Taqueria Vallarta #1
Last inspected: Apr 3, 2025
86
Score
Inspectors have visited Taqueria Vallarta #1 23 times, with records going back to 2010. The most recent report on file is from Apr 3, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
There hasn't been much movement either way: counts have stayed near four violations per visit across recent inspections.
The pattern that stands out is “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code”, which has been cited 15 times.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; Taqueria Vallarta #1 is comfortably above that bar. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 3, 2025
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: PLASTIC LINING ON EXTERIOR SIDE OF PREP TABLE IN REAR. INSTD TO REMOVE PLASTIC LINING SO AS SURFACE TO BE SMOOTH, EVEN AND EASILY CLEANABLE
47
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED WITH COMMON NAME. INSTD TO LABEL WITH COMMON NAME AND MAINTAIN
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTD TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE
41
86
Apr 15, 2024
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES USED AS SCOOPS IN FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PLATES AND REPLACE WITH UTENSILS WITH HANDLES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF FOOD AND MAINTAIN.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KNIFE STORED WITH HANDLE DIRECTLY IN THE FOOD ITEM AT THE GRILL AREA LINE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO RELOCATE KNIFE AND STORE ON CLEAN, SANITIZED SURFACE AND MAINTAIN.
43
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SMALL LEAK AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK HOSE SPRAY NOZZLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE SINK HOSE SPRAY NOZZLE AND MAINTAIN PLUMBING FIXTURE IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXTERIOR OF OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE SOILED WITH GREASE AND DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF GREASE AND DEBRIS AND MAINTAIN.
54
82
Aug 16, 2023
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD AND FOIL USED AS LINER ON FOOD PREP EQUIPMENT AND TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON COOKING EQUIPMENT, WALLS, SURROUNDING FLOORS AND SHELVING UNITS IN THE KITCHEN/PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOP IN A POSITION THAT DOES NOT ALLOW TO DRY PROPERLY AND PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. MUST STORE MOP AFTER USE IN A MOUNTED POSITION THAT ALLOWS FOR AIR-DRYING WITHOUT SOILING AND PEST HARBORAGING.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, AND STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
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
74
Jun 17, 2022
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 10, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE/REMINDER ON MENU. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY AND DISCLOSURE ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS WITH COMMON NAME OF FOOD.
37
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF SLICER AND RESIDUE ON INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CEILING TILES ABOVE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
Nov 15, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD.PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LARGE CONTAINER OF VEGETABLES IN VINEGAR NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO LABEL ALL CONTENTS WITH COMMON NAME.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SEVERAL SOILED WIPING CLOTHS NEAR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IMPROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALUMINUM FOIL USED A LINER FOR SHELVES IN FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE FOIL TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARD IN FOOD PREP AREA WITH DEEP GROOVES AND STAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH ACCUMULATED GREASE AND DEBRIS BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING IN WALKIN COOLER WITH PEELING / CHIPPED PAINT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH EQUIPMENT IN REAR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
61
Mar 5, 2020
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGERS. INSTD TO OBTAIN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN VERIFICATION FOR ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
95
Aug 18, 2016
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, REACH IN COOLERS AND STORAGE SHELVES IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
90
Aug 2, 2016
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, REACH IN COOLERS AND STORAGE SHELVES IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
90
Jun 28, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FOUND REACH IN COOLER THAT CONTAINS POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS AT 52.5 DEGREES AIR TEMPERATURE. COOLER MAY NOT BE USED UNTIL CORRECTED, COOLER BEING TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION ATTHIS TIME. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-28-005(A) COOLER HAS DROPPED IN TEMPERATURE COOLER NOW 39.5 DEGREES COOLER MAY NOW USED
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE 5 LBS OF RAW CHICKEN 68.5 DEGREES, 2 POUNDS BREADED STEAK 52.4 DEGREES, 2LBS COOKED GROUND BEEF 54.3, 2 LBS COOKED RICE 63.9 DEGREES, 2 LBS CHORIZO 56.2 DEGREES AND 5 DOZEN EGGS 58.5 DEGREES ALL FOOD PRODUCTS HAVE BEEN DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. TOTAL VALUE $50.00 18 LBS CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
3
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS FOUND AT HANDSINK IN REAR PREP AREA, NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS FOUND IN EMPLOYEE/CUSTOMER BATHROOMS. MANAGER OBTAINED SOAP AND TOWELS DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO HAVE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
12
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, REACH IN COOLERS AND STORAGE SHELVES IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
78
Jun 29, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT STOVE TOP NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT FLOOR UNDER THE FRYER NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT HOOD AND FLITERS NOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, ALSO CLEAN CEILING LIGHT SHIELDS.
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES AT THIS TIME, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. GIVEN COPY OF IDPH'FOOD HANDLER INFO.
45
82
Oct 31, 2014
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FLOORS IN FRONT OF THE MOP SINK DAMAGED/PITTED, NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FLOORS, MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP, STORAGE, MOP SINK AREAS AND THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN TILES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE POTS ON THE PREMISES THAT ARE NOT ABLE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO THE 3-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER REMOVE LARGE POTS OR REPLACE 3-COMP. SINK WITH LARGER COMPARTMENTS.
38
86
Oct 7, 2014
Reinspection
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER RUSTY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE RACKS AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK IN COOLER STILL NEEDS TO BE CLEANED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FLOORS IN FRONT OF THE MOP SINK DAMAGED/PITTED, NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FLOORS, MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP, STORAGE, MOP SINK AREAS AND THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN TILES.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND CRACKS AND CREVICES AROUND SINKS, TOP/BOTTOM OF WALLS AND DOORWAYS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN CRACKS/CREVICES THROUGHOUT AS NEEDED.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE POTS ON THE PREMISES THAT ARE NOT ABLE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO THE 3-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER REMOVE LARGE POTS OR REPLACE 3-COMP. SINK WITH LARGER COMPARTMENTS.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE POTS ON THE PREMISES THAT ARE NOT ABLE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO THE 3-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER REMOVE LARGE POTS OR REPLACE 3-COMP. SINK WITH LARGER COMPARTMENTS.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AND CONSPICOUSLY PLACE THERMOMETERS IN ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND WASH CLOTHS NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM). ALSO, FOUND A STACK OF SOILED WASH CLOTHS BEHIND THE CHEST FREEZER. ALL SOILED WASH CLOTHS NEEDS TO BE PROPERLY STORED UNTIL THEY CAN BE WASHED.
43
64
Sep 30, 2014
Routine
15 minor violations.
View 15 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND OVER 50 SMALL LIVE FLIES, 3 LARGE FLIES AND 10 LIVE ROACHES ON THE WALLS, STORAGE RACKS, ON THE MEAT SLICERS, BOXES AND IN THE CRACKS. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE ALL LIVE ACTIVITY, CLEAN ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND RECOMMENDED CONTACTING PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Toxic items properly stored, labeled and used
Inspector notes: FOUND A CAN OF RAID ON THE REAR PREP TABLE. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL TOXIC ITEMS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A)
25
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND THE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER RUSTY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUST OR REPLACE RACKS AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: DRAIN RACKS ABOVE THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, MEAT SLICER, INTERIOR OF FRYERS, STORAGE RACKS IN WALK IN COOLER AND SHELVING IN PREP AREA, PREP TABLES/UNDER SURFACES AND LEGS. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE INTERIOR OF ALL FLOOR DRAINS AND FLOORS IN THE WALK IN COOLER, IN ALL CORNERS, UNDER/AROUND THE HOT WATER TANK, SINKS AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT.
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FLOORS IN FRONT OF THE MOP SINK DAMAGED/PITTED, NOT SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FLOORS, MUST BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE FILTERS TO THE VENTILATION HOOD ABOVE STOVE IN FRONT PREP AREA.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND THE WALLS AROUND ALL THE SINKS, THE VENTILATION HOOD WITH EXCESS GREASE/DIRT BUILD UP AND THE VENTS IN THE CEILING OF THE PREP AREAS IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP, STORAGE, MOP SINK AREAS AND THE TOILET ROOMS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN TILES.
35
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: FOUND CRACKS AND CREVICES AROUND SINKS, TOP/BOTTOM OF WALLS AND DOORWAYS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN CRACKS/CREVICES THROUGHOUT AS NEEDED.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND A LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND AT THE RIGHT (WHEN FACING THE SINK) OF THE GREASE TRAP UNDER THE 2-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO FIX AND MAINTAIN LEAKS.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE WORKING VENTILATION IN THE MEN'S TOILET ROOM.
38
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE POTS ON THE PREMISES THAT ARE NOT ABLE TO BE SUBMERGED INTO THE 3-COMP. SINK. INSTRUCTED TO EITHER REMOVE LARGE POTS OR REPLACE 3-COMP. SINK WITH LARGER COMPARTMENTS.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AND CONSPICOUSLY PLACE THERMOMETERS IN ALL COOLERS AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND WASH CLOTHS NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN SANITIZING SOLUTION (MUST BE AT THE REQUIRED PPM). ALSO, FOUND A STACK OF SOILED WASH CLOTHS BEHIND THE CHEST FREEZER. ALL SOILED WASH CLOTHS NEEDS TO BE PROPERLY STORED UNTIL THEY CAN BE WASHED.
43
47
Jan 3, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 17, 2013
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: MICE DROPPINGS NOTED (OVER 30) IN STORAGE CLOSET AND ON FLOOR BEHIND CHEST FREEZER. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. INSTD TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR ADDITIONAL SERVICES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020 SERIOUS
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: WALK-IN COOLER FLOOR NOT CLEAN, DEBRIS. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN. PROVIDE TIGHT-FITTING FLOOR DRAIN COVER FOR DRAIN IN REAR BY UTILITY SINK.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: LIGHTSHIELDS THRU-OUT NEED DETAILED CLEANING. CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT OUT IN REAR STORAGE ROOM. INSTD TO REPLACE SAME.
36
82
Jun 19, 2013
Complaint
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: NEED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE REAR SLICER, PREP TABLE. AND CLEAN HOOD UNDER STOVE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: NEED TO CLEAN FLOOR REAR,ALSO REMOVE ALL STANDING WATER.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES, CLEAN DUSTY CEILING VENTS. CLEAN WALL BEHIND REAR PREP TABLE. NEED TO REMOVE PEELING PAINT REAR WALK-IN COOLER UNDER FANS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE BROKEN LIGHT SHIELDS, CLEAN INSIDE LIGHT SHIELDS.
36
82
May 17, 2013
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 10, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OVER 30 MICE DROPPINGS NOTED ON STORAGE SHELF AND ON FLOOR IN DRY STORAGE ROOM. REAR DOOR NOT RODENT PROOF, APPROX 1/4 INCH GAP AT SIDE AND BOTTOM OF DOOR. INSTD TO REMOVE ALL DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS, AND RODENT PROOF DOOR SO AS TO BE TIGHT FITTING. RECOMMEND TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020 SERIOUS.
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INTERIOR OF CHEST FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR, MISSING PANEL AND PROPER MOLDING OF LID. INSTD TO REPAIR SAME. CONDENSOR LINE LEAKING AT FRONT COOLER. REPAIR SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS AND STORAGE SHELVES NEED DETAILED CLEANING, FREE OF DEBRIS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR IN REAR BY UTILITY SINK WITH SOME STANDING WATER. INSTD TO KEEP DRY AND CLEAN AT ALL TIMES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE ALL MISSING AND STAINED CEILING TILES THRU-OUT INCLUDING TOILET ROOMS. DETAIL CLEAN WALLS IN TOILET REMOVE (FREE OF GRAFFITI). VENTS AND SURROUNDING LIGHTSHIELDS THRU-OUT NEED DETAILED CLEANING, FREE OF DEBRIS.
35
78
Aug 10, 2012
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED IN PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN. TOP OF FREEZER IN POOR REPAIR. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILING TILES IN NEED OF REPLACING WHERE DAMAGED. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
90
Dec 8, 2011
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. RUBBER GASKETS IN REACH IN COOLERS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. FLOORS IN FRONT PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. Use dustless cleaning methods. CEILING IN REAR PREP AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL DUST AND GREASE BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. 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. AIR VENTS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. THERMOMETERS NEEDED IN ALL REACH IN AND WALK IN COOLERS. MUST INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
78
Mar 1, 2011
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Containers and utensils shall be inverted, covered, or otherwise protected from contamination until used. All single-service drinking straws and containers shall be discarded immediately after use. ALL MULTI USE UTENSILS MUST BE CLEANED, SANITZIED AND STORED IN A CLEAN LOCATION. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
31
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. NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED AT FRONT PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. THE FOLLOWING IN NEED OF CLEANING: ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALL PREP TABLES, INTERIOR OF REACH IN COOLERS, INTERIOR OF WALK IN COOLER, SHELVES IN WALK-IN COOLER, INTERIOR OF ALL CABINETS, AND MEAT SLICER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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. FLOORS THROUGH OUT IN NEED OF DETAIL CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD-UP AND DEBRIS. MUST REMOVE ALL STANDING WATER AND KEEP DRY. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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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. Use dustless cleaning methods. WALL IN UTILITY AREA HAS HOLE THAT MUST BE SEALED. CEILING TILES IN NEED OF REPLACING WHERE WATER DAMAGED AND IN POOR REPAIR. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: All rooms in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be lighted so that a minimum of 50-foot candles of light is available on all work surfaces. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. LIGHT SHEILDS IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP AND DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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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. 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. FAUCETS AT THE 2 COMP AND THE 3 COMP SINKS IN NEED OF REPAIR. LEAKS AT NOZZLES. VENTILATION ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL GREASE BUILD UP. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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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. Cleaning equipment shall be properly stored away from food, utensils, equipment, and clean linens. ALL UNNECESSARY CLUTTER IN REAR AREA MUST BE REMOVED. MUST CLEAR AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Between uses and during storage ice dispensing utensils and ice receptacles shall be stored in a way that protects them from contamination. WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION. SPONGES MUST BE DISCARDED OFTEN. MUST CORRECT AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
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64
Apr 8, 2010
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: The licensee shall inform the public in writing of the Chicago Department of Public Health?s Consumer Advisory relating to consuming raw and undercooked animal products. THE LARGE CONTAINERS HOLDING THE BEANS, RICE ECT. NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL THEM ALL. SOME FOOD CONTAINERS IN THE WALK IN COOLER NOT COVERED LABELED OR DATED. INSTRUCTED TO COVER,LABEL DATE THE FOOD CONTAINERS.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage.DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACH IN FREEZER HAS LARGE AMOUNT OF ICE BUILDUP ON THE ENTERIOR WALLS.
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. THE FLOOR IN THE UTILITY ROOM NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN SAME.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Use dustless cleaning methods. Use dustless cleaning methods.THE WALLS AND CEILING IN THE MENS TOILET ROOM HAS GRAFFITO ALL OVER THEM. INSTRUCTED TO PAINT SAME.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When was Taqueria Vallarta #1 last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Taqueria Vallarta #1 on file is from Apr 3, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Taqueria Vallarta #1?
Across the inspection record, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been cited 15 times, more than any other issue at Taqueria Vallarta #1.
Has Taqueria Vallarta #1's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Taqueria Vallarta #1 have averaged around four violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Taqueria Vallarta #1 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 Taqueria Vallarta #1 inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Taqueria Vallarta #1 is inspected around two times per year on average.
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