING WALLS AND UNCLEAN CEILING TILES IN DRY GOODS STORAGE AREA.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING CAP TO FLOOR DRAIN BY 3 COMP. SINK. REPAIR LLEAKY FAUCET ON LEFT SIDE OF 3 COMP. SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE ALL FOOD PRODUCTS IN OFFICE 6 INCHES OFF FLOOR.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO USE UTENSILS WHEREVER POSSIBLE IN AN EFFORT TO MINIMIZE BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOODS.
42
67
Oct 1, 2012
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PAINT OR REPLACE ALL RUSTY STORAGE SHELVES AND RACKS THROUGHOUT(INCLUDING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER).
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE RACKS AND SHELVES WHERE NEEDED, AND DUST BUILD-UP ON COMPRESSOR INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER..
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASES AND IN CORNERS THROUGHOUT WHERE NEEDED.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND/OR PAINT WALLS AND CEILING IN REAR FOOD PREP AREA. CLEAN ALL LIGHT SHILEDS AND DUSTY CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT.
35
82
Feb 7, 2011
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF FRYERS ALONG COOK LINE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAINT CEILING IN CUSTOMER WASHROOM AND REMOVE GRAFFITI.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB ON INTERIOR OF WALK IN FREEZER AND PROVIDE MORE ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT EMPLOYEE WASHROOM DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY PIPES UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST ALSO REPAIR VENTILATION IN EMPLOYEE WASHROOM AND REMOVE FOUL ODORS.
38
78
Jan 10, 2011
Suspected Food Poisoning
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF FRYERS ALONG COOK LINE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPAINT CEILING IN CUSTOMER WASHROOM AND REMOVE GRAFFITI.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT BULB ON INTERIOR OF WALK IN FREEZER AND PROVIDE MORE ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT EMPLOYEE WASHROOM DOOR.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY EXTEND WASTE LINES FROM THE DIPPER WELL AND ISLAND OASIS DRINK MACHINE INTO A MOP SINK OR FLOOR DRAIN. MUST ALSO REPAIR LEAKY PIPES UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST ALSO REPAIR VENTILATION IN EMPLOYEE WASHROOM AND REMOVE FOUL ODORS.
38
78
Oct 29, 2010
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. THE HOOD AND SOME FILTERS NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. SOME FLOOR TILES MISSING BY THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE SAME. THE WALK IN COOLER FLOOR NOT CLEAN HAS FOOD DEBRIS ON IT.
34
90
Jul 29, 2010
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. GROUT LOOSE FLOOR TILES IN PREP AREA, UNDER 3-COMP SINK, ETC
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. REPAIR LEAKING FAUCETS AND DRAINPIPE ON 3-COMP SINK.
38
90
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Pepe's Mexican Restaurant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant on file is from Apr 3, 2025. The public record contains 25 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant.
Has Pepe's Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant have averaged around three violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
How often is Pepe's Mexican Restaurant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Pepe's Mexican Restaurant is inspected around two times per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants