Tom Yum Cafe

608 W Barry Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Café / Breakfast
Last inspected: Sep 22, 2025
58
Score
Medium Risk

Tom Yum Cafe appears in inspection records 17 times, starting in 2014. Inspectors last stopped by on Sep 22, 2025. The medium risk tier sits in the middle: not spotless, but not alarming either.

Violation counts have held steady across recent visits, averaging around seven violations each.

Across the inspection history, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 13 times.

By comparison, the average Chicago facility scores 81, putting Tom Yum Cafe on the weaker side. On the whole, the file is mixed but not concerning.

17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
Sep 22, 2025
Complaint
1 major violation. 9 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK IN KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA BLOCKED WITH CUTTING BOARD, PLATES AND SPOONS NOT ACCESSIBLE FOR USE. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO ENSURE HAND WASHING SINK IS ONLY USED FOR HANDWASHING AND ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES. MANAGER REMOVED ITEMS FROM BLOCKING HAND WASHING SINK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(c)CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WHEN FOOD IS NOT IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEES NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINTS WHILE FOOD ISBEING PREPARED AND SERVED. MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES FOOD IS PREPARED AND SERVED.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON TOP OF PREP TABLES IN KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ITEMS STORED IN FRONT PREP AREA NOT ELEVATED FROM THE FLOOR. MUST ELEVATE ITEMS AT ALL TIMES.
45
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN THE KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY DUST BUILD UP ON WALL AND CEILING ABOVE MAIN ENTRANCE TO KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINAIN. OBSERVED GREASE AND DEBRIS ON WALLS BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT, 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND REFRIGERATION UNITS IN THE KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW DAMAGED AND BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN FACILITY IN A GOOD REPAIR.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST BUILD UP ON VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATION FOR ALL THE REQUIRED EMPLOYEES
57
58
Jul 15, 2025
License
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES TO RESPOND TO VOMIT AND DIARREAL EVENTS INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A SIGNED EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY FOR EACH EMPLOYEE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF ICE BUILD UP INSIDE UPRIGHT FREEZER. MUST REMOVE ICE AND CLEAN FREEZER.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN THE KITCHEN FOOD PREPARATION AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A FEW DAMAGED AND BROKEN FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF 3-COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE KITCHEN FOOD PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN FACILITY IN A GOOD REPAIR.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURN OUT LIGHT BULB IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REPLACE BURM OUT LIGHT BULB AND MAINTAIN INTENSITY LIGHTING AT ALL TIMES.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MECHANICAL VENTILATION UNOPERABLE IN THE UNISEX EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ABOVE THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER MUST OBTAIN ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE.
58
61
Aug 2, 2024
Reinspection
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-201.11 - OBSERVED DAMAGED BOWLS AND BROKEN PLASTIC SCOOPS IN THE SEASONING AND SALT SCOOP STATION NEXT TO WOK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE REPLACEMENTS FOR ALL DAMAGED UTENSILS OR ITEMS THAT ARE NO LONGER SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(C) - OBSERVED HEAVY FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP AND GRAIN/SPICE BUILD UP ON THE BOTTOM SHELF IN THE COCA COLA COOLER AT THE FRONT DINING AREA AND ON THE BOTTOM SHELF OF THE PREPARATION TABLE IMMEDIATELY AT ENTRANCE TO KITCHEN. OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP ON THE SIDES OF THE WOK AND STOVE TOP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN AREAS FREE OF FOOD DEBRIS AND HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15 - OBSERVED HANDWASHING SINK IN KITCHEN TO BE SLOW DRAINING; HAND SINK IS STILL FUNCTIONAL. OBSERVED ALSO LEAK FROM DRAINPIPE BELOW BOTH THE HAND SINK AND THE CENTER BASIN OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE SINKS AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 - OBSERVED THE FLOOR BELOW 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND BEHIND FRYER AND OVER TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH GREASE SPILLAGE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA FROM HEAVY GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.16 - OBSERVED MOPS STORED IN BUCKET OF HALF FILLED WATER IN MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE MOP TO ALLOW FOR IT TO AIR DRY IN BETWEEN USE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-304.11 - OBSERVED VENTILATION IN BATHROOM TO BE NOT WORKING AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE FAN IN BATHROOM.
56
74
Jul 26, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 8 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO MAINTAINED PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK CONTAINING RECENT SERVICE REPORTS OR THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY'S ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH LICENSE NUMBER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A MAINTAINED PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK CONTAINING ALL NECESSARY INFORMATION AS SPECIFIED IN THE MUNICIPAL CODE OF CHICAGO. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION, 7-38-020(c). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 6 DEAD COCKROACHES ON THE FRONT UPPER SHELF IN THE DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL DEAD INSECT, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AREA, AND MAINTAIN AREA FREE OF ANY DEAD INSECTS.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED BOWLS AND BROKEN PLASTIC SCOOPS IN THE SEASONING AND SALT SCOOP STATION NEXT TO WOK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE REPLACEMENTS FOR ALL DAMAGED UTENSILS OR ITEMS THAT ARE NO LONGER SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP AND GRAIN/SPICE BUILD UP ON THE BOTTOM SHELF IN THE COCA COLA COOLER AT THE FRONT DINING AREA AND ON THE BOTTOM SHELF OF THE PREPARATION TABLE IMMEDIATELY AT ENTRANCE TO KITCHEN. OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP ON THE SIDES OF THE WOK AND STOVE TOP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN, SANITIZE, AND MAINTAIN AREAS FREE OF FOOD DEBRIS AND HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDWASHING SINK IN KITCHEN TO BE SLOW DRAINING; HAND SINK IS STILL FUNCTIONAL. OBSERVED ALSO LEAK FROM DRAINPIPE BELOW BOTH THE HAND SINK AND THE CENTER BASIN OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE SINKS AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR BELOW 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND BEHIND FRYER AND OVER TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH GREASE SPILLAGE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA FROM HEAVY GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOPS STORED IN BUCKET OF HALF FILLED WATER IN MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE MOP TO ALLOW FOR IT TO AIR DRY IN BETWEEN USE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENTILATION IN BATHROOM TO BE NOT WORKING AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR OR REPLACE FAN IN BATHROOM.
56
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW FROZEN BEEF THAWING ON PREPARATION TABLE IN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO THAW ALL TCS FOODS APPRORPIATELY SUCH AS SUBMERGED UNDER COLD RUNNING WATER OR UNDER REFRIGERATION THAT MAINTAINS TEMPARATURE OF 41F OR LESS.
35
61
Oct 19, 2023
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Oct 10, 2023
Routine
2 critical violations. 4 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: INFESTATION OF LIVE RAOCHES ON SITE. WE OBSERVED 5 LIVE ROACHES INSIDE THE PREP COOLER AT THE LEFT DOOR AT THINGS AND RUBBER GASKET AND 20 BABY LIVE ROACHES UNDER THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK AROUND THE GREASE TRAP. INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL.REMOVE, CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS: INSIDE PREP COOLER, ETC. PRIORITY VIOLATION:7-38-020(A)CITATION ISSUED
38
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND TCS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE: TOFU IN WATER AT TEMP OF 68F, STORED ON TOP SHELF BY THREE COMPARTMENT SINK; FRESH EGGS IN CONTAINER STORED BY THE COOKING EQUIPMENT AT 63.9F; COOKED WIDE NOODLES STORED IN CONTAINER ON TOP OF THE PREP COOLER AT TEMP OF 68.7F(NO TIME TEMPERATURE LOG PROVIDED). COLD FOOD MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 41F AND BELOW. FOOD DISCARDED BY THE MANAGER. POUNDS 7; VALUE 30. PRIORITY VIOLATION: 7-38-005, CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS AND COOKED FOODS NOT PROPERLY DATE LABELED. MUST PROPERLY DATE LABELED FOODS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS ON ALL TCS FOODS(COOKED NOODLES, CHICKEN, DIFFERENT KINDS OF SAUCE, ETC.). PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: FOUND NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY/TRAINING SYSTEM AND MAINTAIN VERIFIABLE DOCUMENTS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
3
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM 10-4-22, REPORT#2564798 #47) 4-402.12: NOTED 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITH NO STOPPERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE MISSING STOPPERS 47) 4-102.11: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE COOLER STORED TIN CANS. INSTRUCTED PROPERLY TO STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD-GRADE CONTAINERS. #49)4-601.11(B): ALLSPICE/FOOD CONTAINERS ON THE COOKS' LINE AND DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING WERE NOTED AS EXTREMELY DIRTY ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS.-----INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WAS DIRTY WITH FOOD SPLATTER. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #55) 6-201.11: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, UNDER ALL SINKS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND STORAGE SHELVING WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND EXCESSIVE GREASE. WALL BEHIND COOKS LINE WITH GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN. #58) 2-102.13: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION: 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED.
60
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: FOUND NO PROCEDURE/PLAN AND KIT FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN A PROCEDURE/PLAN AND TO MAINTAIN ANY APPROPRIATE SUPPLIES ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: DEBRIS AND GRIME ON FOOD SURFACE IN PREP AREA.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.PREP TABLES, CUTTING BOARDS ETC.
16
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: A BUCKET WITH SANITIZE SOLUTION AND LINEN MUST BE PROVIDED AT PREP TABLES
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: THE INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE IS BROKEN, METAL EXPOSED.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE UNIT
47
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
57
41
Oct 4, 2022
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED 3 COMPARTMENT SINK WITH NO STOPPERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE MISSING STOPPERS
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE COOLER STORED TIN CANS. INSTRUCTED PROPERLY TO STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD-GRADE CONTAINERS.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL SPICE/FOOD CONTAINERS ON THE COOKS' LINE AND DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING WERE NOTED AS EXTREMELY DIRTY ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS.-----INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WAS DIRTY WITH FOOD SPLATTER. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, UNDER ALL SINKS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND STORAGE SHELVING WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND EXCESSIVE GREASE. WALL BEHIND COOKS LINE WITH GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
78
May 6, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Apr 29, 2021
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 8 TO 10 LIVE ROACHES INSIDE THE COOKS LINE TWO COOLERS DOOR GASKETS AND INSIDE DOOR HINGES. ALSO NOTED LIVE ROACHES CRAWLING IN BETWEEN COOLERS AND ON THE SURROUNDING FLOOR. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #60 FROM 4-20-21 NOT CORRECTED.#39-: MUST INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN THE HAND WASHING SINK AND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. #41- PREP AREA WET WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION. #49- METAL RACK SHELVING ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. #49-: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE.-----DIRTY BULK SPICE CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #51- NO BACKFLOW PREVENTOR LOCATED ON THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK. MUST PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE. #55-FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, UNDER ALL SINKS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE SHELVING WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND EXCESSIVE GREASE. WALLS ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, AT THE HAND SINK, NEXT TO THE DEEP FRYER, BEHIND COOKS LINE WITH GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
59
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)-INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN DIRTY WITH FOOD SPLATTER.----INTERIOR OF THE KITCHEN TWO DOOR COOLER BOTH WITH FOOD DEBRIS, DIRTY FOOD ENCRUSTED RUBBER DOOR GASKETS AND DOOR HINGES. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN ALL. 4-601.11(C)- BOTTOM METAL SHELVING OF THE METAL PREP TABLE, HOT AND COLD HANDLE/NOZZLE ON THE HAND WASHING SINK AND WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----MUST NOT USE TINFOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
49
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.115 OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS ON THE GROUNDS CARDBOARD BOXES, PLASTIC CANS MUST REMOVE AND MAINTAIN THE AREA CLEAN.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : 6-201.13- TORN/MISSING BASEBOARD COVING ALONG THE WEST WALL OF THE KITCHEN BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST REPLACE. 6-501.12- NOTED EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE DRIPPING DOWN ONTO THE WALL. MUST REMOVE GREASE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. 6-101.11- NOTED CRACKED/DAMAGED AND MISSING FLOOR TILES IN THE KITCHEN. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
67
Apr 20, 2021
Routine
1 critical violation. 6 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 18 violations
Food separated and protected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING RAW MEATS BEING STORED DIRECTLY ON TOP OF PREPARED, READY TO EAT FOODS. GROUND BEEF ON TOP OF THE CONTAINER OF PREPARED SOUP. RAW PORK ON COOLER SHELVING DIRECTLY ABOVE CONTAINERS OF PREPARED SAUCES AND SOUPS. RAW CHICKEN DIRECTLY ON TOP OF AN OPEN, UNCOVERED CAN OF PINEAPPLE CHUNKS. ALL CONTAMINATED FOODS DISCARDED. REVIEWED SAFE FOOD STORAGE AND FOOD PROTECTION. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
15
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2300790 ON 7-8-19 NOT CORRECTED. #37- ALL BULK FOOD AND SPICE CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME. #39-: MUST INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN THE HAND WASHING SINK AND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. #41- PREP AREA WET WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION. #49- METAL RACK SHELVING ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. #49-: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE.----INTERIOR OF THE TALL REACH-IN FREEZER WITH FOOD DEBRIS.----DIRTY BULK SPICE CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #51- NO BACKFLOW PREVENTOR LOCATED ON THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK. MUST PROVIDE A BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE. #55-FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, UNDER ALL SINKS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE SHELVING WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND EXCESSIVE GREASE. WALLS ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, AT THE HAND SINK, NEXT TO THE DEEP FRYER, BEHIND COOKS LINE WITH GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
60
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: NO SUMMARY REPORT POSTED VISIBLE TO THE ESTABLISHMENTS CUSTOMERS FROM REPORT #2300790 POSTED BY THIS INSPECTOR ON 7-8-19. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.NO CITATION ISSUED
61
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR ANY EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE OR REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR A VOMIT/DIARRHEA EVENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREPARED TCS FOODS INSIDE THE COOKS LINE COOLER HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS NOT DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE. VARIOUS SOUPS, SAUCES, COOKED BALLS OF MEAT WITH NO DATES. INSTRUCTED ALL PREPARED TCS FOOD HELD OVERNIGHT MUST BE DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: NO COMPLETE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK ON-SITE WITH ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.NO CITATION ISSUED
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK SPICE AND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED IN THE ORIGINAL CONTAINER MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: NOTED BAGGED RICE BEING STORED DIRECTLY ON THE FLOOR AND ONIONS BEING STORED DIRECTLY UNDER THE HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED ALL FOODS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND PROTECTED.
39
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: NOTED CLEAN DISHES BEING STORED DIRECTLY NEXT TO THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL CLEAN DISHES/UTENSILS OR PROVIDE A GUARD BETWEEN SINK AND DISHES.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE EMPTY, USED EGG CARDBOARD BOXES AS A MEANS OR SHELVING/ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS. ALL SHELVING MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANABLE MATERIAL.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL SPICE/FOOD CONTAINERS ON THE COOKS LINE AND DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING NOTED EXTREMELY DIRTY WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS.-----INTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN DIRTY WITH FOOD SPLATTER.----INTERIOR OF THE KITCHEN TWO DOOR COOLER BOTH WITH POOLING LIQUID ON BOTTOM SHELVING, FOOD DEBRIS, DIRTY FOOD ENCRUSTED RUBBER DOOR GASKETS AND DOOR HINGES. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: BOTTOM METAL SHELVING OF THE METAL PREP TABLE, HOT AND COLD HANDLE/NOZZLE ON THE HAND WASHING SINK AND WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----MUST NOT USE TINFOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: EXTREMELY SLOW DRAINING HAND WASHING SINK. MUST REPAIR TO PROPERLY DRAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED CRACKED/DAMAGED AND MISSING FLOOR TILES IN THE KITCHEN. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE DRIPPING DOWN ONTO THE WALL. MUST REMOVE GREASE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: TORN/MISSING BASEBOARD COVING ALONG THE WEST WALL OF THE KITCHEN BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST REPLACE.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED AN EMPLOYEE PERSONAL HAND BAG HANGING FROM SHELVING ON THE COOKS LINE. MUST NOT STORE EMPLOYEES PERSONAL BELONGINGS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.
56
27
Jul 8, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE OR REQUIRED EQUIPMENT FOR A VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENT. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED, READY TO EAT TCS FOODS HELD LONGER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE PROPERLY DATE LABELED WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE NO LONGER THAN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD AND SPICE CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL A SPLASH GUARD BETWEEN THE HAND WASHING SINK AND THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: PREP AREA WET WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE COOKS LINE COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE.----INTERIOR OF THE TALL REACH-IN FREEZER WITH FOOD DEBRIS.----DIRTY BULK SPICE CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: METAL RACK SHELVING ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.----MUST NOT USE TINFOIL OR CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN AND FRONT SERVER AREA.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACK FLOW PREVENTOR LOCATED ON THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK. MUST PROVIDE A BACK FLOW PREVENTION DEVICE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY, UNDER ALL SINKS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, STORAGE SHELVING WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND EXCESSIVE GREASE. WALLS ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, AT THE HAND SINK, NEXT TO THE DEEP FRYER, BEHIND COOKS LINE WITH GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN ALL AND MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATE FOR THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER. MUST PROVIDE.
58
45
Apr 16, 2018
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND HOOD EXHAUST FILTERS NOT CLEAN. MUST CLEAN. FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE.
38
95
Sep 22, 2017
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NOTED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED (SOUPS, SALAD, CHICKEN ETC). INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON DUTY AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION #7-38-012
21
95
Sep 15, 2017
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING HAZARDOUS FOOD ITEMS ON THE PREP TABLE TO BE IMPROPER:-CHICKEN 58.3F, NOODLES 61.7F/55.4F, EGGS 69.8F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 8 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $40.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. CRITICAL VIOLATION #7-38-005(A)
3
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: NOTED EMPLOYEE WHILE WEARING GLOVES PERFORMED THE FOLLOWING TASKS:- WASHED DISHES AT THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND DID NOT CHANGES THEIR GLOVES, THEN CONTINUED PREPPING AT THE KITCHEN; CLEANED THE MOUTH AND EAR WITH THE SAME GLOVES ON AND CONTINUED AT THE PREP TABLE STILL WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES OR WASHING HANDS. FINALLY WENT OUTSIDE OF BUILDING AND RETURNED TO THE KITCHEN TO CONTINUE PREPPING STILL WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES OR WASHING HANDS. CRITICAL VIOLATION #7-38-010(A)
6
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: NOTED OVER 8 LIVE ROACHES ON PREMISE UNDERNEATH 3 COMPARTMENT SINK, UNDERNEATH SHELVING AT THE PREP AREA AND UNDERNEATH THE UTILITY SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO CONSULT WITH PEST CONTROL COMPANY. SERIOUS VIOLATION #7-38-020
18
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM INSPECTION REPORT #1953370 DATED 8/29/2016 NOT CORRECTED:-#30) ALL BULK FOOD/SPICE CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED.#31) DIRTY BULK FOOD/SPICE CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#32) MUST NOT USE NEWS PAPER AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. SHELVING UNDER BOTH MICROWAVE OVENS DIRTY WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKET ON LEFT DOOR OF LEFT TWO DOOR COOLER. MUST REPLACE #33)EXCESSIVE GREASE IN THE EXHAUST HOOD. DIRTY FOOD CART ON COOKS LINE WITH FOOD DEBRIS.EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. #34)FLOORS THROUGHOUT ENTIRE KITCHEN AND REAR WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND STICKY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION #7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN BOTTOM SHELVE OF UPRIGHT FREEZER.
33
78
Aug 29, 2016
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Sanitizing rinse for equipment and utensils: clean, proper temperature, concentration, exposure time
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UTILITY MOP SINK BEING USED TO WASH DISHES. SINK SET UP WITH SOAPY WATER, SCRUBBING SPONGES, DISH SOAP AND A DRYING CART NEXT TO SINK WITH CLEAN DISHES IN CART. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL DISH WASHING DRYING RACKS, SPONGES, DISH SOAP AND TO PROPERLY SET THE KITCHEN THREE COMPARTMENT SINK TO WASH RINSE AND SANITIZE. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030.
8
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: ALL BULK FOOD/SPICE CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: DIRTY BULK FOOD/SPICE CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE NEWS PAPER AS LINER FOR SHELVING THROUGHOUT. SHELVING UNDER BOTH MICROWAVE OVENS DIRTY WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKET ON LEFT DOOR OF LEFT TWO DOOR COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE GREASE IN THE EXHAUST HOOD. DIRTY FOOD CART ON COOKS LINE WITH FOOD DEBRIS.EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT ENTIRE KITCHEN AND REAR WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND STICKY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE HELD IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
70
Oct 19, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: FOUND NO HAND SOAP AT THE ONLY EXPOSED HAND SINK ON PREMISES IN THE MAIN KITCHEN AREA. MUST PROVIDE SOAP AND PAPER TOWELS AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS ON PREMISES WHILE OPERATING. MANAGER PURCHASED SOAP OFFSITE DURING INSPECTION TO PROVIDE SOAP AT THE EXPOSED HAND SINK. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
12
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT WHILE SERVING POTENTIALLY HAZAROUDS FOODS (I.E. BEEF, FISH, RICE, ETC.)INSTRUCTED TO HAVE AT LEAST ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE AT ALL TIMES & TO HAVE THE CERTIFICATE CONSPICUOUSLY POSTED IN PLAIN VIEWING SITE OF CUSTOMERS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012
21
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BOWL IN A RAW CONTAINER OF PORK ON THE COLD-HOLDING REFRIGERATION UNIT USED TO DIPSENSE MEAT. INSTRUCTED TO USE A HANDLED SCOOP OR TONGS TO DIPSENSE RAW MEAT TO AVOID BARE HAND CONTACT WITH RAW MEATS TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST SERVICE HOODVENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE HEAVY GREASE BUILDUP AND DRIED DROPLETS OF GREASE AROUND EXTERIOR HOOD- MAINTAIN
32
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LARGE SQUARE CUTOUT IN THE WALL BETWEEN THE STANDUP FREEZER AND THE WALL. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL THE HOLE TO PREVENT PEST/RODENT HARBORAGE AREAS AND TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
35
78
Sep 8, 2014
License
No violations found.
100

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Tom Yum Cafe last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Tom Yum Cafe on file is from Sep 22, 2025. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Tom Yum Cafe?

Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 13 times, more than any other issue at Tom Yum Cafe.

Has Tom Yum Cafe's inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Tom Yum Cafe have averaged around seven violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a medium risk rating mean?

A medium risk rating at Tom Yum Cafe means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.

How often is Tom Yum Cafe inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Tom Yum Cafe is inspected around two times per year on average.