Potbelly Sandwich Works
Last inspected: Apr 21, 2026
61
Score
Potbelly Sandwich Works has been inspected 27 times since 2010. The latest inspection on file is from Apr 21, 2026. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
Recent visits have flagged more than earlier ones: around seven violations per visit lately, up from roughly three violations before.
The pattern that stands out is “insects, rodents, & animals not present”, which has been cited 11 times.
The city-wide average sits at 81, which Potbelly Sandwich Works' 61 doesn't quite reach. Nothing in the record is alarming, but there's room to improve.
27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
2
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 21, 2026
Reinspection
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: 8-103.12(B): **PF** Conformance with Approved Procedures (Records Maintained OBSERVED THE FACILITY UNABLE TO PROVIDE CITY OF CHICAGO APPROVED VARIANCE AND COMPANY POLICY. OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS, AND OR SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CITY OF CHICAGO APPROVED VARIANCE AND COMPANY CLEAN-UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
29
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B:4): **PF** Enforcement by the Regulatory Authority (Non-Compliance) NOTED CONTINUED NON-COMPLIANCE FROM REPORT #2628297 CONDUCTED ON 12/10/25. PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED: (38) 6-202.15: **C** Outer Openings, Protected OUTER OPENINGS NOT PROTECTED. OBSERVED FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF WITH 1/2 INCH OPENING ON BOTTOM DOOR. MUST MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOF TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY. (#55)6-201.11: **C** Floors, Walls, and Ceilings- Cleanability OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST CORRECT CORE VIOLATIONS BY THE DATE ON THE REPORT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090.
60
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: REFER TO VIOLATION #29.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19: **C** Nonfood-Contact Surfaces OBSERVED SODA CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13: NonFOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT shall be cleaned at a frequency necessary to preclude accumulation of soil residues. OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN COOLERS AND WALK-IN COOLERSIN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: 6-501.18: **C** Cleaning of Plumbing Fixtures OBSERVED TOILET ROOMS IN NEED OF CLEANING, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12: **C** Cleaning, Frequency and Restrictions OBSERVED UNDER BEVERAGE/SODA STATION AND DINING ROOM AREAS WITH EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-304.11: **C** Mechanical- Ventilation OBSERVED IN REAR PRE AND IN TOILET ROOMS VENTILATION VENTS ENCRUSTED WITH DUST INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
61
Apr 17, 2026
Complaint
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTEWATER BACKING UP IN THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK AREA AND FLOOR DRAINS IN REAR PREP. WHEN WATER IS RELEASED FROM THE 1ST BASIN, IT BACKS UP TO 2ND AND 3RD BASINS. ONCE BASINS EMPTY THE FLOOR DRAINS BACKS UP WASTEWATER ON TO FLOOR THE MANAGER WAS INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT THE ISSUE. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
52
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: NOTED CONTINUED NON-COMPLIANCE FROM REPORT #2628297 CONDUCTED ON 12/10/25. PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED: (38) 6-202.15: **C** Outer Openings, Protected OUTER OPENINGS NOT PROTECTED. OBSERVED FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF WITH 1/2 INCH OPENING ON BOTTOM DOOR. MUST MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOF TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY. (#55)6-201.11: **C** Floors, Walls, and Ceilings- Cleanability OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST CORRECT CORE VIOLATIONS BY THE DATE ON THE REPORT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HAND SINK IN REAR PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE. BASIN WAS COVERED WITH CUTTING BOARD. PIC INSTRUCTED THAT SINK MUST BE ACCESSIBLE AND MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES. PIC REMOVED CUTTING BOARD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FACILITY UNABLE TO PROVIDE CITY OF CHICAGO APPROVED VARIANCE AND COMPANY POLICY. OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS, AND OR SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CITY OF CHICAGO APPROVED VARIANCE AND COMPANY CLEAN-UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
29
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: REFER TO VIOLATION #29.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SODA CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE REACH IN COOLERS AND WALK-IN COOLERSIN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TOILET ROOMS IN NEED OF CLEANING, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IN TOILET ROOM SOAP DISPENSER RIPPED OFF WALL AND LAYING ON SINK INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR WALL RE-ATTACH SOAP DISPENSER AND MAINTAIN
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IN REAR PRE AND IN TOILET ROOMS VENTILATION VENTS ENCRUSTED WITH DUST INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTENAN.
56
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNDER BEVERAGE/SODA STATION AND DINING ROOM AREAS WITH EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
45
Dec 10, 2025
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETER NEEDED IN THE 1-DOOR FRONT PREP COOLER. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETERS IN ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS AT ALL TIMES.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OUTER OPENINGS NOT PROTECTED. OBSERVED FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF WITH 1/2 INCH OPENING ON BOTTOM DOOR. MUST MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOF TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
86
Dec 3, 2025
Complaint
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA NOT MAINTAINED. OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTERS OVERFLOWING PREVENTING LID FROM CLOSING PROPERLY. THIS IS HARBORAGE AND A FOOD SOURCE FOR RODENTS AND OTHER PEST. MUST MAINTAIN GARABGE AREA ADEQUATELY MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED
54
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETER NEEDED IN THE 1-DOOR FRONT PREP COOLER. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN VISIBLE AND WORKING THERMOMETERS IN ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS AT ALL TIMES.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OUTER OPENINGS NOT PROTECTED. OBSERVED FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF WITH 1/2 INCH OPENING ON BOTTOM DOOR. MUST MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOF TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
78
Mar 26, 2025
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS CUT AVOCADO, ARTICHOKE, COOKED CHICKEN BREAST, SLICED TOMATOES, SLICED ONIONS, SLICED PICKLES, WITH DISCARD DATES OF 03/25/25 IN FRONT SANDWICH TOPPINGS DELI COOLER. PERSON IN CHARGE DISCARDED AND DENATURED APPROXIMATELY 10 LBS VALUED AT $33 PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO HANDWASH SIGNAGE AT NORTH WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED CUTTING BOARD ON SMALL DELI COOLER WITH DEEP CUTS AND STAINS, INSTRUCTED TO RESTORE TO A SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN SURFACE BY DEEP CLEANING, SANDING AND SEALING OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ENCRUSTED GREASE AND GRIME ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH 3 COMPARTMENT SINK BEHIND GREASE TRAP, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
74
Mar 18, 2024
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLES INSIDE WASHROOMS. MUST PROVIDE COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLES FOR BOTH WASHROOMS.
53
95
Mar 11, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A PEST CONTROL LOGBOOK FROM A LICENSED ILLINOIS PEST CONTROL OPERATOR ON PREMISES BY DATE OF REINSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(C).
38
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT BUILD UP ON SODA ICE MACHINE CHUTE AND ICE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN ICE CHUTE AND INTERIOR/EXTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN.
16
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLES INSIDE WASHROOMS. MUST PROVIDE COVERED TRASH RECEPTACLES FOR BOTH WASHROOMS.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR NOT CLEAN IN CABINET UNDER SODA MACHINE ALSO OBSERVED FOOD/GREASE ON FLOOR AROUND 3-COMPARMENT SINK GREASE TRAP. MUST CLEAN FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Mar 23, 2023
Routine
2 critical violations. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED COLD TCS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE:SLICED TOMATOES AT TEMP OF 46.OF;INDIVIDUAL RANCH DRESSING 1.5oz EACH AT TEMP OF 50.1F(CONTAINERS STATED "KEEP REFRIGERATOR);CHICKEN INDIVIDUALLY WRAPED AT TEMP OF 49.1F TO 51.2F; HUMMUS AT TEMP OF 48.5F; BLUE CHEESE AT TEMP 49.4. CUT LETTUCE AT TEMP OF 49.6F AND CHOPPED BOILED EGGS AT TEMP OF 48.9F. FOOD WAS STORED AT FRONT SERVING COOLER READY TO BE SERVED. FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED BY THE MANAGER. COLD FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 41F AND BELOW. POUNDS 36,VALUE 84 PRIORITY VIOLATION:7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED FRONT PREP/SERVING COOLER AT AIR TEMP OF 49.6F TO 50.0F. COLD TCS FOOD WERE STORED INSIDE THE UNIT: HUMMS,BOILED CHOPPED EGGS,SLICED TOMATOES ETC. PREP COOLER MUST MAINTAIN AIR TEMP OF 41F AND BELOW. TAGGED UNIT "HELD FOR INSPECTION" DO NOT USE. PRIORITY VIOLATION: 7-38-005,CITATION ISSUED.
33
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MISSING CEILING TILES ABOVE WALK-IN COOLER,REPLACE. MISSING FLOOR GROUT AT FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF EXIT DOOR,REPAIR ISSUE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
55
70
Aug 23, 2022
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY ICE BUILD UP INSIDE ICE CREAM CHEST FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
95
Mar 16, 2021
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13- EXTREMELY DIRTY INTERIOR OF THE MOP SINK. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11- OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE.----MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
90
Mar 8, 2021
Complaint
4 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK AVAILABLE DURING THE INSPECTION FOR REVIEW. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION FOR REVIEW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED AT THIS TIME.
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS FOOD DEBRIS, POTBELLY FOOD WASTE CONTAINERS SUCH AS USED CUPS, ICE CREAM GALLON, POTBELLY PAPER FOOD BAGS,SOILED PLASTIC GLOVES. PLASTIC BAGS OF GARBAGE ON GROUNDS UNDER AND AROUND OUTSIDE WASTE CONTAINER. NEIGHBORING WASTE CONTAINERS ALL OVERFLOWING WITH BAGS OF GARBAGE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS FROM SURROUNDING GROUNDS, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED.
54
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: NOTED THE SUMMARY REPORT GIVEN AND POSTED ON 1-13-20 NOT POSTED IN PLAIN VIEW OF THE ESTABLISHMENTS CUSTOMERS. SUMMARY FOUND INSIDE A BINDER WITH OTHER PAPERS. GIVEN SUMMARY REPORT FOR TODAY'S INSPECTION AND INSTRUCTED TO POST. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED AT THIS TIME.
61
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING PREPARED TCS FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE. FOODS NOTED WITH PREPARATION DATES ONLY. ALL PREPARED ON SITE, STORED IN BULK AND HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS. FOODS SUCH AS SLICED TURKEY, SLICED TOMATOES, SLICED CHICKEN, CHICKEN SALAD. INSTRUCTED ALL TCS PREPARED FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST HAVE AN EXPIRATION NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: NOTED WIPING CLOTH BEING STORED ON THE SPLASH GUARD OF THE REAR HAND WASHING SINK. WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXTREMELY DIRTY INTERIOR OF THE MOP SINK. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALLS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS IN POOR REPAIR WITH CHIPPING PLASTER, PEELING PAINT: AT THE REAR PREP TABLE/SLICER AREA, AT THE MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----MISSING CEILING TILE ABOVE THE ENTRANCE TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE.----MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER.
55
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: MISSING INTERNAL THERMOMETER INSIDE THE DELI MEAT COOLER AT ORDERING WINDOW. MUST REPLACE.
36
55
Jan 13, 2020
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: REACH IN COOLER FRONTLOAD #1 LOWER DOOR RUBBER GASKET RIPPED. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR RUBBER GASKET.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: CEILING LIGHT BULBS BURNED OUT (X4) ABOVE DISHWASH/OFFICE AREA. MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT CEILING LIGHT BULBS WITH WORKING LIGHT BULBS.
56
90
May 28, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE TCS FOODS (RICE, CHICKEN SOUPS ETC.) WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED AND ALSO THE PERSON IN CHARGE MUST HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFICATE BY NEXT INSPECTION (UPON BEING INSPECTED) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NOTED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION FOLLOWING THE NEW CODE AND GUIDELINES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE VERIFICATION OF POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: MANAGEMENT UNABLE TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR CLEANING UP VOMITING AND DIARRHEA.INSTRUCTED TO HAVE ONE INCLUDING THE CHEMICALS AND SUPPLIES NEEDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK . INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS AND ON EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS AND PIPES/CONDUIT
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
64
Jan 29, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE TEA MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE.
38
95
Jan 22, 2018
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT DATED 9-28-17 INSPECTION # 2089050. VIOLATION 38. MUST REAIR MAJOR LEAK AT FRONT HANDSINK WASTE PIPING. SERIOUS VIOLATION. 7-42-090.
29
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE TEA MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE.
38
90
Sep 28, 2017
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: HEAVY FROST NOTED IN ICE CREAM FREEZER. MUST DEFROST.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR MAJOR LEAK AT FRONT HANDSINK WASTE PIPING.
38
90
Jun 7, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN RESIDUE FROM RIM OF ICE CREAM SCOOP DIPPER WELL. AN EMPLOYEE CLEANED THE DIPPER WELL DURING INSPECTION.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN GRITTY BLACK RESIDUE FROM FLOOR AROUND GREASE TRAP.
34
90
Aug 3, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF THE REAR BOX FREEZER DIRTY WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND EXCESSIVE ICE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
95
Jul 25, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: NO COLD WATER DURING INITIAL INSPECTION AT THE REAR PREP/DISH EXPOSED HAND SINK. COLD WATER WAS FOUND TURNED OFF FROM UNDER THE WASHBOWL. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
11
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO CHLORINE CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS ON SITE. FACILITY USING CHLORINE DURING THIS INSPECTION WHILE WASHING UTENSILS/PANS AS A BACK-UP SANITIZER DUE TO RUNNING OUT OF ITS NORMAL QUATERNARY SANITIZER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE APPROPRIATE TEST STRIPS FOR THE SANITIZERS BEING USED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF THE REAR BOX FREEZER DIRTY WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND EXCESSIVE ICE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
86
Jul 2, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food properly thawed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CHICKEN (AT 14.1F) SITTING IN THE REAR PREP 1 COMPARTMENT SINK IN WATER (WITHOUT ANY RUNNING WATER) TO THAW. INSTRUCTED FACILITY THAT THAWING MUST BE DONE IN AN APPROPRIATE METHOD: Thawing of frozen food for further processing of use shall be accomplished by storage in a refrigerator at 40�F or less, Under potable running water at a temperature of 70�F or below with sufficient water velocity to agitate and float off loose food particles into the overflow, or In a microwave oven only when the food will be immediately transferred to conventional cooking facilities as part of a continuous cooking process or when the entire uninterrupted cooking process takes place in the microwave oven. FACILITY PLACED CHICKEN IN A PAN SUBMERGED WITH WATER UNDER CONTINUOUS RUNNING WATER AT 70F OR BELOW. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
17
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT DIRT AND MINERAL ACCUMULATION ON THE UPPER INTERIOR PORTION OF THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ON THE BOTTOM LEDGE OF THE SALAD PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON FLOORS OF WALK IN COOLER AND UNDER AND AROUND EQUIPMENT AND STORAGE SHELVING. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS OF FLOOR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLIGHT DIRT ACCUMULATION ON THE WALLS OF THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
82
Sep 23, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: FOUND AN OPEN BOX OF SANDWICH BAGS STORED DIRECTLY UNDER THE TOASTER THAT WAS SOILED WITH BREAD CRUMBS AND GREASE SPOTS. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED THE SOILED BOX OF SANDWICH BAGS/SLEEVES AND RELOCATED THE NEW BOX TO PROPERLY PROTECT BAGS DURING STORAGE.
31
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: CELING VENTS ABOVE THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, BATHROOM VENTS, AND THE FAN VENT COVERS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER ARE SOILED WITH DUST AND REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE REAR PREP IS SLOW DRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SINK AND MAINTAIN.
38
86
Dec 10, 2013
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE WORNED-OUT CUTTING BOARD AT FOOD PREP TABLE.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HOOD/FILTERS ABOVE THE OVENS,VENTILATION COVERS INSIDE THE TOILET ROOMS ALL REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING.
38
90
Dec 5, 2013
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITIES DO NOT MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE. OBSERVED THE 2 DOOR FOOD PREP COOLER WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 50.0F. THE COOLER IS USED TO STORE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS SUCH AS BLUE CHEESE, SALADS,DICED ONIONS AND EGGS. UNIT TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. MUST EMPTY THE UNIT AND HAVE IT REPAIRED SO THAT IT MAINTAINS AN AIR TEMPERATURE BELOW 40F AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. OBSERVED DICED ONIONS,EGGS AT 53.3, BLUE CHEESE CRUMBLES AT 53.0F,MEATBALLS AT 110.0F ETC. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED 20#'S OF FOOD WORTH APPROX. $40.00. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005A
3
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD (ICE) NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. OBSERVED BLACK SLIMY SUBSTANCE ON INTERIOR WATER COMPONENTS OF THE ICE MACHINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO TURN OFF MACHINE, REMOVE ICE AND HAVE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE CLEANED AND SANITIZED. TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION .MUST FAX LETTER TO THE CDPH 312-746-4240 FOR TAG REMOVAL ATT:A.LOPEZ. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005A.
16
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: The Dish washing facilities not maintained or operated. While running and draining water in right side of three(3) compartment sink, water coming up middle of sink. Instructed to detail clean grease trap and drainlines to prevent inadequate disposal of waste water. Serious citation issued 7-38-030.
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE WORNED-OUT CUTTING BOARD AT FOOD PREP TABLE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUNTAIN DRINK STATION KNOZZLES,INTERIORS OF FOOD PREP COOLERS,FAN COVERS INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER ALL REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HOOD/FILTERS ABOVE THE OVENS,VENTILATION COVERS INSIDE THE TOILET ROOMS ALL REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: THERMOMETER MUST BE VISIBLE INSIDE THE 2 DOOR COOLER THAT WAS TAGGED.
40
67
Dec 17, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN PREP TABLES, MEAT SLICER IN REAR PREP AREA AND INTERIOR OF COOLERS AT FRONT PREP AREA.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOOR UNDERNEATH FRONT CABINETS IN FRONT DINING AREA.
34
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
86
Aug 3, 2012
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR LID OF REAR BOX FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR, BROKEN WITH EXPOSED INSULATION. MUST REPLACE.
32
95
Jul 24, 2012
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 3LBS TUNA SALAD IN FRONT PREP COOLER AT 47.2F. ESTABLISHMENTS TEMPERATURE LOGS RECORDED A READING OF 48F. MANAGEMENT STATES TUNA SALAD HAD NOT BEEN COOLED PROPERLY TO 40F OR BELOW. FOUND OTHER DELI MEAT TEMPERATURES IN SAME COOLER AT ADEQUATE TEMPERATURES AND AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF COOLER AT 41F. TUNA DISCARDED. REVIEWED PROPER METHODS OF COOLING FOODS. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
3
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AVAILABLE IN MENS WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
12
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 100 DRAIN FLIES THROUGHOUT PREMISES IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS. AT FRONT ICE CREAM PREP STATION AND ICE CREAM ONE COMPARTMENT SINK. UNDER SHELVING IN FLOOR DRAIN AT FRONT PREP. ON WALLS THROUGHOUT FRONT PREP, DINING ROOM AND IN MENS WASHROOM. IN REAR PREP AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND MOP SINK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE PEST CONTROL CO. SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT FOR DRAIN FLIES TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE ACTIVITY, REMOVE ALL MOIST ORGANIC MATERIAL IN FLOOR DRAINS AND ALONG ALL BASEBOARDS THROUGHOUT FRONT PREP, DINING ROOM AND REAR PREP, THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020.
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR LID OF REAR BOX FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR, BROKEN WITH EXPOSED INSULATION. MUST REPLACE.
32
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE INTERNAL THERMOMETER FOR WALK-IN COOLER.
40
78
Jan 6, 2010
Routine
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Potbelly Sandwich Works last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Potbelly Sandwich Works on file is from Apr 21, 2026. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Potbelly Sandwich Works?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Potbelly Sandwich Works.
Has Potbelly Sandwich Works' inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Potbelly Sandwich Works have averaged around seven violations per visit, up from roughly three earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Potbelly Sandwich Works 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 Potbelly Sandwich Works inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Potbelly Sandwich Works is inspected around two times per year on average.
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