Tierra Caliente
Last inspected: Feb 9, 2022
58
Score
Inspectors have visited Tierra Caliente 17 times, with records going back to 2010. The most recent report on file is from Feb 9, 2022. Medium risk typically reflects a handful of issues that inspectors wrote up but didn't deem critical. No fresh inspection data is available: the latest entry for Tierra Caliente dates to Feb 9, 2022.
Recent inspections have turned up more issues than earlier ones, averaging around 12 violations lately compared to roughly six violations before.
When inspectors have written things up, “thermometers provided & accurate” has been the most frequent reason, cited eight times.
Tierra Caliente's latest score of 58 falls below the Chicago average of 81. The inspection history reads as standard for a restaurant of this size.
17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 9, 2022
Reinspection
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2546949 1/26/22 #38-. APPROXIMATELY 40 OR MORE MOUSE DROPPINGS FOUND THROUGHOUT FACILITY IN DINING AREA VENTS, REAR DRY STORAGE/PREP AREA,BASEMENT ON WOODEN SHELVING, AND ON SHELF HOLDING MOTOR AND INSIDE OF MOTOR. PERSON IN CHARGE IS REMOVING ACTIVITY AND CLEANING AND SANITIZING AREAS AT THIS TIME.(PRIORITY 7-42-090)(COS)(CITATION ISSUED).
59
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER FOR REFRIGERATOR IN FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN APPX. "1/2-3/4" GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF REAR DOOR.MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
38
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 4-102.11 Inspector Comments: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS BEING USED FOR FOOD STORAGE MUST ELIMINATE AND PROVIDE FOOD GRADE BAGS.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVERSIZED POTS TO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN 3- COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE SANITIZED PROPERLY.MUST BE ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE HOW IT'S DONE,REMOVE POTS OR PROVIDE A LARGER SINK.
48
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DRAIN BOARD AT 3- COMPARMENT SINK TO AIR DRY DISHES.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM STEAM TABLE,FRYER CABINET,WHEEL BASES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT,PREP TABLE,GRILL TABLES,WINDOW SILLS,INTERIOR OF STOVE,EXTERIOR OF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A LID FOR GARBAGE CAN IN UNI-SEX STAFF TOILET ROOM.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Violation Codes: 6-201.13 Inspector Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN PREP AND DINING AREAS,GAP IN BETWEEN FLOOR AND WALL BASE IN REAR PREP AREA.
55
58
Jan 26, 2022
Complaint
5 major violations. 16 minor violations.
View 21 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF 3- LIVE ROACHES CRAWLING ON UPPER WALL LEDGE AT 3- COMPARTMENT SINK,UNDERNEATH MICROWAVE AND COUNTER TOP UNDERNEATH JUICE MACHINE.APPX. 25 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS ON DISH STORAGE & LAUNDRY TABLE SHELVING UNIT IN BASEMENT ALSO.APPX. 6-8 LIVE SMALL FLIES CRAWLING AROUND WOOD SUMP PUMP LID IN BASEMENT.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS. CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 1/26/22.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)(CITATION ISSUED)
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICIES.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SINK IN REAR PREP /STORAGE AREA WHERE 2- MEAT SLICERS AND A GRINDER WITH SEVERAL CONTAINERS OF RAW MEATS IN SAME AREA ON PREP TABLE.MUST PROVIDE A HAND SINK WITH HOT & COLD RUNNING WATER,SOAP AND TOWELS AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(CITATION ISSUED).
10
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2534415 10/6/21 #60-NOT CORRECTED.STILL OBSERVED NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR FOOD MANAGER.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2534415 10/6/2021 NOT CORRECTED.#47- CUTTING BOARDS AT FRONT PREP AREA HEAVILY STAINED AND WITH DEEP, DARK PITTED SURFACE. INSTD TO REPLACE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.#49- EXCESSIVE ICE ACCUMULATION IN ALL FREEZERS IN BASEMENT. INSTD TO REMOVE ICE AND MAINTAIN.#51- MISSING PROPER STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER STOPPERS AND MAINTAIN.MUST REPAIR,PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090)(CITATION ISSUED)
60
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SPLASH GUARD IN BETWEEN HAND SINK AND 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT MULTI-USE UTENSILS ON DISH STORAGE SHELVES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS BEING USED FOR FOOD STORAGE MUST ELIMINATE AND PROVIDE FOOD GRADE BAGS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM FROM LOWER SHELF OF PREP TABLE.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO DRAIN BOARD AT 3- COMPARMENT SINK TO AIR DRY DISHES.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
48
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OVERSIZED POTS TO LARGE TO BE SUBMERGED IN 3- COMPARTMENT SINK TO BE SANITIZED PROPERLY.MUST BE ABLE TO DEMONSTRATE HOW IT'S DONE,REMOVE POTS OR PROVIDE A LARGER SINK.
48
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM STEAM TABLE,FRYER CABINET,WHEEL BASES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT,PREP TABLE,GRILL TABLES,WINDOW SILLS,INTERIOR OF STOVE,EXTERIOR OF FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #60.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACK FLOW DEVICE ON ICE MACHINE TO BE SEEN FOR SERVICING.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A LID FOR GARBAGE CAN IN UNI-SEX STAFF TOILET ROOM.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE WATER FROM BASEMENT FLOOR WHERE NEEDED.MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP ON FLOOR IN PREP/ DISH WASHING AREAS AND BASEMENT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES IN PREP AND DINING AREAS,GAP IN BETWEEN FLOOR AND WALL BASE IN REAR PREP AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST ELEVATE,REMOVE OR ORGANIZE ARTICLES OFF OF FLOOR AND AWAY FROM WALLS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT.
55
Miscellaneous / public health orders
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROTOCOL PROCEDURE FOR CHECKING VACCINATIONS IN A PUBLIC PLACE.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(WARNING)
64
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER FOR REFRIGERATOR IN FRONT PREP AREA.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED AN APPX. "1/2-3/4" GAP ALONG BOTTOM OF REAR DOOR.MUST MAKE DOOR TIGHT FITTING.
38
27
Oct 6, 2021
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM 6/18/19 REPORT 2293749 NOT CORRECTED: MISSING ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED FOR CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HANDWASH SINK IN REAR PREP AREA ROOM WHERE PREP TABLE, MASA GRINDER, CAN OPENER LOCATED. OBSERVED LIST OF SALSAS TO BE PREPARED, OPEN CONTAINERS OF SALSA AND COOKED STEAK IN THIS PREP AREA ALSO. INSTD TO PROVIDE A HANDWASH SINK WITH RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PLUMBING WITH 100F-120F, SOAP, SANITARY HANDWASHING DEVICE AND HANDWASH SIGN.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS AT FRONT PREP AREA HEAVILY STAINED AND WITH DEEP, DARK PITTED SURFACE. INSTD TO REPLACE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE ICE ACCUMULATION IN ALL FREEZERS IN BASEMENT. INSTD TO REMOVE ICE AND MAINTAIN
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MISSING PROPER STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER STOPPERS AND MAINTAIN
51
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SEE 60.
58
70
Jun 18, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROCEDURE AND CLEAN-UP KIT FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS (COOKED BEEF, COOKED PORK, DICED TOMATOES) WITHOUT PROPER DATE MARKING. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL TCS FOODS PREPARED ON SITE AND HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS MUST HAVE PROPER DATE MARKING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY FOR RAW/UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL BASED FOOD ITEMS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER FOR RAW/UNDERCOOKED ANIMAL BASED FOOD ITEMS ON MENU. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF BEANS AND RICE WITH NO COMMON NAME. INSTRUCTED THAT FOOD OUTSIDE OF THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER MUST BE LABELED.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CUTTING BOARD IN THE FRONT COOKING AREA WITH DEEP GROOVES AND CUTS. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LOWER LEDGES OF THE FLATTOP, PREP TABLES, HOT AND COLD WELLS, DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GRIME AND GREASE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE ON THE MOP SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE TO INSTALL FOR SERVICING.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS IN BETWEEN COOKING EQUIPMENT ON THE FLOORS IN THE FRONT COOK AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE MIDDLE PREP AREA OF THE FRONT KITCHEN-------OBSERVED DAMAGED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE CLUTTER AND UNUSED EQUIPMENT IN THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FROM THE CERTIFIED MANAGER. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL MANAGERS WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE MUST COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
45
Oct 4, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS A LINER IN THE FRONT UPRIGHT FREEZER, AND IN OVEN,INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FRONT CUTTING BOARD, AND THE REAR #10CAN OPENERNOT CLEAN, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
33
Linen: clean and soiled properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHES IMPROPERLY STORED ON THE FRONT CUTTING BOARD, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND STORE IN CLEAN CONTAINER WITH 100PPM OF CHLORINE SANITIZER.
39
86
Jul 18, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN MEATS, COOKED RICE AND TORTILLA CHIPS STORED IN PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS IN THE COOLERS AND FREEZERS. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO USE ONLY FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS/CONTAINERS.
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE THE WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN THE REAR STORAGE ROOM.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE ROOM.
36
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOP STORED INSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO STORE THE SCOOP OUTSIDE OF THE ICE MACHINE IN A CLEAN CONTAINER.
43
82
Jun 9, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: EXPOSED HANDSINK NOT ACCESSIBLE, MULTI USE EQUIPMENT (KNIVES, SPOON, ETC) IN BASIN OF SINK. INSTD TO KEEP BASIN CLEAN AND ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030 CRITICAL.
11
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE, OBSERVED BOXES OF RAW BEEF STORED DIRECTLY ABOVE OPEN CONTAINER OF READY TO EAT JALAPENOS AND RAW SHELLED EGGS DIRECTLY ABOVE READY TO EAT SHREDDED CHEESE IN WALK-IN COOLER. INSTD TO STORE RAW FOOD PROPERLY. ALSO NOTED CONTAINERS OF FOOD PRODUCT STORED ON FLOOR IN WALK-IN COOLER. INSTD TO PROPERLY STORE OFF FLOOR. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A SERIOUS.
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARD IN PREP AREA, PITTED WITH DEEP, DARK GROOVES. INSTD TO REPAIR/REPLACE SAME. ICE MACHINE WITH RUST ACCUMULATION. INSTD TO CLEAN SAME AND MAINTAIN. GROCERY BAGS BEING USED TO STORE FOOD. INSTD TO STORE FOOD PROPERLY.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHTSHIELDS MISSING IN PREP COOLER. INSTD TO PROVIDE LIGHTSHIELDS AND ENDCAPS.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: SPLASHGUARD MISSING INBETWEEN EXPOSED HANDSINK AND PREP TABLE. INSTD TO PROVIDE SAME. LARGE FLAT TOP GRILL CURRENTLY IN USE NOT UNDER VENTILATION HOOD. INSTD TO HAVE GRILL COMPLETELY UNDER VENTILATION HOOD OR REMOVE FROM PREMISES.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: CLUTTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES NOTED IN OUTSIDE REAR. INSTD TO REMOVE ANY NON RELATED ITEMS (WOOD, TIRES, ETC) AND ORGANIZE.
41
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS NOT MET. INSTD TO PROVIDE PROPER REQUIREMENTS.
45
70
Jun 19, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE UNCLEAN. CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR OF WALK IN COOLER MADE OF RAW WOOD. FLOOR NEEDS TO BE CONSTRUCTED OF NON POROUS MATERIAL, SMOOTH , EASILY CLEANABLE AND MAINTAINED.
34
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER IN FRONT POP COOLER CONTAINING FLAN. INSTALL THERMOMETERS IN ALL COOLERS.
40
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REAR OF PROPERTY HAS ACCUMULATED DEBRIS INCLUDING PALLETS, CARDBOARD, FURNITURE, OLD COOKING EQUIPMENT AND OLD GREASE. THERE IS ALOT OF FLY ACTIVITY. ELIMINATE ALL OLD DREBIS AND WASTE. EKIMINATE FLY ACTIVITY AND MAINTAIN AREA IN A CLEAN CONDITION.
41
82
Apr 16, 2013
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL COOKED FOOD PRODUCTS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM EXTERIOR DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA AND W00DEN SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER HAS CHIP PAINT MUST REPAINT WITH A NON TOXIC PAINT ALSO MUST REPLACE CUTTING BOARD AT CHEST PREP COOLER AT FRONT PREP AREA HAS OPEN SEAMS
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FLOORS IN REAR WHERE EXIT DOOR IS LOCATED ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM WALLS IN REAR NEAR EXIT DOOR AND ON PIPES NEAR 3 COMPARTMENT SIMK IN REAR PREP AREA AND SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES TO PREVENT RODENT ENTRY,ALSO CEILING TILES MISSING IN REAR NEAR EXIT DOOR MUST INSTALL
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE A LIGHT SHIELD COVER FOR LIGHT IN BASEMENT WHERE REFRIGERATORS ARE STORED
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA
40
74
Mar 26, 2013
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CHEST ICE MACHINE IN REAR NEAR EXIT DOOR HAS HAS YELLOW SLIMY SUBSTANCE INSIDE MACHINE WHERE ICE IS BEING MADE ALSO OBSERVED RUST INSIDE SAME AREA MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE ICE MACHINE.ICE MACHINE WILL BE TAGED ON THIS DAY MUST FAX LETTER WHEN ICE MACHINE IS CLEANED AND SANITIZED FAX#312-746-4240 ATTENTION SUPERVISOR ARLEEN LOPEZ
16
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL COOKED FOOD PRODUCTS INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM EXTERIOR DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA AND W00DEN SHELVES INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER HAS CHIP PAINT MUST REPAINT WITH A NON TOXIC PAINT ALSO MUST REPLACE CUTTING BOARD AT CHEST PREP COOLER AT FRONT PREP AREA HAS OPEN SEAMS
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE FLOORS IN REAR WHERE EXIT DOOR IS LOCATED ALONG WALL BASE AND CORNERS
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CHIP PAINT FROM WALLS IN REAR NEAR EXIT DOOR AND ON PIPES NEAR 3 COMPARTMENT SIMK IN REAR PREP AREA AND SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES TO PREVENT RODENT ENTRY,ALSO CEILING TILES MISSING IN REAR NEAR EXIT DOOR MUST INSTALL
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: PROVIDE A LIGHT SHIELD COVER FOR LIGHT IN BASEMENT WHERE REFRIGERATORS ARE STORED
36
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A THERMOMETER INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER IN REAR PREP AREA
40
70
Aug 7, 2012
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN FREEZER HAS ICE BUILDUP LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CEAAN THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT UNDER THE HAEVY EQUIPMENT HAS SOME DUST BUILDUP.
34
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE LIGHT SHIELDS IN THE DINING ROOM THEY ARE DUSTY.
36
86
Jan 19, 2012
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 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. CLEAN THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, KNIFE RACK AND PREP TABLES. DEFROST AND CLEAN THE REACHIN CHEST FREEZER HAS ICE BUILDUP LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT.
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. CLEAN THE FLOOR UNDER THE COOKING EQUIPMENT HAS SOME GREASE BUILDUP. ALSO CLEAN THE BASEMENT FLOOR ALONG THE WALLS AND IN THE CORNERS HAS DUST BUILDUP.
34
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. CLEAN THE VENTS THROUGHOUT THEY ARE DUSTY.
38
86
Aug 30, 2011
Consultation
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: REACH-IN PREP COOLER TAGGED BY CDPH IN USE AND IN POOR REPAIR, INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF 48.1F. GASKET OF DOOR ALSO IN POOR REPAIR. UNIT REMAINS TAGGED AT THIS TIME AND INSTD NOT TO USE UNTIL UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CDPH AND ABLE TO MAINTAIN PRODUCT TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005 A CRITICAL. INSTD TO FAX LETTER (312) 746-4240 TO REQUEST REINSPECTION. INSTD TO UTILIZE OTHER REFRIGERATION ON SITE.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES IN COOLER: COOKED PORK 48.1F, EGGS 47.9F, CHEESE 49.1F, STEAK 66.6F. ALL VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF AND DENTATURED AT THIS TIME. APPROX 20LBS, 100 VALUE. NO TEMPERATURES LOGS IN PLACE OR AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW. INSTD TO MAINTAIN COLD FOODS AT 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A CRITICAL.
3
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THRU-OUT REAR OF PREP AREA INCLUDING DOOR WAY, NOT CLEAN AND WITH CHIPPED PAINT. INSTD TO CLEAN AND PAINT SAME.
35
86
Aug 12, 2011
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THRU-OUT REAR OF PREP AREA INCLUDING DOOR WAY, NOT CLEAN AND WITH CHIPPED PAINT. INSTD TO CLEAN AND PAINT SAME.
35
95
Aug 2, 2011
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: PREP COOLER IN USE IN POOR REPAIR, INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF 50.9F. UNIT TAGGED AT THIS TIME AND INSTD NOT TO USE UNTIL REPAIRED AND REINSPECTED BY CDPH. INSTD TO MAINTAIN PRODUCT TEMPERATURE OF 40F OR BELOW. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A) CRITICAL. INSTD TO UTILIZE OTHER COOLERS ON SITE.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES IN PREP COOLER: COOKED STEAK (50.2F), COOKED CHICKEN (50.9F), COOKED PORK (49.9). ALL PRODUCT DENATURED AND DISCARDED. INSTD TO MAINTAIN TEMPERATURES OF 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. NO TEMPERATURE LOGS ON SITE CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A CRITICAL. APPROX 20LBS, $100 VALUE.
3
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MGR ON SITE WHILE HANDLING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (STEAK, CHICKEN, ETC). INSTD TO HAVE ON DUTY AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012 SERIOUS.
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 8/30/10 (284898) NOT CORRECTED: 32-MUST REMOVE FOIL AND CARDBOARD FROM SURFACES. MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES. MUST PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WOOD SHELVES IN WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS OF REACH-IN COOLER AND FREEZER. MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS. 35- MUST REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES. MUST PROVIDE DOOR SWEEP ON FRONT & REAR DOOR (BOTTOM OF DOOR RUSTED AND GAPS). INSTD TO HAVE DOOR TIGHT FITTING. 38- MUST PLACE GRILL UNDER VENTILATION HOOD OR REMOVE FROM PREMISES. CITATION ISSUED 7-42-090 SERIOUS.
29
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS THRU-OUT REAR OF PREP AREA INCLUDING DOOR WAY, NOT CLEAN AND WITH CHIPPED PAINT. INSTD TO CLEAN AND PAINT SAME.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHTSHIELDS AND ENDCAPS MISSING IN PREP AREA. PROVIDE SAME.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: PROVIDE SPLASHGUARD INBETWEEN EXPOSED HANDSINK AND PREP TABLE.
38
70
Aug 30, 2010
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities.OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF 2- DOOR PREP COOLER AT 46.7 F. A HELD FOR INSPECTION TAG PLACED ON UNIT ONCE REPAIRED FAX LETTER TO (312)746-4240 WHEN READY.MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING UNIT AT 40 OR BELOW.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less.OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF COOKED FOODS STORED INSIDE OF 2- DOOR PREP COOLER SUCH AS RAW SHELLED EGGS 46.9 F,COOKED STEAK 55.9 F,COOKED CACTUS 47.3 F,COOKED CHICKEN 46.7 F, DICED TOMATOE 50.7 F. NO TIME & TEMPERATURE LOGS AVAILABLE TO VIEW. PRODUCT WAS VOLUNTARILY DUMPED & DENATURED.APPX. 3LBS. $15.
3
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 REMOVE FOIL & CARD BOARD FROM SURFACES.MUST REMOVE RUST FROM LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES,MUST PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WOOD SHELVES IN WALK IN COOLER. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON REACH IN COOLER & FREEZER.MUST PROVIDE SINK STOPPERS.
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 NOZZLES ON SODA MACHINE,GRILL & PREP TABLES,WHEEL BASES OF EQUIPMENT.
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 REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED FLOOR TILE IN REAR STORAGE AREA.
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 REPLACE STAINED CEILING TILES, MISSING WALLBASE.MUST SEAL OPENINGS AROUND PIPES,GAP IN WALL BASE IN TOILET ROOM.MUST REPAIR DAMAGED WALL IN REAR STORAGE AREA.MUST SCRAPE & PAINT PEELING PAINT ON WALL IN DINING AREA.MUST PROVIDE DOOR SWEEP ON FRONT & REAR DOOR.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health.MUST PLACE ADDITIONAL GRILL UNDER VENTILATION HOOD,MISSING SUMP PUMP LID.
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.
40
67
Jan 13, 2010
Routine
9 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous food shall have adequate refrigerated food storage facilities.Observed improper temperature of prep cooler at 53.5 with potentially hazardous foods stored inside.A held for inspection tag placed on unit once repaired fax letter to (312)746-4240.
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: All cold food shall be stored at a temperature of 40F or less.Observed improper temperatures of cooked foods stored in prep cooler and walk in cooler,steak 55.9,cactus 47.4,chicken 49.2,beans 47.7,eggs 48.7,tamales 46.0, rice 46.2,barbacoa 47.3.Product was voluntarily dumped and denatured.No time and temperature logs available to view.Appx.50 lbs. valued $125.
3
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.
30
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.
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.peeling paint on wood shelves in walk in cooler
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.
33
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.seal openings around pipes,replace stained ceiling tiles,missing wall tiles at 3- compartment sink.replace door sweep on front door.
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.reconnect mopsink.
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.rear yard has clutter.
41
64
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Tierra Caliente last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Tierra Caliente on file is from Feb 9, 2022. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Tierra Caliente?
Across the inspection record, “thermometers provided & accurate” has been cited eight times, more than any other issue at Tierra Caliente.
Has Tierra Caliente's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Tierra Caliente have averaged around 12 violations per visit, up from roughly six earlier in the record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Tierra Caliente means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
Nearby Restaurants