Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
Last inspected: Apr 8, 2026
100
Score
Pepe's Mexican Restaurant appears in inspection records 27 times, starting in 2010. The newest entry in the record is dated Apr 8, 2026. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around three violations, down from roughly six violations earlier in the record.
Across the inspection history, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 15 times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Pepe's Mexican Restaurant is doing better than most peers. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 8, 2026
Complaint
No violations found.
100
Jan 16, 2026
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE BASE OF THE 3 COMP SINK FAUCET IN POOR REPAIR(LEAKS). MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS IN THE FLOOR DRAIN UNDER THE 3 COMP SINK. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT BREEDING PLACE FOR PESTS.
55
90
Feb 26, 2025
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HORCHATA STORED IN A REUSED VINEGAR BOTTLE INSIDE OF REACH IN COOLER MUST USE PROPER FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAIMINATION.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE STRING USED FOR A HANDLE ON HOT HOLDING LID AND PROVIDE PROPER HANDLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CALCIUM BUILD UP FROM HANDLES ON FAUCETS AT HAND SINKS IN BOTH TOILET ROOMS.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHTS IN MAIN PREP AREA.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING AND EXPIRED FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR FOOD MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
58
74
Mar 1, 2024
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 : MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR PREP COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-301.12 : OBSEVED A FEW OVERSIZED POTS AND LARGE PLASTIC BINS TO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO 3- COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE PROPERLY CLEAN AND SANITIZED.MUST PROVIDE SMALL POTS OR LARGE SINK IS NEEDED
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) : MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM GRILL TABLES, FRYER CABINETS,MEAT SLICER,WALK IN COOLER -FAN GUARD COVERS.
49
86
Feb 23, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FEMALE EMPLOYEE SANITIZING MULTI-USE UTENSILS AT 0.0 PPM'S AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK. OBSERVED HER TWICE USE A POT WITH SOAP IN FAR LEFT COMPARTMENT TO WASH 2- BOWLS AND THEN RINSE UNDER RUNNING WATER AND PROCEEDED TO USE BOWLS. INSTRUCTED AGAIN TO SET UP SINK TO PROPERLY WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE UTENSILS.(PRIORITY 7-38-025)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 15 OR MORE LIVE SMALL FLIES FLYING AROUND MOP SINK AREA,ON CEILING IN REAR PREP AREA AND MOP SINK AREA AND CRAWLING ON DAMAGED ONIONS IN A BIN ON SHELVING UNIT. MUST REMOVE DAMAGED PRODUCE.RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 2/23/24.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-0209A)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3- COMPARTMENT SINK IN POOR REPAIR OBSERVED 2- FAUCETS AT SAID SINK AND THE FAR LEFT HOT WATER FAUCET IS TRICKLING WATER AND FAR RIGHT TRICKLING COLD WATER AND A LOUD PIERCING SOUND AND FAUCETS SHAKING WHEN WATER IS TURNED ON NOT ENOUGH WATER PRESSURE TO FILL UP SINK TO SET UP SINK PROPERLY.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO USE A CLEAN CONTAINER TO DIVERT WATER TO FILL UP OTHER COMPARTMENTS PROPERLY.MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-025)(CITATION ISSUED)
48
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXES OF FOOD STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK IN FREZER MUST STORE OFF OF FLOOR TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: MUST STORE PLASTIC WEAR WITH HANDLES IN UPRIGHT POSITION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD FROM UNDERNEATH CHEMICAL STORED ON SHELVING UNIT.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELF OF GRILL TABLE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR PREP COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER.SINK STOPPER HANDLES IN POOR REPAIR AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSEVED A FEW OVERSIZED POTS AND LARGE PLASTIC BINS TO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO 3- COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE PROPERLY CLEAN AND SANITIZED.MUST PROVIDE SMALL POTS OR LARGE SINK IS NEEDED.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM GRILL TABLES, FRYER CABINETS,MEAT SLICER,WALK IN COOLER -FAN GUARD COVERS.MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP FROM WALK IN FREEZER SHELVING UNITS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE LEAKY FAUCETS AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN DINING AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP FROM WALK IN FREEZER FLOOR.
55
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS ,SHAKERS AND SQUEEZE BOTTLES WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
41
Jun 21, 2023
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REAR EXIT DOOR OPEN AND SCREEN DOOR IN POOR REPAIR AT THE BOTTOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A BETTER WEATHER STRIP AT THE BOTTOM TO PREVENT POSSIBLE ENTRY POINT FOR PEST.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKS AT THE 3 COMP SINK: LEFT FAUCET AT THE BASE & PIPE UNDERNEATH ON THE RIGHT SIDE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
90
Apr 25, 2022
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) Inspector Comments: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-301.14 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN IN CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-501.11 Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKET ON WALK IN FREEZER.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-101.19 Inspector Comments: MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD AND DELI PAPER FROM LOWER SHELF AT COOKING EQUIPMENT.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-601.11(C) Inspector Comments: MUST REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FRYER CABINETS,STEAM TABLE.WALK IN COOLER FANGUARD COVERS AND SHELVING UNITS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-501.13 Inspector Comments: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP FROM FLOOR IN WALK IN FREEZER.MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM ALL FLOOR DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-201.13 Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED WALL BASES NEAR WALK IN COOLER AND FREEZER,GAP ALONG WALLBASES IN DINING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-202.11 Inspector Comments: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHT IN PREP AREA.
56
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 7-38-060 Default beverage for children's meals. Inspector Comments: OBSERVED THE CHILDREN'S MENU LISTING A 10% FRUIT JUICE AND PINK LEMONADE WITH(ARTIFICIAL SWEETNERS) AS DEFAULT BEVERAGE,NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH ORDINANCE (7-38-060)
64
64
Apr 15, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER FOOD ADVISORY DISCLOSURE ASTERIKING ON MENU BOARD NOR CARRYOUT MENUS FOR (EGGS,HAMBURGERS AND STEAK).MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(NO CITATION ISSUED)
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN IN CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKET ON WALK IN FREEZER.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD AND DELI PAPER FROM LOWER SHELF AT COOKING EQUIPMENT.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FRYER CABINETS,STEAM TABLE.WALK IN COOLER FANGUARD COVERS AND SHELVING UNITS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP FROM FLOOR IN WALK IN FREEZER.MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM ALL FLOOR DRAINS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED WALL BASES NEAR WALK IN COOLER AND FREEZER,GAP ALONG WALLBASES IN DINING AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHT IN PREP AREA.
56
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CHILDREN'S MENU LISTING A 10% FRUIT JUICE AND PINK LEMONADE WITH(ARTIFICIAL SWEETNERS) AS DEFAULT BEVERAGE,NOT IN COMPLIANCE WITH ORDINANCE (7-38-060)
64
58
Feb 22, 2021
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INVERT ALL SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE BUILDUP ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RESIDUE ON INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING LEAK IN DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR BEHIND HOT HOLDING UNIT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Mar 13, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 3-603.11 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER ON MENUS OF CONSUMING RAW AND UNDER COOKED FOODS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 3-302.12 Inspector Comments: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE
37
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) Inspector Comments: MUST INVERT MULTIUSE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-903.11(A;C) Inspector Comments: MUST STORE PLASTIC WEAR WITH HANDLES IN UPRIGHT POSITION.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-501.11 Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR PREP COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER, COMPRESSOR UNIT IN WALK IN FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-101.19 Inspector Comments: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE AND CARDBOARD FROM SAME.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-601.11(C) Inspector Comments: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FRYER CABINETS,EXTERIOR OF KNIFE CADDY,UNUSED SMALL PREP COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 5-204.12 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW DEVICE ON ICE MACHINE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-201.13 Inspector Comments: MUST SEAL GAP BETWEEN FLOOR AND WALL BASE IN DINING AREA.MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR LOCK AND DOOR TRIM IN CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOM.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-501.13 Inspector Comments: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP ON FLOOR INSIDE OF WALK IN FREEZER.
55
58
Mar 6, 2020
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 14 violations
No bare hand contact with rte food or a pre-approved alternative procedure properly allowed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MALE FOOD HANDLER REMOVE TCS READY TO EAT SOFT TACO SHELLS FROM HOT HOLDING UNIT WITH BARE HANDS ADDED MEATS, CHEESE,LETTUCE AND TOMATOES AND WRAPPED UP TACOS TO BE SERVED TO CUSTOMER.INSTRUCTED MANAGER ON USING UTENSILS , PAPER AND OR DISPOSABLE GLOVES .(PRIORITY 7-38-010)
9
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER ON MENUS OF CONSUMING RAW AND UNDER COOKED FOODS.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION)
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 40 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS AROUND SODA MACHINE MOTOR AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER AND ON SEVERAL BOXES OF SODA SYRUP AT CADDY IN REAR STORAGE AREA.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS.CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS.RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 3/6/20.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN ORIGINAL PACKAGE.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN APPX."1/2-3/4" GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF REAR DOOR.MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
38
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTIUSE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: MUST STORE PLASTIC WEAR WITH HANDLES IN UPRIGHT POSITION.
45
Gloves used properly
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED MANAGER ON USING GLOVES OR ANOTHER BARRIER BETWEEN READY TO EAT FOODS.
46
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE AND CARDBOARD FROM SAME.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON 2- DOOR PREP COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER, COMPRESSOR UNIT IN WALK IN FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FRYER CABINETS,EXTERIOR OF KNIFE CADDY,UNUSED SMALL PREP COOLER IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW DEVICE ON ICE MACHINE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL GAP BETWEEN FLOOR AND WALL BASE IN DINING AREA.MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR LOCK AND DOOR TRIM IN CUSTOMERS TOILET ROOM.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ICE BUILD UP ON FLOOR INSIDE OF WALK IN FREEZER.
55
41
May 8, 2019
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: FOUND WIPING CLOTHS STORED UNDER THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM) WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND THE LEFT FAUCET ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LEAKING EVEN WHEN THE WATER IS NOT TURNED ON. INSTRUCTED TO FIX LEAK AND MAINTAIN FAUCET.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR OF THE FLOOR DRAIN BEHIND THE ICE MACHINE WITH DIRT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. -DIRT/DUST PARTICLES ON THE CEILING TILES IN THE FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN TILES.
55
86
Nov 28, 2018
Routine
4 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS, OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS (RICE, BEANS) WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING PRODUCT NAME IN THE WALK IN COOLER, WALK IN FREEZER, REFRIGERATORS AND IN THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATOR LOCATED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LABELS FOR ALL READY TO EAT TCS FOODS THAT ARE OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA EVENTS THAT CAN POTENTIALLY OCCUR INSIDE OF THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVIOSRY POSTED NOR A DISCLOSURE OR A REMINDER LOCATED ON THE MENU FOR ALL TCS FOODS (EGGS, BEEF) THAT CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED. INSTRUCTED TO POST A CONSUMER ADVISORY AND ADD A DISCLOSURE AND A REMINDER FOR ALL PRODUCTS THAT CAN BE ORDERED RAW OR UNDERCOOKED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING RE-USED AS A SHELF LINER LOCATED ON THE PREP TABLES AND SHELVES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE ALL SURFACES SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLOSED RECEPTACLE LOCATED IN THE WASH ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
61
Mar 27, 2017
License
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT ON PREMISES TO VERIFY REQUIRED CHEMICAL CONCENTRATION OF SANITIZING SOLUTION IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK DURING THE DISH WASHING PROCESS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
22
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD AT EXPOSED HAND SINK IN REAR SECTION OF PREP AREA. REMOVE CARD BOARD BOXES FROM STORAGE RACKS INSIDE WALK-IN FREEZER.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN DEBRIS FROM LIGHT SHIELDS THROUGHOUT WHERE PRESENT.
35
86
Sep 9, 2016
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (BEEF, STEAK, CHICKEN, SOUR CREAM, GUACAMOLE, CHEESE, ETC) WERE BEING PREPARED/SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED/SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
95
Feb 5, 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 THE FLOOR UNDER THE FRONT DRY STORAGE SHELVING WITH FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PLUMBING LEAKING AT THE WASTE PIPE UNDER THE RIGHT BASIN OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
90
May 11, 2015
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: VENT COVER LOOSE IN TOILET ROOM. REPAIR.
35
95
Apr 27, 2015
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO SOAP AT EXPOSED HANDSINK OR IN EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM. INSDT TO PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030 CRITICAL.
12
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONDENSOR LINE LEAKING ONTO CONTAINERS OF SOUR CREAM AND BOXES OF BEEF. INSTD TO RE LOCATE PRODUCT AND DO NOT STORE UNDERNEATH LEAKING CONDENSOR. INSTD TO REPAIR CONDENSOR LINE. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A SERIOUS.
16
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CAN OPENER NOT CLEAN. CLEAN SAME.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: VENT COVER LOOSE IN TOILET ROOM. REPAIR.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS IMPROPERLY STORED. STORE IN DESIGNATED AREA.
41
78
Jan 6, 2015
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN TABLE IN THE REAR OF PREMISES OF FOOD DEBRIS
33
95
Jan 15, 2014
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELDS IN PREP AREA CEILING NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN.ALSO MISSING VENT COVER IN DINING ROOM.MUST INSTALL.
35
95
Feb 13, 2013
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Feb 6, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEEP CONTAINERS OF COOKED GROUND BEEF RANGING FROM TEMPERATURES OF 45.4F-46.2F IN WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ON PROPER COOLING WITHIN 6 HR PERIOD TO 40F AND USING SHALLOW PANS. ALL COOKED GROUND BEEF DISCARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A CRITICAL. APPROX 5LBS, $2.89 Value.
3
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVER 17 SMALL FLYING INSECTS AT REAR ON STORAGE RACKS, BOXES AND HANGING GARMENTS. RECOMMENED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL OPERATOR. SERIOUS VIOLATION, 7-38-020.
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR AROUND AND UNDER PREP TABLE AT REAR. MUST CLEAN.
34
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: PROPERLY STORE WASH CLOTHS IN BUCKET WITH SANTIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
82
Jul 19, 2012
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR UNDERNEATH AND AROUND HOT WATER TANK IN REAR.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING GLOBE FOR LIGHT UNDERNEATH CANOPY ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
36
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP IN ICE BIN UNDER POP DISPENSING STATION WITH HANDLE OR KEEP IN CLEAN CONTAINER WITH SANITARY SOLUTION.
43
86
Feb 14, 2012
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND 4 PRE-PACKAGED UN-LABELED BAGS OF GROUND BEEF SITTING IN A METAL PAN ON THE SHELF UNDERNEATH THE PREP TABLE IN FOOD PREP AREA AT 105F-107.1F. WHEN COOKED OR REHEATED FOODS ARE BEING COOLED, THE PRODUCT MUST BE LABELED WITH THE TIME THE COOLING PROCESS BEGAN. THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES MUST BE USED WHEN COOLING COOKED OR RE-HEATED FOODS: PRODUCT MUST BE COOLED WITHIN 6 HOURS(140F-70F IN 2 HOURS AND FROM 70F-40F IN 4 HOURS)-CITATION ISSUED-CRITICAL 7-38-005(A). PRODUCT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED(40LB)
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL COOKED AND RE-HEATED FOODS BEING COOLED MUST BE PROPERLY LABELED.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS ALONG WALL BASES BEHIND HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE BRIGHTER LIGHTING IN WALK-IN COOLER, VERY DARK IN REAR SECTION OF UNIT
36
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLERS MUST MINIMIZE BARE HAND CONTACT WITH READY TO EAT FOODS AND USE CLEAN UTENSILS WHEREVER POSSIBLE.
42
78
Aug 23, 2011
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN GASKETS AROUND DOORS TO WALK-IN COOLER & FREEZER. CLEAN OR REPLACE CAN OPENER.
33
95
Jan 10, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN AND/OR REPLACE CAN OPENER.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE BROKEN CEILING TILES IN DINING AREA. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELD(S) IN WASHROOM(S).
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: WASTELINE PIPE FOR WALK-IN COOLER NOT LONG ENOUGH TO GO DIRECTLY INTO FLOOR DRAIN - MUST REPAIR
38
86
Jul 20, 2010
Suspected Food Poisoning
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEEP CONTAINERS OF COOKED BEANS RANGING FROM TEMPERATURES OF 48.1F-55.1F IN WALK-IN COOLER (DATED 7/19). INSTD MGR ON PROPER COOLING WITHIN 6 HR PERIOD TO 40F AND USING SHALLOW PANS. ALL BEANS DISCARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A CRITICAL. APPROX 20LBS $100 Value.
3
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: UNCLEAN KNIVES IN KNIFE RACK. INSTD TO KEEP CLEAN/STORE PROPERLY.
33
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 8, 2026. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 15 times, more than any other issue at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant.
Has Pepe's Mexican Restaurant's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Pepe's Mexican Restaurant have averaged around three violations per visit, down from roughly six earlier in the 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