Potbelly Sandwich Works
Last inspected: Jan 26, 2026
90
Score
Inspectors have visited Potbelly Sandwich Works 30 times, with records going back to 2010. The most recent report on file is from Jan 26, 2026. A low risk rating suggests inspectors haven't found much to be concerned about lately.
Recent inspections have turned up roughly the same number of issues each time, hovering near two violations per visit.
“Proper cooling methods used” comes up most often, recorded 15 times in the inspection record.
That puts the facility ahead of the local pack: the average Chicago restaurant scores 81. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
30
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 26, 2026
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE WHILE TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN, TUNA, BEEF SANDWICHES) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
90
Feb 11, 2025
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER OR VALID CERTIFICATE ON SITE WHILE TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
90
May 22, 2024
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: Found prep cooler ambient air temperature at 63.5f, cooler is used to hold TCS foods. Instructed manager to maintain all coolers temperature at 41f or lower, Cooler is tagged not allowed to use, must contact the office of CDPH for tag removal request. Priority violation 7-38-005.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: Found TCS foods held at improper temperature, 3 lbs of chicken salad at 60.3f, 2lbs of sliced tomatoes at 60.3f, food items held in front prep cooler, instructed manager to hold all cold TCS foods at 41f or lower. Priority violation 7-38-005. Food discarded valued at $25.
22
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Interior surfaces of all prep coolers not clean, food debris, and dirt noted, instructed to clean and maintain.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Floors not clean next to ice cream drain, gunk and slime noted, instructed to clean and maintain.
55
67
Jan 19, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER EATING IN FOOD PREP AREA. FOOD HANDLER THEN GOES TO TOILET ROOM. OBSERVED FOOD HANDLER LEAVE TOILET ROOM AND RETURN TO FOOD PREP AREA WITHOUT WASHING HANDS. FOOD HANDLER PROCEEDS TO PUT ON GLOVES TO PREPARE CUSTOMER SANDWICH. INSTRUCTED FOOD HANDLER TO WASH HANDS AFTER USING TOILET ROOM AND IMMEDIATELY BEFORE ENGAGING IN FOOD PREPARATION. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
8
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND A CFM ONSITE WITHOUT ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
58
82
Mar 8, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.11 OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING CLEANSER AT THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. MANAGER PROVIDED HANDWASHING CLEANSER DURING THE INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS MAINTAIN HANDWASHING CLEANSER AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED UNDER ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.12 OBSERVED NO DRYING PROVISION AT THE REAR DISH WASHING AREA HAND WASHING SINK AND INSIDE OF THE MEN'S TOILET ROOM. MANAGER PROVIDED PAPER TOWELS DURING THE INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO ALWAYS MAINTAIN A HAND DRYING PROVISION SUCH AS PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030(C).
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED MINOR DUST DEBRIS ON THE WALL ABOVE THE HOT WATER HEATER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114 OBSERVED ITEMS STORED ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE DRY STORAGE SHELF IN THE REAR. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES FROM THE GROUND AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
May 13, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE POSTED ON SITE WHILE TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS (CHICKEN) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED TO THE PUBLIC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND ALL CUTTING BOARDS CONNECTED TO PREP COOLERS STAINED WITH DEEP GROOVES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO RESURFCACE OR REPLACE.
47
86
Dec 16, 2021
Routine
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE, NO CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE HANDLING AND SERVING TCS FOODS ( DELI MEAT, CHICKEN... ) INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012.
2
90
Nov 20, 2020
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Proper disposition of returned, previously served, reconditioned & unsafe food
17
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND CEILING TOWELS LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA MISSING INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: FOUND NO LIGHT SHIELD FOR LIGHTS LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.
56
86
Feb 19, 2020
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND CEILINGS ABOVE REAR FOOD PREPERATION AREA FILLED WITH DUST. MUST CLEAN SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
55
95
May 30, 2019
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: 4-301.11 OBSERVED COLD HOLDING UNIT IN DISREPAIR ONE DOOR REACH IN COOLER WITH DRAWERS COLD HOLDING AT 48.9 DEGREES F IN FRONT PREP AREA OF FACILITY AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE FACILITY MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE COLD HOLDING UNIT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED. TAGGED UNIT/ TAG NOT REMOVED
33
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.11 OBSERVED FACILITY HAND SINK WITHOUT HAND SOAP/ CLEANSER IN REAR PREP AREA OF FACILITY. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE HAND SOAP/CLEANSER MUST BE AVAILABLE AT ALL TIMES AND MAINTAINED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11 OBSERVED FACILITY FOOD HANDLERS HAIR NOT PROPERLY RESTRAINED WHILE PREPPING AND SERVING PATRONS. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE FOOD HANDLERS ARE TO RESTRAIN HAIR AND WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE WORKING IN FOOD PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
40
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14 OBSERVED FACILITY EMPLOYEE RESTROOM WITHOUT HAND WASHING SIGNAGE FOR EMPLOYEES. MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN
10
70
May 7, 2019
Complaint
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD NOT MEETING TEMPERATURE,TWO 5 POUND PANS OF SLICE TOMATO AND ONE 2 POUNDS PAN OF DICED EGG, TWO 10 POUND PANS OF CUT LEAFY GREENS IN COLD HOLDING UNIT AT 46-49.3 DEGREES F IN FRONT PREP KITCHEN COLD HOLDING DRAWER AREA. COLD HOLDING MUST REMAIN AT 41 DEGREES F REQUIRED TEMPERATURE OR LOWER. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE OF HOT HOLDING REQUIREMENTS. FOOD HANDLER VOLUNTARY DISCARDED FOOD ITEMS. APPROX 32 POUNDS $ 180. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COLD HOLDING UNIT IN DISREPAIR ONE DOOR REACH IN COOLER WITH DRAWERS COLD HOLDING AT 51.9 DEGREES F IN FRONT PREP AREA OF FACILITY. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE FACILITY MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE COLD HOLDING UNIT AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED. TAGGED UNIT
33
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO VOMITOUS AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT CLEAN UP POLICY IN PLACE AND KIT (GLOVES, FACE MASKS, DISPOSABLE MOPS, SANITIZER) ON SITE POLICY MUST MATCH KIT. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND DRYING PROVISION (PAPER TOWELS) AT HAND SINK IN REAR PREP AREA. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE AND FOOD HANDLER HAND DRYING PROVISION (PAPER TOWELS MUST REMAIN AT HAND SINK AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY EMPLOYEE RESTROOM WITHOUT HAND WASHING SIGNAGE FOR EMPLOYEES. MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY FOOD HANDLERS HAIR NOT PROPERLY RESTRAINED WHILE PREPPING AND SERVING PATRONS. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE FOOD HANDLERS ARE TO RESTRAIN HAIR AND WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE WORKING IN FOOD PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
40
55
Apr 10, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 3, 2018
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: EVIDENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL ON PREMISES. 12- LIVE SMALL FLIES ON WALLS AND FLYING IN DINING BOOTHS, 4- ON WALL POP MACHINE AND 9- IN PREP AREA OF ESTABLISHMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN .MAINTAIN WALL AREAS.MUST CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NOT CLEAN OF DEBRIS IN STORAGE CLOSET LOCATED IN DINING ROOM. ALSO INSIDE WALK IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/MAINTAIN
34
90
Jan 16, 2018
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NOT CLEAN OF DEBRIS IN STORAGE CLOSET LOCATED IN DINING ROOM. ALSO INSIDE WALK IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
34
95
Apr 24, 2017
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES. ALSO, THE REACH IN ICE CREAM FREEZER HAS EXCESS ICE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO SAND OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND REMOVE EXCESS ICE FROM ICE CREAM FREEZER. MAINTAIN SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FRONT COOLERS WITH OLD FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. THE KNIFE RACK IN THE REAR NEEDS CLEANING AND THE LOWER SURFACE OF THE SHELVING IN THE FRONT CABINETS HAVE FOOD/DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FRONT COOLERS WITH OLD FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. THE KNIFE RACK IN THE REAR NEEDS CLEANING AND THE LOWER SURFACE OF THE SHELVING IN THE FRONT CABINETS HAVE FOOD/DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND THE WALLS BEHIND THE COOLERS AND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH FOOD SPLATTERS, DIRT AND DUST. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE HOT WATER KNOB ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE REAR LOOSE/STRIPPED. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND WASH CLOTHS NOT PROPERLY STORED WHEN NOT IN USE. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM) WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
74
Apr 14, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FRONT REVOLVING DOOR NOT RODENT/INSECT PROOF, 1/4" TO 1" GAP NOTED AT EACH DOOR SECTION. INSTRUCTED TO MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING SO AS TO PREVENT ANY PESTS FROM ENTERING. MAINTAIN SAME. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES. ALSO, THE REACH IN ICE CREAM FREEZER HAS EXCESS ICE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO SAND OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND REMOVE EXCESS ICE FROM ICE CREAM FREEZER. MAINTAIN SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FRONT COOLERS WITH OLD FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. THE KNIFE RACK IN THE REAR NEEDS CLEANING AND THE LOWER SURFACE OF THE SHELVING IN THE FRONT CABINETS HAVE FOOD/DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE INTERIOR OF THE FLOOR DRAINS AND THE FLOORS IN THE CORNERS, UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND THE WALLS BEHIND THE COOLERS AND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN THE FRONT FOOD PREPARATION AREA WITH FOOD SPLATTERS, DIRT AND DUST. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE HOT WATER KNOB ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE REAR LOOSE/STRIPPED. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND WASH CLOTHS NOT PROPERLY STORED WHEN NOT IN USE. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM) WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
70
Aug 15, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MAIN PREP COOLER AT ORDER STATION RIGHT SIDE MOTOR DOOR PANEL IN POOR REPAIR,(LOOSE,WONT STAY CLOSE).MUST REPAIR.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR DRAIN AT ICE CREAM FREEZER NOT CLEAN OF BLACK DEBRIS.MUST CLEAN/MAINTAIN TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING AREA.ALSO STORAGE SUPPLY BOXES STORED ON FLOOR IN UPPER STAGE DINNING ROOM AND SOME STORAGE ON FLOOR AND ON POP CRATES IN CLOSET BY POP MACHINE.MUST INSTALL ADEQUATE SHELVING TO PROPERLY ELEVATE STORAGE AT LEAST 6- INCHES OFF FLOORS.
34
90
Mar 29, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF FRONT PREP COOLERS NOT CLEAN.MUST CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
33
95
Mar 25, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREMISES FRONT PREP AREA EXPOSED HAND SINK NOT MAINTAINED,IE(DRAIN CLOGGED ),STANDING WATER. MUST REPAIR.PREMISES GIVEN 2-DAYS FOR MAKE REPAIR OF HAND SINK FOR ADEQUATE HAND WASHING FOR FOOD HANDLERS. PREMISES WILL BE REINSPECTED 3-29-2016 CRITICAL VIOLATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
11
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR AND INTERIOR OF FRONT PREP COOLERS NOT CLEAN . MSUT CLEAN/MAINTAIN.
33
90
Dec 22, 2015
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS: MEAT SLICER IN THE BACK PREP AREA, EXTERIOR DRAWERS OF ALL COOLER AT THE SANDWICH MAKING AREA AND THE BOTTOM SHELF OF ALL COOLERS AT THE FRONT SANDWICH MAKING AREA TO REMOVE STANDING WATER AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN SODA DISPENSERS AT THE SODA MACHINE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE DUST BUILD-UP AT CEILING VENT FAN COVERS IN THE FRONT SANDWICH PREP AREA AS WELL AS ON THE WALLS AND CEILINGS IN THE SAME AREA.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION UNTIL USED AT ALL TIMES.
43
86
Apr 9, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR/REPLACE INNER LINING OF THE ICE FREEZER BOX IN THE REAR AREA. ABOVE STATED IS NOT WELL MAINTAINED. MUST ADJUST WARPED DOOR SWEEP AT FRONT REVOLVING DOOR. DOOR IS RODENT PROOFED AT THIS TIME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE EXCESSIVE ICE/FROST BUILD-UP AT THE LARGE ICE BOX FREEZER IN THE REAR AREA. MUST CLEAN AND REMOVE SLIGHT GRIME BUILD-UP AT THE ICE CHUTE ON THE SODA DISPENSING MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE STANDING WATER AROUND THE MOP SINK AREA TO PREVENT PEST BREEDING.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE DUST BUILD-UP AT BOTH CEILING VENT FAN COVERS IN BOTH RESTROOMS.
35
82
Dec 10, 2014
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: INTERIOR OF ALL REACH IN COOLERS, INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER, CUTTING BOARDS, PREP TABLES, AND REACH IN ICE CREAM FREEZER. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL FOOD BUILD UP AND DEBRIS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGH OUT IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT, IN CORNERS, IN WALK IN COOLER, IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST DETAIL CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER AND BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: TOILET ROOMS IN NEED OF CLEANING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL FLOOR DRAINS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: ALL REACH IN COOLERS IN NEED OF THERMOMETERS. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
74
Dec 8, 2014
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FOUND REACH IN COOLER AT IMPROPER AIR TEMPERATURE OF 44.6 DEGREES AIR TEMPERATURE. COOLER IS BEING TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AT THIS TIME. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A) CITATION ISSUED FACILITIES TO MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS ITEMS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE DURING STORAGE IN REACH IN COOLER. 2LBS CHICKEN SALAD 48.9, 2LBS CHOPPED EGGS 48.4, CUT TOMATOES, ETC... ALL PRODUCTS WERE DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. TOTAL VALUE $50 10 LBS CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A) CITATION ISSUED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE.
3
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND NO HOT WATER IN CUSTOMER/EMPLOYEE WASHROOMS AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT BOTH LADIES AND MENS WASHROOM TO HAVE HOT AND COLD WATER AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030 CITATION ISSUED HANDWASHING FACILITIES NOT MAINTAINED
11
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO PERSON ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION WITH CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE OR IS THERE A CERTIFICATE POSTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO HAVE A PERSON WITH CALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD PRODUCTS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON SITE.
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: INTERIOR OF ALL REACH IN COOLERS, INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER, CUTTING BOARDS, PREP TABLES, AND REACH IN ICE CREAM FREEZER. MUST CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL FOOD BUILD UP AND DEBRIS. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGH OUT IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT, IN CORNERS, IN WALK IN COOLER, IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST DETAIL CLEAN TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPLATTER AND BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: TOILET ROOMS IN NEED OF CLEANING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL FLOOR DRAINS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: ALL REACH IN COOLERS IN NEED OF THERMOMETERS. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
61
May 5, 2014
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN WITH DEEP CUTS AND DISCOLORED. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
95
Apr 28, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 12-10-13 REPORT #1115175 INSP# 333. #33 MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, CAN OPENER, FAN COVERS INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND SHELVING IN PREP AREAS #34 MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS AROUND THE GREASE TRAP, HOT WATER TANK AND IN ALL CORNERS. #35 MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN WALLS AND DOOR FRAMES- REMOVE DIRT/DUST. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CORRECT ALL VIOLATIONS AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS IN NEED OF REPLACING. WORN WITH DEEP CUTS AND DISCOLORED. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAK AT FAUCET AT ICE CREAM SINK IN NEED OF REPAIR. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
86
Dec 10, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, CAN OPENER, FAN COVERS INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND SHELVING IN PREP AREAS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS AROUND THE GREASE TRAP, HOT WATER TANK AND IN ALL CORNERS.
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 AND DOOR FRAMES- REMOVE DIRT/DUST AND SPIDER WEBS.
35
86
Apr 18, 2013
Routine
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 FOLLOWING ITEMS: MEAT SLICER IN THE BACK PREP AREA, EXTERIOR DRAWERS OF ALL COOLER AT THE SANDWICH MAKING AREA AND THE BOTTOM SHELF OF ALL COOLERS AT THE FRONT SANDWICH MAKING AREA TO REMOVE STANDING WATER AND FOOD DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS AT THE MAKING SANDWICH AREA TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST MAINTAIN FLOOR DRY AROUND THE MOP SINK AREA AT ALL TIMES.
34
90
Apr 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 AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF FREEZERS (CHEST IN REAR AND ICE CREAM IN FRONT)-REMOVE EXCESS ICE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS IN ALL CORNERS AND UNDER/AROUND ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST FIX AND MAINTAIN LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET ON THE 3-COMP. SINK.
38
86
Oct 6, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 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. OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE ALL REACH IN PREP COOLERS AND COOLER RAILS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN ALL UNCLEAN EQUIPMENT.
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. OBSERVED STANDING LIQUID ON FLOOR/ALONG WALL BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND UNDER SLICER TABLE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN/KEEP FLOOR DRY THROUGHOUT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. OBSERVED FOOED/DIRT BUILD UP ON WALL UNDER AND BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN ALL UNCLEAN WALLS AND MAINTAIN.
35
86
Oct 20, 2010
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Found exposed hand sink at rear preparation areas not clean.
32
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. Found floors not clean at preparation areas.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Found no backflow prevention devices installed at coffee machine.(check valve)
38
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 26, 2026. The public record contains 30 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Potbelly Sandwich Works?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 15 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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