Roots Handmade Pizza
Last inspected: May 28, 2025
95
Score
Roots Handmade Pizza has been inspected 25 times since 2011. On May 28, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. When a facility lands in the low risk tier, it usually means nothing alarming showed up at the most recent visit.
Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near two violations each time.
Across the inspection history, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded nine times.
The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting Roots Handmade Pizza on the better side of that line. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
25
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 28, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Employees personal items stored on food shelves, instructed to separate.
56
95
Apr 29, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 22, 2024
Complaint
4 major violations. 1 minor violation.
View 5 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR FOR MEASURING SURFACE TEMPERATURE OF UTENSILS. MANAGER PROVIDED TEST STRIPS FOR MEASURING WATER TEMPERATURE ONLY. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
48
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VACUUM-PACKAGED CHEESE CURDS ON SITE WITH NO APPROVED HACCP PLAN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ACQUIRE APPROVED VARIANCE AND HACCP PLAN. THE MANAGER DISCARDED 7 POUNDS OF CHEESE CURDS ($20), AND PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION WAS ISSUED.
29
Variance obtained for specialized processing methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO APPROVED VARIANCE PROGRAM ON THE PREMISES FOR VACUUM PACKAGING TCS FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO HAVE AN APPROVED VARIANCE BEFORE VACUUM PACKAGING TCS FOODS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION CONSOLIDATED WITH VIOLATION #29.
32
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MORE THAN 40 RODENT DROPPINGS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, INCLUDING THE BASEMENT, THE KITCHEN, AND THE BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE ALL AREAS AFFECTED BY PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLE IN CEILING ABOVE PIZZA OVEN. CEILING APPEARS TO BE DAMAGED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR CEILING.
55
64
Sep 14, 2023
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A 1/4" GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE UPSTAIRS BACK DOOR LEADING TO THE DUMPSTER AREA. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT-FITTING SEAL AT ALL OUTER OPENINGS TO PREVENT THE ENTRY OF PESTS.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS STAINED WITH OPEN SEAMS AT THE COOK LINE. MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE DAMAGED OR STAINED CUTTING BOARDS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPILLED FOOD DEBRIS ON THE FLOORS UNDER AND IN BETWEEN COOKING AND FRYING EQUIPMENT IN THE KITCHEN AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS FOR CEILING LIGHTS IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
56
82
Feb 24, 2022
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A 1/4" GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE UPSTAIRS DOOR LEADING TO THE HOMESTED/OFFICE AREA. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING SEAL AT ALL OUTER OPENINGS TO PREVENT THE ENTRY OF PESTS.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON PREP SURFACE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. MUST MAINTAIN
41
90
Dec 2, 2020
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED PROPERLY, INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
95
May 18, 2020
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NO DATE MARKING ON TCS FOOD ( CHICKEN, BEEF...) INSTRUCTED TO DATE ALL TCS FOOD HELD FOR MORE THAN 24HRS.
23
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINER ( FLOUR ) NOT LABELED, INSTRUCTED TO LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
37
90
Oct 16, 2019
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 8, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER HOT TEMPERATURES OF TCS FOODS. OBSERVED GRILLED CHICKEN ON CONTAINER STORED ON SHELVING AT ROOM TEMPERATURE IN FRONT PREP AREA WITH INTERNAL TEMPERATURE RANGING BETWEEN 69.8F TO 70.3F. PERSON IN CHARGE IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED FOOD APPROXIMATELY 6LBS OF FOOD VALUE OF $6.00 PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
21
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER DATE MARKING ON TCS FOODS HELD MORE THAN 24 HOURS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA NOT MAINTAINED. OBSERVED ALL GARBAGE CONTAINERS OVERFLOWING PREVENTING LID FROM CLOSING PROPERLY. ALSO OBSERVED GARBAGE AND TRASH ON GROUND SURROUNDING CONTAINERS. THIS IS A FOOD SOURCE FOR RODENTS AND OTHER PEST. MUST MAINTAIN GARBAGE AREA CLEAN AT ALL TIMES.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B)
54
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL ON PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 40 LIVE FRUIT FLIES ON WALLS AND CEILING IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY.PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND DEBRIS ON WALL BEHIND REAR DISH WASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAINED. ALSO OBSERVED HEAVY ACCUMULATION OF DIRT AND DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH HAND WASHING SINKS IN REAR DISH WASHING AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILD UP ON LIGHT SHIELDS COVERS ABOVE PREP TABLES IN FOOD PREP AREA AND REAR DISH WASHING AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
55
Jun 13, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN PREP TABLES, COUNTER TOP AND SHELVING INSIDE THE PREP COOLERS AND INSIDE BASEMENT WALK IN BEER COOLER TO REMOVE SPILLS AND DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING THROUGH OUT PREP AREA,DISH WASHING ROOM, INSIDE WALK IN COOLER AND STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS NEED CLEANING BEHIND THE PREP TABLE TO REMOVE FOOD SPLATTER.
35
86
Mar 2, 2017
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HANDLED ICE SCOOP LYING IN THE ICE WITH THE HANDLE FACING DOWN. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ICE SCOOP EITHER IN A SEPARATE CONTAINER OR IN THE ICE WITH THE HANDLE FACING UP IN BETWEEN USE.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE SALAD LINE COOLER TO REMOVE FROST BUILDUP ON THE INTERIOR WALLS OF COOLER.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE SIDES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND THE LOWER COMPARMTENT FRYER TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: EXCESS FOOD DEBRIS IN THE CORNERS AND ON THE FLOORS UNDER THE FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP COVERING THE LIGHT SHIELDS ABOVE THE DISHMACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE LIGHT SHIELDS AND MAINTAIN.
36
78
Feb 27, 2017
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, properly designed and installed
Inspector notes: HANDWASHING FACILITIES IN THE CUSTOMER WASHROOM UNABLE TO PROVIDE HOT WATER: THE FAMILY BATHROOM IN BETWEEN THE MEN'S AND WOMAN'S WASHROOM WAS UNABLE TO PROVIDE HOT WATER(MINIMUM 85F) AT TIME OF INSPECTION. THE MEN'S AND WOMEN'S WASHROOM NEXT TO THE FAMILY RESTROOM WAS ABLE TO PROVIDE HOT/COLD WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE. THERE MUST BE TEMPERED OR HOT AND COLD WATER FOR HANDWASHING AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
26
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE HANDLED ICE SCOOP LYING IN THE ICE WITH THE HANDLE FACING DOWN. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ICE SCOOP EITHER IN A SEPARATE CONTAINER OR IN THE ICE WITH THE HANDLE FACING UP IN BETWEEN USE.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST THE SALAD LINE COOLER TO REMOVE FROST BUILDUP ON THE INTERIOR WALLS OF COOLER.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE SIDES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND THE LOWER COMPARMTENT FRYER TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP.
33
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: EXCESS FOOD DEBRIS IN THE CORNERS AND ON THE FLOORS UNDER THE FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP COVERING THE LIGHT SHIELDS ABOVE THE DISHMACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE LIGHT SHIELDS AND MAINTAIN.
36
70
Apr 29, 2016
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: HAND DRYING DEVICE BY THE STALL IN WOMEN'S WASH ROOM NOT WORKING INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.ANOTHER HAND DRYING DEVICE PROVIDED AT SAME LOCATION
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: EXCESS WATER ON FLOOR UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS,KITCHEN PREP/DISH ROOM ETC. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY.
34
90
Apr 27, 2016
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND COOKED PULLED PORK STORED INSIDE THE REACH-IN COOLER AT TEMP OF 44.6F TO 45.3F,PRODUCTS WAS COOKED ON 4-26-16 PER MANAGER STATEMENT.COLD PRODUCT MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 40F AND BELOW.COOLER UNIT MAINTAIN AIR TEMP OF 38.7F. FOOD WAS DISCARDED AND DENATURED. POUNDS 5 VALUE 20 CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-005(A)
3
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: FOUND HIGH TEMP DISH MACHINE WITH FINAL RINSE AT TEMP OF 150F NOT 180F HAS REQUIRED BY CITY CODE. TECHNICIAN WAS CALLED ON PREMISES HOWEVER NOT ABLE TO REPAIR CAUSE,SUGGESTED TO CONTACT A PLUMBER TO CHECK BOOSTER UNIT. TAGGED UNIT "HELD FOR INSPECTION" DO NOT USE.INSTRUCTED TO USE THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS TO:WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
8
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND DUMP SINK BEHIND THE BAR WITH DIRTY WATER IN IT,EXPOSED HAND SINK BEHIND THE BAR AND EXPOSED HAND SINK IN PREP AREA NOT ABLE TO DRAIN. FOUND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AT NORTH AREA OF THE BAR WASTE WATER BACKING UP,AT THIRD COMPARTMENT WHEN FAUCET IS TURNED ON. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR CAUSES. INSTRUCTED TO USE OTHER AVAILABLE AND IN WORKING CONDITION SINKS IN PREP AND BAR AREA. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
11
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GREASE AREA NOT MAINTAIN. OBSERVED GREASE ON EDGE OF BACK OF THE WASTE OIL CONTAINER.SPILLED WASTE OIL ON GROUND UNDER AND AROUND CONTAINER AND BY THE REAR DOOR. SPLATTERED OIL ON WALL BEHIND THE UNIT IN QUESTION.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WASTE OIL CONTAINER,GROUND AND WALL. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-020
19
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SCOOP USED FOR DRY INGREDIENT MUST HAVE AN HANDLE TO MINIMIZE SOURCE OF CONTAMINATION. OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL USED INSIDE THE DEEP FRYERS AND OVENS. REMOVE SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE HAND DRYING DEVICE BY THE STALL IN WOMEN'S WASH ROOM NOT WORKING INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.USE THE OTHER UNIT WHICH IS IN WORKING CONDITION NO DRAIN LINE PROVIDED/ATTACHED AT SOME OF THE POP GUN HOLDER BEHIND BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND DRAINING INSIDE FLOOR DRAINS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE BUILD-UP AT POP GUNS BEHIND BAR AREA,NEED TO CLEAN,SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: EXCESS WATER ON FLOOR UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS,KITCHEN PREP/DISH ROOM ETC. MUST KEEP FLOOR DRY.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO VENTILATION PROVIDED INSIDE THE STAFF WASHROOM IN BASEMENT AREA.NEED TO PROVIDE VENTILATION AT SAID AREA. MOST OF THE HAND SINKS,THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS.AND DUMP SINKS WATER PIPES LEAKING,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ALL THE DRAIN PIPES.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO STEM THERMOMETER PROVIDED ON PREMISES AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TO BE ABLE TO CHECK FOOD TEMPERATURE
40
64
Jun 12, 2015
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME BULK FOOD/SEASONING NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL FOOD.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES STORED IN BETWEEN PREP TABLE AND WALL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD UTENSILS.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CALCIUM BUILDUP BEHIND NOZZLES AT SODA MACHINE LOCATED IN BACK FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE WHOLE AREA OF THE SODA MACHINE. ALSO OBSERVED MINOR CALCIUM BUILDUP IN THE ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAID ICE MACHINE.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME LIGHT SHIELDS NEED REPLACEMENT IN FOOD PREP AREA ABOVE FOOD PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE SAID LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN BASEMENT BY EMPLOYEE AREA AS WELL AS CLUTTER IN THE HALLWAY GOING TOWARDS THE RECEIVING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL CLUTTER FROM SAID AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
74
Jun 5, 2015
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES DUE TO LOAD LIMITS. PRODUCT STACKED OVER REFRIDGERATION LEVEL. OBSERVED: PEPPERONI (5LBS AT $45.00) AT 50.7F , PANCETTA (1LB AT $6.95) AT 49.3F, CANADIAN BACON (3 LBS AT $25.00)AT 50.3F, AND RICOTTA CHEESE (3LBS AT $28.22) AT 48.9F. MANAGER VOLUNTERRINGLY DISCARDED AND DENATURED ALL OF SAID PRODUCT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN AND HOLD ALL COLD FOODS AT 40F OR BELOW AND ALL HOT FOODS AT 140F AND ABOVE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
3
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN OVERFLOW OF ALL DUMPSTERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INCREASE DUMPSTERS FOR PROPER GARBAGE DISPOSAL. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME BULK FOOD/SEASONING NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL FOOD.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIVES STORED IN BETWEEN PREP TABLE AND WALL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD UTENSILS.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARDS WITH DEEP DARK GROOVES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CALCIUM BUILDUP BEHIND NOZZLES AT SODA MACHINE LOCATED IN BACK FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE WHOLE AREA OF THE SODA MACHINE. ALSO OBSERVED MINOR CALCIUM BUILDUP IN THE ICE MACHINE LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SAID ICE MACHINE.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SOME LIGHT SHIELDS NEED REPLACEMENT IN FOOD PREP AREA ABOVE FOOD PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE SAID LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER IN BASEMENT BY EMPLOYEE AREA AS WELL AS CLUTTER IN THE HALLWAY GOING TOWARDS THE RECEIVING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL CLUTTER FROM SAID AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
67
Nov 13, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE MILK CRATES AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING IN PREP AREA, WALK-IN COOLER, FREEZER AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE AND BAR AREAS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: CLEAN DRAIN AND REPAIR NORTH SINK IN BAR (SLOW DRAINING). REPAIR WEST SINK IN PREP AREA.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ELEVATE STOCK OFF FLOOR IN PREP AREA, WALK-IN COOLER AND FREEZER.
41
82
Jan 3, 2014
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN FLOOR IN DISHWASHING AREA AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRY AT ALL TIMES.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL WATER PESSURE NEEDED AT EXPOSED HANDWASH SINK I KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES MUST WEAR A HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS PREPARED AND SERVED.
42
86
Jul 16, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Light covers in prep area not cleaned. Insstructed to detail clean.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Stock stored on floor in basement storage rooms. Instructed to elevate 6 inches or higher and away from wall.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Ice scoop not properly stored. Instructed to store in sanitize holder or container.
43
86
Aug 16, 2012
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE KITCHEN AREAS AND REPLACE BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE SAME AREA.
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES FROM THE PREMISES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE.REMAINING ITEMS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED 6" OFF FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.
41
90
Aug 6, 2012
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIVE FRUIT FLIES IN THE DISHWASH AREA AND THE BAR AREA. APPROXIMATELY 20 LIVE FRUIT FLIES WERE OBSERVED ON THE WALLS, CEILING AND EQUIPMENT IN THESE AREAS.DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS.ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE,INVERT ALL CLEAN MULTI-USE UTENSILS,DISHWARE IN KITCHEN AREAS.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR OF DEEP FRYERS,SHELVINGS INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER,EXTERIOR SURFACES OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENT AND EXTERIORS OF DISHMACHINE.
33
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE KITCHEN AREAS AND REPLACE BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE SAME AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN HOOD AND FILTERS ANOVE COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND REMOVE DUSTS ACCUMULATIONS ON VENTILATION COVERS IN THE DINING AREAS.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES FROM THE PREMISES DUE TO POTENTIAL PEST HARBORAGE.REMAINING ITEMS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED 6" OFF FLOOR/WALL FOR EASIER CLEANING.
41
74
Dec 7, 2011
Complaint
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. MUST DETAIL CLEAN COOKING EQUIPMENT, TOPS, SIDES AND INTERIOR CABINETS OF FRYERS, MUST CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING 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. MUST CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AND BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT KITCHEN PREP AREA
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. LOW HOT WATER PRESSURE AT HAND SINKS IN PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE PRESSURE
38
86
Aug 8, 2011
Complaint
No violations found.
100
Jun 15, 2011
Complaint
No violations found.
100
May 12, 2011
License
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Roots Handmade Pizza last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Roots Handmade Pizza on file is from May 28, 2025. The public record contains 25 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Roots Handmade Pizza?
Across the inspection record, “insects, rodents, & animals not present” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Roots Handmade Pizza.
Has Roots Handmade Pizza's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Roots Handmade Pizza have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Roots Handmade Pizza 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 Roots Handmade Pizza inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Roots Handmade Pizza is inspected around two times per year on average.
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