White Castle #61
Last inspected: May 1, 2025
86
Score
The health department has logged 27 inspections at White Castle #61, the earliest from 2011. The most recent report on file is from May 1, 2025. A low risk tier reflects an inspection that turned up minimal issues.
Inspection results have stayed in a similar range over the last few visits, averaging around five violations each.
Looking across the full record, “non-food/food contact surfaces clean” is the recurring theme, flagged 17 times.
Among Chicago restaurants, the typical score is 81; White Castle #61 is comfortably above that bar. The full picture is one of consistent compliance.
27
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 1, 2025
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13-- ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD UP ON ALL WHEELS OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT AND SHELVING. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE GREASE OR REPLACE. ----EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT ON ALL PLASTIC STORAGE RACKS FOR DRY FOOD STORAGE AND TO GO FOOD CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)-- NOTED GREASE, FOOD DEBRIS, DUST OF THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR MICROWAVE OVEN, ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR COOLERS AND FREEZERS, INTERIOR OF ALL DEEP FRYERS, FLAT GRILLS. UNUSED COOLERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11--- NOTED DIRT, GRIME, GREASE AND DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER THE FOLLOWING: UNDER AND BEHIND ALL DEEP FRYERS, INTERIOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER UNDER ALL STORED PALLETS.-----WALLS THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER.----VENT COVER OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH EXCESSIVE DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
55
86
Apr 29, 2025
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #60 NOT CORRECTED FROM 4-22-25 REPORT #2616215 # 8-404.13(B:4) #49- EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE. EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.#55--FLOORS NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS, UNDER THE GRILL LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#58- NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
59
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13-- ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD UP ON ALL WHEELS OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT AND SHELVING. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE GREASE OR REPLACE.----EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT ON ALL PLASTIC STORAGE RACKS FOR DRY FOOD STORAGE AND TO GO FOOD CONTAINERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B)-- NOTED GREASE, FOOD DEBRIS, DUST OF THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT,INTERIOR MICROWAVE OVEN, ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR COOLERS AND FREEZERS, INTERIOR OF ALL DEEP FRYERS, FLAT GRILLS. UNUSED COOLERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: : 6-201.11--- NOTED DIRT, GRIME, GREASE AND DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER THE FOLLOWING: UNDER AND BEHIND ALL DEEP FRYERS, INTERIOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER UNDER ALL STORED PALLETS.-----WALLS THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER.----VENT COVER OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH EXCESSIVE DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
55
78
Apr 22, 2025
Complaint
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
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 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
5
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2593123 ON 4-22-24 NOT CORRECTED. #49- EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE. EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.#55--FLOORS NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS, UNDER PALLETS IN THE REAR HALLWAY USED TO STORE BUNS, UNDER THE GRILL LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#58- NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE AND HAVE AVAILA CITATION ISSUED.BLE FOR REVIEW AT ALL INSPECTIONS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010
3
Single-use/single-service articles: properly stored & used
Inspector notes: ALL STORED ITEMS UNDER THE REAR ONE COMPARTMENT AND REAR HAND SINKS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED FROM THE FLOOR.
45
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ACCUMULATED GREASE BUILD UP ON ALL WHEELS OF ALL COOKS LINE EQUIPMENT AND SHELVING. MUST CLEAN, REMOVE GREASE OR REPLACE.----EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT ON ALL PLASTIC STORAGE RACKS FOR DRY FOOD STORAGE AND TO GO FOOD CONTAINERS.----EXTREMELY DIRTY UTILITY MOP SINK AND REAR HAND SINK. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED GREASE, FOOD DEBRIS, DUST OF THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL HOT HOLDING EQUIPMENT, MICROWAVE OVEN, ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR COOLERS AND FREEZERS, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL DEEP FRYERS, FLAT GRILLS. UNUSED COOLERS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: NOTED DIRT, GRIME, GREASE AND DEBRIS ON FLOORS UNDER THE FOLLOWING: UNDER THE REAR BULK OIL CONTAINERS, UNDER AND BEHIND ALL DEEP FRYERS, UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, INTERIOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER UNDER ALL STORED PALLETS.-----WALLS THROUGHOUT THE COOKS LINE WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER.----VENT COVER OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH EXCESSIVE DUST. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
55
61
Apr 22, 2024
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B): EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE. EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11-- -FLOORS NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS, UNDER PALLETS IN THE REAR HALLWAY USED TO STORE BUNS, UNDER THE GRILL LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--- NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--- NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
82
Apr 17, 2024
Reinspection
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #60 FROM 4-9-24 REPORT #2592463 NOT CORRECTED--- #49- NOTED HEAVY AND THICK GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE ELECTRICAL UNIT OF DEEP FRYERS. ALSO NOTED FOOD PARTICLES AND FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
59
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--- NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--- NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-601.11(B): EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE. EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11-- -FLOORS NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS, UNDER PALLETS IN THE REAR HALLWAY USED TO STORE BUNS, UNDER THE GRILL LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
74
Apr 9, 2024
Complaint
1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 12-6-23 REPORT #2586428 NOT CORRECTED #49- NOTED HEAVY AND THICK GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE ELECTRICAL UNIT OF DEEP FRYERS. ALSO NOTED FOOD PARTICLES AND FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#55- INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: THE FOLLOWING SHELVING NOTED DIRTY: METAL SHELVING ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK, METAL RACK SHELVING NEAR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WHERE CLEAN UTENSILS, PANS BEING STORED. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: EXTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE.----UNUSED HOT HOLDING UNITS AND INTERIOR OF TOASTER NOTED DIRTY WITH FOOD DEBRIS.---INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE MICROWAVE OVEN WITH GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.----FLOORS NOTED DIRTY WITH DEBRIS, GREASE IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS: UNDER THE SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE DISH AREA, THROUGHOUT THE MOP SINK AREA, INSIDE THE WALK-IN FREEZER UNDER PALLETS, UNDER PALLETS IN THE REAR HALLWAY USED TO STORE BUNS, UNDER THE GRILL LINE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.----WATER DAMAGED CEILING TILES THROUGHOUT THE DINING ROOM. MUST REPLACE.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: DAMAGED BASEBOARD COVING REPAIRED WITH EXPANDING SPRAY FOAM ON THE WEST WALL AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPAIR TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL THE CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS. MUST PROVIDE.
58
67
Dec 6, 2023
Complaint
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY AND THICK GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE ELECTRICAL UNIT OF DEEP FRYERS. ALSO NOTED FOOD PARTICLES AND FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
86
Nov 29, 2023
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURE OF TCS FOOD ITEMS INSIDE SERVICE COOLERS TO BE IMPROPER: HYDRATED ONIONS IN WATER 58.8F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF 4 LBS OF PRODUCTS WORTH $10.00 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: NOTED THE FOLLOWING PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #58 RULE #6-201.11 FROM INSPECTION REPORT #2567062 DATED 11/15/2022 NOT CORRECTED. --6-201.11 FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FACILITY, ALONG ALL BASEBOARDS, AT THE ENTRANCEWAY TO THE DINING ROOM, THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER, AND WASHROOMS ALL WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND ENCRUSTED GREASE.-----CEILING VENTILATION AND TILES IN BOTH WASHROOMS WITH EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY AND THEICK GEASR ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE ELECTRICAL UNIT OF DEEP FRYERS. ALSO NOTED FOOD PARTICLES AND FOOD DEBRIS INSIDE SERVICE COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FLOOR DRAINS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NOTED HEAVY DIRT AND GREASE ACCUMULATION INSIDE, ON PIPES/CONDUITS, AND EDGES OF THE EXHAUST HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN HOOD, FILTERS, AND PIPES/CONDUITS.
56
67
Nov 29, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 ALL SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK WITH FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT, AND GREASE.----REAR PREP HAND SINK DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FACILITY, ALONG ALL BASEBOARDS, AT THE ENTRANCEWAY TO THE DINING ROOM, THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER, AND WASHROOMS ALL WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND ENCRUSTED GREASE.-----CEILING VENTILATION AND TILES IN BOTH WASHROOMS WITH EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.
55
90
Nov 22, 2022
Reinspection
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Hot & cold water available; adequate pressure
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HOT RUNNING WATER IN THE FACILITY. THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK TEMPERATURE WAS 79.9 F, THE HANDWASHING SINK NEAR THE FRONT SERVICE WINDOW TEMPERATURE WAS 81.9 F, AND THE HANDWASHING SINK NEAR THE REAR DISHWASHING AREA TEMPERATURE WAS 80.6 F. IN THE MEN AND WOMEN'S TOILET ROOM, THE WATER TEMPERATURE WAS 79.8 F. INSTRUCTED ALL HANDWASHING SINKS MUST BE 100 F. THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK MUST BE 110 F AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-030(C), CITATION ISSUED.
50
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #60 FROM REPORT#2567062 DATED ON : 11/15/2022, NOT CORRECTED AS FOLLOWS: #49- FOUND THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN: INTERIOR OF COOLERS, EXTERIOR OF DEEP FRYERS, AND GRILL AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-42-090, CITATION ISSUED.
59
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 ALL SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK WITH FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT, AND GREASE.----REAR PREP HAND SINK DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-201.11 FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FACILITY, ALONG ALL BASEBOARDS, AT THE ENTRANCEWAY TO THE DINING ROOM, THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER, AND WASHROOMS ALL WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND ENCRUSTED GREASE.-----CEILING VENTILATION AND TILES IN BOTH WASHROOMS WITH EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.
55
70
Nov 15, 2022
Complaint
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: SUMMARY REPORT POSTED ON 6-15-21, #2521320, WAS NOT POSTED IN PLAIN VIEW OF CUSTOMERS DURING THIS INSPECTION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B) CITATION ISSUED.
61
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM 6-15-21 REPORT #2521320 WERE NOT CORRECTED. #49- FOUND THE FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN: INTERIOR OF COOLERS, EXTERIOR OF DEEP FRYERS, AND GRILL AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE. #56-FOUND EXHAUST VENTS INSIDE RESTROOMS ARE NOT OPERATIONAL. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ALL SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS,AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WITH FOOD DEBRIS, DIRT AND GREASE.----REAR PREP HAND SINK DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FACILITY, ALONG ALL BASEBOARDS, AT THE ENTRANCEWAY TO THE DINING ROOM, THROUGHOUT THE KITCHEN UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, FLOOR OF THE WALK-IN FREEZER, AND WASHROOMS ALL WITH DIRT, DEBRIS, AND ENCRUSTED GREASE.-----CEILING VENTILATION AND TILES IN BOTH WASHROOMS WITH EXCESSIVE DUST AND DIRT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----DAMAGED CEILING TILE ABOVE THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK.----BLACKENED, MOLDY WALL CAULKING AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.
55
74
Jun 15, 2021
Complaint
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION MANAGER ON PREMISES WHILE HANDLING TCS FOODS. HANDLES BEEF, CHICKEN, ETC. PRIORITY VIOLATION. CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-012. MUST PROVIDE.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: FOUND FOLLOWING NOT CLEAN: INTERIOR OF COOLERS, EXTERIOR OF DEEP FRYERS, AND GRILL AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: FOUND EXHAUST VENTS INSIDE RESTROOMS NOT OPERATIONAL. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE.
56
78
May 6, 2020
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE IN MEN'S BATHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE BUILD UP INSIDE OF COOKING FRYERS AND ON EXTERIOR PART OF FRYERS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HEAVY GREASE SPILLS AND FOOD DEBRIS UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT ON FLOORS. MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST ACCUMILATION ON VENTS IN WALK IN FREEZER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
82
Nov 6, 2019
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN THROUGHOUT PREMISES.(UNDER AND BEHIND DEEP FRYERS)MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
55
95
Oct 30, 2019
Complaint
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 50 FRUIT FLIES IN VARIOUS AREAS INCLUDING KITCHEN PREP BY DISH WASHING AREA ON WALLS, REAR BY DRIVE THRU AREA ON BOXES AND IN DINING AREA. OBSERVED FLOOR DRAINS ARE DIRTY AND INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO HAVE PEST CONTROL COME AND RESOLVE ISSUE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-020(A). CITATION ISSUED.
38
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BASE COVING IN DISH WASHING AREA AND IN REAR NEAR 2-DOOR REFRIGERATORS IN POOR REPAIR. INSTRUCTED TO SEAL AND MAINTAIN.
55
86
Apr 8, 2019
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 FOUND NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP POLICY. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND READY TO EAT TCS FOOD WITH NO SEVEN DAY CONSUME BY DATE.(PORTIONED CHEESE)PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
23
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: FOUND FOOD CONTAINERS NOT STORED PROPERLY ON SHELVING UNITS. MUST STORE INVERTED.
44
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN THROUGHOUT PREMISES.(UNDER AND BEHIND DEEP FRYERS)MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
55
74
Jun 26, 2018
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DEEP FRYERS WITH EXCESS GREASE,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DEBRIS ON FLOOR BEHIND AND BESIDE THE COOLER UNITS,UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENTS.
34
90
Apr 4, 2017
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO VALID CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED/PROVIDED DURING THE INSPECTION. MANAGER ON DUTY PROVIDED A "SERVSAFE CERTIFICATION" WHICH SANITATION EXAM WAS TAKEN ON 11-11 2014. POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ARE PRESENTLY HANDLED AND SERVED:CHEESEBURGER,HAM ETC. A VALID/ORIGINAL CITY CERTIFICATE MUST BE POSTED ON PREMISES. INFORMATION GIVEN HOW TO OBTAIN CITY SANITATION CERTIFICATE. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-012(A)
21
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DEEP FRYERS WITH EXCESS GREASE,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DEBRIS ON FLOOR BEHIND AND BESIDE THE COOLER UNITS,UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENTS.
34
86
Mar 23, 2017
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES. OBSERVED EMPLOYEE HANDLING MONEY/REGISTRAR,THAN WITHOUT HAND WASHING HANDS,GLOVED HIS HANDS AND PICKED UP A READY TO EAT FOOD:CHEESEBURGER TO WRAP FOR CUSTOMER.STOPPED THE PROCEDURE AND INSTRUCTED MANAGER ON DUTY,EMPLOYEE MUST WASH HANDS PRIOR TO GLOVE THEIR HANDS.MANAGER RESOLVED THE PROBLEM. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-010(A)
6
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: FOUND EXPOSED HAND SINK AT REAR PREP/DISH ROOM NOT ACCESSIBLE.INSIDE THE SAID SINK WAS A COLANDER WITH SOAKED ONIONS. UNABLE TO WASH HANDS.INSTRUCTED MANAGER EXPOSED HAND SINKS MUST BE ACCESSIBLE AT ALL TIMES FOR HAND WASHING. MANAGER DISCARDED THE ONIONS(2 POUNDS,VALUE 5 DOLLARS). RESOLVED ISSUE WITH EMPLOYEE. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-030
12
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE GARBAGE AREA NOT MAINTAINED. WE OBSERVED GARBAGE AND GARBAGE BAGS WITH GARBAGE IN IT ON GROUND BEHIND AND BETWEEN THE GARBAGE CONTAINERS: DIRTY BLUE GLOVES,FOOD ,PAPER ETC.INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AREA.ALSO GARBAGE LID NOT COMPLETELY CLOSED.PARTIALLY OPENED.MUST KEEP LID COMPLETELY CLOSED. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-020
19
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: DIRTY AND POROUS CARDBOARD INSIDE THE SMALL REACH-IN COOLER UNDER THE FRONT COUNTER BY THE YOGURT MACHINE.NEED TO REMOVE.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE. BROKEN SPIGOT AT BOTTOM OF THE YOGURT MACHINE BY THE FRONT COUNTER,INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. BROKEN RUBBER AROUND AND BETWEEN THE SERVING WINDOW BY THE POP MACHINE. NEED TO REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DEEP FRYERS WITH EXCESS GREASE,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: DEBRIS ON FLOOR BEHIND AND BESIDE THE COOLER UNITS,UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND INSIDE THE WALK-IN FREEZER,ALSO AT SAID UNIT REMOVE ICE FROM FLOORS.
34
74
Mar 31, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT MAIN PREPARATION AREAS AND MOP SINK AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
95
Mar 24, 2016
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: FOUND FRUIT FLY ACTIVITY AT PREMISES. OBSERVED ABOUT 20 FRUIT FLIES BY MOP SINK AREAS. SERIOUS VIOLATION CITATION ISSUED. 7-38-020.
18
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FOUND FLOORS NOT CLEAN AT MAIN PREPARATION AREAS AND MOP SINK AREAS. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
34
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOODDHANDLER AT PREMISES WITH NO FOODHANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATES. MUST OBTAIN.
45
86
Dec 2, 2015
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES- MILK AT 49.0 F, YOGURT SMOOTHIES AT 48.2 F, CHEESE AT 48.5 F INSIDE YOGURT SMOOTHIE REACH IN COOLER. HOWEVER FOUND SMOOTHIE YOGURT REACH IN COOLER AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 40.0 F AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 40 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS VOLUNTARILLY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
3
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND YOGURT SMOOTHIE REACH IN COOLER, 3-DOOR STAND UP PREP COOLER AND 1-DOOR CHOPPED ONION REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS IN POOR REPAIR/GAP BETWEEN DOOR GASKETS AND COOLER. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE DAMAGE DOOR GASKETS AT SAID COOLERS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS BUILD UP ON SHELVES BEHIND FRONT COUNTER. MUST CLEAN SHELVES AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD BUILD UP/GREASE ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN PREP AREA FLOOR AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS/DUST BUILD UP ON CEILING TILES AT PREP AREA BY DRIVE THRU AND SODA MACHINE. MUST CLEAN CEILING TILES AND MAINTAIN.
35
78
Aug 26, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Aug 22, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR OF ALL DEEP FRYERS TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE GREASE BUILD-UP.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOOR UNDER THE FRYING STATION ACROSS FROM THE CASH REGISTER STATION AREA.
34
90
Sep 3, 2013
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN INSIDE CHEST FREEZER BY GRILL AND CHEST COOLER BY FRONT DISPLAY AREA AND MAINTAIN FREE OF FOOD PARTICLES.
33
95
Apr 25, 2012
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES. OBSERVED CERTIFIED MANAGER HANDLING READY TO EAT FOOD,TOUCHING NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES,INCLUDED HANDLING MONEY AND REGISTRAR, THAN GOING BACK TO TOUCHING READY TO EAT FOOD(MINI HAMBURGERS)WITHOUT CHANGING GLOVES NOR WASHING HANDS.EXPLAINED HAND WASHING PROCEDURE. CRITICAL VIOLATION: 7-38-010(A) HOOOO78533-10
6
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE/ SCRAPE ENCRUSTED FOOD UNDER THE ICE BIN,NORTH EAST CORNER
34
90
Feb 10, 2011
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DEBRIS ON EXHAUST FANS INSIDE REACH IN FREEZERS,ON BASE OF SODA DISPENSING MACHINE AT DINING,ON MOP SINK, ON INSIDE BOTTOMS OF REACH IN FREEZERS, AND ON INSIDE OF DEEP FRYERS
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. OBSERVED STANDING WATER ON FLOORS AT WASHER/DRYER LAUNDRY AREA, INSTRUCTED TO CLAEN AND MAINTAIN DRY AT ALL TIMES.ALSO FLOORS THROUGHOUT DINING AND FLOORS IN TOILETS WITH DEBRIS NEEDS CLEANING.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN DEBRIS ON WALLS AT MOP SINK.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FAUCET LEAKING AT 3COMP.SINK,SLOW DRAING ON EXPOSE HAND WASH SINKS,AND PLASTIC PIPE UNDER EXPOSE SINK.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: All food establishments that display, prepare, or store potentially hazardous foods shall have calibrated metal stem thermometers, provided and conspicuous, for refrigerated and hot food units. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE METAL STEM THERMOMETER INSIDE ALL COOLERS AND FREEZERS.
40
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was White Castle #61 last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at White Castle #61 on file is from May 1, 2025. The public record contains 27 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at White Castle #61?
Across the inspection record, “non-food/food contact surfaces clean” has been cited 17 times, more than any other issue at White Castle #61.
Has White Castle #61's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at White Castle #61 have averaged around five violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at White Castle #61 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 White Castle #61 inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, White Castle #61 is inspected around two times per year on average.
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