The River of Chicago

2909-2911 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
American
Last inspected: Jul 30, 2025
90
Score
Low Risk

Across the available record, The River of Chicago has 18 inspections on file, the first dated 2010. On Jul 30, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Low risk means the most recent visit produced few or no significant findings.

Recent inspections have turned up roughly the same number of issues each time, hovering near three violations per visit.

When inspectors have written things up, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been the most frequent reason, cited eight times.

The city-wide average for Chicago sits at 81, putting The River of Chicago on the better side of that line. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.

18
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jul 30, 2025
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT BAR/MAIN BAR TO LEAK FROM THE DRAIN PIPE WHEN SINK IS IN USE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE LEAK AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR. OBSERVED THE HAND SINK OF THE 2ND FLOOR BAR IN SOUTHEAST CORNER TO BE SLOW DRAINING, BUT STILL FUNCTIONAL. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE HAND SINK DRAIN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE OVERHEAD VENTILATION/FILTERS IN THE MAIN PREP/COOKING AREA TO BE COVERED WITH A HEAVY LAYER OF GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN FREE OF EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP.
56
90
Aug 12, 2024
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SELF CLOSING DOOR AT THE BATHROOM DOORS AT THE FIRST FLOOR FRONT SIDE BAR BATHROOM AND THE EMPLOYEE BATHROOM IN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE SELF CLOSING BATHROOM DOORS FOR BOTH.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPILLAGE OF SYRUP/LIQUID UNDER SYRUP SHELVES IN SECOND FLOOR SIDE STORAGE IN ATTIC. OBSERVED HEAVY FOOD BUILD AND SPILLAGE OF WATER ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE FRONT BAR 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND THE MAIN KITCHEN 3 DOOR COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREAS FREE OF EXCESSIVE SPILLAGE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
55
90
Oct 3, 2023
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BROKEN/MISSING FLOOR TILE IN THE KITCHEN AND DISHROOM. ALSO BROKEN CEILING WALL ABOVE A DISHMACHINE AND THE WHITE CHEST FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN
55
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: ICE BUILD-UP ON THE CONDENSER UNIT INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER AND WALK-IN FREEZER INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ISSUES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE SURFACE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE WAS PROVIDED AT THE ICE MACHINE WATER LINE. MUST BE INSTALLED SO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE MAY BE LOCATED TO BE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN.
51
82
Aug 16, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED OUTSIDE GREASE CONTAINER AND SURROUNDING NOT MAINTAINED WITH THICK GREASE ON THE GROUND AROUND THE GREASE CONTAINER AND TOP OF CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN GREASE CONTAINER AND ITS SURROUNDING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-020(B).
54
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: NOTED SERVING PLATES ON SHELVES AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA NOT PROPERLY STORED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT ALL SERVING PLATES TO PREVENT DUST ACCUMULATION.
43
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED WASHROOMS ON PREMISE WITH GARBAGE RECEPTACLES AND NO LIDS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TRASH CANS WITH LIDS AT ALL WOMEN WASHROOMS AND UNISEX WASHROOMS
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED CLUTTER INSIDE AND AROUND THE DRY STORAGE CLOSET NEXT TO THE WALK-IN COOLER AT THE REAR. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND REMOVE ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PESTS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR DRAINS, ESPECIALLY IN THE KITCHEN AND DISHWASHING AREAS. MUST ALSO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN CRACKS ON THE FLOOR AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
70
Nov 25, 2020
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR CLUTTERED THROUGHOUT OFFICE AREA STORAGE ROOMS. MUST ELEVATE ALL ITEMS OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE.
55
95
Nov 18, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SINK INSTALLED AT DISH ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SAID SINK WITH RUNNING HOT AND COLD WATER WITH SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-030(C).
10
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: DISHMACHINE FLOOR DRAIN DRAINING SLOWLY. SAID FLOOR DRAIN MUST DRAIN QUICKLY.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOOR CLUTTERED THROUGHOUT OFFICE AREA STORAGE ROOMS. MUST ELEVATE ALL ITEMS OFF FLOOR OR REMOVE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: CEILING LIGHT BULBS (X2) NOT WORKING AT DISHWASH ROOM. MUST REPLACE WITH WORKING LIGHT BULBS.
56
78
Aug 19, 2019
Routine
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASHING SINK INSTALLED AT DISH ROOM, AND AT SMALL NORTH BAR. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SAID SINKS WITH SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-030(C), NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: FOOD STORED IN CONTAINER AT DRY STORAGE MUST BE LABEL WITH COMMON NAME
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: WASTE WATER PIPE IN DISH ROOM(EAST WALL) FROM CONDENSER UNIT DRIPPING ON SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO ENCASE SAID PIPES
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: LINENS MUST BE HELD BETWEEN USE IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO WIPE MULTI USE UTENSILS /CUTTING BOARDS ETC. -
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: BUILD-UP ICE ON CONDENSER UNIT INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. REPAIR CAUSE.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAKING PIPE UNDER THE SCRAPE SINK IN DISHROOM.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES NOT LOCATED FOR 2 ICE MACHINES. MUST INSTALL WHERE THEY CAN BE LOCATED AND SERVICED.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND WALLS AT 3 RESTROOMS NOT SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLAEN.(EXPOSED BRICK). MUST MAKE SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN. -
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: BROKEN LIGHT SHIELD IN THE KITCHEN,ALSO PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD AT LIGHT BULBS
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.ANYONE WITH CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST OBTAIN SAID CERTIFICATE
58
58
Nov 19, 2018
Routine
4 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: 3-501.17 FOUND READY TO EAT FOOD HELD MORE THAN 24HOURS WITH NO SEVEN DAY CONSUME BY DATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST LABEL PROPERLY.
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(N) FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AT PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-010. MUST PROVIDE.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 FOUND NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 FOUND NO REMINDER DISCLOSURE STATEMENT INSIDE MENU FOR UNDERCOOKED BURGERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST OBTAIN.
25
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES NOT LOCATED FOR 2 ICE MACHINES. MUST INSTALL WHERE THEY CAN BE LOCATED AND SERVICED.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND WALLS AT 3 RESTROOMS NOT SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLAEN.(EXPOSED BRICK). MUST MAKE SMOOTH AND EASY TO CLEAN.
55
Allergen training as required
58
58
Mar 23, 2017
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN OILY RESIDUE ON THE INTERIOR OF THE FRYER. MUST CLEAN CRUSTY BUILD UP FROM FRYER BASKETS.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST ELIMINATE STANDING WATER UNDER THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE MISSING FLOOR DRAIN AT SIDE BAR BATHROOM.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE MISSING/DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELDS NEAR ICE MACHINE AND CANNED GOODS STORAGE.
36
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR/REPLACE BROKEN SELF-CLOSING DEVICE ON THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM.
37
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR INOPERABLE FANS IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM AND THE SIDEBAR RESTROOM.
38
78
Jun 28, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOOR AT THE ENTRANCE OF THE BEER COOLER IN POOR REPAIR, UNEVEN, CHIPPING TILE. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE TO MAKE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE. MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS. ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT STORAGE AREAS ON THE SECOND FLOOR MUST BE ELEVATED FROM FLOORS 6" OR ABOVE.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: LEAK UNDER WASHBOWL IN THE FRONT, SINGLE STALL WASHROOM. MUST PROPERLY REPAIR.
38
90
Oct 8, 2015
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS ON THE 3 DOOR COOLER IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE ACCUMULATION ON THE LOWER COMPARTMENT OF THE FRYERS IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO INCREASE THE WATER PRESSURE AND MAINTAIN AT THE EXPOSED HANDSINK AT EAST SIDE OF THE MAIN BAR.
38
86
Sep 5, 2014
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO INVERT CLEAN BOWLS, PLATES, ETC. STORED ON TOP SHELF TO PROTECT FOOD CONTACT SURFACES DURING STORAGE.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN ALL SODA NOZZLES ON PREMISES AND MAINTAIN.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO EXTEND THE FAUCET HEAD ON THE 3-COMPARMTENT SINK TO ALLOW PROPER FILLING OF ALL 3-COMPARTMENTS.
38
86
Oct 18, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY(MUST STORE INVERTED)
30
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: FOODHANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT.
42
90
May 14, 2012
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 10, 2012
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Source of cross contamination controlled i.e. cutting boards, food handlers, utensils, etc
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CONTAMINATED ICE.INTERIOR ICE MACHINE UPPER WATER RESERVOIR WITH BLACK SLIME SUBSTANCE ON TUBING AND ICE MAKING CONTACT SURFACES. MACHINE TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT USE UNTIL CLEANED AND SANITIZED AND C.D.P.H. CONTACTED BY FAX REQUEST FOR INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A).
4
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO SOAP OR PAPER TOWELS AT EITHER BAR EXPOSED HAND SINKS AND NO PAPER TOWELS IN MENS WASHROOM. MANAGEMENT PROVIDED. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-030.
12
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM #278179 ON 8-10-10. #38-PROVIDE DRAIN LINE HOSES FOR ALL SODA GUNS BEHIND ALL BARS AND ROUTE TO A FLOOR DRAIN. #33-DETAIL CLEAN THE VENTILATION FAN IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM.
29
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: TABLETOP CAN OPENER WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: ALL ITEMS IN ALL WALK-IN COOLERS MUST BE ELEVATED FROM FLOOR 6" OR ABOVE.
34
Toilet room doors self closing: dressing rooms with lockers provided: complete separation from living/sleeping quarters
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE WASHROOM DOOR SELF-CLOSING DEVICE BROKEN. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
37
74
Aug 10, 2010
Reinspection
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
* inspection report summary displayed and visible to all customers
Inspector notes: One copy of the Food Inspection Report Summary must be displayed and visible to all customers. THE PREVIOUS INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY FROM REPORT ON 8/2/10 WAS NOT POSTED. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A NEW COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-010B.
28
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE AN ICE BIN COVER FOR THE ICE BINS BEHIND THE SECOND FLOOR BAR.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FOLOWING: VENTILATION FAN IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM, VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR OF BROILER AND OVEN, DUST ON THE SPRINKLER LINES IN THE PREP AREA, FAN COVERS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE PREP AREA ESPECIALLY AROUND WALLS AND UNDER EQUIPMENT AND FLOOR BEHIND THE BARS AND LIQUOR CLOSET FLOOR. DETAIL CLEAN ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT. MAINTAIN THE FLOOR DRY ESPECIALLY AROUND THE ICE MACHINE AND BEHIND THE FREEZER.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS OF THE PREP AREA, ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND THE ICE MACHINE. SEAL ALL BASEBOARD IN THE PREP AREA AND SEAL OPENINGS IN THE WALLS OF THE PREP AREA. DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS AROUND THE MOP SINK. PROVIDE BASEBOARD IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM AND SEAL THE CORNER AROUND THE BRICK WALL. REPAIR THE DAMAGED CEILING AREAS NEXT TO THE WALK-IN COOLER AND ABOVE THE ELECTRICAL PANELS (EAST WALL). SCRAPE AND REPAINT THE CHIPPED AND PEELING PAINT ON THE CEILING ABOVE THE STORAGE RACKS AND NEXT TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. REPAINT THE WALLS OF THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM.
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 A LIGHT SHIELD FOR ONE OF THE TWO LIGHTBULBS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE DRAIN LINE HOSES FOR ALL SODA GUNS BEHIND ALL BARS AND ROUTE TO A FLOOR DRAIN.
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 STORE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF OF THE FLOOR IN ALL STORAGE AREAS. REMOVE ANY UNNECESSARY ITEMS WHICH CONTRIBUTE TO EXCESSIVE CLUTTER ESPECIALLY IN THE 2ND FLOOR OFFICE AREA.
41
67
Aug 2, 2010
Complaint
10 minor violations.
View 10 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 LIVE FRUIT FLIES ON THE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROX. 50 LIVE FRUIT FLIES THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES, ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE BARS AND STORAGE ROOM NEXT TO THE WALK-IN COOLER. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE OR MINIMIZE THE PEST ACTIVITY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020.
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: A certified food service manager must be present in all establishments at which potentially hazardous food is prepared or served. NO CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE ON THE PREMISES AND A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD IS PREPARED OR SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, properly designed and installed
Inspector notes: THE EXPOSED HANDSINK AT THE EAST SIDE OF THE MAIN 1ST FLOOR BAR HAS STANDING WATER INSIDE OF THE SINK THAT DOES NOT DRAIN. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE SINK SO THAT IT DRAINS PROPERLY. A SECOND HANDSINK IS LOCATED AT THE WEST SIDE OF THE BAR. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE THE WORKING HANDSINK UNTIL THE OTHER IS REPAIRED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030.
26
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: A separate and distinct offense shall be deemed to have been committed for each Minor violation that is not corrected upon re-inspection by the health authority. PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #176561 ON 3/9/10 NOT CORRECTED: 32/01-OBSERVED RUSTED WIRE STORAGE SHELVES INSIDE OF THE 2 DOOR PREP COOLER. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PAINT OR REPLACE. 33/01-DETAIL CLEAN THE TOP OF THE OVEN AND THE TOP OF THE STOVE AND THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE. 34/01-DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDERNEATH THE DEEP FRYERS. 36/01-INADEQUATE LIGHTING OBSERVED ABOVE THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE DISHWASH AREA. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING. 38/01-OBSERVED DRAIN LINE WATER LEAKS BELOW THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE DISHWASH AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SOURCE OF LEAKS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE AN ICE BIN COVER FOR THE ICE BINS BEHIND THE SECOND FLOOR BAR.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FOLOWING: VENTILATION FAN IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM, VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR OF PREP COOLERS INCLUDING THE SEALS AROUND THE DOORS, INTERIOR OF BROILER AND OVEN, LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE PREP AREA, DUST ON THE SPRINKLER LINES IN THE PREP AREA, FAN COVERS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE PREP AREA ESPECIALLY AROUND WALLS AND UNDER EQUIPMENT AND FLOOR BEHIND THE BARS AND LIQUOR CLOSET FLOOR. DETAIL CLEAN ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT. MAINTAIN THE FLOOR DRY ESPECIALLY AROUND THE ICE MACHINE AND BEHIND THE FREEZER.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS OF THE PREP AREA, ESPECIALLY BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AND THE ICE MACHINE. SEAL ALL BASEBOARD IN THE PREP AREA AND SEAL OPENINGS IN THE WALLS OF THE PREP AREA. DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS AROUND THE MOP SINK. PROVIDE BASEBOARD IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WEST EXPOSED HANDSINK AT THE MAIN 1ST FLOOR BAR LEAKING WATER FROM THE DRAIN LINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR SOURCE OF LEAK. PROVIDE DRAIN LINE HOSES FOR ALL SODA GUNS BEHIND ALL BARS AND ROUTE TO A FLOOR DRAIN.
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 STORE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF OF THE FLOOR IN ALL STORAGE AREAS. REMOVE ANY UNNECESSARY ITEMS WHICH CONTRIBUTE TO EXCESSIVE CLUTTER.
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61
Mar 9, 2010
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 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. REPLACE OR REPAINT THE RUSTY WIRE STORAGE SHELVES IN THE 2 DOOR PREP COOLER. INSTALL A TOILET PAPER DISPENSER IN THE EMPLOYEE RESTROOM.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE, EXPOSED PREP SINK IN PREP AREA, SIDE OF DEEP FRYER, STOVE AND TOP OF OVEN, WIRE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, INTERIOR OF BOTH ICE MACHINES, FAN COVERS IN THE BEER COOLER, 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE PREP AREA.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOOR IN THE 2ND FLOOR STORAGE AREA BELOW THE BOXES OF POP. REMOVE STANDING WATER FROM 2ND FLOOR BAR AREA AND UNDERNEATH THE DISHMACHINE. DETAIL CLEAN UNDERNEATH DISHMACHINE, UNDER THE DEEP FRYER AND OVEN, DRY STORAGE ROOM.
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. DETAIL CLEAN THE CEILING AND WALLS OF THE BEER COOLER.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING ABOVE THE PREP AREA 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER LEAKS UNDER THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE PREP AREA, EXPOSED HANDSINK AT THE 2ND FLOOR BAR AND THE SINK AT THE PREP LINE. MUST REPAIR ALL LEAKS.
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. NO VISIBLE THERMOMETER INSIDE OF THE 3 DOOR PREP COOLER. MUST PROVIDE.
40
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. MAINTAIN THE OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA CLEAN AROUND THE DUMPSTERS. ORGANIZE AND MAINTAIN ITEMS IN THE ELECTRICAL CLOSET. STORE ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF OF THE FLOOR.
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Frequently Asked Questions

When was The River of Chicago last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at The River of Chicago on file is from Jul 30, 2025. The public record contains 18 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at The River of Chicago?

Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited eight times, more than any other issue at The River of Chicago.

Has The River of Chicago's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at The River of Chicago have averaged around three violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at The River of Chicago 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 The River of Chicago inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, The River of Chicago is inspected roughly once per year on average.