Velvet Taco
Last inspected: Jan 12, 2026
78
Score
Public records show 31 inspections at Velvet Taco stretching back to 2015. The newest entry in the record is dated Jan 12, 2026. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near six violations per visit.
The most common issue across all inspections has been “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean”, showing up 22 times.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. Taken together, the history is a positive one.
31
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
5
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 12, 2026
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE AREA UNDER THE COOKING SURFACES(FLATTOP,GRILL) IN NEED OF A DETAIL CLEANING OF GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL EQUIPMENT.
49
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IN NEED OF A DETAIL CLEANING FROM BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE INSECT ACTIVITY.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR OF THE LARGE WALK IN COOLING UNIT IN NEED OF A DETAIL CLEANING ON THE FLOOR UNDER THE SHELVING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE WALL COVERING UNDER THE FRONT SERVICE AREA WHERE THE CASH RESGISTERS ARE LOCATED IN NEED OF A DETAIL CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, SIDE OF THE WALK IN COOLERS IN THE BASEMENT AND THE UPSTAIRS SERVICE AREA IN NEED OF A DETAIL CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
78
Feb 5, 2025
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPENINGS IN BASEMENT AREA THAT COULD BE POSSIBLE ENTRY WAYS FOR PEST AND OR INSECTS. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL ALL AREAS AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING ENTRY.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STANDING WATER AT THE DRYING RACK AREA LOCATED IN THE DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE WATER AND MAINTAIN AREAS.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FLOOR DRAINS IN THE MAIN KITCHEN AREA AND BASEMENT AREA WITH A BUILD UP OF DEBRIS AND FOOD DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREAS.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BEVERAGE-AIR COOLING UNIT IN THE UPSTAIRS FOOD PREP AREA ACROSS FROM THE HAND SINK IS NOT WORKING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR UNIT AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD WORKING CONDITION OR MUST REMOVE AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE HARBORING SPACE FOR ANY POSSIBLE PEST AND OR INSECTS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE LEFT SIDE OF THE SODA DISPECENING UNIT WITH A BUILD UP OF DIRT, DUST AND SMALL DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A BUILD UP OF DIRT, DUST AND FOOD DEBRIS ON THE SIDE OF THE WALK IN COOLING UNIT IN THE BASEMENT AS AT THE SHELVING UNIT THAT SITS IN FRONT OF THE WALK IN COOLING UNIT AND THE THREE COMP SINK AREA AT THE GREASE TRAP AND UNDER THE THREE COMP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL AREAS A NEEDED AS A MEANS OF PREVENTING POSSIBLE PEST AND OR INSECT ACTIVITY.
55
74
Feb 20, 2024
Complaint
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND DRYING PROVISION AT HANDWASHING SINK LOCATED AT FRONT PREP. ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH A HAND DRYING PROVISION AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE.CORRECTED ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. 7-38-030(C), CITATION CONSOLIDATED WITH ABOVE VIOLATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING CLEANSER AT HANDWASHING SINK AT FRONT PREP. ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE EQUIPPED WITH HAND CLEANING LIQUID AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-030-(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Compliance with variance/specialized process/haccp
Inspector notes: DURING INSPECTION OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS PREPARED IN HOUSE AND STORED WITH REDUCED OXYGEN PACKAGING BEYOND 48-HOUR RULE. A HACCP PLAN WAS NOT SUBMITTED TO THE REGULATORY AUTHORITY PRIOR TO ENGAGING IN A ROP OPERATION WITHOUT A VARIANCE. DISCUSSED THE HACCP CONCEPTS WITH THE PERSON IN CHARGE. PRODUCT REMOVED PENDING RECEIPT OF AN APPROVED HACCP PLAN.
29
Variance obtained for specialized processing methods
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION #29 FOR VIOLATION AND CITAITON ISSUED. ISSUE CITATION UNDER VIOLATION #29."
32
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING BACKFLOW AT UTILITY SINK NEEDS REPAIR. REPAIR BACKFLOW ACCORDING TO ILLINOIS AND LOCAL PLUMBING CODE. REFERENCE 5-205.15.
51
70
Oct 19, 2023
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15: OBSERVED OPEN HOLE ON THE BOTTOM OF EXTERIOR SIDE EXIT DOOR THAT LEADS TO DUMPSTER WHICH ALLOWS FOR PESTS/INSECTS TO ENTER. EXTERIOR DOORS SHALL BE: SELF-CLOSING, SOLID AND TIGHT FITTING, AND LIMITED TO DESIGNATED USE.
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: 5-501.116: OBSERVED TOP OF GREASE TRAP WASTE CONTAINER SLIGHTLY SOILED. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12: OBSERVED VENT HEAVILIY SOILED WITH DUST ABOVE THE HANDSINK/COOKLINE. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.114: UNNECESSARY ITEMS / NONFUNCTIONAL EQUIPMENT (FRYER) FOUND AT BOTTOM OF THE "EMPLOYEE ONLY" STAIRCASE LOCATED ON 2ND FLOOR. THE PREMISES SHALL BE FREE OF ITEMS UNNECESSARY TO THE OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT. THIS INCLUDES EQUIPMENT THAT IS NONFUNCTIONAL OR NO LONGER USED.
55
82
Oct 17, 2023
Complaint
3 critical violations. 3 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: MEASURED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING FOODS FOUND STORED AT ROOM TEMPERATURE AND IN REACH-IN PREP-LINE COOLER; 5LBS OF PICO CORN SALAD MEASURED AT 46.5F AND CUT LEAFY SALADS MEASURED BETWEEN 59-60F. APPROXIMATELY 8 LBS OF FOOD WAS DISCARDED AT A TOTAL APPROXIMATE COST OF $11. SEE ABOVE PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION THAT WAS ISSUED.
22
Proper hot holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RICE AT IMPROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERAURE, MEASURED AT 118.2F LOCATED IN REACH-IN HOT HOLDING UNIT. APPROXIMATELY 8LBS AT AN APPROXIMATE COST OF $10 DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
21
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE MEASURED AT 66F LOCATED AT REGISTER HANDSINK AND 2ND FLOOR RESTROOM. TEMPERATURE OF WATER MUST MAINTAIN AT LEAST 100F. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030 (C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COOKED BRISKET AND COOKED CHICKEN STORED IN SEALED BAD WITH NO DATE LABELS IN BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER. FOOD PREPARED AND HELD IN A FOOD ESTABLISHMENT FOR MORE THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE CONSUMED ON THE PREMISES, SOLD, OR DISCARDED WHEN HELD AT A TEMPERAURE OF 41F OR LESS FOR A MAXIMUM OF 7DAYS. APPROXIMATELY 31LBS AT AN APPRXIMATE COST OF $130 WAS DISCARDED ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
23
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: DISPOSABLE PAPER TOWELS NOT PROVIDED AT HANDSINK LOCATED IN COOKLINE. MANAGER PROVIDED DISPOSABLE PAPER TOWELS WHILE ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (c) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PINK SLIME ON INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE DRIP PLATE LOCATED IN BASEMENT. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED OPEN HOLE ON THE BOTTOM OF EXTERIOR SIDE EXIT DOOR THAT LEADS TO DUMPSTER WHICH ALLOWS FOR PESTS/INSECTS TO ENTER. EXTERIOR DOORS SHALL BE: SELF-CLOSING, SOLID AND TIGHT FITTING, AND LIMITED TO DESIGNATED USE.
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOW WATER PRESSURE AT HAND SINK LOCATED IN 2ND FLOOR RESTROOM. FACILITY MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TOP OF GREASE TRAP WASTE CONTAINER SLIGHTLY SOILED. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED VENT HEAVILIY SOILED WITH DUST ABOVE THE HANDSINK/COOKLINE. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: UNNECESSARY ITEMS / NONFUNCTIONAL EQUIPMENT (FRYER) FOUND AT BOTTOM OF THE "EMPLOYEE ONLY" STAIRCASE LOCATED ON 2ND FLOOR. THE PREMISES SHALL BE FREE OF ITEMS UNNECESSARY TO THE OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT. THIS INCLUDES EQUIPMENT THAT IS NONFUNCTIONAL OR NO LONGER USED.
55
37
Jun 21, 2023
Complaint
2 critical violations. 1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 4 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOODS IN THE PREP-LINE COOLER ACROSS THE GRILL AND PREP-LINE DRAWER COOLER NEXT TO THE FRYERS IS AT IMPROPER TEMPERAUTE. ALL COLD HOLDING TCS FOODS MUST BE 41F AND BELOW. BLUE CHEESE MEASURED AT 60.3F, AVOCADO PICO DE GALLO SALAD MEASURED AT 60.1F, CORN PICO DE GALLO MEASURED AT 61.4F, DICED TOMATOES MEASURED AT 58F, QUESO FRESCO MEASURED AT 58.3F, RAW CHICKEN MEASURED AT 56.5F, RAW FISH MEASURED AT 54.2F, AND TOFU MEASURED AT 53.1F, AND PAR-COOKED POTATOES 54.2F. APPROXIMATELY 54LBS AT AN APPROXIMATE COST OF $190.00 DISCARDED ON SITE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: PREP-LINE COOLER ACROSS FROM THE COOKLINE GRILL AND THE PREP-LINE DRAWER COOLER NEXT TO FRYERS IS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. PREP-LINE COOLER ACROSS GRILL MEASURED AT 61F AND PREP-LINE DRAWER COOLER NEXT TO FRYER MEASURED AT 56F. ALL TCS FOODS HAVE BEEN DISCARDED (SEE VIOLATION #22). COOLER HAS BEEN TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION. FACILITY MUST REACH OUT TO CDPHFOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG ONCE PROPERLY REPAIRED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-05 CITATION ISSUED.
33
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A CITY CERTIFICATION OR DOCUMENTATION OF PENDING CITY CERTIFICATE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS PREPAPRED FOODS SUCH AS RAW CHICKEN AND RAW FISH COOKED AND SERVED ON-SITE. NO OTHER ORIGINAL AND VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE WAS POSTED NOR PROVIDED ON-SITE FOR THE PRESENT MANAGER ON DUTY. NO VALID DOCCUMENTATION ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A LEAST ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHEN FOOD IS PREPARED AND SERVED ON SITE. CITY CERTIFIED MANAGER ARRIVED ON SITE AT APPROXIMATELY 11:15 AM. CITY CERTIFIED MANAGER ARRIVED DURING EXIT INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: A SIGN OR POSTER THAT NOTIFIES FOOD EMPLOYEES TO WASH THEIR HANDS IS NOT PROVIDED AT COOKLINE HANDWASHING SINKS USED BY FOOD EMPLOYEES. PROVIDE A CLEARLY VISIBLE HANDWASHING SIGN AT EACH HAND SINK.
10
64
Feb 16, 2023
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: SOAP NOT PROVIDED AT HAND SINK IN BASEMENT PREP AREA. SOAP MUST BE PROVIDED AT ALL TIMES AT ALL HAND SINKS AND MUST BE EASILY ACCESSIBLE. MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP AT HAND SINK DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 4 DEAD ROACHES NEAR BASEMENT DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN PREMISES FREE OF DEAD PESTS.
38
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: IN-USE WIPING CLOTHS ARE NOT STORED PROPERLY. FOUND ON PREP SURFACES IN BASEMENT AND UPSTAIRS COOKLINE. CLOTHS USED TO WIPE SURFACES AND EQUIPMENT SHALL BE HELD IN A PROPER SANITIZER SOLUTION. CLOTHS IN-USE FOR WIPING SURFACES IN CONTACT WITH RAW ANIMAL FOODS SHALL BE KEPT SEPARATE FROM CLOTHS USED FOR OTHER PURPOSES. IN-USE CLOTHS MUST BE LAUNDERED DAILIY.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: CLUTTERED DIRTY DISH ITEMS FOUND SCATTERED ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT DISH AREA. FACILITY MUST MAINTAIN AREA FREE OF CLUTTER AND PLACE DISHWARE AT LEAST 6 INCHES ABOVE THE FLOOR.- ALL DISHES WERE PLACED ON SHELVING AT TIME OF INSPECTION.
44
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN THE DISH AREA ARE SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND MOISTURE IN DISH AREA. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. STAFF HAS CLEANED AREA AT TIME OF INSPECTION.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: UNNECESSARY ITEMS FOUND NEAR BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA. THE PREMISES SHALL BE FREE OF ITEMS UNNECESSARY TO THE OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT. THIS INCLUDES EQUIPMENT THAT IS NONFUNCTIONAL OR NO LONGER USED.
55
70
Jan 24, 2022
Complaint
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IN USE LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE LOCATED IN BASEMENT DISH AREA MAINTAINING AN IMPROPER CHEMICAL SANITIZER CONCENTRATION OF 0PPM CHLORINE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN DISH MACHINE SO THAT IT DELIVERS 50-100PPM OF CHLORINE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FRONT HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED NEAR MARGARITA MACHINE COVERED AND RENDERED INACCESSIBLE WITH A LARGE PAN OF TORTILLA CHIPS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS OPEN AND ACCESSIBLE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION COMBINED WITH ABOVE CITATION.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED IN FRONT AREA NEXT TO MARGARITA MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PAPER TOWELS AT ALL EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C). CITATION COMBINED WITH ABOVE RELATED VIOLATIONS.
10
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPTY LIGHT SOCKET COVERED IN ALUMINUM FOIL IN HOOD ABOVE COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY BUILD UP OF DUST ON VENT IN BASEMENT DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
56
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED IN REAR OF FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 5 DEAD ROACHES THROUGHOUT BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND MAINTAIN PREMISES FREE OF DEAD PESTS.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE BASEBOARDS THROUGHOUT BASEMENT AND HOLE IN CORNER OF BASEMENT NEAR WALK-IN COOLER USED TO STORE PRODUCE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BUILD UP OF GRIME, DIRT, AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS AND SIDES OF EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT DISH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
55
47
Oct 7, 2021
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BASMENT'S KITCHEN CEILING AND WALLS IN POOR REPAIR. EXCESSIVE MOLD AND DUST BUILD-UP NOTED THROUGH OUT KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
95
Sep 29, 2021
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: LOW TEMP DISH WASHING MACHINE NOT SANITIZING AT FINAL RINSE, 0PPM OBTAINED ON CL TEST STRIPS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROPER SANITIZER CONCENTRATION AT FINAL RINSE. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. MACHINE IS TAGGED NOT ALLOWED TO USE.
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSTRUCTED HAND WASH SINK AT FIRST FLOOR PREP KITCHEN, FOUND A BAG OF FOOD PLACED IN HAND WASH SINK BASIN, INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP HAND SINK FREE FROM ANY OBSTRUCTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND ABOUT 40 LIVE FRUIT FLIES IN BASEMENT'S KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE. PEST CONTROL SERVICE RECOMMENDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BASMENT'S KITCHEN CEILING AND WALLS IN POOR REPAIR. EXCESSIVE MOLD AND DUST BUILD-UP NOTED THROUGH OUT KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: WALLS IN BASEMENT KITCHEN MISSING BASE BOARD, INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
55
64
May 11, 2021
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
May 4, 2021
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW CHICKEN (50F) AND RAW FISH (50F), AND DAIRY BASED SALAD DRESSING (65F) AT IMPROPER COLD TEMPRAUTURES STORED IN A PREP COOLER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA. MANAGER VOLUTARILLY DISCARDED AND DENATURED FOOD, INSTRUCTED TO HOLD COLD TCS FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
22
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ONSITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE POLICY FOR ALL EMPLOYEES TO SIGN, DATE AND KEEP ONSITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 15 LIVE SMALL FLIES ON WALLS AND EQUIPMENT IN BASEMENT FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE FLIES, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREA. CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38 -030(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL ALL FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES WHEN FOOD IS REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PREPARING FOOD IN FRONT PREP AREA WITHOUT A HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS AT ALL TIMES WHEN PREPARING FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BROKEN DOOR GASKETS ON MULTIPLE PREP COOLERS, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR LOOSE FAUCET ON HANDWASHING SINK ON FRONT PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR UNFINISHED DRYWALL IN BASEMENT PREP AREA, NEXT TO PREP TABLE, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN EXCESSIVE DUST ACCUMULATION ON CEILING VENTS THROUGHOUT, MAINTAIN.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE BURNED OUT LIGHT IN HOOD ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
56
50
Sep 9, 2020
Complaint
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. GRILLED SALMON, SHREDDED PORK ETC. INSTRUCTED ABOVE THAT CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER HAS TO BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREP AREA LOW BOY 4-DOOR REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS RIPPED. MUST REPLACE DAMAGED COOLERS DOOR RUBBER GASKETS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ACCUMULATED GREASE/FOOD DEBRIS ON EXTERIOR OF GREASE TRAP UNDER 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN GREASE TRAP.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE BURNED OUT CEILING LIGHT BULB ABOVE 3-COMPARMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE WITH WORKING LIGHT BULB.
56
78
Feb 6, 2020
Complaint
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. GRILLED SALMON, SHREDDED PORK, ROTISSERIE CHICKEN ETC. INSTRUCTED ABOVE THAT CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER HAS TO BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
90
Jan 16, 2020
Reinspection
1 major violation.
View 1 violation
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. GRILLED SALMON, SHREDDED PORK, ROTISSERIE CHICKEN ETC. INSTRUCTED ABOVE THAT CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER HAS TO BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
90
Jan 9, 2020
Routine
2 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: EVICENCE OF IMPROPER PEST CONTROL. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 45 LIVE FRUIT FLIES IN THE BASEMENT ON WALLS CEILING AND PIPES ABOVE DISHWASHING AREA. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATON 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT#2311910 ON 09/06/19. VIOLATION #5 MOLDY CEILING, MISSING BASEBOARD BASEMENT KITCHEN WALLS, HOLES IN CEILING OF SAME AREA, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HAND WASHING SIGN OR POSTER NEAR HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FAUCET BASE AT THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: ADDITIONAL WATER PRESSURE NEEDED AT THE EXPOSED HAND WASHING SINK LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SEE VIOLATION#60
55
67
Sep 13, 2019
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LOOSE FAUCET AT 1 COMP SINK AT FIRST FLOOR, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MOLDY CEILING, MISSING BASEBOARD BASEMENT KITCHEN WALLS, HOLES IN CEILING OF SAME AREA, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Sep 6, 2019
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: FOUND 50 LBS OF COOKED PORK, BEEF AND CHICKEN HELD AT 47.0F-53.5F. IN WALK-IN COOLER BAGGED IN ONE GALLON ZIP LOCK BAGS AND LABELED OF A DAY BEFORE PREPARATION DATE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. FOOD DISCARDED VALUED AT $800
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: IMPROPER COOLING DOWN METHOD, FOUND MORE THAN 50 LBS OF COOKED MEAT STACKED TIGHTLY IN SEALED ONE GALLON ZIP LOCK BAGS, INSTRUCTED TO ALLOW COLD AIR TO ROTATE BETWEEN FOOD CONTAINERS TO FACILITATE PROPER COOLING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
33
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: FOUND 20 LIVE LARGE HOUSE FLIES IN BASEMENT'S FOOD PREPARATION AREA, INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE FLIES. PEST CONTROL SERVICE RECOMMENDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A)
38
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LOOSE FAUCET AT 1 COMP SINK AT FIRST FLOOR, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MOLDY CEILING, MISSING BASEBOARD BASEMENT KITCHEN WALLS, HOLES IN CEILING OF SAME AREA, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
55
64
Jan 25, 2019
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jan 17, 2019
Complaint
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: NO HOT WATER AT 2ND FLOOR RESTROOM AND BASEMENT'S PREP AREA HAND WASH SINKS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE NO LESS THAN 100F WATER TEMP AT ALL HAND WASH SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C)
50
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION FROM INSPECTION REPORT #2184317 DATED 7-6-18 NOT CORRECTED ( OBSERVED ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATES)INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT VIOLATIONS WITHIN GIVEN TIME FRAME PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090
60
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: WALLS AND CEILING IN POOR REPAIR AT BASEMENT DISH WASHING AREA, NOTED MOLD LIKE SUBSTANCE ALL OVER CEILING, PEELING PAINT BEHIND CLEAN UTENSILS RACK, INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE MOLD AND INSTALL A DURABLE SURFACE ON WALL BEHIND RACK.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: REFER TO VIOL #60 FOR DESCRIPTION
58
74
Jul 6, 2018
Complaint
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY PREPARING AND SERVING EGGS OVER EASY ON TACOS, WITHOUT ON A DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND A REMINDER. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO COMPLY AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON FLOOR, AT FRONT COUNTER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER THAT WIPING CLOTHS MUST BE STORED AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR. MAINTAIN SAID.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVE BROKEN BEVERAGE COUNTER DOOR, IN FRONT DINING ROOM, AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IT ALL TIMES. OBSERVED COVING LOOSE AND IN POOR REPAIR UNDER 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED MANAGER REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST ACCUMULATION ON VENT COVER DIRECTLY ABOVE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK IN BASEMENT DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. OBSERVED EXCESSIVE DRIED MINERAL STAINS ON EXTERIOR SURFACE OF DISH MACHINE IN BASEMENT DISH WASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN, AT ALL TIMES.
49
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO OBTAIN ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATES. NO CITATION.
58
74
Mar 6, 2018
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER POOLING IN BOTTOM OF 2 DOOR FRYER COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE STANDING WATER IN THIS UNIT.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING COVING AT WALL BEHIND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.
34
90
Feb 6, 2018
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED SEWER LINES DIRECTLY ABOVE THE 3 FOOD PREP TABLES IN THE BASEMENT, AND OBSERVED OPEN FOOD (CARROTS, CORN, ETC.) BEING PREPARED AT THESE PREP TABLES AT TIME OF INSPECTION. ALSO NOTED THE EXPOSED LINES CROSSING DIRECTLY OVER THE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL FOOD PREP AND DISH WASHING AREAS MUST BE PROTECTED FROM POTENTIAL OVERHEAD CONTAMINATION AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LEAK-PROOF, GUTTERS/SHIELDING ON THE EXPOSED LINES OR RELOCATE FOOD PREP AND DISH WASHING FACILITIES AWAY FROM EXPOSED LINES. SERIOUS VIOLATION: 7-38-005(A)
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WATER POOLING IN BOTTOM OF 2 DOOR FRYER COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE STANDING WATER IN THIS UNIT.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING COVING AT WALL BEHIND 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PAINT PEELING FROM WALL TO LEFT OF DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE WALL TO BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLOTH BEING USED TO PLUG THE DRAIN ON THE BACKSPLASH OF THE CENTER COMPARTMENT OF THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER DRAIN STOPPER.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE JACKETS BEING STORED ON POSTS OF DRY STORAGE SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SEPARATE AREA FOR STORAGE OF EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS.
41
74
May 16, 2017
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING DIRTY ABOVE THE PREP AREA IN THE BASEMENT NEXT TO THE HAND WASHING SINK. MUST CLEAN, SANITIZE AND REMOVE RUST STAINS.
35
95
Mar 28, 2017
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND LARGE PLASTIC SPICE CONTAINERS IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA NOT LABELED. All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers. MUST PROVIDE.
30
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING DIRTY ABOVE THE PREP AREA IN THE BASEMENT NEXT TO THE HAND WASHING SINK. MUST CLEAN, SANITIZE AND REMOVE RUST STAINS.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER NOT RUNNING LONG ENOUGH AT THE UNISEX RESTROOM ON THE 2ND FLOOR.MUST ADJUST TEMPERATURE VALVE AT THE UNISEX RESTROOM HAND SINK ON THE 2ND FLOOR SO AS TO RUN AT A MINIMUM OF 15 SECONDS WITH HOT AND COLD RUNNING WATER.MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
38
86
Jan 23, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL LARGE PLASTIC BULK CONTAINERS LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA AND ON THE 1ST FLOOR COOKING LINE. FOUND FLOUR AND RICE CONTAINERS NOT LABELED.MUST PROVIDE.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CHIPPING PAINT AND REPAINT RUSTED PIPES LOCATED ABOVE THE 3-COMP SINK AND ABOVE THE STAINLESS STEEL STORAGE RACKS ACROSS FROM THE 3-COMP SINK SO AS TO HAVE SURFACES BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST REATTACH/SEAL OPENING BETWEEN WALL AND WALL COVING AT THE BOTTOM OF THE STAIRS LEADING TO THE BASEMENT ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF THE WALL SO AS TO ELIMINATE THE OPEN SPACE. MUST CLEAN AND REMOVE DEBRI BETWEEN WALL COVING AND ABOVE STATED WALL.
35
86
Aug 31, 2016
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN NEED FOR FURTHER CLEANING THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES INCLUDING THE FLOOR DRAINS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED IN A DESIGNATED AREA AND MAINTAIN.
41
90
Aug 24, 2016
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED, AT THIS TIME FOOD HANDLERS WHERE ACTIVELY PREPPING FOODS AND COOKING STEAK ON THE GRILL.AT THIS TIME,MANAGER PROVIDED COPY OF A CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE--NO XEROX COPIES ARE ACCEPTABLE ONLY THE ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE AND MUST BE POSTED AS REQUIRED.. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN NEED FOR FURTHER CLEANING THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES INCLUDING THE FLOOR DRAINS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED IN A DESIGNATED AREA AND MAINTAIN.
41
86
Aug 22, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: FACILITIES DO NOT MAINTAIN PROPER TEMPERATURE. OBSERVED THE 2 DOOR PREP COOLER WITH AN AIR TEMPERATURE OF 55.6F. THE COOLER IS USED TO STORE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS SUCH AS ASSORTED FALAFEL,CHICKEN,GOAT CHEESE ETC.,.AT THIS TIME,THE 2 DOOR PREP COOLER IS TAGGED HELD FOR INSPECTION. MUST EMPTY THE UNIT AND HAVE IT REPAIRED SO THAT IT MAINTAINS AN AIR TEMPERATURE BELOW 40F AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES INSIDE THE 2 DOOR PREP LINE COOLER. OBSERVED CHICKEN AT 50.3F,PORK BELLY AT 47.7F,TOFU AT 51.1F,FISH AT 48.3F,GOAT CHEESE AT 52.1F,FALAFEL AT 47.1F,GRITZ AT 49.0F ETC.COLD FOODS MUST BE MAINTAINED AT 40F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES.CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (CHICKEN,) ARE BEING COOKED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED.NO ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES.INSTRUCED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN POSTED AS REQUIRED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN NEED FOR FURTHER CLEANING THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES INCLUDING THE FLOOR DRAINS.
34
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE PERSONAL BELONGINGS MUST BE PROPERLY STORED IN A DESIGNATED AREA AND MAINTAIN.
41
78
Jan 5, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT WITH A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS (STEAKS,RICE) ARE BEING COOKED ON GRILL. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED.NO ORIGINAL CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES.INSTRUCED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN POSTED AS REQUIRED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
21
* inspection report summary displayed and visible to all customers
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY WAS NOT DISPLAYED. MANAGEMENT WAS GIVEN A COPY OF TODAY'S INSPECTION REPORT SUMMARY AND WAS INSTRUCTED TO POST IT IN VIEW OF ALL CUSTOMERS AND MAINTAIN. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-010(B).
28
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: CUTTING BOARDS WORNED-OUT,WITH DEEP CUTS AT PREP AREAS.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
32
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: LIGHT SHIELD BROKEN IN THE DISHWASHING AREA.INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
36
82
Jan 27, 2015
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NOTED SOME REFRIGERATION UNITS WITH NO STEM THERMOMETERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE STEM THERMOMETERS ON ALL COOLING UNITS AND VISIBLE FOR PROPER TEMPERATURE MONITORING.
40
95
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Velvet Taco last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Velvet Taco on file is from Jan 12, 2026. The public record contains 31 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Velvet Taco?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 22 times, more than any other issue at Velvet Taco.
Has Velvet Taco's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Velvet Taco have averaged around six violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Velvet Taco 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 Velvet Taco inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Velvet Taco is inspected around three times per year on average.
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