Sweet Maple Cafe
Last inspected: Jan 29, 2025
90
Score
Sweet Maple Cafe has been inspected 21 times since 2010. The most recent visit was on Jan 29, 2025. Diners can read the low risk label as a sign that recent inspections have gone well.
Performance has remained roughly level over recent inspections, averaging near three violations each time.
When inspectors have written things up, “proper cooling methods used” has been the most frequent reason, cited nine times.
That puts the facility ahead of the local pack: the average Chicago restaurant scores 81. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 29, 2025
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING HANDWASH SIGNAGE AT COFFEE BAR HANDWASH SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLUTTER AND UNUSED EQUIPMENT STORED ON FLOOR IN REAR STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
55
90
Jan 11, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS FLOOR MATS IN DISHWASH AND REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISHWASHING, AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS.
55
90
Jan 4, 2023
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE CONTAINERS OF BULK FOOD (SUGAR, FLOUR, SALT, ETC.) WITHOUT LABELS. MUST LABEL FOODS WITH COMMON NAMES AND MAINTAIN.
37
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A 1/2 INCH GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE SIDE DOOR ADJACENT TO THE BUSSER STATION. MUST SEAL GAP AT BOTTOM OF DOOR TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND A CARDBOARD LINER INSIDE THE 2-DOOR TRUE FREEZER. MUST REMOVE CARDBOARD AND PROVIDE SURFACES THAT ARE SMOOTH, NON-ABSORBENT, AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND A BUILD-UP OF OLD FOOD, DIRTY SILVERWARE, AND OTHER DEBRIS ON THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE COFFEE PREP COUNTER. MUST CLEAN AREA AND MAINTAIN.
55
82
Feb 16, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-204.12-OBSERVED NO VISIBLE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE ON MOP SINK FAUCET. MUST PROVIDE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12-OBSERVED DUST ACCUMLATION ON VENT IN THE MEN AND WOMEN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
90
Feb 3, 2022
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM LAST INSPECTION ON 7/30/2020, REPORT #2385524. #58- TWO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER DID NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING; MUST OBTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: Observed no Consumer Advisory for raw or undercooked foods. Instructed to identify (Disclosure) such foods by asterisking them to a foot note that states: "Items can be served raw or undercooked or contain undercooked ingredients" and add a statement (Reminder) that says: "Consuming raw or undercooked animal products may increase your risk of food borne illness, especially if you have medical conditions". PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005.
25
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VISIBLE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE ON MOP SINK FAUCET. MUST PROVIDE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST ACCUMLATION ON VENT IN THE MEN AND WOMEN WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
Jul 30, 2020
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 ISSUED.
3
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: FOUND A CONSUMER ADVISORY SIGN POSTED ON PREMISES. NO DISCLOSURE OR REMINDER STATEMENT FOUND ON THE PRINTED MENU AS REQUIRED FOR FOODS THAT MAY BE OFFERED UNDERCOOKED (EGGS); MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
25
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE BOTTOM OF THE FRYER TO REMOVE GREASE OBSERVED.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ONE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER DID NOT HAVE THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING; MUST OBTAIN.
58
74
Jan 25, 2019
Reinspection
2 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD AT FRONT COFFEE BAR MUST BE SEALED. WOOD AT FRONT BUS STATION MUST BE REPAIRED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS DARK IN COLOR OR WITH DEEP CUTS MUST BE REPLACED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF ALL REACH IN COOLERS TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MEAT SLICER IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW OBSERVED ON ICE MACHINE OR ESPRESSO COFFEE MACHINE. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGH OUT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIOMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF GROUTING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: LIGHT ABOVE BAKERY OVEN IN NEED OF SHIELDS. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN
57
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDSINK OR HANDSINK NEAR BY AT FRONT COFFEE STATION WHERE ESPRESSO COFFEE MACHINE IS AND COFFEE DRINKS ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL HANDSINK OR REMOVE COFFEE STATION.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT AND SIDE DOORS NOT TIGHT FITTING. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO MAINTAIN TIGHT FITTING AT ALL TIMES.
38
47
Jan 15, 2019
Routine
3 critical violations. 7 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 21 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FRONT REACH IN COOLER UNABLE TO MAINTAIN TEMPERATURE. INTERNAL AIR TEMPERATURE 60.1 DEGREES. COOLER TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION. UNIT MAY NOT BE USED UNTIL IT MAINTAINS PROPER TEMPERATURE AND REINSPECTED BY CDPH. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
33
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PUT ON GLOVES TO PERFORM A FOOD PREPARATION TASK WITHOUT WASHING HIS HANDS. INSTRUCTED EMPLOYEE TO WASH HANDS PRIOR TO GLOVE USE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED
8
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS IN A REACH PREP COOLER AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. HAM SLICES 47 DEGREES, CUT TOMATOES 52 DEGREES, COOK PROK SAUSAGE 53 DEGREES, EGG MIXTURE 53 DEGREES....ALL PRODUCTS WERE DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. APPROXIMATE VALUE OF PRODUCT $300.00 50LBS PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 NO CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES FOR VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A CLEAN-UP PROCEDURE AND SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WASHING HANDS IN A 1 COMPARTMENT PREP SINK NOT IN THE DESIGNATED HANDSINK. INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS IN HANDSINK ONLY AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED
8
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS TO PROPERLY DRY MY HANDS TO TAKE TEMPERATURES IN ALL REACH IN COOLERS IN REAR PREP AREA. EMPLOYEE OBTAINED PAPER TOWELS PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A RUST LIKE SUBSTANCE ON THE INTERIOR PANEL AND A SLIMY SUBSTANCE LIKELY TO CONTAMINATE ICE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION AT THE INTERIOR AREA WHERE ICE IS FORMED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREA AND MAINTAIN. STOP ALL ICE UNTIL MACHINE IS CLEANED AND SANITIZED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 2 STEM THERMOMETERS ON SITE BOTH WHICH ARE IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER GOOD WORKING STEM THERMOMETERS ARE NEEDED TO MEASURE ALL FOOD TEMPERTURES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RODENT DROPPING IN BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. 5-6 DROPPINGS NOTED. INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDSINK OR HANDSINK NEAR BY AT FRONT COFFEE STATION WHERE ESPRESSO COFFEE MACHINE IS AND COFFEE DRINKS ARE PREPARED. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL HANDSINK OR REMOVE COFFEE STATION.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT AND SIDE DOORS NOT TIGHT FITTING. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO MAINTAIN TIGHT FITTING AT ALL TIMES.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: RAW WOOD AT FRONT COFFEE BAR MUST BE SEALED. WOOD AT FRONT BUS STATION MUST BE REPAIRED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: ALL CUTTING BOARDS DARK IN COLOR OR WITH DEEP CUTS MUST BE REPLACED. CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP OF FOOD DEBRIS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF ALL REACH IN COOLERS TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MEAT SLICER IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN CLEAN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW OBSERVED ON ICE MACHINE OR ESPRESSO COFFEE MACHINE. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGH OUT FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIOMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF GROUTING. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: LIGHT ABOVE BAKERY OVEN IN NEED OF SHIELDS. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES PROVIDED AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
57
18
Jun 11, 2018
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL ALL FOOD CONTAINERS (OATS, FLOUR, ETC.) WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BROKEN DOOR GASKET ON 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE & DEBRIS ACCUMULATION FROM WHEEL CASTERS ON HOT FOOD LINE, AND ON LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES IN FRONT & REA PREP AREAS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS FROM FLOORS THROUGHOUT FRONT & REAR PREP, AND BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN DUST ACCUMULATION FROM CEILING VENT IN WOMENS TOILET ROOM, AND REPLACE/REPAIR STAINED CEILING TILE ABOVE WAIT STATION.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT IN REAR PREP AREA.
36
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE RAGS IN SANITIZER SOLUTION IN BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION.
39
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE BOXES AND CRATES STORED OUTSIDE THE REAR EXIT DOOR. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
67
Aug 1, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ATTACHED REAR GARAGE AREA NOT CLEAN, CLUTTERED AND NOT MAINTAINED, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES,
41
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS AND WHEELS OF COOKING EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN, GREASE ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NOT CLEAN KITCHEN, GARAGE AREA AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DAILY,
34
86
Mar 2, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: SINGLE SERVE CUPS STORED IMPROPERLY AT CUP DISPENSING STATION IN KITCHEN AREA, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LIDS TO PROPERLY STORE CUPS,
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NOT CLEAN KITCHEN, GARAGE AREA AND BASEMENT STORAGE AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DAILY,
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: CRACKED LIGHT SHIELDS IN KITCHEN AREA, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE,
36
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: ATTACHED REAR GARAGE AREA NOT CLEAN, CLUTTERED AND NOT MAINTAINED, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES,
41
82
Nov 2, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MULTI SERVICE UTENSILS ON DINING TABLES IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTD TO WRAP IN NAPKINS OR RE SET PLACE SETTINGS AS CUSTOMERS ARE SEATED.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR FRAME OF ICE MACHINE DOOR, EXTERIOR OF GREASE INTERCEPTOR IN , AND LEGS AND BOTTOM SHELF OF PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP AREA WITH RUST ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO REMOVE RUSTY SURFACES. EXTERIOR TOP AND SIDES OF DISHMACHINE WITH EXCESSIVE CALCIUM/LIME ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO DE LIME AND MAINTAIN. TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKET AT UPRIGHT COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF ALL COOLERS/FREEZERS NOT CLEAN, DEBRIS AND SOILED CARDBOARD. INSTD TO REMOVE CARDBOARD, CLENA AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALL BEHIND AND UNDER DISHMACHINE AREA NOT CLEAN, EXCESSIVE BLACK SUBSTANCE ACCUMULATED ON WALL. INSTD TO REMOVE BLACK SUBSTANCE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SURFACE.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTD TO STORE PROPERLY IN SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
78
Feb 24, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS AND WHEELS OF COOKING EQUIPMENT NOT CLEAN, GREASE ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: SMALL HOLES NOTED IN WALLS IN PREP AREA. SEAL SMALL HOLES.
35
90
Jul 23, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: REFRIGERATED FOOD STORAGE FACILITIES AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. NOTED REACH IN COOLER AT 61 DEGREES F. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN COOLER AT 40 DEGREES F AND BELOW. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS NOTED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. NOTED 2LBS OF CORNED BEEF AT 64 DEGREES F, 1LB OF COOKED POTATOES AT 59 DEGREES F, 3LBS OF SLICED MELON AT 52 DEGREES F, AND 2LBS OF PANCAKE BATTER AT 52 DEGREES F(CONTAINS MILK). MUST MAINTAIN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT 40 DEGREES F AND BELOW OR 140 DEGREES F AND ABOVE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS AND PREPARED FOODS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT AND PREP SURFACES. DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR SURFACES OF THE ICE MACHINE
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN PREP AND DISH WASHING AREAS.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAK AT THE REAR ONE COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE ALL WASH CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
43
70
Jul 31, 2014
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT AND COOLERS. MUST ALSO CLEAN AND SANITIZE PREP TABLES AND CUTTING BOARDS. MUST REMOVE HEAVY GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER COOKING EUIPMENT,ALONG WALLS AND IN CORNERS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. MUST REMOVE FOOD SPILLS AND GREASE.
35
86
Jun 24, 2014
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: REFRIGERATED FOOD STORAGE FACILITIES AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. NOTED PREP COOLER AT 63.4 DEGREES F. MUST REPAIR COOLER SO THAT IT MAINTAINS 40 DEGREES F AND BELOW. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 52.1-63.1 DEGREES F. NOTED APPROXIMATELY 25LBS OF HAM,SALSA,SAUSAGE,PANCAKE BATTER MADE WITH MILK AND EGGS,CHEESE,COOKED POTATOES AND SLICED TOMATOES. MUST MAINTAIN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS COLD FOODS AT 40 DEGREES F AND BELOW. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS. (SUGAR,SALT,FLOUR)
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST SEAL SMALL OPENINGS ALONG THE BOTTOMS OF THE GARAGE STORAGE OVERHEAD DOOR, THE DOOR LEADING TO THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA AND THE REAR EXIT DOOR FROM THE PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT AND COOLERS. MUST ALSO CLEAN AND SANITIZE PREP TABLES AND CUTTING BOARDS. MUST REMOVE HEAVY GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER COOKING EUIPMENT,ALONG WALLS AND IN CORNERS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. MUST REMOVE FOOD SPILLS AND GREASE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED CLEAR WATER LEAKING INTO REAR HAND SINK FROM BROKEN WASTE LINE AT AIR CONDITIONING UNIT. MUST REPAIR BROKEN WASTE LINE ABOVE REAR EXPOSED HAND SINK. MUST PROPERLY EXTEND LINE TO A FLOOR DRAIN AND LINE MAY NOT DRAIN INTO HAND SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE ADDITIONAL SHELVING TO STORE BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
41
64
Mar 6, 2013
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN INTERIOR OF STORAGE AND PREP COOLERS TO REMOVE SPILLS AND DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN KITCHEN IN POOR REPAIR(CRACK TILES). FLOORS MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. ALSO FLOORS IN PREP AREAS NEED CLEANING ALONG WALL BASE AND IN CORNERS TO REMOVE DEBRIS
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED 1 COMP SINK WITH A LEAK AT FAUCET AT REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS WHEN NOT IN USE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
82
Mar 16, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
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 RECAULK FLOOR AT KITCHEN, FRONT SERVICE AREA AND BATHROOMS AS TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. MUST ALSO CLEAN ALL CORNERS AT KITCHEN TO REMOVE GREASE BUILD-UP.MUST ALSO ELEVATE THRESHOLD AT 1ST ENTRANCE DOOR AS WELL AS 2ND REAR EXIT SCREENDOOR.
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.MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS NEXT TO AND UNDER EXPOSED HANDSINK AT KITCHEN AND UNDER DISH MACHINE AREA.
35
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.MUST DETAIL CLEAN EXHAUST HOOD FILTERS AT MAIN KITCHEN.
38
86
Jul 25, 2011
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: THE CLEAN DISH SHELF IS DIRTY; WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE THE DISH RACK.
31
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: THE FLOOR AND BASEBOARD ALONG THE NORTH KITCHEN WALL AND CLOSED OFF DOORWAY ARE GREASY, CLEAN IN DETAIL. THE FLOORS ARE WET UNDER THE COLD WATER PIPE IN THE BASEMENT. KEEP THE FLOORS CLEAN AND DRY AND INSULATE THE SWEATY PIPE. The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
90
Jun 25, 2010
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 18, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: The area outside of the establishment used for the storage of garbage shall be clean at all times and shall not constitute a nuisance. The dumpsters have torn doors and a 1 sq ft hole in the top. Repair the dumpster doors so they are pest proof/tight fitting.
19
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Minor violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority. The following violations were found on Sept 9, 2009. Report # 164277 and are out of compliance today. The meat slicer is above an unsanitary open ceiling access panel in the rear prep area. The meat slicer has dirty buildup in the corners and crevices and needs detailed daily cleaning. The convection oven filters are still missing and need to be installed.
29
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. Clean and maintain the floors and baseboards so they are smooth and sanitary from corner to corner and continue to remove dirty buildup from the corners and baseboards.
34
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous foods shall have calibrated metal stem thermometers, provided and conspicuous, for refrigerated and hot food units. Place an easy to read thermometer in the main hot line cooler.
40
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Sweet Maple Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Sweet Maple Cafe on file is from Jan 29, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Sweet Maple Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited nine times, more than any other issue at Sweet Maple Cafe.
Has Sweet Maple Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Sweet Maple Cafe have averaged around three violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Sweet Maple Cafe 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 Sweet Maple Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Sweet Maple Cafe is inspected roughly once per year on average.
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