Spoko/Ella's BBQ
Last inspected: May 7, 2025
70
Score
Spoko/Ella's BBQ has been inspected 11 times since 2019. Spoko/Ella's BBQ was last inspected on May 7, 2025. Medium risk typically reflects a handful of issues that inspectors wrote up but didn't deem critical.
Recent inspections have found fewer violations than earlier ones, averaging around nine violations lately and about 12 violations before that.
The pattern that stands out is “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, which has been cited 28 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.
11
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
7
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 7, 2025
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19--OBSERVED HEAVILY RUSTED SHELVES IN THE WALK IN COOLER ON THE EAST SIDE AND OBSERVED HEAVILY RUSTED PREP TABLES ON THE WEST WALL IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN OR REPLACE ALL RUSTED EQUIPMENT AND PROVIDE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11--OBSERVED TORN/MISSING GASKET ON THE RIGHT HAND DOOR OF TWO DOOR COOLER IN THE MAIN PREP LINE NEXT TO OVENS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE TORN GASKETS AND REPAIR/REPLACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11-- OBSERVED TWO WOODEN PANEL WALLS SURROUNDING THE FRONT BAR AREA AT ENTRANCE TO BE UNFINISHED AND NOT PAINTED. OBSERVED WALL PANNELS AND PIECES OF WOOD IN THE REAR PREP AREA IN THE CORNER ACROSS FROM THE EXHAUST HOOD. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO FINISH WALLS IN PREP AREAS AND PROVIDE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11-OBSERVED HOLE IN DAMAGED WALL BEHIND 1 COMPARTMENT SPRAY SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE WALL AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.18--OBSERVED GAPS PRESENT AROUND VENTS IN CUSTOMER BATHROOM, EXPOSING WALL CAVITY BEHIND. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AROUND BOTH VENTS AND PROVIDE ENCLOSED WALL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114--OBSERVED HEAVY CLUTTER, ITEMS STORED ON TOP OF EACH OTHER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET LOCATED IN THE EMPLOYEE BATHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS TO OPERATION OF FACILITY.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-303.11--OBSERVED ONE LIGHT NOT PRESENT AND NOT WORKING IN THE EXHAUST HOOD IN THE MAIN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE AND MAINTAIN NOT FUNCTIONAL LIGHT IN GOOD REPAIR.
56
70
Apr 25, 2025
Routine
1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EASILY ACCESSIBLE OR CONVENIENT HAND SINKS AVAILABLE FOR USE BY EMPLOYEES IN THE FRONT BAR PREP AREA/3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN FRONT PREP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO INSTALL ADDITIONAL HAND WASHING SINK WITH APPROPRIATELY PLUMBED HOT AND COLD WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE, SOAP, AND PAPER TOWELS AT FRONT BAR/FRONT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AREA. HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE CONVIENIENTLY LOCATED AND ACCESSIBLE, AND TO BE USED SOLEY FOR HAND WASHING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION, 7-38-030(c). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND SIGN AVAILABLE AT THE CUSTOMER BATHROOM HAND SINK AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A HAND WASHING SIGN INSTRUCTING EMPLOYEES TO WASH HANDS.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVILY RUSTED SHELVES IN THE WALK IN COOLER ON THE EAST SIDE AND OBSERVED HEAVILY RUSTED PREP TABLES ON THE WEST WALL IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN OR REPLACE ALL RUSTED EQUIPMENT AND PROVIDE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN/MISSING GASKET ON THE RIGHT HAND DOOR OF TWO DOOR COOLER IN THE MAIN PREP LINE NEXT TO OVENS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE TORN GASKETS AND REPAIR/REPLACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GAPS PRESENT AROUND VENTS IN CUSTOMER BATHROOM, EXPOSING WALL CAVITY BEHIND. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AROUND BOTH VENTS AND PROVIDE ENCLOSED WALL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY CLUTTER, ITEMS STORED ON TOP OF EACH OTHER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET LOCATED IN THE EMPLOYEE BATHROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS TO OPERATION OF FACILITY.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TWO WOODEN PANEL WALLS SURROUNDING THE FRONT BAR AREA AT ENTRANCE TO BE UNFINISHED AND NOT PAINTED. OBSERVED WALL PANNELS AND PIECES OF WOOD IN THE REAR PREP AREA IN THE CORNER ACROSS FROM THE EXHAUST HOOD. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO FINISH WALLS IN PREP AREAS AND PROVIDE A SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLE IN DAMAGED WALL BEHIND 1 COMPARTMENT SPRAY SINK IN FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE WALL AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE LIGHT NOT PRESENT AND NOT WORKING IN THE EXHAUST HOOD IN THE MAIN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE AND MAINTAIN NOT FUNCTIONAL LIGHT IN GOOD REPAIR.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP ON THE EXHAUST HOOD FILTERS IN THE MAIN PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES FOR ONE FOOD HANDLING EMPLOYEE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE ALL EMPLOYEES COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN, AND ALL NEW EMPLOYEES COMPLETE WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE.
57
55
May 20, 2024
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-303.11/ OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN THE UNISEX CUSTOMER'S WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE ASEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14/OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTER ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 6-301.14/ OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN POSTED NEAR HAND WASHING SINK IN THE UNISEX CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: 2-402.11/OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SEREVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 4-901.12/OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF FOOD PREPARTION TEABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-201.11/OBSERVED RUSTY BOTTOM OF FOOD PREPARATION TABLES LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.11/OBSERVED OPENINGS INTO WALL BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT. MUST SEAL AND REPAIR OPENINGS. MUST MAINTAIN FACILITY IN A GOOD REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.17/ MUST REPLACE BURN OUT LIGHT BULB IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.17/OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST BUILD UP ON THE UNISEX CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED DUST BUILD-UP ON VENTILATION VENTS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
64
May 10, 2024
Complaint
1 major violation. 13 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY NOT MEETING EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS. THREE COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN REAR DISHWASHING AREA IN DISREPAIR NOT DRAINING PROPERLY (SLOW DRAINING) OBSERVED STANDING WATER DIRT WATER RELEASED FROM ONE COMPARTMENT SINK BACKUP INSIDE ANOTHER COMPARTMENT (BASIN) WHEN RELEASED INSIDE SINK. INFORMED MANAGER TO OF RREQUIREMENTS AND MUST REPAIR SINK AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-025 CITATION ISSUED.
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN POSTED NEAR HAND WASHING SINK IN THE UNISEX CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES PREPARING AND SERVING FOOD WITHOUT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS BEING PREPARED AND SEREVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF FOOD PREPARTION TEABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTY BOTTOM OF FOOD PREPARATION TABLES LOCATED IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAINT OR REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BROKEN TOILET COVER IN THE UNISEX CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SELF CLOSING DEVICE AT THE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM DOOR AND MUST MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DUST BUILD UP ON THE UNISEX CUSTOMERS WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. OBSERVED DUST BUILD-UP ON VENTILATION VENTS IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPENINGS INTO WALL BEHIND 3-COMPARTMENT. MUST SEAL AND REPAIR OPENINGS. MUST MAINTAIN FACILITY IN A GOOD REPAIR.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURN OUT LIGHT BULB IN REAR FOOD PREPARATION AREA ABOVE FOOD STORAGE SHELVING.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTER ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INADEQUATE LIGHTING IN THE UNISEX CUSTOMER'S WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE ASEQUATE LIGHTING AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUT OBTAIN FOOD HANDLERS TRAINING CERTIFICATES AND MAINTAIN.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CLASS. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
58
47
Jul 5, 2023
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: 4-903.11(A;C)--- ALL STORED ITEMS IN ALL CLOSETS (WASHROOM & HVAC) AND UNDER METAL RACK STORAGE SHELVING THROUGHOUT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11--- TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKETS ON THE COOKS LINE TWO DOOR COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)-- MUST NOT USE PAPER TOWELS AS LINERS INSIDE COOLERS. 4-602.13--- METAL RACK CART IN REAR STORAGE AREA WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AN ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: : 4-601.11(B)--- EXCESSIVE ICE BUILD UP ON THE DOOR ENTRANCE OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER.----EXCESSIVE RUST AND ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS ON THE TABLE TOP CAN OPENER. MUST REMOVE ALL AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11--- NOTED A RAW BRICK WALL BEHIND THE CUSTOMER TOILET AND WASHBOWL. MUST SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. NO OPEN CRACKS, CREVICES, OPENINGS OR HOLES.----NOTED HOLES IN WALL AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK, AROUND THE WALL MOUNTED FRY SLICER AND AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL, REMOVE ALL BLACK SUBSTANCE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : 6-201.17--- EXCESSIVE DUST ON VENT COVER IN THE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
Jun 21, 2023
Routine
3 major violations. 14 minor violations.
View 17 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: INTERIOR UPPER WATER RESERVOIR OF THE ICE MACHINE WHERE ICE FOR CONSUMPTION IS BEING MADE NOTED WITH BLACK AND BROWN SLIME SUBSTANCE DRIPPING DOWN INTO THE ICE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL SLIME, SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Person in charge present, demonstrates knowledge, and performs duties
Inspector notes: PERSON IN CHARGE DURING THE INSPECTION DOES NOT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
1
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. SUCH A PERSON MUST BE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN SUCH FOODS ARE PREPARED/SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREAS MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: PREP AREA WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USE.
41
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS IN ALL CLOSETS (WASHROOM & HVAC) AND UNDER METAL RACK STORAGE SHELVING THROUGHOUT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKETS ON THE COOKS LINE TWO DOOR COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC WRAP AS A MEANS OR REPAIR OR COVER FOR THE BOX ICE CREAM FREEZER.----MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AND TAPE AS A SHIELD FOR TO GO CONTAINER SHELVING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CLOTH TOWELS AS LINER FOR SHELVING. ALL SHELVING MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: METAL RACK CART IN REAR STORAGE AREA WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AN ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PAPER TOWELS AS LINERS INSIDE COOLERS.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE ICE BUILD UP ON THE DOOR ENTRANCE OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER.----DUST BUILD-UP ON THE FANS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.----EXCESSIVE RUST AND ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS ON THE TABLE TOP CAN OPENER. MUST REMOVE ALL AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: WATER LEAKING FROM OPENING IN THE FLOOR DRAIN GUARD UNDER THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK AND POOLING ON THE KITCHEN FLOOR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN DRY FLOORS.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE DUST ON VENT COVER IN THE EMPLOYEES WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: UNUSED GRILL, POTS, PANS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE UNDER THE REAR OUTDOOR STAIRWELL TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A RAW BRICK WALL BEHIND THE CUSTOMER TOILET AND WASHBOWL. MUST SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. NO OPEN CRACKS, CREVICES, OPENINGS OR HOLES.----NOTED HOLES IN WALL AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK, AROUND THE WALL MOUNTED FRY SLICER AND AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL, REMOVE ALL BLACK SUBSTANCE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
37
May 15, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 12 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED APPROXIMATELY 100 LBS COOKED AND PREPARED TCS FOODS SUCH AS COOKED BEEF, COOKED CHICKEN FROM THE PREVIOUS DAY NOT DATE LABELED WITH ANY EXPIRATION OR PREPARATION DATES. OTHER FOODS SUCH AS COOKED GREENS WITHOUT EXPIRATION/USE BY DATES. INSTRUCTED ALL PREPARED TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE PROPERLY DATE LABELED WITH AND EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS LOCATED AT THE PREP AREA HAND WASHING SINK. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: ALL FOOD HANDLERS IN FOOD PREPARATION AREAS MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINTS.
40
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE BOWLS AS FOOD SCOOPS. MUST USE HANDLED UTENSILS.
43
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS IN ALL CLOSETS (WASHROOM & HVAC) AND UNDER METAL RACK STORAGE SHELVING THROUGHOUT MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
45
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC MILK OR SODA CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION INSIDE THE WALK-IN FREEZER. FLOORS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE FOR CLEANING AND MONITORING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PAPER TOWELS AS LINERS INSIDE COOLERS.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: METAL RACK CART IN REAR STORAGE AREA WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AN ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: UNUSED GRILL, POTS, PANS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE UNDER THE REAR OUTDOOR STAIRWELL TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED A RAW BRICK WALL BEHIND THE CUSTOMER TOILET AND WASHBOWL. MUST SEAL TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. NO OPEN CRACKS, CREVICES, OPENINGS OR HOLES.----MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS.----WALL VENT ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH EXCESSIVE DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.----NOTED HOLES IN WALL AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK AND AROUND THE WALL MOUNTED FRY SLICER. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR ALL, REMOVE ALL BLACK SUBSTANCE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SOILED MOP HEADS MUST BE STORED INVERTED AT THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEES MUST NOT STORE PERSONAL BELONGINGS IN THE FOOD PREP/CONTACT AREAS.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER. MUST PROVIDE.
58
45
Nov 10, 2021
Routine
5 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED NO SANITIZER TEST STRIP KIT ON SITE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A TEST STRIP KIT ON SITE AT ALL TIMES TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER . PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005
48
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO PAPER TOWELS AT HANDWASH SINK AT THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HANDWASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-030(C) CONSOLIDATED WITH THE ABOVE CITATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NOTED NO SOAP AT DISHWASHER HANDWASH SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HANDWASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-030(C)
10
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: NOTED ESTABLISHMENT SERVING UNDERCOOKED FOOD ITEMS (HAMBURGERS, EGGS) WITH NO CONSUMER ADVISORY, DISCLOSURE, OR REMINDERS TO THE CUSTOMERS. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CONSUMER ADVISORY ON THE MENU WITH A DISCLOSURE NOTICE AND REMINDER STATEMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION WAS ISSUED TODAY.
25
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: NOTED TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND REFRIGERATION UNITS NOT PROPERLY LABELED (ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER SAUCES AD BUCKETS ON SAUCES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER DATED 11/8 AND NO USED BY DATE). INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY LABEL ALL READY-TO-EAT FOOD ITEMS WITH PRODUCT NAME AND USED BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-005(A). CITATION ISSUED TODAY.
23
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: NOTED KNIVES STORED BETWEEN PREP TABLES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND STORE ALL KNIVES IN A KNIFE RACK OR CLEAN STORAGE RACK
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ICE BUILD-UP INSIDE THE CHEST FREEZER AT THE FRONT AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED USED LARGE POTS ON-SITE ON TOP OF THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR PROPER WASHING AND SANITIZING OF EQUIPMENT OR REMOVE SAID UTENSILS
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED LEAKING FAUCET AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WASHROOM ON-PREMISE WITH GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND NO LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASHROOMS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS BEHIND PREP SINK WITH BLACK STAINS AND HOLES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
43
Jun 12, 2020
Routine
2 critical violations. 4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Proper reheating procedures for hot holding
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED BRISKET BEING REHEATED IN A HOT HOLDING UNIT. FOOD WAS STORED ON TOP LID OF ANOTHER FOOD(PULLED PORK). MANAGER STATED THAT IS THE PROCEDURE OF REHEATING FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO REHEAT FOOD ON STOVE TOP TO 165F PRIOR TO STORE FOOD AT HOT HOLD UNIT. HOT HOLD UNIT IS TO HOLD FOOD AT 135F AND ABOVE NOT TO REHEAT FOOD. FOOD DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005.
19
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND COOKED BRISKET INSIDE THE HOT HOLD UNIT AT TEMP OF 51F TO 57.SF.HOT FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 135F AND ABOVE. FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED. POUNDS 2,VALUE $7. PRIORITY VIOLATION: 7-38-005
21
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWEL PROVIDED AT HANDWASHING SINK IN DISHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. MANAGER PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-030(C)
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO SOAP PROVIDE AT HANDWASHING SINK IN DISHROOM. UPON MY REQUEST MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-030(C)
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED CHICKEN AND BRISKETS STORED INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER, WITHOUT DISCARDING DATE. ALL PREPARED READY TO EAT TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 -
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST INDICATE ON MENU "COOK TO ORDER" PHRASE FOR EGGS,HAMBURGERS, ETC. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005,
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN PREP AREAS IN SANITIZER BUCKET BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN REFRIGERATION GASKETS ON WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPAIR/REPLACE TORN GASKETS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NO SHELVES PROVIDED INSIDE THE WALK-IN FREEZER,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SAID SHELVES AND ELEVATE FOOD 6" OFF THE FLOOR
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NOTED USED LARGE POTS ON SITE ON TOP THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A PROCEDURE FOR PROPER WASHING AND SANITIZING OF EQUIPMENT OR REMOVE SAID UTENSILS -
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM STOVE, GRILL, SLICER AND FRYER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: RUST ON LID OF EXTERIOR GREASE TRAP,SURFACE NOT EASILY CLEANABLE. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL.
52
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: LID IS REQUIRED AT RECEPTACLES INSIDE THE WASHROOMS
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: WALL BEHIND THE PREP TABLE BY THE MEAT SLICER NOT EASILY CLEANABLE,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL. REMOVE BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE ON WALL AROUND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
55
33
Oct 25, 2019
Reinspection
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ONSITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH FORM OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN REFRIGERATION GASKETS ON WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE ALL TORN GASKETS. ALSO, REPLACE BROKEN LID ON PREP COOLER BEHIND FROM SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM STOVE, GRILL, SLICER AND FRYER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET ON 3-COMP SINK, AND REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET ON EXPOSED HAND SINK ADJACENT TO 3-COMP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNFINISHED FLOOR COVERINGS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. INSTRUCTED THAT floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are SMOOTH and EASILY CLEANABLE. ALSO, DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS IN WALK IN COOLER/FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS (HOLES) IN CEILINGS AND WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES, ESPECIALLY THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
70
Oct 1, 2019
License
5 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ONSITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH FORM OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP SUPPLIES OR PROCEDURES ONSITE FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SUPPLIES AND POST PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON MENUS REGARDING RAW OR UNDER COOKED EGGS FOR BREAKFAST. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 5 LIVE ROACHES; WALL & FLOOR IN FURNACE ROOM, AND IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ROACHES, CLEAN AMD SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREAS, AND CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED THAT DUMPSTER LIDS MUST BE TIGHT FITTING. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(B) NO CITATION ISSUED.
54
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND TORN REFRIGERATION GASKETS ON WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE ALL TORN GASKETS. ALSO, REPLACE BROKEN LID ON PREP COOLER BEHIND FROM SERVICE COUNTER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN GREASE ACCUMULATION FROM STOVE, GRILL, SLICER AND FRYER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LEAKY FAUCET ON 3-COMP SINK, AND REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET ON EXPOSED HAND SINK ADJACENT TO 3-COMP SINK, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN CEILINGS AND WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES, ESPECIALLY THE PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNFINISHED FLOOR COVERINGS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. INSTRUCTED THAT floor coverings, walls, wall coverings, and ceilings shall be designed, constructed, and installed so they are SMOOTH and EASILY CLEANABLE. ALSO, DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS IN WALK IN COOLER/FREEZER. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT IN HOOD, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN GREASE AND DUST FROM HOOD AND FILTERS, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN CERTIFICATES ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE TRAINING AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
41
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Spoko/Ella's BBQ last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Spoko/Ella's BBQ on file is from May 7, 2025. The public record contains 11 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Spoko/Ella's BBQ?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 28 times, more than any other issue at Spoko/Ella's BBQ.
Has Spoko/Ella's BBQ's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Spoko/Ella's BBQ have averaged around nine violations per visit, down from roughly 12 earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Spoko/Ella's BBQ means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Spoko/Ella's BBQ inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Spoko/Ella's BBQ is inspected around two times per year on average.
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