Russian Tea Time

77 E Adams St, Chicago, IL 60603
Other
Last inspected: Mar 30, 2026
100
Score
Low Risk

Inspectors have visited Russian Tea Time 26 times, with records going back to 2010. The newest entry in the record is dated Mar 30, 2026. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.

Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around two violations each.

When inspectors have written things up, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been the most frequent reason, cited seven times.

Russian Tea Time's latest score of 100 sits above the Chicago average of 81. Taken together, the history is a positive one.

26
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
0
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 30, 2026
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 1, 2025
Complaint
1 critical violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COLD TCS FOODS, HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 46.0-60.4F. OBSERVED COLD TCS FOODS, GARLIC IN OIL(59.5F), BUTTER(53.4F), COOKED ONIONS AND CARROTS(46.0F), HALF AND HALF(55.9F) AND SLICED TOMATO(60.4F) HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. INSTRUCTED ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST BE HELD AT 41F OR BELOW. CORRECTED ON SITE MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED FOOD VALUED AT $2 WEIGHING 2LBS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HANDWASHING SINK IN BAR. INSTRUCTED TO POST CLEARLY VISIBLE SIGNAGE THAT NOTIFIES FOOD EMPLOYEES TO WASH THEIR HANDS AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS USED BY FOOD EMPLOYEES.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXES STORED ON FLOOR IN BASEMENT STORAGE ROOM AND BOXES STORED ON MILK CRATE IN WALK IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED ADEQUATE SHELVING TO ELEVATE ALL FOOD AND NON FOOD ITEMS AT LEAST SIX INCHES OFF OF FLOOR FOR EASE OF CLEANABILITY.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RIGHT HANDWASHING SINK IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM AT IMPROPER MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 82.2F. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR RIGHT HANDWASHING SINK IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM, INSTRUCTED A HANDWASHING SINK SHALL BE EQUIPPED TO PROVIDE WATER AT A TEMPERATURE OF AT LEAST 100F THROUGH A MIXING VALVE OR COMBINATION FAUCET(NOTE: THERE IS ONE OTHER HANDWASHING SINK IN WOMEN'S WASHROOM AT PROPER TEMPERATURE.)
51
74
Jan 23, 2025
Routine
No violations found.
100
Apr 25, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE PROVIDED AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET MOPS STORED IN THE UTILITY SINK AND IN MOP BUCKETS IN THE REAR UTILITY AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HANG MOPS WHEN NOT IN USE TO ALLOW TO DRY.
55
90
Aug 1, 2023
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: Mop sink next to food storage rack with no space or a shield, Instructed to install a barrier.
39
95
May 26, 2022
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP LAYING ON TOP OF ICE IN BAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE ICE SCOOP HANDLE UP ABOVE ICE TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
43
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO ALLERGEN TRAINING ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATES MUST COMPLETE ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES
58
90
Sep 21, 2021
Complaint
1 critical violation.
View 1 violation
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND FRIED THICK WEDGES OF FRIED POTATOES HELD AT TOP OF COOLER AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AT 77.3F, INSTRUCTED TO KEEP AT 41F OR LOWER , 135F OR HIGHER, FOOD DISCARDED VALUED AT $5. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
22
86
Aug 18, 2021
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOOD PREP TABLE PLACED NEXT TO OPEN STAIR CASE, INSTRUCTED TO TO INSTALL A BARRIER TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DAMAGED INSULATION AT UTILITY LINES ABOVE PREP TABLE, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR INSULATION.
55
90
Jun 23, 2020
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 18, 2020
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 3 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND EMPLOYEE WASHROOM HANDWASHING SINK WATER TEMPERATURE AT 70F. MUST PROVIDE A MINIMUM HOT WATER TEMPERATURE OF 100F AT ALL TIME. PRIORITY. NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7.38.010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOUND MULTIPLE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED TO UPDATE.
57
74
Jun 12, 2020
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: FOUND EMPLOYEE WASHROOM HANDWASHING SINK WATER TEMPERATURE AT 70F. MUST PROVIDE A MINIMUM HOT WATER TEMPERATURE OF 100F AT ALL TIME. PRIORITY. NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: IN HOT WATER MECHANICAL WAREWASHING OPERATIONS, AN IRREVERSIBLE REGISTERING TEMPERATURE INDICATOR SHALL BE PROVIDED AND READILY ACCESSIBLE FOR MEASURING THE UTENSIL SURFACE TEMPERATURE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
48
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: FOUND PLATES, GLASSES AND MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS STORED ON FLOOR IN STORAGE ROOM LOCATED IN GARAGE AREA. ALL ITEMS THROUGHOUT FACILITY MUST BE ELEVATED 4" OFF OF GROUND.
39
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND NO RUNNING HOT WATER WHEN HOT WATER KNOB IS TURNED ON AT UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND UNUSED FREEZER IN STORAGE AREA WHERE WALK IN COOLER IS LOCATED. FOUND UNNECESSARY CRATES AND EQUIPMENT STORED IN SAID AREA. PREMISES MUST BE FREE OF UNNECESSARY ITEMS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ORGANIZE AND MAINTAIN. CLUTTER PROMOTES PEST HARBORAGE
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: FOUND MULTIPLE FOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES EXPIRED. INSTRUCTED TO UPDATE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
3
58
Mar 21, 2019
Routine
6 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING DOCUMENTATION ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING SYSTEM AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDSINK IN BAR AREA NOT STOCKED WITH HAND SOAP. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT HAND SOAP MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HANDSINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SUPPLIES NOR PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE SUPPLIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLEAN UP POLICY TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWEL AT THE HANDSINK IN THE BAR AREA. INFORMED PERSON IN CHARGE THAT PAPER TOWELS MUST BE AVAILABLE AT HAND SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE CITATION.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOODS 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
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU WITHOUT A REMINDER AND DISCLOSURE ON THE MENU FOR RAW OR UNCOOKED ANIMAL-BASED FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHES IN THE PREP AREA STORED ON PREP SURFACES. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SILVERWARE AND GLASSWARE BEING PRESET ON DINING TABLES WITHOUT PROTECTION FROM POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO NOT PRESET DINING TABLES OR SET UPON CUSTOMER ARRIVAL OR INVERT GLASSWARE AND COVER THE MOUTH PORTION OF THE SILVERWARE AND INVERT PLATES IN THE BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK 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
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAK FROM THE CEILING IN THE PREP AREA NEAR THE SPICE RACK. NO FOOD IS AFFECTED BY THE LEAK. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO REPAIR LEAK AND SANITIZE THE AREA.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS WITH MISSING/DETACHED FROM THE WALL BASEBOARD COVING IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN THE BASEBOARD COVING AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
41
Jan 30, 2018
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 9, 2018
Complaint
12 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Water source: safe, hot & cold under city pressure
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COLD RUNNING WATER AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COLD RUNNING WATER AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED BEHIND THE BAR. OBSERVED 2 OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINKS, LOCATED AT THE BAR AND IN THE FOOD PREP AREA, NOT MAINTAINING 110F. TEMPERATURE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE FOOD PREP AREA WAS AT 78.3F AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION AND 84F AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED BEHIND THE BAR. OBSERVED UTILITY SINK ONLY REACHING 89F DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN HOT WATER TEMPERATURE AT AT LEAST 110F AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
9
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WOMEN'S EMPLOYEE/CUSTOMER WASHROOMS WASH BOWLS HOT WATER TURNED OFF AT THE BOTTOM DUE TO THE FACT THAT THE WASH BOWL FAUCET (RIGHT SIDE) IS STRIPPED AND CONTINUOUSLY RUNNING WHEN HOT WATER KNOB IS TURNED ON AT THE BOTTOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SO THAT HOT WATER IS NOT CONTINUOUSLY RUNNING AND RIGHT SIDE WASH BOWL IS ABLE TO MAINTAIN A PROPER HAND WASHING TEMPERATURE OF 85F OR ABOVE AT ALL TIMES. EMPLOYEE TURNED ON LEFT SIDE WASH BOWL HOT WATER DURING THE INSPECTION. OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND SINK LOCATED BY THE FACILITY OFFICE NOT MAINTAINING 85F, THE TEMPERATURE OF SAID HAND SINK WAS 65F AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SO THAT EXPOSED HAND SINK MAINTAINS A PROPER HAND WASHING TEMPERATURE OF 85F AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
11
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER CERTIFICATE ON SITE NOR POSTED. INSTRUCTED TO POST A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER'S CERTIFICATE AND HAVE POSTED AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE FINAL RINSE GAUGE NOT READING THE PROPER FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE, FINAL RINSE GAUGE READING 124F AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION. INSPECTOR VERIFIED FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF 180F BY USING HIGH TEMPERATURE TEST STRIPS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR GAUGE SO THAT IT READS THE ADEQUATE FINAL RINSE TEMPERATURE OF THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
24
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2064903 DATED 6/23/17; 38 - OBSERVED NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE FRONT BAR. MUST INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE FRONT BAR. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (BEEF, CHICKEN) OUT OF THE ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING PRODUCT NAME AND DATE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LABEL AND MAINTAIN.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GLASSWARE AND UNCOVERED SILVERWARE BEING PRE-SET ON THE CUSTOMER TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO NOT PRE-SET GLASSWARE AND SILVERWARE OR SET UPON GUEST ARRIVAL OR PRE-SET TABLES BY INVERTING GLASSWARE AND COVERING ALL SILVERWARE AND MAINTAIN.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD BEING RE-USED AS A SHELF LINER FOR DISH SHELVES AND SHELVES LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED RUST ON THE SHELVES LOCATED IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO NOT RE-USE CARDBOARD AND REPLACE RUSTY SHELVES IN THE WALK IN COOLER. OBSERVED FOOD PREP AREA EXPOSED HAND SINK AND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK NEEDS TO BE RE-CAULKED. INSTRUCTED ALL SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BLACK SUBSTANCE ON THE WALL LOCATED BY THE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS UNDER THE DISH MACHINE, 3 COMPARTMENT SINK, AND UNDER ALL COOKING AND REFRIGERATION EQUIPMENT WITH ACCUMULATED FOOD AND DIRT DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A HOLE IN THE WALL BY THE SPRAYER THAT IS ATTACHED TO THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR. OBSERVED WORN AND DIRTY CEILING TILES IN POOR REPAIR THRU OUT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE CEILING TILES AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED PEELING PAINT ON THE CEILING LOCATED DIRECTLY ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT AND MAINTAIN.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DISH RACKS BEING STORED DIRECTLY ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE HIGH TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE AND MAINTAIN.
41
55
Jun 23, 2017
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN, BEEF, CABBAGE ROLLS, ETC) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER AT ALL TIMES THAT POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND/OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOORS WITH MISSING/DETACHED FROM THE WALL BASEBOARD COVING IN THE KITCHEN, ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS AT FLOOR AND WALL JUNCTIONS IN THE KITCHEN AND ACCUMULATED GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS UNDER THE FRYERS IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN THE BASEBOARD COVING AND CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING VENTS IN THE KITCHEN WITH ACCUMULATED DUST. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CEILING VENTS.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE FRONT BAR. MUST INSTALL AN EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE FRONT BAR.
38
82
Feb 3, 2017
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SANITATION MANAGER ON THE PREMISES WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN MEATBALLS, SOUP, COOKED POTATOES, HUMMUS, ETC) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SANITATION MANAGER AT ALL TIMES POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNLABELED FOOD INSIDE OF THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL FOOD.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SERVING UTENSILS IN BOWLS OF WATER. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL SERVING UTENSILS ON A CLEAN SURFACE.
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A GAP BETWEEN THE WALL AND FLOOR AT THE FLOOR-WALL JUNCTION AND ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS ON THE FLOOR BEHIND EQUIPMENT INSIDE OF THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE FLOOR WALL JUNCTION AND CLEAN THE FLOOR BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET BASE AND THE WASTE PIPE UNDER THE MIDDLE BASIN LEAKING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FOOD HANDLER WITH NO HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN A HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING HANDLED.
42
74
Apr 28, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: food debris noted along wall base in prep area, instructed to clean and maintain.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: damaged section of wall base in front prep area, instructed to repair.
35
90
Sep 18, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR RISING, CREATING A LARGE GAP WHERE DEBRIS IS ACCUMULATING AT THE COLUMN ACROSS FROM THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS.
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR-WALL JUNCTURE BEHIND THE COOKLINE WITH ACCUMULATED DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOORS.
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TRAYS OF FOOD STORED ON THE FLOOR OF THE WALK IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL FOOD 6 INCHES ABOVE THE FLOOR TO ALLOW FOR PROPER CLEANING OF THE FLOOR.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EXPOSED HAND SINK AT THE BAR. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AN EXPOSED HANDSINK AT THE BAR.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAK AT THE PLUMBING UNDER THE REAR PREP AREA 3 COMPARTMENT SINK MIDDLE BASIN. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE DRAIN PLUGS NOT FUNCTIONING PROPERLY AT THE REAR PREP AREA 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE DRAIN PLUGS.
38
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WITH NO PROOF OF STATE APPROVED FOOD HANDLER EDUCATION. PROVIDE PROOF OF STATE APPROVED FOOD HANDLER EDUCATION FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS.
45
70
Aug 19, 2014
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN WALK-IN COOLER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
95
Aug 14, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: NO RUNNING HOT WATER AT EMPLOYEES TOILET HAND SINK FAUCET, ONLY COLD WATER LINE IS RUNNING. INSTRUCTED MGR TO PROVIDE HOT AND COLD WATER. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED, 7-38-030.
11
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #1092749 DATED 12-16-13 FOR VIOLATION #(34)FLOOR IN POOR REPAIR WITH BROKEN TILE IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA AND DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REPLACE. INSTRUCTED MGR TO CORRECT VIOLATION WITHIN GIVEN TIME FRAME. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED, 7-42-90.
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK-FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED, INSTRUCTED TO LABEL.
30
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN WALK-IN COOLER, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
82
Dec 16, 2013
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL AND DATE ALL COOKED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE PREP COOLERS AND WALK-IN COOLER. MUST LABEL ALL BULK FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS IN REAR PREP AREA.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVING INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND REAR FOOD STORAGE SHELVING. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR IN POOR REPAIR WITH BROKEN TILE IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA AND DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REPLACE
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES AND INTO CEILING IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA AND DISHWASHING AREA. MUST REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS FROM CEILING IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREA. PEELING WALL BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAIT.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS IN REAR DISWASHING AREA MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN VENTILATION FAN IN FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REMOVE DUST AND DIRT. LEAKY FAUCET HANDLE AT 3-COMPRTMENT SINK MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: SCOOPS STORED ON TOP OF ICE MACHINE. MUST PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOPS IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
43
70
Jan 10, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: DURING INSPECTION OBSERVED A DEEP STAINLESS STEEL PAN HOLDING 10LBS OF CHICKEN CROQUETS AT 79.1F AN 58.6F AND 62.1F RESPECTIVELY. ALSO FOUND ANOTH PAN HOLDING 10 LBS OF BAKED PUMKIN AND ONION PIROSHKY AT 58.9F AND 49.7 RESPECTIVELY AT A 2DR REFRIGERATOR IN THE KITCHEN. UNIT MAINTAINING A TEMP OF 37.4F. ALL FOOD ITEMS WERE VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURED BY MANAGEMENT.CRITICAL CITATION 7-38-005(A).
3
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL SINGLE SERVICE ITEMS (I.E. FORKS, SPOONS AND KNIVES) AT DINING ROOM TABLES TO BE PROTECTED UNTIL USE AT ALL TIMES.DURING INSPECTION OBSERVED TABLES PRE-SET WITH KNIVES, SPOONS AND FORKS NOT COVERED. THESE ITEMS MUST BE COVERED WITH THE HANDLES EXPOSED OR CUSTOMERS MUST BE PROVIDED NEW SILVERWARE ONCE THEY ARE SEATED.
31
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST TIGHTEN FAUCET BASE AND FAUCET HANDLES AT BAR 3COMP SINK TO PREVENT LEAKS.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ALL UNUSED CHAIRS IN THE DRY GOODS STORAGE ROOM AT THE BASEMENT OR ELEVATE ITEMS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
41
82
Apr 27, 2012
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS THAT ARE BEING STORED IN THE WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZER AND REACH IN COOLERS THAT HAVE BEEN PREPARED, REMOVED FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING, REPACKAGED, ETC.
30
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST POST CONSUMER ADVISORY SIGN IN PLAIN VIEW OF CUSTOMERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN STORAGE RACKS IN WALK-IN COOLER/FREEZER AND REACH IN COOLERS-REMOVE RUST AND FOOD PARTICLES. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE CAN OPENER.
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
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST ELEVATE ALL FOOD ITEMS BEING STORED IN THE WALK IN COOLER ATLEAST 6" OFF THE FLOOR.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN POOR REPAIR BY/AROUND MOP SINK-HOLES NOTED. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. MUST REPLACE MISSING/DAMAGE WALLBASE BY COOLERS IN GRILL AND BAR AREA AND WHERE NEEDED.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING TO THE WALK IN COOLER.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR THE LEAKS AT THE BASE AND AT THE PIPE UNDER THE SANITIZING COMPARTMENT. MUST EITHER FIX ATTACHED STOPPER ON 3-COMP SINK (SANITIZING COMPARTMENT) OR REPLACE-PLASTIC BEING USED AS A STOPPER TO CONCEAL WATER.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST ELIMINATE CLUTTER AND ORGANIZE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA AND AREA BEHIND WALK IN COOLER/FREEZER.
41
64
Aug 30, 2011
Tag Removal
No violations found.
100
Aug 23, 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. HEAVY DUST BUILD-UP NOTED ON VENTILATION HOOD INTERIOR SURFACES AND FAN COVERS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
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. WALL BASE COVERING ARE LOOSE CREATING CREVICES AND FOOD DEBRIS BEING TRAPPED BETWEEN WALL AND COVERINGS, FRP WALL SHEET NOT MOUNTED PROPERLY BEHIND 3 COMP SINK, MISSING WALL BASE COVERINGS AT BAR AREA
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. 3 COMP SINK STOPPERS NOT HOLDING WATER, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE.
38
86
Aug 12, 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 RUBBER GASKETS AT PREP COOLER DOORS, INSTRUCTED MGR TO REPLACE.
32
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. FAN COVER INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER WITH HEAVY DUST BUILD UP, INSTRUCTED MGR TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
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. WALL BEHIND 3COMP SINK IN POOR REPAIR, PANEL IS COMING OUT, ALSO WALL NEXT TO PREP TABLE DAMAGED, EXPOSED DRY WALL, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
35
86

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Russian Tea Time last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Russian Tea Time on file is from Mar 30, 2026. The public record contains 26 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Russian Tea Time?

Across the inspection record, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been cited seven times, more than any other issue at Russian Tea Time.

Has Russian Tea Time's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Russian Tea Time have averaged around two violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Russian Tea Time 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 Russian Tea Time inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Russian Tea Time is inspected around two times per year on average.