Waffles

1104 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60607
Café / Breakfast
Last inspected: Feb 17, 2026
86
Score
Low Risk

The health department has logged 17 inspections at Waffles, the earliest from 2017. The latest inspection on file is from Feb 17, 2026. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.

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

“Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” accounts for the largest share of issues, appearing 15 times across the record.

Compared to the broader Chicago restaurant scene, where the average is 81, this is a stronger showing. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.

17
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Feb 17, 2026
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 4-301.16: MISSING PREP/DUMP SINK IN BAR AREA, USING HANDWASH SINK TO DUMP LIQUID WASTE. INSTD TO INSTALL PREP/DUMP SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: 5-205.15: PIPES LEAKING AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND WAREWASHING UNIT. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11: PLASTIC TARP BEING USED AS A COVERING FOR WALL IN BASEMENT WHICH IS NOT EVEN/TIGHT FITTING AND CREATING GAPS INBETWEEN WALL AND TARP. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME TO PREVENT POSSIBLE RODENT HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN WALL SMOOTH, EVEN AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
86
Feb 5, 2026
Routine
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES ON TABLE IN PREP AREA: SAUSAGE AT 58.2F, COOKED POTATOES 57.2F, CREAM CHEESE 54.9F. ALL DISCARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME. APPROX 20LBS $100 VALUE. INSTD TO MAINTAIN COLD TCS FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW AT ALL TIMES. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005 PRIORITY
22
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MISSING DISCLOSURE FOR FOODS THAT CAN BE SERVED UNDERCOOKED (EGGS, HAMBURGER, STEAK, ETC). INSTD TO PROVIDE DISCLOSURE ON MENU FOR SAID ITEMS AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005
25
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: HANDWASH SINKS IN BAR AND IN PREP AREA NOT ACCESSIBLE, SOILED UTENSILS AND SHAKER IN BASINS OF SINKS. INSTD TO KEEP BASIN EMPTY AND USE FOR HANDWASHING ONLY. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030(C) PRIORITY FOUNDATION
10
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OVER 30 RAT DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON BASEMENT FLOOR. INSTD TO REMOVE DROPPINGS, CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS AND CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-020(A) PRIORITY FOUNDATION
38
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO HAND DRYING PROVISION AT HANDWASH SINK IN PREP AREA. INSTD TO PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030. SEE ABOVE FOR VIOLATION ISSUED
10
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: PIPES LEAKING AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND WAREWASHING UNIT. INSTD TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MISSING PREP/DUMP SINK IN BAR AREA, USING HANDWASH SINK TO DUMP LIQUID WASTE. INSTD TO INSTALL PREP/DUMP SINK WITH HOT/COLD RUNNING WATER UNDER CITY PRESSURE.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: PLASTIC TARP BEING USED AS A COVERING FOR WALL IN BASEMENT WHICH IS NOT EVEN/TIGHT FITTING AND CREATING GAPS INBETWEEN WALL AND TARP. INSTD TO REMOVE SAME TO PREVENT POSSIBLE RODENT HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN WALL SMOOTH, EVEN AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
50
Mar 20, 2025
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD CONTAINERS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY STORE AND PROTECT FOOD ITEMS FROM CONTAMINATION WHILE STORED BY ELEVATING AT LEAST SIX INCHES FROM THE FLOOR ON RAISED SHELVING UNITS.
39
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE DEBRIS, DIRT AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY OF FLOORS. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGER WITHOUT FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO MEET REQUIREMENT.
58
86
Oct 15, 2024
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE KITCHEN COLD HOLDING UNIT, SUCH AS 5LBS OF HAMBURGERS AT 48.1.2F, 5LBS OF STEAK AT 47.8F, 10LBS OF CRACKED EGGS AT 47.4F, AND 20LBS OF HAM AT 53.1F. THE MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED A TOTAL OF 40LBS AT $300. ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING HANDWASH SIGNAGE AT FRONT BAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
10
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING HANDSINK PIPE IN KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
78
Jun 21, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 11, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TCS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER INTERNAL TEMPERATURES IN THE FRONT PREP COLD HOLDING UNIT, SUCH AS 10 LBS OF EGSS AT 48.2F MANAGER DISCARDED AND DENATURED A TOTAL10 LBS AT $100. ALL COLD TCS FOOD MUST MAINTAIN 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005.
22
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NOTED NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON SITE TO MONITOR THE INTERNAL FOOD TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOOD COOKED, DELIVERED AND SERVED. FACILITY MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN PROPER THERMOMETERS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENT ACTIVITY ON THE PREMISES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 60 RAT DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT STORAGE AND NEAR THE REAR EXIT DOOR OF THE STORAGE AREA. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REMOVE ALL RODENT DROPPINGS FROM ALL AFFECTED AREAS. ADVISED ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS NEEDED TO ELIMINATE THE PEST ACTIVITY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE SPILLED ON THE GROUND NEAR THE GREASE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OUTSIDE WASTE GREASE AREA AND WASTE GREASE CONTAINER. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(B). CITATION ISSUED.
54
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK FAUCET LEAKING IN KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LEAKING FAUCET.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLES IN THE BASEMENT STAIRWELL WALL NEAR THE BACK DOOR LEADING TO THE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON THE FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISHWASHING, STORAGE, AND BASEMENT AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS.
55
55
Jul 20, 2023
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS INSIDE THE 2-DOOR (BREAD PREP) COOLER AND THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER LOCATED ON THE COOK'S LINE ACROSS FROM THE OVEN. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKETS IN BOTH COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
47
95
Jul 17, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B:3)NOTED A PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM THE INSPECTION CONDUCTED ON 7/10/23 REPORT #2578402: VIOLATION #38 (6-501.111) OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 170 LIVE FRUIT FLIES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. OBSERVED 35 IN THE FRONT BAR AND ON THE DINING AREA WALL THAT IS LOCATED NEXT TO THE BAR, 35 IN THE DISH AND KITCHEN PREP AREA, AND 100 IN THE BASEMENT AND REAR STAIRWELL LEADING TO THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE TO ELIMINATE ALL PEST ACTIVITY FROM THE PREMISES AND TO CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS. OBSERVED OVER 150 LIVE FLIES TODAY IN THE SAME AREAS. MUST CORRECT PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATIONS. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
59
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.11 OBSERVED RED ONIONS AND BAGS OF POTATOES STORED DIRECTLY ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR STAIRWELL AREA. MUST ELEVATE ALL FOOD OFF THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS INSIDE THE 2-DOOR (BREAD PREP) COOLER AND THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER LOCATED ON THE COOK'S LINE ACROSS FROM THE OVEN. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKETS IN BOTH COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
47
82
Jul 10, 2023
Routine
3 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: NOTED PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 8/15/22 REPORT #2562114 NOT CORRECTED: VIOLATION #10 (6-301.14) OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK LOCATED AT COFFEE BAR. MUST PROVIDE. VIOLATION #55 (6-201.13) OBSERVED EXPOSED BRICK IN COFFEE BAR AREA. MUST PROPERLY SEAL. MUST CORRECT PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS (EGGS, SAUSAGE, RICE) ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 170 LIVE FRUIT FLIES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. OBSERVED 35 IN THE FRONT BAR AND ON THE DINING AREA WALL THAT IS LOCATED NEXT TO THE BAR, 35 IN THE DISH AND KITCHEN PREP AREA, AND 100 IN THE BASEMENT AND REAR STAIRWELL LEADING TO THE BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE TO ELIMINATE ALL PEST ACTIVITY FROM THE PREMISES AND TO CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RED ONIONS AND BAGS OF POTATOES STORED DIRECTLY ON THE FLOOR IN THE REAR STAIRWELL AREA. MUST ELEVATE ALL FOOD OFF THE FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
39
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED GASKETS INSIDE THE 2-DOOR (BREAD PREP) COOLER AND THE 2-DOOR PREP COOLER LOCATED ON THE COOK'S LINE ACROSS FROM THE OVEN. MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKETS IN BOTH COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM INTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL PREP COOLERS, REACH-IN COOLERS, AND LOWER SHELVES OF PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
64
Aug 15, 2022
Routine
2 critical violations. 2 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 14 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW CHICKEN AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 50.3F INSIDE OF SLIDING COOLER. ALSO OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF SLIDING COOLER IN PREP AREA. SHREDDED CHEESE FOUND AT 51.2F, TACO MEAT FOUND AT 49.4F, DICED TOMATOES FOUND AT 53.2F, BACON FOUND AT 49.2F, SAUSAGE FOUND AT 50.1F, CHORIZO FOUND AT 47.3F, SAUSAGE PATTIES FOUND AT 47.1F, SLICED HAM FOUND AT 50.3F, COOKED HASH FOUND AT 47.8F, HAMBURGER PATTIES FOUND AT 54.1F AND STEAK MEAT FOUND AT 48.2F. TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURE AT 41.0F OR BELOW. FOOD HAS BEEN DISCARDED AND DENATURED. FOOD WEIGHING APPROXIMATELY 75 LBS AT A COST OF $300.00. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF SLIDING COOLER AT 53.6F. PROPER AMBIENT TEMPERATURE INSIDE OF A COLD HOLDING UNIT MUST BE AT 41.0F. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED (BACON, CHICKEN). INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PAPER TOWELS AT HAND SINK IN MAIN PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE PAPER TOWELS AT HAND SINK AT ALL TIMES FOR EMPLOYEES TO PROPERLY DRY HANDS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK LOCATED AT COFFEE BAR. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MINOR PINK BUILD UP INSIDE OF ICE MACHINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
16
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD EMPLOYEE CUTTING RAW STEAK MEAT WITHOUT WEARING A HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST WEAR AN EFFECTIVE HAIR RESTRAINT AT ALL TIMES WHILE PREPPING FOOD.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY CUTTING BOARD AT MAIN PREP LINE WITH DARK STAINS AND DEEP GROOVES. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN/REPLACE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS BEING USED AS FOOD STORAGE IN 2-DOOR FREEZER. MUST USE FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS TO STORE FOOD.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO SINK STOPPERS AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AT DISH WASHING AREA. MUST PROVIDE.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP INTERIOR OF COOKING FRYER. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 WASH BOWLS IN WOMEN'S BATHROOM. WATER TEMPERATURE AT WASH BOWL ON RIGHT SIDE WAS READING AT 87.4F. MUST MAINTAIN WATER TEMPERATURE AT 100.0F.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPOSED BRICK AT COFFEE BAR AREA. MUST PROPERLY SEAL.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY DUST AND GREASE BUILD UP AT VENTILATION HOOD. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
37
May 17, 2021
Complaint
4 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU WITH A FOOTNOTE REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MISSING DISCLOSURE BY ASTERICKS FOR RELATED MENU ITEMS CONTAINING ANIMAL FOOD PRODUCTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BOTH DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND REMINDER ON THE MENU FOR RAW OR UNCOOKED ANIMAL-BASED FOOD ITEMS OFFERED (EX. EGGS ANY STYLE ETC.). (REFER TO ONLINE CDPH CONSUMER ADVISORY GUIDE - LINK IN BELOW COMMENTS) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.
25
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOST RECENT INSPECTION SUMMARY REPORT NOT POSTED IN FACILITY. (SUMMARY POSTED IS 1/21/2020, MOST RECENT INSPECTION WAS 03/08/2021.) INSTRUCTED MUST POST MOST RECENT INSPECTION SUMMARY REPORT IN PLAIN VIEW OF CUSTOMERS AT ALL TIMES. OPERATOR POSTED MOST RECENT SUMMARY DURING INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B).
61
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2-102.14(O) OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010.
3
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON SEVERAL PREP SURFACE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. MUST MAINTAIN
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.12 OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER BEING STORED ON THE TOP OF THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) OBSERVED ROLLED EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.12 OBSERVED LOOSE DEBRIS, DIRT AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY OF FLOORS. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED NO PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
Compliance with clean indoor air ordinance
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ELECTRICAL SWITCH BOX USED AS AN ASHTRAY FOR TWO USED CIGARETTE BUTTS NEAR REAR EXIT RECEIVING DOOR. INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE TO DISCONTINUE SMOKING IN PROHIBITED AREAS THAT DO NO ADHERE TO THE CLEAN INDOOR AIR ORDINANCE.
62
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORED IN CONTAINERS IN ALL THE COOLERS, FREEZERS, DRY STORAGE, AND WORKING INGREDIENTS WITHOUT PROPER LABELING OF NAME. INSTRUCTED TO PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE A LABEL REFLECTING THE FOOD ITEM'S NAME WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVE FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: 3-305.11 OBSERVED CLOTHS ON TOP OF METAL CONTAINERS FILLED WITH FOOD IN 2-DOOR REFRIGERATOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE TO AVOID CONTAMINATION AND REPLACE WITH FOOD GRADE LIDS/COVERINGS.
39
45
Mar 8, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MENU WITH A FOOTNOTE REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU AND MISSING DISCLOSURE BY ASTERICKS FOR RELATED MENU ITEMS CONTAINING ANIMAL FOOD PRODUCTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE BOTH DISCLOSURE STATEMENT AND REMINDER ON THE MENU FOR RAW OR UNCOOKED ANIMAL-BASED FOOD ITEMS OFFERED (EX. EGGS ANY STYLE ETC.). (REFER TO ONLINE CDPH CONSUMER ADVISORY GUIDE - LINK IN BELOW COMMENTS) PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
25
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE ICE BIN INTERIOR IN NEED OF CLEANING. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ICE, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
16
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORED IN CONTAINERS IN ALL THE COOLERS, FREEZERS, DRY STORAGE, AND WORKING INGREDIENTS WITHOUT PROPER LABELING OF NAME. INSTRUCTED TO PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE A LABEL REFLECTING THE FOOD ITEM'S NAME WHEN FOOD HAS BEEN REMOVE FROM ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLOTHS ON TOP OF METAL CONTAINERS FILLED WITH FOOD IN 2-DOOR REFRIGERATOR. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE TO AVOID CONTAMINATION AND REPLACE WITH FOOD GRADE LIDS/COVERINGS.
39
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON SEVERAL PREP SURFACE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. MUST MAINTAIN
41
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER BEING STORED ON THE TOP OF THE ICE BIN. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO PROPERLY STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ROLLED EATING UTENSILS NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO AVOID CONTAMINATION BY INVERTING UTENSILS WITH HANDLES EXPOSED AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NOTED A LEAK FROM THE ICE MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO COVERED RECEPTACLE (WASTE CAN) FOR PROPER DISPOSAL OF SANITARY NAPKINS IN EACH STALL INSIDE WOMEN'S WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOOSE DEBRIS, DIRT AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND INCREASE CLEANING FREQUENCY OF FLOORS. MUST MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO PROOF OF TRAINING FOR ALL FOOD HANDLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
45
Jan 21, 2020
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THT BOTTOM INTERIOR OF THE FRYER TO REMOVE BUILD UP FROM GREASE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS IN CORNER AREAS AROUND AND BEHIND EQUIPMENT IN KITCHEN WHERE NEEDED.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN VENTS IN HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
86
Jan 24, 2019
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN ALONG WALL BASES, UNDERNEATH ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT,2 DOOR REFRIGERATORS AND PREP TABLES WITH DIRT,GREASE,AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN,SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL BEHIND KITCHEN FRYER AND WAFFLE STATION WITHOUT BASEBOARD COVING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
55
90
Jan 17, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Hands clean & properly washed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS WIPE GLOVED HANDS ON SOILED TOWELS AND WIPE SWEAT FROM THEIR HEAD AND RETURN TO FOOD PREPARATION ACTIVITY WITHOUT WASHING HANDS AND CHANGING GLOVES. INSTRUCTED TO CHANGE GLOVES AND WASH HANDS AFTER ANY POSSIBLE CONTAMINATION. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-010. CITATION ISSUED.
8
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CONSUMER ADVISORY REMINDER STATEMENT IN MENU. FACILITY PROVIDES UNDER COOKED EGGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005
25
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 13 SMALL BLACK FLIES IN REAR KITCHEN NEAR ONE COMPARTMENT SINK, NEAR POP AND ICE MACHINES AND IN FRONT SERVICE COUNTER IN DINING ROOM. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 25 RODENT DROPPINGS IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA SCATTERED ALONG WALLS BEHIND BOXES. OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 7 RODENT DROPPINGS BEHIND POP AND ICE MACHINE NEAR DISH WASHING AREA.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND SANITIZE AFFECTED AREAS. MUST ELIMINATE PEST ISSUE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LABELING ON LARGE BINS HOLDING SUGAR, SALT, SPICES ETC.. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WALL BEHIND KITCHEN FRYER AND WAFFLE STATION WITHOUT BASEBOARD COVING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHEN ALONG WALL BASES, UNDERNEATH ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT,2 DOOR REFRIGERATORS AND PREP TABLES WITH DIRT,GREASE,AND FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN,SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
55
61
Aug 16, 2018
Routine
4 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 13 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: 2.102.12 NO CERTIFIED MANAGER ON-SITE OR CERTIFICATE POSTED DURING THE INSPECTION, WHILE TCS FOODS; EGGS, SAUSAGE, CHICKEN; ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED MANAGER ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED.
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: 2.102.14 (A)(A) NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AVAILABLE ON-SITE DURING THE INSPECTION FOR REVIEW. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE FORM 1B OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2.502.11 NO CLEAN-UP KIT AVAILABLE ON-SITE DURING THE INSPECTION FOR REVIEW. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A KIT AND PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW WHEN RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS THAT INVOLVE THE DISCHARGE OF VOMITUS OR FECAL MATTER ON SURFACES IN THE ESTABLISHMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: 5.202.12 (A)(A) MUST INSTALL A HAND SINK FOR HAND WASHING ONLY, BEHIND THE FRONT PREP COUNTER, OBSERVED EMPLOYEE USING DUMP-SINK AS A HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SINK AN MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C) NO CITATION ISSUED.
10
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
5
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4.602.12 MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS EXTERIOR OF STOVE, WAFFLE GRILLS AND GRILL. ALSO, CLEAN DEBRIS FROM DOOR GASKETS ON ALL PREP COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
16
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4.302.12(A)(A) MUST PROVIDE PROBE THERMOMETERS FOR USE TO ENSURE THE ATTAINMENT AND MAINTENANCE OF HOT & COLD FOOD TEMPERATURES DAILY. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
36
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3.304.14(E)(E) MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4.803.11 OBSERVED SOILED LINENS ON PREP COUNTERS IN REAR PREP AREA, INSTRUCTED TO STORE IN NO-ABSORBENT RECEPTACLE OR LAUNDRY BAG. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4.102.11 MUST DISCONTINUE USING GROCERY BAGS TO STORE FOOD IN, INSIDE THE 2-DOOR REACH IN FREEZER OR COOLERS IN PREP AREA, USE FOOD GRADE BAGS INSTEAD. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4.602.13 MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FORM INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES OF ALL PREP COOLERS, REACH IN COOLERS AND LOWER SHELVES ON PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6.201.11 MUST DETAIL CLEAN DEBRIS FROM FLOORS UNDER HEAVY EQUIPMENT (CORNERS)IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: PA 100-0367 ALLERGEN TRAINING IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED TO KEEP CERTIFICATES ON-SITE AT ALL TIMES FOR REVIEW.
58
43
Dec 21, 2017
License
No violations found.
100

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Waffles last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Waffles on file is from Feb 17, 2026. The public record contains 17 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Waffles?

Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 15 times, more than any other issue at Waffles.

Has Waffles' inspection record improved over time?

Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Waffles have averaged around four violations per visit across the recent record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Waffles 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 Waffles inspected?

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