Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant
Last inspected: Jan 26, 2026
74
Score
Inspectors have visited Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant 19 times, with records going back to 2014. The latest inspection on file is from Jan 26, 2026. Diners should read medium risk as a signal that some issues exist but aren't extreme.
Recent visits have produced comparable findings, with counts hovering near six violations per visit.
Looking across the full record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” is the recurring theme, flagged 16 times.
Compared to other Chicago restaurants (averaging 81), there's room to close the gap. Taken together, the history looks like that of a busy facility working through the usual inspection cycle.
19
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
6
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 26, 2026
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBESRVED MISSING HANDWASH SIGNS AT KITCHEN HANDWASH SINK. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
10
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLERS AND DISPLAY COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY READABLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS WITHOUT LABELS CONTAINING THE COMMON NAME OF FOODS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
37
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PLATES NOT INVERTED. INSTRUCTED TO INVERT PLATES AFTER SANITIZING AND AIR DRYING.
44
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP ON COOKING EQUIPMENT, WALLS, SURROUNDING FLOORS AND SHELVING UNITS IN THE KITCHEN/PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DEGREASE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GREASE BUILDUP, FOOD DEBRIS, AND DIRT ON FLOOR UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, DISH WASHING, AND STORAGE AREAS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN ALL AREAS.
55
74
Feb 14, 2025
Complaint
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE PIC WITHOUT HER ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AS REQUIRED OR CITATIONS WILL FOLLOW.
58
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FROZEN CHICKEN IN LARGE POT IN THE KITCHEN THAWING OUT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY THAW INSIDE THE COOLER OR UNDERNEATH COOL RUNNING WATER.
35
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE COOLERS AND FREEZER DIRTY. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A LEAKY PIPE UNDERNEATH THE HAND SINK IN THE REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, BEHIND STORAGE SHELVES, REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, UNDER SINKS AND IN CLOSETS WHERE HOT WATER TANK AND FURNACE LOCATED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS IN PREP AREAS AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, ALSO CLEAN CEILING VENTS AND LIGHT SHIELDS WHERE NEEDED IN PREP AREAS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DAMAGED FLOOR TILES IN THE REAR PREP AREA. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
55
70
Apr 22, 2024
Routine
1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION #57 FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE NOT CORRECTED FROM REPORT #2586318, DATE: 12-5-23. PREMISES STILL UNABLE TO PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATE AS REQUIRED. Violation Codes: 2-102.13 Inspector Comments: UNABLE TO PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER CERTICATES FOR FOOD HANDLERS; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION CITATION ISSUED #7-42-090.
60
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS IN THE FOOD PREP AREA WITHOUT PROPER HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
40
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CUTTING BOARD IN POOR REPAIR(DEEP DARK OPEN SEEMS). MUST REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DEFROST AND CLEAN THE INTERIOR OF THE SMALL DEEP FREEZER IN THE KITCHEN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST REPLACE DAMAGED AND DIRTY CEILING TILES IN THE KITCHEN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED DETAIL CLEANING THROUGH OUT TO REMOVE SPILLS,DEBRIS AND/OR GREASE.
55
70
Dec 5, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
3
Summary report displayed and visible to the public
Inspector notes: NO INSPECTION SUMMARY POSTED FROM PREVIOUS INSPECTION MADE ON NOVEMBER 2, 2022 AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-010(B) CITATION ISSUED. SUMMARY WAS FOUND IN A FOLDER BY THE PERSON IN CHARGE.
61
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: INTERIOR OF ICE MACHINE IN KITCHEN (COS), BOTTOMS OF ALL PREP TABLES, INTERIORS OF ALL REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENT, INSIDE OF STOVE AND BOTTOM AREA OF FRYERS, TOP AREA OF STOVE AND CUTTING BOARD AT STEAM TABLE.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE IN WOMENS WASHROOM AS REQUIRED; INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A COVERED WASTE RECEPTACLE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: REMOVE DUST ON VENT FANS IN WASHROOMS, REMOVE DUST ON CEILING VENTS AND CEILING FANS IN DINNING AREA, CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE SPLATTER.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: UNABLE TO PROVIDE FOOD HANDLER CERTICATES FOR FOOD HANDLERS; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING FOR ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS; MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
58
61
Nov 2, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FRYERS, GRILL AND STOVE, INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS, BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, BEHIND STORAGE SHELVES, REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, UNDER SINKS AND IN CLOSETS WHERE HOT WATER TANK AND FURNACE LOCATED. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS IN PREP AREAS AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, ALSO CLEAN CEILING VENTS WHERE NEEDED IN PREP AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
86
Oct 31, 2022
Complaint
2 major violations. 3 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: FOUND THE HANDSINK AND ONE COMP SINK IN THE REAR PREP/DISHWASHING AREA NOT MAINTAINED IN GOOD REPAIR ACCORDING TO LAW. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS FOR HANDWASHING AND WASHING VEGETABLES/THAWING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030(C) ISSUED.
51
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: THE PERSON IN CHARGE HAS NO VALID FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE AS REQUIRED; INSTRUCTED TO ENROLL FOR RECERTIFICATION. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012 ISSUED.
2
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT: EXTERIOR SURFACES OF FRYERS, GRILL AND STOVE, INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS, BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, BEHIND STORAGE SHELVES, REFRIGERATION UNITS AND FREEZERS, UNDER SINKS AND IN CLOSETS WHERE HOT WATER TANK AND FURNACE LOCATED. INSRUCTED TO CLEAN THE WALLS IN PREP AREAS AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT, ALSO CLEAN CEILING VENTS WHERE NEEDED IN PREP AREAS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN THE VENTS IN THE HOODED SYSTEM ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.
56
70
Apr 19, 2022
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN ALL PREP TABLE, STORAGE SHELVING, INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS AND FREEZERS TO REMOVE SPILL AND DEBRIS.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLES AND OPENINGS INTO THE FLOORS AND CEILING. MUST SEAL/ REPAIR AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT FURTHER ENTRY POINT FOR PESTS.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AND FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHENS AND STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE DIRT, SPLATTER AND DROPPINGS. CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE DIRT.
55
86
Apr 12, 2022
Complaint
1 major violation. 4 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 35 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON THE FLOORS AND SHELVING ON THE FAR SIDE OF THE FRONT KITCHEN, NOTED 45 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON THE FLOOR AND SHELVING IN THE REAR KITCHEN AREA BY THE 2 DOOR COOLERS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE DROPPINGS AND DETAIL CLEAN AFFECTED AREAS. ALSO INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SERVICE PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION CITATION ISSUED #7-38-020(A).
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN ALL PREP TABLE, STORAGE SHELVING, INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS AND FREEZERS TO REMOVE SPILL AND DEBRIS.
49
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL EXTERIOR OF THE GREASE TRAP.
52
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN WALLS AND FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHENS AND STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE DIRT, SPLATTER AND DROPPINGS. CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE DIRT.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HOLES AND OPENINGS INTO THE FLOORS AND CEILING. MUST SEAL/ REPAIR AND MAINTAIN TO PREVENT FURTHER ENTRY POINT FOR PESTS.
55
74
May 11, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FROM THE FIRST COMPARTMENT OF THE THREE COMP SINK; MUST REPAIR LEAK.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS AND FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHENS AND STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE DIRT, SPLATTER ETC. CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE DIRT.
55
78
May 4, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF RODENTS ON PREMISES. FOUND MORE THAN 50 MOUSE DROPPINGS ON THE FLOOR UNDER STORAGE SHELVES IN THE HALLWAY BEHIND THE KITCHEN, IN BOTH PREP AREAS ON THE FLOOR AND ON BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN ALL AFFECTED AREAS AND HAVE PEST CONTROL COMPANY SERVICE PRIOR TO REINSPECTION NEXT WEEK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(A) ISSUED.
38
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED; MUST CORRECT. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090.
60
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN THE FOLLOWING: TOP OF STOVE, EXTERIOR OF STOVE, FRYER AND GRILL. INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE, PREP TABLES, CAN OPENER BLADE AT PREP TABLE, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS.
49
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LEAKING FROM THE FIRST COMPARTMENT OF THE THREE COMP SINK; MUST REPAIR LEAK.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN WALLS AND FLOORS THROUGHOUT KITCHENS AND STORAGE AREA TO REMOVE DIRT, SPLATTER ETC. CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE DIRT.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: SEE VIO #60
58
61
Sep 26, 2019
Complaint
2 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION OF EMPLOYEES RESPONSIBILITY TO REPORT ANY ILLNESS TRANSMISSIBLE THROUGH FOOD. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP PROCEDURE ON PREMISES AS REQUIRED; MUST PROVIDE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT A VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEAN UP PROCEDURE MUST BE DOCUMENTED AND THE NECESSARY SUPPLIES ON HAND IN THE EVENT OF A VOMIT AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005.
5
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: CUTTING BOARD ON PREP TABLE, EXTERIOR SIDES OF FRYERS, STOVE, EXTERIOR OF REFRIGERATION UNITS, BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES AND BOTTOM AREA OF FRYERS TO REMOVE GREASE.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN FLOORS UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND MAINTAIN. CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND KITCHEN EQUIPMENT WHERE NEEDED. PROVIDE WALL COVING ALONG THE WALL IN THE HALL WAY OUTSIDE OF THE KITCHEN TO SEAL OPENING AND GAPS. CLEAN ALL CEILING VENTS IN KITCHEN TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE STANDING WATER IN THE MOP BUCKET WHEN NOT IN USE. ORGANIZE AND MAINTAIN KITCHEN AREA TO AVOID CLUTTER; REMOVE UNNECESSARY ITEMS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE SET OF LIGHTS IN FRONT COOKING AREA WITHOUT PROPER SHIELD; MUST PROVIDE.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE THAT ALL CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS MUST OBTAIN THE REQUIRED FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING.
58
64
Jun 26, 2018
Reinspection
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not stored inverted for protection from contamination. Must store multi use utensils.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: observed hot holding unit in disrepair knobs missing and damaged. Must repair and maintain.
32
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Food handler missing required food handler training certificates. Must obtain for all food handlers in facility.
45
86
Jun 20, 2018
Reinspection
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Previous serious violation corrected, 7-42-090
Inspector notes: Previous serious violation not corrected from inspection 2181277 performed on 6-12-18. #18 Observed some rodent droppings in corner of kitchen near water heater and behind equipment in hallway and under dry storage area. Must remove all rodent droppings from facility. #29 Previous minor violation not corrected for inspection 2049489 performed on 4-28-17. Violation #34 CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, AND FURNACE AREA. #35 WALLS NEED CLEANING IN PREP AREA BEHIND PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, SHELVING UNITS, ETC. REPLACE ALL STAINED AND MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA. MUST CORRECT ALL VIOLATION. Critical Violation 7-42-090
14
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: see violation #14
18
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: Observed no City of Chicago certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous food being served and prepared. Person in charge arrived 30 minutes into inspection with certificate; informed person in charge Certified Food manager must be on site during food preparation and serving. Serious Violation 7-38-012.
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: see violation #14
29
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not stored inverted for protection from contamination. Must store multi use utensils.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: observed hot holding unit in disrepair knobs missing and damaged. Must repair and maintain.
32
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Food handler missing required food handler training certificates. Must obtain for all food handlers in facility.
45
70
Jun 12, 2018
Routine
13 minor violations.
View 13 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: Observed potentially hazardous food not meeting food requirements during hot and cold storage. Lamb 113.9F, grilled onions 76.5F, cooked cabbaged 108.0F in hot holding unit in rear prep area near cook line; Chicken at 61.3F cooked cracked weak 63.7F in prep kitchen 2 door reach in cooler. Food Handler voluntary discarded food items out of temperature all hot food should hold at 140F or above and cold food 40F or below. Approx. 20lbs $70. Critical Violation 7-38-005A
3
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed hand sink not accessible, pitcher and food utensils stored in hand sink in rear food prep area (cook line). Instructed food handler to removed items and maintain accessible hand sink for hand washing only. Critical Violation 7-38-030
11
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: Observed 50 plus rodent dropping in prep kitchen near water heater and behind equipment. Must remove all rodent droppings from facility. Pest Control action was performed on 5-30-18 found 11 dead mice and 1 live mouse. Observed condition of accumulation of grease/food debris on floors provide pest/ rodent harborage(stated in Terminix pest service comments) Serious Violation 7-38-020
18
Outside garbage waste grease and storage area; clean, rodent proof, all containers covered
Inspector notes: Observed outside garbage and waste grease storage area not maintained. Refuse receptacle overflowing with garbage (small container for volume), waste grease container as accumulation of grease and food debris on top. Must clean and maintain outside garbage and waste grease area. Serious Violation 7-38-020
19
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: Observed no City of Chicago certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous food being served and prepared. Person in charge arrived 30 minutes into inspection with certificate; informed person in charge Certified Food manager must be on site during food preparation and serving. Serious Violation 7-38-012.
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: Previous minor violation not corrected for inspection 2049489 performed on 4-28-17. Violation #30 LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS IN PREP AREA. #32 REPLACE DAMAGED GASKETS ON TWO-DOOR COOLER NEAR TWO DOOR FREEZER IN REAR PREP AREA. #33 CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF STOVE, GRILL, FRYERS, FRYER CABINETS, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS, SHELVING UNITS, ICE MACHINE. #34 CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, AND FURNACE AREA. #35 WALLS NEED CLEANING IN PREP AREA BEHIND PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, SHELVING UNITS, ETC. REPLACE ALL STAINED AND MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN VENTILATION HOOD. #36 REPLACE DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA, REPAIR NON FUNCTIONAL LIGHTS IN FOOD PREP AREA AND DRY STORAGE AREA. #41 REMOVE ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND ORGANIZE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. #43 STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION AT THE PROPER PPM. MUST CORRECT ALL VIOLATION SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090
29
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Food not in original container through out facility not properly labeled. Must label all food not in original container.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: Multi use utensils not stored inverted for protection from contamination. Must store multi use utensils.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: observed hot holding unit in disrepair knobs missing and damaged. Must repair and maintain.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Microwaves through out facility has accumulation of food debris on and inside. Must clean and maintain.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Floor throughout facility heavily scored with food debris, grease and bare cement not smooth, non porous, easily cleanable. Must clean and repair floor for smooth, non porous, easily cleanable. Coving in disrepair through out facility in food prep/ storage areas. Must repair and maintain.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: Wall above fryers are heavily scored with accumulation of grease and food debris. Must clean and maintain.
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: Food handler missing required food handler training certificates. Must obtain for all food handlers in facility.
45
52
Apr 28, 2017
Reinspection
10 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS IN PREP AREA.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT ALL CARRYOUT CONTAINERS TO PROTECT FROM DUST, DIRT, CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED GASKETS ON TWO-DOOR COOLER NEAR TWO DOOR FREEZER IN REAR PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF STOVE, GRILL, FRYERS, FRYER CABINETS, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS, SHELVING UNITS, ICE MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, AND FURNACE AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS NEED CLEANING IN PREP AREA BEHIND PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, SHELVING UNITS, ETC. REPLACE ALL STAINED AND MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN VENTILATION HOOD.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKING DRAINPIPE UNDER EXPOSED SINK IN REAR PREP AREA.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: REMOVE ALL UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND ORGANIZE PREP AND STORAGE AREAS TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
41
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION AT THE PROPER PPM.
43
61
Apr 6, 2017
Routine
11 minor violations.
View 11 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 30 MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON DRY FOOD STORAGE SHELVING UNIT, 20 MICE DROPPINGS ON TABLE UNDER ICE MACHINE, 20 MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR IN CORNER NEAR UTENSIL SHELVING UNIT, 20 MICE DROPPINGS ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS AND CORNERS IN FURNACE ROOM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CALL AN EXTERMINATOR FOR SERVICE, CLEAN AND SANITIZE ALL AREAS. OBSERVED OPEN BAIT ON FLOOR ALONG WALLS IN FURNACE ROOM. ALL BAIL SHALL BE ENCLOSED IN PROPER CONTAINERS. FRONT DOOR NOT RODENT PROOFED, 1/4" GAP ON BOTTOM OF FRONT DOOR. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO SEAL ALL OUTER OPENINGS ON DOOR TO PREVENT PEST ENTRY. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
18
Dish machines: provided with accurate thermometers, chemical test kits and suitable gauge cock
Inspector notes: NO SANITIZER TEST STRIPS AVAILABLE DURING INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED MANGER TO PROVIDE TEST STRIPS FOR PROPER SANITIZER CONCENTRATION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-030
22
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS IN PREP AREA.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: INVERT ALL CARRYOUT CONTAINERS TO PROTECT FROM DUST, DIRT, CONTAMINATION.
31
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED GASKETS ON TWO-DOOR COOLER NEAR TWO DOOR FREEZER IN REAR PREP AREA.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF STOVE, GRILL, FRYERS, FRYER CABINETS, PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, COOLERS, FREEZERS, SHELVING UNITS, ICE MACHINE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOORS UNDER ALL EQUIPMENT, ALONG WALLS, AND IN ALL CORNERS IN PREP, STORAGE, AND FURNACE AREA.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS NEED CLEANING IN PREP AREA BEHIND PREP TABLES, STEAM TABLES, 3-COMPARTMENT SINK, SHELVING UNITS, ETC. REPLACE ALL STAINED AND MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP AREA. CLEAN LIGHT SHIELDS IN VENTILATION HOOD.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: REPLACE DAMAGED LIGHT SHIELD IN REAR PREP AREA.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPAIR LEAKING DRAINPIPE UNDER EXPOSED SINK IN REAR PREP AREA.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: STORE WASH CLOTHS IN SANITIZING SOLUTION AT THE PROPER PPM.
43
58
Aug 30, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: FOUND POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT AN IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. COOKED CHICKEN AT 108F, COOKED CABBAGE AT 94F AND COOKED RICE AT 103F. INSTRUCTED THAT ALL COOKED FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 140F OR ABOVE AT ALL TIMES. FOODS DISGARDED AND DENATURED AT THIS TIME BY OWNER. 16LBS VALUED AT $50.00. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-005(A) ISSUED.
3
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: THE RUBBER GASKETS AT THE TWO DOOR REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS ARE WORN; MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKETS AT BOTH UNITS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE FOLLOWING: BOTTOMS OF PREP TABLES, EXTERIOR SURFACES OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INTERIOR BOTTOM OF FRYERS, INTERIORS OF REFRIGERATION AND FREEZER UNITS ETC.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS THROUGHOUT UNDER AROUND AND BEHIND ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE DIRT AND GREASE.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN WALLS AROUND AND BEHIND COOKING EQUIPMENT TO REMOVE DIRT. MUST CLEAN INSIDE OF LIGHT SHIELDS TO REMOVE DUST AND OTHER DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN THE VENTS ON THE CEILINGS OF THE WASHROOMS TO REMOVE DUST OBSERVED. MUST REPLACE WATER STAINED CEILING TILE WHERE NEEDED IN KITCHEN AND PREP AREA.
35
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: WET MOPS IMPROPERLY STORED IN CORNER AREA BY MOP SINK; INSTRUCTED TO STORE WITH MOP HEADS UPWARD TO DRY PROPERLY. RECOMMENDED INSTALLING A MOP RACK TO HANG MOPS AND BROOMS.
41
74
Jun 22, 2015
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE. FOUND 30 LBS OF GRILLED CHICKEN AT 86.4F, 20 LBS OF GRILLED LAMB AT 88.5F, 10 LBS OF COOKED FISH AT 92.5F, RICE AT 112.5F. ITEMS STORED AT COUNTER TOP AND SOME IN STEAM TABLES THAT NOT TURNED ON. INSTRUCTED MGR TO KEEP ALL POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS STORED AT PROPERR HOLDING TEMPERATRURE (i,e). CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005(A)FOOD ITEMS DISCARDED VALUED AT $40.
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: BULK FOOD CONTAINERS NOT LABELED. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL.
30
90
Dec 29, 2014
License
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SPLASH GUARDS NEEDED ON EXPOSED HANDSINK IN DOWNSTAIRS KITCHEN IN BETWEEN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK AND 1 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SPLASHGUARDS.
32
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN GASKETS ON REACH IN REFRIGERATOR AND REACH IN FREEZER. REPAIR OR REPLACE TORN GASKETS.
32
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CLEAN DRY CONTAINER NEEDED FOR TO HOLD ICE SCOOP.
43
86
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant on file is from Jan 26, 2026. The public record contains 19 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 16 times, more than any other issue at Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant.
Has Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant's inspection record improved over time?
Results have been roughly steady. Inspections at Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant have averaged around six violations per visit across the recent record.
What does a medium risk rating mean?
A medium risk rating at Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant 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 Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Yassa African Restaurant — Yassa African Restaruant is inspected around two times per year on average.
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