Windy City Cafe
Last inspected: May 8, 2025
74
Score
The health department has logged 23 inspections at Windy City Cafe, the earliest from 2010. Windy City Cafe was last inspected on May 8, 2025. Medium risk typically reflects a handful of issues that inspectors wrote up but didn't deem critical.
Recent inspections have turned up roughly the same number of issues each time, hovering near four violations per visit.
“Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” comes up most often, recorded 14 times in the inspection record.
That's lower than the typical Chicago restaurant, which scores around 81. The full record sits in fairly typical territory for a working restaurant.
23
Inspections
0
Critical latest
1
Major latest
4
Minor latest
Inspection History
May 8, 2025
Routine
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: No sanitizer solution test strips on site for low temp dish washing machine, instructed to obtain. Priority foundation violation 7-38-005.
48
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: Brooms and dust pans stored next to clean utensils shelves, instructed to keep away to prevent contamination.
39
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Meat slicer not clean behind blade, food debris noted. Instructed to clean and maintain.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Inadequate lighting in walk-in cooler. Instructed to increase light intensity.
56
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Non-functioning mechanical vent in women's restroom. Instructed to repair and maintain.
56
74
Jun 7, 2024
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.112 OBSERVED A DEAD MOUSE ON THE FLOOR OF THE LARGE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE BASEMENT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL DEAD RODENTS.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 CLEAN THE GREASE AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
86
Jun 4, 2024
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous priority foundation violation corrected
Inspector notes: 8-404.13(B)(3) PREVIOUS PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION FROM REPORT #2595258 ON 5/28/24 NOT CORRECTED: 38 - OBSERVED THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK NOT MAINTAINED. NO CURRENT PEST INSPECTION REPORTS FROM THE PAST YEAR WERE PROVIDED IN THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH AT LEAST 2 PEST INSPECTION REPORTS FROM THE PAST YEAR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
59
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-501.112 OBSERVED A DEAD MOUSE ON THE FLOOR OF THE LARGE BASEMENT STORAGE AREA ON THE WEST SIDE OF THE BASEMENT. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL DEAD RODENTS.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 CLEAN THE GREASE AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
78
May 28, 2024
Routine
2 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK NOT MAINTAINED. NO CURRENT PEST INSPECTION REPORTS FROM THE PAST YEAR WERE PROVIDED IN THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN THE PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH AT LEAST 2 PEST INSPECTION REPORTS FROM THE PAST YEAR. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C). CITATION ISSUED.
38
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT WHILE TCS FOODS (SOUP AT 165F) WERE PREPARED AND SERVED. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED THAT A CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIMES WHILE TCS FOODS PREPARED OR SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE DEEP FRYER AND BASEMENT 1-DOOR BREAD COOLER AT THE BOTTOM SHELF.
49
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: CLEAN THE GREASE AND DUST BUILDUP ON THE VENTILATION HOOD AND FILTERS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
74
Jan 19, 2023
Complaint
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK ITEMS NOT LABELED (FLOUR, SUGAR ETC.). INSTRUCTED TO LABEL FOOD WHEN OUTSIDE ORIGINAL CONTAINER, MAINTAIN.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: FOUND STOCK STORED ON FLOOR IN STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6" OFF FLOOR, MAINTAIN.
39
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: FOUND SMALL BOWL USED AS SCOOP INSIDE BIN OF RAISINS. INSTRUCTED TO STORE PROPERLY, MAINTAIN.
43
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: FOUND DISHES NOT INVERTED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT DURING STORAGE, MAINTAIN.
44
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND LEAK AT PIPE UNDER 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FOUND ACCUMULATED FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR NEXT TO GRILL. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: SOME EMPLOYEES MISSING FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN VERIFICATION ON SITE.
57
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: FOUND NO THERMOMETER IN MIDDLE COOLER AT FRONT PREP/BAR AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
36
67
Apr 8, 2022
Complaint
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN CERTIFICATES ARE REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE COURSE AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
95
Jul 19, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7.38.010.
3
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: FOUND CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS WITHOUT ALLERGEN CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE PROOF OF ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS.
58
86
Jul 12, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY THAT INCLUDES A SIGNED ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FROM EACH EMPLOYEE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7.38.010.
3
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: FOUND NO DISCARD DATE FOR READY TO EAT, TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD: COOKED SOUP, SLICED TOMATOES, SLICED CORN BEEF. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE DISCARD DATE FOR ALL TIME/ TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS HELD FOR OVER 24 HOURS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-39-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STEAK AND EGGS ON MENU SAID ITEMS CAN BE ORDERED UNDER COOKED. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE FOOTNOTE, DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER FOR MENU ITEMS THAT CAN BE ORDERED UNDER COOKED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005.
25
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: FOUND A MINIMAL AMOUNT OF PINK UNKNOWN SUBSTANCE INSIDE ICE MACHINE LOCATED ON SILVER PANEL. MUST REMOVE ICE. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHIINE.
16
Allergen training as required
58
67
Apr 15, 2019
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN CERTIFICATES ARE REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE COURSE AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
95
Apr 5, 2019
Routine
5 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 10 violations
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED MANAGER ONSITE DURING THE INSPECTION, WHILE TCS FOODS; EGGS, PORK, ETC., ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. INSTRUCTED TO HAVE A CERTIFIED MANGER ONSITE AT ALL TIMES WHEN TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED OR SERVED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-012 CITATION ISSUED,
2
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ONSITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THE CITY'S HEALTH FORM, OR SIMILAR DOCUMENTS USED TO DEMONSTRATE COMPLIANCE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010 NO CITATION ISSUED,
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO CLEAN UP KIT OR PROCEDURES ONSITE FOR VOMITING OR DIARRHEA EVENTS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE KIT AND POST PROCEDURES FOR EMPLOYEES TO FOLLOW. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A PINK SLIME LIKE SUBSTANCE ON THE INTERIOR PANEL OF THE ICE MACHINE, SUBSTANCE LIKELY TO CONTAMINATE ICE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD ICE, AND HAVE MACHINE SERVICED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38- 005 CITATION ISSUED.
16
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENTS FOR RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOOD ON MENUS, (EGGS, HOLLANDAISE SAUCE). INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 NO CITATION ISSUED. (asterisking them to a footnote that states that the items are served raw or undercooked, or contain (or may contain) raw or undercooked ingredients). -
25
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING WATER (BUCKET) BETWEEN USES IN REAR PREP AREA, TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM INTERIOR CONTACT SURFACES OF ALL REACH IN COOLERS AND FREEZER THROUGHOUT PREP AREA AND BASEMENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR DETACHED PIPE UNDERNEATH MOPSINK IN REAR. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS UNDER HEAVY EQUIPMENT THROUGHOUT FRONT & REAR PREP AREAS . INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: ALLERGEN CERTIFICATES ARE REQUIRED FOR EMPLOYEES THAT HAVE A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION LICENSE. INSTRUCTED TO COMPLETE THE ONLINE COURSE AND KEEP CERTIFICATE ONSITE.
58
47
Jun 11, 2018
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING IN THE PREP AREA, DISHWASHING AREA AND IN THE BASEMENT TO REMOVE SPILL, DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED THE EXPOSED HAND SINK IN THE DISH WASHING AREA NOT ON LONG ENOUGH FOR PROPER HAND WASHING. MUST STAY ON FOR AT LEAST 15 SECONDS.
38
90
Sep 13, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUCT TAPE WRAPPED AROUND THE SPRAYER HOSE NEXT TO THE LOW TEMPERATURE DISHMACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY REPAIR THE SPRAYER HOSE AND REMOVE DUCT TAPE.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DEFROST THE REACH-IN FREEZER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT TO REMOVE FROST BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEAN THE GASKETS AROUND THE COLD HOLDING REFRIGERATION UNIT TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP AND MAINTAIN.
33
86
Aug 18, 2016
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO DUMP / PREP SINK INSTALLED AT FRONT LIQUOR AREA WERE LIQUOR WILL MIXED(BLOOD MARY,MIMOSA) AND SERVED.INSTALL SAID SINK UNDER CITY PLUMBING CODE. NO VISIBLE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE PROVIDED AT WATER LINE AT COFFEE MACHINE ,FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. BROKEN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE PEPSI REFRIGERATOR ACROSS COOKING EQUIPMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. SPLASH GUARD IS NEEDED AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINK.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BASEBOARD BROKEN IN DISH ROOM UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND LOW TEMP DISH.GREASE ALONG THE WALL / FLOOR BY THE DEEP FRYERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE BROKEN/DAMAGED FLOOR/FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE SINKS AND DISH MACHINE. FLOOR TILES BROKEN AND IN NEED OF REGROUTING, FLOOR IS BUCKLING UP AND IS NOT LEVEL. MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE FLOORS
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: BROKEN WALLS UNDER THE DISH MACHINE AND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
35
82
Aug 11, 2016
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: THREE COMPARTMENT SINK IN DISH ROOM WAS REPAIRED WITH NON-FOOD GRADE MATERIAL. THE PUTTY USED FROM THE TUBE HAS WARNING: "EYE AND SKIN IRRITATION. MAY BE HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED", ALSO PREACAUTION: USE GLOVES WHEN MIXING OR HANDLING UNCURED PRODUCTS". INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PUTTY, WELD THE COMPARTMENTS OF SINK WITH A SMOOTH APPLICATION AND NON-RUST MATERIAL. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-030
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE RUST FROM THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER. MAINTAIN SAME
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO DUMP / PREP SINK INSTALLED AT FRONT LIQUOR AREA WERE LIQUOR WILL MIXED(BLOOD MARY,MIMOSA) AND SERVED.INSTALL SAID SINK UNDER CITY PLUMBING CODE. NO VISIBLE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE PROVIDED AT WATER LINE AT COFFEE MACHINE ,FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. BROKEN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE PEPSI REFRIGERATOR ACROSS COOKING EQUIPMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. SPLASH GUARD IS NEEDED AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINK.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BASEBOARD BROKEN IN DISH ROOM UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND LOW TEMP DISH.GREASE ALONG THE WALL / FLOOR BY THE DEEP FRYERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE BROKEN/DAMAGED FLOOR/FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE SINKS AND DISH MACHINE. FLOOR TILES BROKEN AND IN NEED OF REGROUTING, FLOOR IS BUCKLING UP AND IS NOT LEVEL. MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: BROKEN WALLS UNDER THE DISH MACHINE AND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET AND UNDERNEATH THE WASH COMPARTMENT ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MAINTAIN SAME.
38
70
Aug 4, 2016
Routine
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Dish washing facilities: properly designed, constructed, maintained, installed, located and operated
Inspector notes: THREE COMPARTMENT SINK NOT MAINTAINED,WATER FLOWS FROM WASH COMPARTMENT SINK TO MIDDLE COMPARTMENT,INSTRUCTED TO WELD COMPARTMENT WITH A SMOOTH APPLICATION AN NON-RUST MATERIAL. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-030
24
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE RUST FROM THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER. MAINTAIN SAME
32
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: DISPLAY PREP COOLER IN THE KITCHEN NOT MAINTAING ADEQUATE AIR TEMP.PRESENTLY AIR TEMP OF 58F.TAGGED UNIT "HELD FOR INSPECTION" DO NOT USE. POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD ARE STORED INSIDE THE UNIT:EGGS,TUNA TURKEY ETC.COOLER MUST MAINTAIN TEMP OF 40F AND BELOW. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-005(A)
2
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOOD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE: PEELED BOILED EGGS AT TEMP OF 5.9F; FETA CHEESE AT TEMP OF 53.3F; STREDED CHEESE AT TEMP OF 50.2F TO 60F; COOKED SLICED SAUSAGE AT TEMP OF 57.0F TO 64.2F; TUNA AT TEMP OF 47.6F; COOKED CHOPPED BROCCOLI AT TEMP OF 50F; SMOKED SALMON AT TEMP OF 45.8F; COOKED VEGETABLE AT TEMP OF 46,8F; CORIZO AT TEMP OF 52.8F; SLICED TURKEY AT TEMP OF 47.6F; GOAT CHEESE AT TEMP OF 52.8F; BLUE CHEESE AT TEMP OF 53.2; DICED HAM AT TEMP 57F..FOOD MENTIONED WAS STORED INSIDE THE DISPLAY COOLER.FOOD DISCARDED AND DENATURED.POUNDS 59.3F; VALUE 146 CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-005(A)
3
Hands washed and cleaned, good hygienic practices; no bare hand contact with ready-to-eat foods.
Inspector notes: POOR HYGIENIC PRACTICES. OBSERVED DISH WASHER WITH NO GLOVES ON HANDLING CLEAN CUPS/DISHES ETC AFTER GOING IN AND OUT THE AREA AND TOUCHING THE SWING DOOR,ALSO OBSERVED THE COOKS WITH GLOVED HANDS GRABBING READY TO EAT FOOD(ONIONS,CILANTRO,PARSLEY ETC) WIPING THEIR HANDS ON BLUE LINEN. NO HAND WASHING, CONSTANTLY AFTER HANDLING FOODS ON THEIR STATION WIPING THEIR HANDS ON LINENS LOCATED ON TOP THE SHOULDER OR AT WAIST OF THEIR PANTS.ALSO OBSERVED EMPLOYEE COMING OUT THE WASHROOM AND WITOUT WASHING HANDS PUT ON APRON,HANDLED CLEAN POT AND LIDS TO STORE THEM,THEN GRABBEDED GLASSES AND WATER BOTLLE FILLED WITH WATER AND PUT THEM ON TOP THE TABLE FOR CUSTOMERS. INFORMATION GIVEN ON HAND WASHING PROCEDURE,WATER BOTTLE AND GLASSESS REMOVED FROM TABLE. MANAGER CORRECTED ISSUED. CRITICAL VIOLATION:7-38-010(A)
6
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NO DUMP / PREP SINK INSTALLED AT FRONT LIQUOR AREA WERE LIQUOR WILL MIXED(BLOOD MARY,MIMOSA) AND SERVED.INSTALL SAID SINK UNDER CITY PLUMBING CODE. NO VISIBLE BACK FLOW PREVENTER DEVICE PROVIDED AT WATER LINE AT COFFEE MACHINE ,FRONT PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. BROKEN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE PEPSI REFRIGERATOR ACROSS COOKING EQUIPMENT INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. SPLASH GUARD IS NEEDED AT FRONT EXPOSED HAND SINK.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: BASEBOARD BROKEN IN DISH ROOM UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AND LOW TEMP DISH.GREASE ALONG THE WALL / FLOOR BY THE DEEP FRYERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
34
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE BROKEN/DAMAGED FLOOR/FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE SINKS AND DISH MACHINE. FLOOR TILES BROKEN AND IN NEED OF REGROUTING, FLOOR IS BUCKLING UP AND IS NOT LEVEL. MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE FLOORS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: BROKEN WALLS UNDER THE DISH MACHINE AND THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR.SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT SURFACE
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET AND UNDERNEATH THE WASH COMPARTMENT ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MAINTAIN SAME.
38
61
Jun 20, 2016
Reinspection
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE RUST FROM THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER. MAINTAIN SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE GREASE/FOOD SPILLS FROM INSIDE OF THE OVENS AND CLEAN THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND IN THE PREP AREA. MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE BROKEN/DAMAGED FLOOR/FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE SINKS AND DISH MACHINE. FLOOR TILES BROKEN AND IN NEED OF REGROUTING, FLOOR IS BUCKLING UP AND IS NOT LEVEL. MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE FLOORS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET AND UNDERNEATH THE WASH COMPARTMENT ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MAINTAIN SAME.
38
82
Jun 13, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION FROM REPORT #1454113 DATED 08/17/2015 NOT CORRECTED AND/OR MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: 32-ALL WATER BOTTLES IN NEED OF REPLACING DUE TO OPENING TO SMALL TO PROPERLY WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. 34-FLOORS IN BASEMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL SPILLS. FLOORS IN MAIN PREP LINE IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. 35-WALLS IN FRONT GRILL AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-2-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE RUST FROM THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER. MAINTAIN SAME.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE GREASE/FOOD SPILLS FROM INSIDE OF THE OVENS AND CLEAN THE STORAGE RACKS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND IN THE PREP AREA. MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE BROKEN/DAMAGED FLOOR/FLOOR TILES IN FRONT OF THE SINKS AND DISH MACHINE. FLOOR TILES BROKEN AND IN NEED OF REGROUTING, FLOOR IS BUCKLING UP AND IS NOT LEVEL. MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE FLOORS.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO FIX THE LEAK AT THE BASE OF THE FAUCET AND UNDERNEATH THE WASH COMPARTMENT ON THE 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MAINTAIN SAME.
38
78
Aug 17, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALL WATER BOTTLES IN NEED OF REPLACING DUE TO OPENING TO SMALL TO PROPERLY WASH, RINSE AND SANITIZE. MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS IN BASEMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL SPILLS. FLOORS IN MAIN PREP LINE IN NEED OF CLWEANING TO REMOVE ALL FOOD SPILLS UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS IN FRONT GRILL AREA IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL SPLATTER. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: HOOD VENTILATION ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT IN NEED OF CLEANING TO REMOVE ALL BUILD UP. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
38
82
May 20, 2014
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT SINGLE SERVICE UTENSILS TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE MILK CRATES AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING IN REAR STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS.
32
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTALL BACK FLOW DEVICE ON UTILTIY SINK. REPAIR TIMERS AND FAUCET HANDLES ON EXPOSED SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE MOP HEADS UPRIGHT TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE SCOOPS FROM BULK CONTAINERS AND PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS.
43
78
May 12, 2014
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED PER MUNICIPAL CODE OF CHICAGO FROM REPORT #1361351 ON 9-20-14. 32-GASKETS ON PREP COOLER DOORS NOT MAINTAINED. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE WORN GASKETS. EXPOSED HANDSINK INSTALLED NEXT TO ONE COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL SHIELD BETWEEN BOTH SINKS. 35-WALL TILE MISSING UNDER EXPOSED HANDSINK IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING WALL TILE. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT SINGLE SERVICE UTENSILS TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE MILK CRATES AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING IN REAR STORAGE AND BASEMENT AREAS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF MIXER, COOKING EQUIPMENT, AND BEVERAGE MACHINES.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: GROUT LOOSE FLOOR TILES IN DISHWASHING AREA. CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP AND STORAGE AREAS.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: REPLACE MISSING WALL TILES UNDER REAR EXPOSED SINK.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN PREP AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTALL BACK FLOW DEVICE ON UTILITY SINK.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE MOP HEADS UPRIGHT TO PREVENT INSECT BREEDING.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE SCOOPS FROM BULK CONTAINERS AND PROVIDE LONG HANDLE DISPENSING UTENSILS.
43
58
Sep 20, 2013
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not properly stored. Instructed to invert utensils to prevent contamination before use.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Gaskets on prep cooler doors not maintained. Instructed to replace worn gaskets. Exposed handsink installed next to one compartment sink. Instructed to install shield between both sinks.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Exterior along side of cooking equipment, top interior of ice machine and can opener attached to prep table not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and sanitize.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floor in corners of walk-in cooler and behind equipment in prep area not cleaned. Instructed to detail clean and remove food debris.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Wall tile missing under exposed handsink in prep area. Instructed to replace missing wall tile.
35
78
Feb 10, 2011
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. MUST CLEAN VENTS ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT, IN KITCHEN AREA
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: The floors shall be constructed per code, be smooth and easily cleaned, and be kept clean and in good repair. MUST REPAIR THRESHOLD AT REAR AREA DOOR
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. MUST REPLACE MOLDY CHALKING FROM WALL BY DISH MACHINE
35
86
Sep 10, 2010
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: All food not stored in the original container shall be stored in properly labeled containers.All food stored in coolers must be dated & labeled.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair.FOUND RUST ON SHELVING IN WALK-IN-COOLER MUST REPAIR USING A NON-TOXIC FINISH.
32
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.FLOOR UNDER THE DEEP FRYER IS DIRTY,CLEAN FLOORS IN DETAIL.
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.WALLS IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE AREA ARE NOT SMOOTH,EASILY CLEANABLE.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Between uses and during storage ice dispensing utensils and ice receptacles shall be stored in a way that protects them from contamination.Wiping cloths must be stored in sanitizing solution.
43
78
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Windy City Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Windy City Cafe on file is from May 8, 2025. The public record contains 23 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Windy City Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed” has been cited 14 times, more than any other issue at Windy City Cafe.
Has Windy City Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Windy City Cafe have averaged around four violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Windy City Cafe means the most recent inspection turned up a handful of issues that the health department wrote up but did not classify as critical.
How often is Windy City Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Windy City Cafe is inspected around two times per year on average.
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