Taco House
Last inspected: Feb 1, 2022
78
Score
Inspectors have visited Taco House 24 times, with records going back to 2010. The most recent visit was on Feb 1, 2022. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues. Public records show no inspections at Taco House since Feb 1, 2022, so this file may not reflect current conditions.
Recent inspections have found fewer violations than earlier ones, averaging around four violations lately and about six violations before that.
Looking across the full record, “proper cooling methods used” is the recurring theme, flagged 15 times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
24
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 1, 2022
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARD BOARD LINING SHELVINING IN FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREAS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE HARBORING OF INSECTS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DOOR ON DEEP FREEZER BADLY DAMAGED. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AS A WAY OF MAKING SURE TO KEEP FREEZING TEMPERATURES.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW DEVICE ON REAR UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SHELVING IN FRONT FOOD SERVICE AREA WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT, DUST AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF DUST ON THE HOOD VENTILATION FILTERS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION OF FOODS COOKED.
56
78
Jun 22, 2021
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED WATER STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
55
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW WATER PRESSURE IN EMPLOYEE RESTROOM. MUST INCREASE WATER PRESSURE FOR BETTER FLOW TO WASH HANDS.
51
90
Jul 29, 2020
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELS FOR BULK POWDER CREAM AND SUGAR STORAGE CONTAINER UNDERNEATH THE FOOD PREP TABLE. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME. OBSERVED FOOD STORED IN CONTAINERS IN ALL THE COOLERS AND FREEZER WITHOUT PROPER LABELING OF NAME. INSTRUCTED TO PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE A LABEL REFLECTING THE FOOD ITEM'S NAME WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVE FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
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
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF DEBRIS AND ICE BUILDUP INSIDE THE CHEST FREEZERR. MUST REMOVE EXCESS ICE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE TOLIET ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR FOOD PREP AREA AND THE LOBBY AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE THE STAINED CEILING TILES.
55
78
Jun 11, 2019
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED THE DEEP FREEZER DOOR IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPAIR THE DOOR/LID AND RUBBER GASKET FOR PROPER CLOSURE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE SELF CLOSING DEVICE ON THE WASHROOM DOOR NOT WORKING PROPERLY. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN THE REAR STORAGE ROOM AND IN THE KITCHEN TO REMOVE DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE. ALSO IN THE REAR AREA NOTED THE FLOOR TILES IN POOR REPAIR. MUST FIX WHERE EVERY NEED, MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED WATER STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN
55
82
Aug 10, 2018
Reinspection
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE ON THE PREMISES FOR CLEAN-UP OF VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A WRITTEN POLICY AND CLEAN-UP SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY WAS PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: SINGLE USE UTENSILS MUST BE STORED IN CONTAINERS WITH HANDLES UP TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BY HANDS.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE ON THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
70
Jul 31, 2018
License
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 45.5F INSIDE OF THE 2 DOOR PREP COOLER AND 50F INSIDE OF THE REFRIGERATOR. BOTH UNITS WERE USED TO STORE TCS FOODS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN BOTH COOLERS BELOW 41F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOODS. OBSERVED EGGS AT 46.2F, EGG ROLLS AT 45.9F, BEEF AT 49.1F, COOKED RICE AT 49.6F, AND SOUR CREAM AT 44.6F. MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED APPROXIMATELY 20# OF FOOD WORTH $80. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY WAS PROVIDED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3 LIVE COCKROACHES ON THE FLOOR NEXT TO THE CHEST FREEZER. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020A. CITATION ISSUED.
38
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN PROCEDURE ON THE PREMISES FOR CLEAN-UP OF VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A WRITTEN POLICY AND CLEAN-UP SUPPLIES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: SINGLE USE UTENSILS MUST BE STORED IN CONTAINERS WITH HANDLES UP TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION BY HANDS.
45
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE WALL BEHIND THE FREEZERS AND COOLERS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNSHIELDED LIGHT FIXTURES ABOVE THE GRILL AND ABOVE THE COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MUST SHIELD ALL LIGHT FIXTURES.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROOF OF TRAINING.
58
45
Apr 5, 2018
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATION #19 FROM REPORT #2151202 ON 3/29/18 NOT CORRECTED: 19 - OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF LITTER AND GARBAGE ON THE GROUND SURROUNDING THE GARBAGE AND GREASE DUMPSTERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-42-090.
14
95
Mar 29, 2018
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF LITTER AND GARBAGE ON THE GROUND SURROUNDING THE GARBAGE AND GREASE DUMPSTERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
19
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVES, AREA BELOW THE WOK STATION AND DEEP FRYERS.
33
90
Aug 24, 2017
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SIDES OF THE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE AND DEBRIS. ALSO CLEAN THE INTERIOR RUNNERS OF THE FRONT POP COOLER TO REMOVE DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING AROUND, BEHIND AND UNDER ALL HEAVY EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE GREASE AND DEBRIS.
34
90
Oct 20, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED SUCH AS ITALIAN BEEF,CHEESE SAUCE,AND TACOS,SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN BOTTOM COMPARTMENT OF DEEP FRYERS OF HEAVY GREASE BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN LIGHT SHIELD COVERS IN THE PREP AREA OD DUST BUILD-UP,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA
35
86
Jan 22, 2016
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN ALL COOKING EQUIPMWNT OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE PREP AREA
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THE REAR OF PREMISES,TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE THE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE IN THE PREP
43
82
Jan 13, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO CHEMICAL TEST KIT PROVIDED FOR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK TO TEST STRENGTH OF THE SANITIZER WHEN WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZING INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDED,SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT OF GREASE BUILD-UP AND OLD FOOD DEBRIS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN EQUIPMENT.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE PREP AREA
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER FROM THE REAR OF PREMISES,TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE THE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE IN THE PREP AREA
43
78
Jun 5, 2015
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES AND AREA UNDERNEATH GRILL.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN HOODED SYSTEM. CLEAN INTERIOR OF LIGHT SHIELDS. CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS; MAKE SURE THERMOMETERS ARE VISIBLE.
40
86
May 18, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON DUTY AS REQUIRED WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012 ISSUED.
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE AND FOOD PARTICLES AND AREA UNDERNEATH GRILL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING UNDERNEATH COOKING EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN HOODED SYSTEM. CLEAN INTERIOR OF LIGHT SHIELDS. CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT.
35
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: PROVIDE THERMOMETERS FOR ALL REFRIGERATION UNITS; MAKE SURE THERMOMETERS ARE VISIBLE.
40
78
Nov 25, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND DEFROST FREEZER IN THE REAR STORAGE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: NOTED WATER STAINED CEILING TILE IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE OR PAINT AND MAINTAIN.
35
90
Mar 19, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Mar 17, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: HOT AND COLD WATER, AT EXPOSE HAND SINK ,IN PREP AREA, NOT WORKING. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
11
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PURCHASE FOOD GRADE FREEZER BAGS.
30
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETERS.
40
86
Apr 8, 2013
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR HANDLES ON DOORS IN PREP AREAS.MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMP SINK.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN MASSIVE AMOUNT OF GREASE FROM INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL EQUIPMENT,CABINETS,SHELVING UNITS,REFRIGERATORS,WHEEL BASES,MOP SINK,FRYERS,REFRIGERATORS,EXTERIOR OF FOOD CONTAINERS,WIRE MESH AT UPPER WALL AT SERVICE COUNTER,CORRAL,FILTERS.MUST DEFROST FREEZER.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT NOT CLEAN. GREASE AND FOOD OBSERVED UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, DIRT AND DEBRIS OBSERVED IN CORNER AREAS OF STORAGE, GREASE ON FLOOR IN REAR STORAGE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS NEED DETAIL CLEANING BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT, IN FOOD PREP AREA, STORAGE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INCREASE HOT WATER PRESSURE AT THE EXPOSED HAND AND THE TOILET ROOM HAND SINK. WATER COMES OUT SLOWLY.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE ALL CLUTER REAR STORAGE AREA, CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
41
74
Dec 6, 2012
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYER TO REMOVE GREASE NOTED.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE DUST FROM CEILING VENTS WHERE NEEDED. REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILE WHERE NEEDED.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF MOP BUCKET. HANG WET MOP TO DRY.
41
82
Sep 16, 2011
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Sep 8, 2011
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect infestation, no birds, turtles or other animals
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin/insect infestations.STILL FINDING EVIDENCE OF LIVE COCK ROACH ACTIVITY THROUGHOUT PREMISES.PEST CONTROL ON SITE AT THIS TIME.
13
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers.Inspector Comments: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers.MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR HANDLES ON DOORS IN PREP AREAS.MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMP SINK
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.MUST CLEAN MASSIVE AMOUNT OF GREASE FROM INTERIOR & EXTERIOR OF ALL EQUIPMENT,CABINETS,SHELVING UNITS,REFRIGERATORS,WHEEL BASES,MOP SINK,FRYERS,REFRIGERATORS,EXTERIOR OF FOOD CONTAINERS,WIRE MESH AT UPPER WALL AT SERVICE COUNTER,CORRAL,FILTERS.MUST DEFROST FREEZERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.MUST CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.MUST CLEAN WALLS & CEILINGS THROUGHOUT.MUST SCRAPE & PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WALLS & CEILINGS IN MOP SINK AREA.MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR STAINED & DAMAGED CEILING TILES.MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN WALLS,CRACKS & CREVICES.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD AT HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: 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 REPAIR OR REPLACE LOW HOT WATER PRESSURE AT HAND SINK IN PREP AREA & LOW COLD WATER PRESSURE AT 3- COMP SINK.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: Inspector Comments: 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.THERMOMETER NEEDED FOR ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS.
40
64
Aug 30, 2011
Complaint
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect infestation, no birds, turtles or other animals
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin/insect infestations.OBSERVED AN INFESTATION OF LIVE ROACHES THROUGHOUT PREMISES IN CRACKS & CREVICES OF ALL WOOD SHELVING UNITS AT SERVICE COUNTER,HOT WATER TANK,AT GREASE TRAP AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK,SHELVING UNITS AT WOK STATION,UNDER HAND SINK IN PREP AREA,MOP SINK,CRAWLING ON FLOOR & WALLS IN FOOD PREP AREA,ALSO MASSIVE AMOUNT OF DEAD ROACHES IN LOWER VANITY AT HAND SINK IN PREP AREA,REFRIGERATOR & SHELVING UNITS .ALSO LIVE DRAIN FLIES FLYING THROUGHOUT PREMISES.RODENT DROPPINGS ON SHELF AT HOT WATER TANK.REMOVE DROPPINGS,CLEAN & SANITIZE AREAS.RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 8/30/11.(CRITICAL 7-38-020)
13
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers.MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
30
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.MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED DOOR HANDLES ON DOORS IN PREP AREAS.MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS FOR 3- COMP SINK.
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.MUST CLEAN MASSIVE AMOUNT OF GREASE FROM INTERIOR & EXTERIOR OF ALL EQUIPMENT,CABINETS,SHELVING UNITS,REFRIGERATORS,WHEEL BASES,MOP SINK,FRYERS,REFRIGERATORS,EXTERIOR OF FOOD CONTAINERS,WIRE MESH AT UPPER WALL AT SERVICE COUNTER,CORRAL,FILTERS.MUST DEFROST FREEZERS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.MUST CLEAN FLOORS THROUGHOUT.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.MUST CLEAN WALLS & CEILINGS THROUGHOUT.MUST SCRAPE & PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WALLS & CEILINGS IN MOP SINK AREA.MUST REPLACE OR REPAIR STAINED & DAMAGED CEILING TILES.MUST SEAL ALL OPENINGS IN WALLS,CRACKS & CREVICES.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD AT HOOD OF COOKING EQUIPMENT.
36
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 REPAIR OR REPLACE LOW HOT WATER PRESSURE AT HAND SINK IN PREP AREA & LOW COLD WATER PRESSURE AT 3- COMP SINK.
38
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.THERMOMETER NEEDED FOR ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS.
40
64
Oct 1, 2010
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN TOPS AND SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR CABINETS OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND STORAGE SHELVES IN STORAGE ROOM VIOLATION STILL PENDING
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INCREASE HOT WATER PRESSURE AT ALL SINKS VIOLATION STILL PENDING
38
90
Sep 23, 2010
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: All necessary control measures shall be used to effectively minimize or eliminate the presence of rodents, roaches, and other vermin and insects on the premises of all food establishments, in food-transporting vehicles, and in vending machines. OBSERVED 20 RAT DROPPINGS IN REAR STORAGE AREA, UNDER STORAGE SHELVES, INSTRUCTED TO CLOSE ALL OUTER OPENING TO PREVENT ENTRY, AND CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREA SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED
18
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. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN TOPS AND SIDES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR CABINETS OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND STORAGE SHELVES IN STORAGE ROOM
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AND BEHIND ALL EQUIPMENT, AND REPLACE BROKEN FLOOR TILE
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 CLEAN/REPAINT WALL SURFACES REAR KITCHEN
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: 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 INCREASE HOT WATER PRESSURE AT ALL SINKS
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors. MUST REMOVE ALL CLUTER REAR STORAGE AREA, CLEAN AND BETTER MAINTAIN.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Taco House last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Taco House on file is from Feb 1, 2022. The public record contains 24 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Taco House?
Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 15 times, more than any other issue at Taco House.
Has Taco House's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Taco House have averaged around four violations per visit, down from roughly six earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Taco House means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
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