Potbelly Sandwich Works
Last inspected: Jan 2, 2025
86
Score
The health department has logged 23 inspections at Potbelly Sandwich Works, the earliest from 2010. The most recent report on file is from Jan 2, 2025. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit.
There hasn't been much movement either way: counts have stayed near two violations per visit across recent inspections.
“Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean” comes up most often, recorded 14 times in the inspection record.
Potbelly Sandwich Works' latest score of 86 sits above the Chicago average of 81. Overall, the inspection record reads well.
23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 2, 2025
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR GASKETS ON THE INSIDE OF SAUCE/CONDIMENT REACH-IN COOLER NEXT TO HANDWASHING SINK IN THE FRONT PREP AREA.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE FAUCET AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MECHANICAL VENTILATION IN DISREPAIR IN EMPLOYEE AND CUSTOMER RESTROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
56
86
Jan 17, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPILL FOOD DEBRIS AT THE BOTTOM OF SANDWICH PREP COOLER NEXT TO OVEN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT ACCUMULATION ON THE FLOORS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: UNDER THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, UNDER REACH-IN COOLERS AND SHELVING ON THE LINE, AND ALONG THE WALL BASES UNDER PLASTIC AND FOAM UNTENSILS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
90
Feb 7, 2023
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: Food handler with long beard, instructed to wear a beard restraints.
40
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Food debris and trash accumulated on electric conduit behind front prep area. instructed to clean and maintain.
55
90
Apr 25, 2022
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE STORED IN SANDWICH PREP COOLER FOUND INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF THE FOLLOWING FOOD PRODUCTS. SLICED TURKEY, SLICED SALAMI, SLICED ROAST BEEF AND SLICED HAM AT 47.4F INSTRUCTED ALL TCS FOODS MUST MAINTAIN COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF BELOW 41.0F. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED FOODS DURING INSPECTION ABOUT 10 POUNDS COSTING $15. PRIORITY VIOLATIONI 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWEL AT GUEST TOILETROOM. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PAPER TOWELS AT ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED
10
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLES INSIDE OF GUEST TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION ON VENTS IN THE TOILETROOMS. MUST REMOVE ALL DUST. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THESE AREAS.
55
70
Jan 12, 2022
Routine
No violations found.
100
Jan 4, 2021
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INTERIOR SURFACES OF BOTTOM OF DRAWER DINI INTERIOR SURFACES OF BOTTOM DEAWER COOLER NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
95
Jan 16, 2020
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES; FLOUR, SUGAR, ETC., WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN THE HANDWASHING SINK AND PREP TABLE IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. ALSO, REPAIR TORN DOOR GASKETS ON THE PREP COOLER IN SAID AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACE OF STORAGE COMPARTMENTS BEHIND THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET BASE ON 3-COMP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDED COVERED RECEPTACLES IN BOTH GENDER NEUTRAL TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS THROUGHOUT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, WALK IN COOLER, OFFICE AND GARBAGE STORAGE ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DUST ACCUMULATION FROM CEILING ENTS IN TOILET ROOMS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE OR ORGANIZE CLUTTER FROM BEHIND THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTER AND IN THE REAR OFFICE. ELEVATE ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
67
Jun 28, 2019
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOODS (SLICED DELI MEAT) NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE PRODUCT'S NAME AND DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE SOLD, DISCARDED OR CONSUMED WITHIN 7 DAYS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING AND DISCARD DATE FOR REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS PLACED IN ALL COLD-HOLDING UNITS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
90
Feb 26, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVES AND HEAVY DUST BUILD NOTED AT SOUP HEATING STATION, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR SURFACES OF PREP COOLER NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MISSING REFRIGERATION THERMOMETER IN SEVERAL COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL IN WARMEST PART.
40
86
May 15, 2017
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AROUND TOP DOORS OF ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS AND INSIDE OF REFRIGERATORS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS THRU OUT WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALONG THE WALLS, UNDER REFRIGERATION UNITS AND IN ALL CORNERS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOP HEADS BEING STORED DOWNWARD INSIDE OF UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE MOP HEADS UPWARD. OBSERVED CLUTTER ON THE FLOOR OF THE DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES OR REMOVE CLUTTER.
41
86
May 5, 2017
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREP COOLER AT AN AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF 57.2F. AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION THE PREP COOLER HAD POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (SLICED TOMATO, CHICKEN) INSIDE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL REFRIGERATORS AT 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PREP COOLER REACHED A TEMPERATURE OF 42F BY THE END OF THE INSPECTION. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN, SLICED TOMATOES) AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES; 15 LBS OF CHOPPED LETTUCE T 53F, 3 LBS OF CHICKEN SALAD AT 53F AND 1/2 OF SLICED TOMATOES AT 53.1F. MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED SAID ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT A COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
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 ENTRANCE DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED WITH 1/2 INCH GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SIDE ENTRANCE DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE DOOR RODENT PROOFED AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AROUND TOP DOORS OF ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS AND INSIDE OF REFRIGERATORS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS THRU OUT WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALONG THE WALLS, UNDER REFRIGERATION UNITS AND IN ALL CORNERS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOP HEADS BEING STORED DOWNWARD INSIDE OF UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE MOP HEADS UPWARD. OBSERVED CLUTTER ON THE FLOOR OF THE DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE EVERYTHING AT LEAST 6 INCHES OR REMOVE CLUTTER.
41
74
Oct 7, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving/racks that had peeling paint/rust, shall be repaired/replaced. Caulk around exposed hand sink in front prep area in state of disrepair, shall be repaired/replaced.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Walk in cooler shelving/racks not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices), prep tables lower shelving not clean, need detailed cleaning(crevices).
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floors in rear kitchen area under heavy equipment not clean, had excess grease/dirt build up, need detailed cleaning(corners), floors in rear kitchen prep areas, need re-grouting.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Missing ceiling tile in rear prep area shall be provided, wall that had holes, by reach in freezer, shall be repaired/sealed.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Men's bathroom sink faucet leaking at neck, shall be repaired/replaced.
38
78
Jun 17, 2015
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE CAULKING AT THE SHAKE MAKING STATION. FOUND ENCRUSTED BLACK/GREENISH GRIME AT THE CAULKING AT THE BLENDER RINSING SINK STATION. ALSO MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE ICE CHUTE AT THE SODA DISPENSING MACHINE. FOUND GRIME BUILD-UP AT ABOVE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE INTERIOR WALLS AND BOTTOM SHELF AT ALL COOLERS ALONG THE SANDWICH PREP AREAS TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRI AND CRUMBS. MUST DEFROST ICE CREAM FREEZER AT THE SHAKE MAKING AREA TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE ICE/FROST BUILD-UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE FLOORS IN THE REAR GARBAGE STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE ENCRUSTED GRIME AT GROUTING TO PREVENT PEST BREEDING. ALSO THE FLOOR AT THE MAIN SANDWICH PREP AREA TO REMOVE ENCRUSTED GRIME, FOOD DEBRI AND CRUMBS.
34
90
Jun 12, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: DURING INSPECTION FOUND A ONE DOOR REFRIGERATOR NOT MAINTAINING 40F AND BELOW. FOUND ABOVE REFRIGERATOR AT 62.1F ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS MUST ALWAYS MAINTAIN 40F AT ALL TIMES. ABOVE UNIT WAS TAGGED.DO NOT USE UNIT UNTIL CDPH INSPECTS UNIT.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: DURING INSPECTION FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS IN A LARGE STAINLESS STEEL HOLDING PAN WITH APPROXIMATELY 2 LBS OF SAUSAGE PATTIES AT 61.5F (VALUE $25.00) IN A 1DR REFRIGERATOR NOT MAINTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 40F AND BELOW. COLD FOODS MUST ALWAYS BE 40F AND BELOW. ALSO FOUND A HOT HOLDING UNIT NOT PROPERLY SET-UP FOR USE TO MAINTAIN HOT POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT 140F. FOUND APPROXIMATELY 3.5 LBS OF MEATBALLS(VALUE $40.00) AT TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 104.5F TO 120.9F. HOT POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST MAINTAIN 140F AND ABOVE AT ALL TIMES. ALSO INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROPERLY SET-UP HOT HOLDING WITH WATER IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN 140F AND ABOVE AT ALL TIMES. CDI. MANAGEMENT DISCARDED ABOVE STATED FOODS.
3
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE CAULKING AT THE SHAKE MAKING STATION. FOUND ENCRUSTED BLACK/GREENISH GRIME AT THE CAULKING AT THE BLENDER RINSING SINK STATION. ALSO MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE ICE CHUTE AT THE SODA DISPENSING MACHINE. FOUND GRIME BUILD-UP AT ABOVE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE INTERIOR WALLS AND BOTTOM SHELF AT ALL COOLERS ALONG THE SANDWICH PREP AREAS TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRI AND CRUMBS. MUST DEFROST ICE CREAM FREEZER AT THE SHAKE MAKING AREA TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE ICE/FROST BUILD-UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE FLOORS IN THE REAR GARBAGE STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE ENCRUSTED GRIME AT GROUTING TO PREVENT PEST BREEDING. ALSO THE FLOOR AT THE MAIN SANDWICH PREP AREA TO REMOVE ENCRUSTED GRIME, FOOD DEBRI AND CRUMBS.
34
82
Oct 7, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 22, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITY NOT MAINTAING PROPER COOLING TEMPERATURE. FOUND PREP COOLER TEMPERATURE AT 70.4F, INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP ALL COOLERS TEMPERATURE AT 40F OR LOWER. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005(A). COOLER IS TAGGED NOT ALLOWED TO USE, MUST CONTACT THE OFFICE OF CDPH FOR TAG REMOVAL REQUEST.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. FOUND 1 LB OF HUMMUS(CHECK PEAS DIP)AT 54.3F, 6 LBS OF CHEESE AT 52.6F, FOOD ITEMS STORED IN SAID COOLER. INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP SUCH FOODS STORED AT PREOPER HOLDING TEMPERATURE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A), FOOD ITEMS DISCRDED VALUED AT $20.
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED, INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PREP COOLER DOOR GASKETS IN POOR REPAIR, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR SURFACES OF PREP COOLERS NOT CLEAN, FOOD DEBRIS NOTE, INSTRUCTE3D TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS BEHIND CHEST FREEZER AND CORNERS NOT CLEAN, FOOD DEBRIS NOTED, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILING VENT ABOVE TOASTER OVEN AND FAN COVER IN WALK-IN COOLER WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: 3-COMP SINK FAUCET IN POOR REPAIR, HOT AND COLD WATER KNOBS ARE VERY STIFF AND HARD TO TURN. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
67
Dec 17, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE INTERIOR OF THE 2DR REFRIGERATOR LOCATED CLOSE TO THE EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRI AND SPILLS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE GRIMMY FLOOR IN THE WALK-IN COOLER TO REMOVE FOOD SPILLS AND ENCRUSTED DEBRIS. ALSO MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE FLOORS THROUGHOUT ENTIRE PREMISES TO REMOVE ENCRUSTED GRIME ON FLOOR AND ALL CORNERS, FLOORS IN FRONT OF BOTH RESTROOMS AND IN THE REAR PREP AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE VENTS IN BOTH RESTROOMS AND VENT ACROSS FROM THE SANDWICH MAKING AREA TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE ACCUMULATION OF DUST.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR EXHAUST VENTS IN BOTH LADIES AND MEN'S RESTROOMS. NOT IN OPERATING CONDITION DURING INSPECTION.
38
82
Jul 29, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR BOTTOM SHELF AT THE COOLERS IN THE FRONT MAIN SANDWICH MAKING AREAS TO REMOVE FOOD CRUMBS. MUST CLEAN EXTERIOR SIDE OF 2DR REFRIGERATOR LOCATED NEXT TO THE MEATBALL HOT HOLDING AREA TO REMOVE ACCUMULATED FOOD SPLASHES AND SPILLS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOOR DRAIN BY THE ICE STATION AREA. MUST REPLACE MISSING FLOOR DRAIN COVER IN THE REAR GARBAGE ROOM AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS AND FOOD SPLASHES FROM THE CEILING AND WALLS AT THE FRONT ICE CREAM AND SANDWICH MAKING AREAS CLOSEST TO THE WALLS.MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS ABOVE.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION UNTIL USED.
43
82
Jun 21, 2012
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF THE REAR REACH IN (CHEST) FREEZER AND COOKING EQUIPMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF ALL FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENTS IN TOILET AND DINING ROOM.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE DEBRIS AND CLUTTER FROM GARBAGE ROOM FLOORS.
41
82
Mar 16, 2012
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND STOCK SHELVES IN FRONT ABOVE ICE CREAM FREEZER SHIPPED/PEELING PAINT. INSTRUCTED TO SCRAPE AND PAINT.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE REAR CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND SHELVES IN FRONT PREP IN NEED OF CLEANING-MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALSO, REMOVE EXCESS ICE FROM ICE CREAM FREEZER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR CRACKED/DAMAGED FLOORS IN DINING ROOM UNDER BOOTHS AND DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS IN WALK-IN COOLER, GARBAGE AREA AND UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENTS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WALLS/CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA ABOVE/AROUND 3-COMP. SINK.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST FIX LEAK AT THE PIPE UNDER REAR EXPOSED HAND SINK.
38
74
Mar 9, 2012
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, properly designed and installed
Inspector notes: FOUND FRONT PREP SINK CLOGGED AT THE FLOOR DRAIN. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SINK REPAIRED CEASE USING IT AND USE REAR PREP'S HAND SINK. CITATION #78202-12 ISSUED.
26
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND STOCK SHELVES IN FRONT ABOVE ICE CREAM FREEZER SHIPPED/PEELING PAINT. INSTRUCTED TO SCRAPE AND PAINT.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE REAR CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND SHELVES IN FRONT PREP IN NEED OF CLEANING-MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALSO, REMOVE EXCESS ICE FROM ICE CREAM FREEZER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR CRACKED/DAMAGED FLOORS IN DINING ROOM UNDER BOOTHS AND DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS IN WALK-IN COOLER, GARBAGE AREA AND UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENTS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WALLS/CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA ABOVE/AROUND 3-COMP. SINK.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST FIX LEAK AT THE PIPE UNDER REAR EXPOSED HAND SINK.
38
70
May 13, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. CLEAN KNIVES ARE WEDGED BETWEEN WALL AND A PIPE ABOVE 3 COMP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO STORE KNIVES IN A CLEANABLE HOLDER.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. FOOD DEBRIS NOTED AROUND COMPRESSOR FOR FRONT PREP COOLER, DUST BUILD-UP AT FAN COVERS AT WALK-IN FAN COVER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVER AND CLEAN AROUND COMPRESSOR AND FAN COVER.
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. SODA SYRUP SPILLED ON FLOOR UNDER SOFT DRINKS DISPENSER, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. UNABLE TO SHUT OFF HOT WATER FROM FAUCET KNOB, A VALVE FOR SOAP MIXING ABOVE THE FAUCET IS USED TO SHUT OFF WATER, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FAUCET HOT WATER KNOB AND MAINTAIN.
38
82
Apr 28, 2010
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. BROKEN HINGE ON ICE CREAM FREEZER COVER, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. BROKEN RUBBER GASKETS AT PREP COOLER DOORS, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. FOOD DEBRIS NOTED ALONG TOP RIM OF PREP COOLERS AND UNDER TOASTER OVENS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Potbelly Sandwich Works last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Potbelly Sandwich Works on file is from Jan 2, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Potbelly Sandwich Works?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Potbelly Sandwich Works.
Has Potbelly Sandwich Works' inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Potbelly Sandwich Works have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Potbelly Sandwich Works 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 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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