The Grill on the Alley
Last inspected: Feb 4, 2020
95
Score
Inspectors have visited The Grill on the Alley 22 times, with records going back to 2010. The Grill on the Alley was last inspected on Feb 4, 2020. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues. The file hasn't been updated since Feb 4, 2020, so take the current picture with that in mind.
Violation counts have been trending down, averaging around three violations across recent inspections versus roughly seven violations before.
Across the inspection history, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 11 times.
That puts the facility ahead of the local pack: the average Chicago restaurant scores 81. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
22
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
1
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 4, 2020
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: HORIZONTAL UTILITY LINES RUNNING ON FLOOR UNDER DISH MACHINE AND BAR SERVICE COUNTER PREVENTING PROPER FLOOR CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE OR ELEVATE.
55
95
Jan 27, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND ABOUT 50 LIVE FRUIT FLIES IN DISH ROOM AND KITCHEN, INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE INSECTS ACTIVITY IN ALL AFFECTED AREAS, PEST CONTROL SERVICE RECOMMENDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A)
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: ICE MAKER INTERIOR SURFACES NOT CLEAN, GRAY FILM BUILD UP ON INTERIOR SURFACES AROUND CHUTE, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: HORIZONTAL UTILITY LINES RUNNING ON FLOOR UNDER DISH MACHINE AND BAR SERVICE COUNTER PREVENTING PROPER FLOOR CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE OR ELEVATE 6"
55
82
Feb 6, 2019
Reinspection
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17:MUST PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING THE PREPARATION AND CONSUME BY/DISCARD DATE OF ALL REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5-204.11:MUST INSTALL A HANDWASH SINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#:7-38-030(C). NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E):OBSERVED A SLIGHT DIRT/DEBRIS BUILDUP ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12: OBSERVED DEEP BLACK GROVES/STAINS ON THE CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE OR RESURFACE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C): OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE/FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE THE FRYER CABINET. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14: OBSERVED AN ACCUMULATION OF DIRT/DEBRIS BUILDUP IN ALL THE TOILET ROOMS' EXHAUST VENTILATIONS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
67
Jan 28, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD INSIDE A REACH IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. OBSERVED 5# OF MAYO BASED SALAD DRESSING(50.4F) AND 2# OF CUT LEAFY GREENS(44.1F). FACILITY CORRECTED VIOLATION ON SITE BY DISCARDING THE OUT OF TEMPERATURE ITEMS WITH A REPORTED TOTAL VALUE OF $10. PRIORITY VIOLATION#:7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A HANDWASH SINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#:7-38-030(C). NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING THE PREPERATION AND CONSUME BY/DISCARD DATE OF ALL REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. TWO LIVE COCKROACHES WERE OBSERVED ON THE WALL BY THE DISHWASH MACHINE & APPROX 10 LIVE FRUIT FLIES WERE OBSERVED THROUGHOUT THE FOOD PREP/DISHWASHING AREAS. MUST REMOVE ALL EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY, DETAIL CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN. RECOMMENDED TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL PROVIDER FOR FURTHER SERVICE AND INSTRUCTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#:7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE, AND REMINDER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DEEP BLACK GROVES/STAINS ON THE CUTTING BOARDS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE OR RESURFACE.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXTREME ACCUMULATION OF DUST/DIRT/DEBRIS ON THE INTERIOR AND UNDERSIDE OF THE DISHWASH MACHINE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE ACCUMULATION OF GREASE/FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE THE FRYER CABINET. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE ACCUMULATION OF CARDBOARD ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE DISH MACHINE DRY TABLE. MUST REMOVE, CLEAN AREA, AND MAINTAIN THE AREA TO BE CLEAN OF CARDBOARD AND DEBRIS AT ALL TIMES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN ACCUMULATION OF DIRT/DEBRIS BUILDUP IN ALL THE TOILET ROOMS' EXHAUST VENTILATIONS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIGHT DIRT/DEBRIS BUILDUP ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
43
Feb 23, 2018
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: PANTRY LOW BOY PREP COOLER NOT MAINTAINED, AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 50.9 F, FOUND LOBSTER, SHRIMP, ETC. HELD INSIDE SAID COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR COOLER. AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE MUST BE 40 F OR BELOW. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS FOUND AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES- CUT GREENS AT 49.9 F, SHRIMP AT 48.4, LOBSTER AT 48.8 F. INSTRUCTED MANAGER POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 40 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
90
Aug 22, 2017
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED ( SUGAR ) INSTRUCTED TO LABEL.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: BROKEN GASKETS AT SEVERAL PREP COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: BOTTOM OF DRAWER COOLERS WITH STANDING WATER, ICE SCOOP HOLDER POOLING WATER AT BOTTOM. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP DRY AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: SEVERAL SECTIONS AT MAIN KITCHEN AND BAR WITH MISSING FLOOR TILES AND GROUT, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
34
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: NO HANDS WASHING SIGNS IN EMPLOYEES TOILET ROOMS INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: DAMAGED INSULATION AT WALK-IN COOLER COOLING LINES, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MISSING REFRIGERATION THERMOMETER IN DRAWER COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
40
70
Sep 16, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO SANITIZING TEST STRIPS ONSITE FOR THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINKS. CHEMICAL TEST KITS MUST BE MAINTAINED ON SITE AT ALL TIMES AND SANITIZING CONCENTRATIONS SHOULD BE TESTED DAILY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO RESEAL THE RAW WOOD AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE MAIN BAR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO SERVICE HOODVENTS TO REMOVE GREASE BUILDUP, DEFROST THE WALK-IN FREEZER TO REMOVE FROST BUILDUP, AND REMOVE TAPE FROM SODA GUN AND PROPERLY REPAIR EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE CAN OPENER BLADE TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REMOVE HEAVY DUST BUILDUP ON THE CEILING VENTS AND SURROUNDING CEILING TILES ABOVE THE PREP AREAS IN THE KITCHEN AND ALSO DUST BUILDUP ON THE CEILING VENT IN THE WALK-IN COOLER NEXT TO THE DRY STORAGE ROOM.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS ON THE LIGHT FIXTURE ABOVE THE PREP AREA AND ABOVE THE DRY FOOD STORAGE RACKS IN DRY FOOD STORAGE ROOM.
36
74
Dec 8, 2015
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: NOTED IN WALK-IN COOLER, (3)9OZ PORTIONED RAW BEEF USED FOR FILET STEAK SLIDERS AT INTERNAL TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 47.4F-48.1F. MANAGER VOLUTARILY DENATURED AND DISCARDED. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP COLD FOODS AT 40F OR LOWER. APROX. WT. 2LBS AND VALUE $24. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY MAINTAIN ALL CUTTING BOARDS ON SITE OR DISCARD.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR TOP PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYERS AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST REMOVE DUST BUILD UP AT THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOK LINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER SHELVING RACKS IN THE FOOD STORAGE AREAS, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE AREA,UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE BAR AREA AND UNDER THE COOK LINE. MUST REMOVE POOLING WATER, GREASE, FOOD AND OTHER DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS BEHIND THE COOK LINE, UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE CLOSET, AND UNDER THE BAR. MUST ALSO REPLACE ALL SMOKE DAMAGED AND SOILED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AND DISH WASHING AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST BETTER ORGANIZE CLUTTER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET NEAR THE COFFEE STATION IN THE PREP KITCHEN. MUST MINIMIZE RECYCLING MATERIALS AND OTHER DEBRIS IN THE DOCK AREA.
41
74
Nov 5, 2015
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY MAINTAIN ALL CUTTING BOARDS ON SITE OR DISCARD.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR TOP PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYERS AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST REMOVE DUST BUILD UP AT THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOK LINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER SHELVING RACKS IN THE FOOD STORAGE AREAS, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE AREA,UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE BAR AREA AND UNDER THE COOK LINE. MUST REMOVE POOLING WATER, GREASE, FOOD AND OTHER DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS BEHIND THE COOK LINE, UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE CLOSET, AND UNDER THE BAR. MUST ALSO REPLACE ALL SMOKE DAMAGED AND SOILED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AND DISH WASHING AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST BETTER ORGANIZE CLUTTER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET NEAR THE COFFEE STATION IN THE PREP KITCHEN. MUST MINIMIZE RECYCLING MATERIALS AND OTHER DEBRIS IN THE DOCK AREA.
41
78
Oct 23, 2015
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY MAINTAIN ALL CUTTING BOARDS ON SITE OR DISCARD.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR TOP PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYERS AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST REMOVE DUST BUILD UP AT THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOK LINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER SHELVING RACKS IN THE FOOD STORAGE AREAS, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE AREA,UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE BAR AREA AND UNDER THE COOK LINE. MUST REMOVE POOLING WATER, GREASE, FOOD AND OTHER DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS BEHIND THE COOK LINE, UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE CLOSET, AND UNDER THE BAR. MUST ALSO REPLACE ALL SMOKE DAMAGED AND SOILED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AND DISH WASHING AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST BETTER ORGANIZE CLUTTER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET NEAR THE COFFEE STATION IN THE PREP KITCHEN. MUST MINIMIZE RECYCLING MATERIALS AND OTHER DEBRIS IN THE DOCK AREA.
41
78
Oct 16, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: THE DISH MACHINE AT THE BAR IS NOT PROPERLY SANITIZING MULTI-USE ITEMS DURING THE FINAL RINSE CYCLE. NOTED 0-10PPM REGISTERING ON THE INTERIOR OF THE DISH MACHINE DURING THE FINAL RINSE CYCLE. MUST REPAIR. CRITICAL VIOLATION
8
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NOTED EVIDENCE OF INSECTS ON SITE. NOTED APPROXIMATELY 15 LIVE SMALL FLIES IN THE BAR AREA, 15 IN THE SERVICE AREAS AND DINING AREA AND 5 IN THE KITCHEN STORAGE CLOSET. MUST REMOVE INSECTS, SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND HAVE THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE AREAS. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020
18
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY MAINTAIN ALL CUTTING BOARDS ON SITE OR DISCARD.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR TOP PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE. MUST ALSO DETAIL CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYERS AND REMOVE EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST REMOVE DUST BUILD UP AT THE HOOD ABOVE THE COOK LINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER SHELVING RACKS IN THE FOOD STORAGE AREAS, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE AREA,UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE BAR AREA AND UNDER THE COOK LINE. MUST REMOVE POOLING WATER, GREASE, FOOD AND OTHER DEBRIS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN WALLS BEHIND THE COOK LINE, UNDER THE LARGE DISH MACHINE, IN THE LIQUOR STORAGE CLOSET, AND UNDER THE BAR. MUST ALSO REPLACE ALL SMOKE DAMAGED AND SOILED CEILING TILES IN THE PREP AND DISH WASHING AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST BETTER ORGANIZE CLUTTER IN THE STORAGE CLOSET NEAR THE COFFEE STATION IN THE PREP KITCHEN. MUST MINIMIZE RECYCLING MATERIALS AND OTHER DEBRIS IN THE DOCK AREA.
41
70
Jun 27, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 20, 2014
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NEW VIOLATION OBSERVED TODAY UPON RE-INSPECTION. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 30 TO 40 LIVE ROACHES, ADULT AND BABY, THROUGHOUT DISH MACHINE AREA ALONG FLOOR AND BASEBOARD. OBSERVED SEVERAL OPEN HOLES AND CREVICES ALONG BASEBOARD WITH ROACH ACTIVITY. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE PEST CO. SERVICE AREA FOR ROACHES, SEAL ALL HOLES, OPEN CRACKS AND CREVICES IN DISH AREA AND ELIMINATE OR MINIMIZE ROACH ACTIVITY. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020 # H000090535.
18
95
May 30, 2014
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT DOORS WITH 1/4-1 INCH OPENINGS AT THE BOTTOM IN BETWEEN THE DOUBLE DOORS. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN RODENT PROOF EXTERIOR DOORS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK FOOD ITEMS IN THE KITCHEN AND DRY STORAGE UNLABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL ALL BULK FOODS.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR DRAINS IN THE DISH ROOM WITH ACCUMULATED DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS.
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR UNDER EQUIPMENT IN THE BAR AND THE COOK LINE WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LIGHT SHIELDS ON THE COOKLINE WITH ACCUMULATED DUST. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN LIGHT SHIELDS.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UNSHIELDED LIGHTS ON THE COOKLINE AND BLOWN LIGHTS UNDER THE HOOD. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE SHIELDED LIGHTING.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY SCOOPING ICE CREAM WITH NO DIPPER WELL ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN DIPPER WELL OR DISCONTINUE SCOOPING ICE CREAM.
38
70
Aug 6, 2013
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT LIQUOR STORAGE AND SMALL FOOD DRY STORAGE AREAS.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: FOUND BURNT LIGHT FIXTURES AT MAIN KITCHEN AND MALFUNCTIONING LIGHT FIXTURE AT SMALL FOOD STORAGE AREAS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND LEAKY DRAINAGE PIPING UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
38
86
Oct 12, 2012
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MISSING LABELED ON BULK FOOD CONTAINERS, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN: ICE MAKER UPPER PANEL, ICE SCOOP HOLDER, MEAT SLICER ADN KITCHEN SHELVES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MISSING GROUT AT KITCHEN FLOOR TILES BEHIND ICE MAKER AND DRY FOOD STORAGE. INSTRUCTED TO GROUT AND MAINTAIN. STANDING WATER AND FOOD DEBRIS NOTICED IN DRY FOOD STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CELAN FLOORS AND MAITANITAN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CEILING VENTS I DISH WASHING AREA NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
82
Nov 15, 2011
Consultation
No violations found.
100
Nov 2, 2011
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: (7-42-090) NON-COMPLIANCE FROM PREVIOUS SERIOUS VIOLATION DATED 10/25/11. VIOLATION #29, REGARDING #34-FOR POOR FLOOR GROUTING AT COOK'S LINE & WAIT STAFF STATIONS, ESPECIALLY AROUND DRAINS (FROM 4/5/11 VISIT) NOT CORRECTED. A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Serious violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority.
14
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ICE BIN LIDS MUST BE PROVIDED AT THE BAR AREA. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
90
Oct 25, 2011
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: (7-38-020) EVIDENCE OF PEST ACTIVITY ON PREMISES. NOTED 17-SMALL/FRUIT FLIES ON WALLS AROUND THE BAR'S WAIT STAFF AREA; 12-ON WALLS AT EAST WAIT STAFF STATION OF MAIN DINING AREA; AROUND12-HOVERING INSIDE HANDSINK DRAIN AT SAME STATION; 11-ON WALLS & CEILING OF THE DISHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE SOURCE & CLEAN/SANITIZE ALL AFFECTED AREAS. 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.
18
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: (7-42-090) PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 4/5/11 (REPORT #569275) CANVASS VISIT, NOT CORRECTED AT THIS TIME. (#32-SPLASH GUARD NEEDED AT HANDSINK IN THE BAR AREA; #34-POOR FLOOR GROUTING AT COOK'S LINE & WAIT STAFF STATIONS ESPECIALLY AROUND DRAINS MUST BE FIXED; #35-WALLS UNDER DISHMACHINE & AT WAIT STAFF STATIONS, PLUS DUSTY CEILING TILES AROUND VENTS MUST BE KEPT CLEAN; #33-INTERIOR OF FRYERS, INTERIOR OF HANDSINK AT WAIT STAFF AREAS & INTERIOR VENTS AT BOTH ENDS OF DISHMACHINE MUST BE KEPT CLEAN.) 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.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ICE BIN LIDS MUST BE PROVIDED AT THE BAR AREA. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR OF DISHMACHINE AT BAR MUST BE DE-LIMED;. INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE IN MAIN KITCHEN & ALL CABINETS AT WAIT SAFF STATIONS MUST BE KEPT CLEAN. All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: ALL WALLS/CEILING AFFECTED BY PEST ACTIVITY MUST BE CLEANED/SANITIZED. MISSING TILES IN DISHROOM MUST BE REPLACED. The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: CRACKED/MISSING LIGHT SHIELDS AT COOK'S LINE & IN WALK-IN FREEZER MUST BE REPLACED. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HANDSINK AT EAST WAIT STAFF AREA IS SLOW DRAINING-MUST FIX. 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.
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70
Apr 5, 2011
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: SPLASH GUARD NEEDED AT RIGHT SIDE OF BAR HANDSINK-MUST PROVIDE. MISSING STOPPERS AT 3-COMP SINK-MUST PROVIDE ALSO. All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: FOLLOWING NEED CLEANING: INTERIOR OF VENTS AT BOTH SIDES OF DISHMACHINE, INTERIOR OF HANDSINK AT 'WAIT 'STATION, FAN GUARDS/COMPRESSORS OF COOLERS AT THE BAR, LIGHT SHIELDS IN KITCHEN, INTERIOR FLOOR OF BAR COOLER & FRYERS. All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: POOR FLOOR GROUTING AT COOK'S LINE & AT WAIT STAFF STATION, ESPECIALLY AROUND FLOOR DRAINS-MUST BE FIXED. FLOORS ALONG WALLBASES AT DRY STORAGE ROOM, IN WALK-IN COOLER & UNDER SOME COOKING EQUIPMENT MUST BE KEPT CLEAN. The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS UNDER DISHMACHINE & AT WAIT STAFF STATION; DUSTY CEILING TILES AROUND VENTS MUST BE KEPT CLEAN. The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned.
35
82
Jun 16, 2010
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. FLOORS IN FRONT BAR AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD-UP, MUST KEEP DRY AT ALL TIMES. FLOOR DRAINS IN NEED OF CLEANING MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. WALLS IN BAR AREA IN NEED CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. ALL SODA GUNS IN NEED OF DRAIN LINES. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
38
86
Feb 24, 2010
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. NEW CUTTING BOARDS NEEDED. MUST REPLACE
32
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 THROUGHOUT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE BUILD-UP UNDER AND AROUND ALL EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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. DUST AT AIR VENTS IN NEED OF REMOVING. MUST CLEAN AMD MAINTAIN.
35
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 FIXTURE NEEDED AT BREAD ROOM.
36
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 VENT IN WALK-IN COOLER IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE DUST BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Grill on the Alley last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at The Grill on the Alley on file is from Feb 4, 2020. The public record contains 22 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at The Grill on the Alley?
Across the inspection record, “walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at The Grill on the Alley.
Has The Grill on the Alley's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at The Grill on the Alley have averaged around three violations per visit, down from roughly seven earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at The Grill on the Alley 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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