Yolk Cafe
Last inspected: Jan 26, 2026
90
Score
Public records show 24 inspections at Yolk Cafe stretching back to 2013. The newest entry in the record is dated Jan 26, 2026. A low risk rating suggests inspectors haven't found much to be concerned about lately.
Things have been moving in the right direction, with the rolling count dropping from around five violations to closer to one violation per visit.
Across the inspection history, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 10 times.
Yolk Cafe's latest score of 90 sits above the Chicago average of 81. The file should reassure diners considering a visit.
24
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
2
Minor latest
Inspection History
Jan 26, 2026
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED HANDWASHING SINK AT THE FAR END OF THE MAIN COOK LINE TO BE IN POOR REPAIR, UNABLE TO TURN OFF WATER COMPLETELY WHEN NOT IN USE, BUT FUNCTIONAL. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE HANDWASHING SINK FAUCET OR PLUMBING TO ALLOW WATER SUPPLY TO BE TURNED OFF WHEN NOT IN USE AND MAINTAIN ALL PLUMBING FIXTURES IN GOOD REPAIR.
51
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED CEILING VENTILATION FAN AND ADJACENT CEILING TILES ABOVE THE WAREWASHING AREA TO BE HEAVILY SOILED WITH DUST DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN MECHANICAL VENTILATION, CEILING TILES, AND OTHER PHYSICAL FACILITIES AT ADEQUATE FREQUENCY TO PREVENT BUILD UP OF DUST DEBRIS AND OTHER SOILS AND MAINTAIN.
55
90
Apr 7, 2025
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Copper pipe installed on floor directly at coffee station, Instructed to elevate line off floor for better cleaning.
55
95
Jul 18, 2024
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jul 8, 2024
Complaint
1 critical violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MINIMUM HOT WATER TEMPERATURE FOR HANDWASHING SINKS AT THE START OF COOKLINE AND IN THE CAFE STATION WITH MINIMUM HOT WATER TEMPERATURES BETWEEN 78.6F-85.8F. MUST PROVIDE HOT WATER WITH A MINIMUM TEMPERATURE OF 100F AT ALL HANDWASHING SINKS. PRIORITY VIOLATION, 7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DISH RACKS STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE DISHWASHING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DISH RACKS FROM THE FLOOR AND PLACE THEM AT LEAST SIX INCHES OFF THE FLOOR TO PROTECT FROM CONTAMINATION.
39
82
Jan 30, 2024
Routine
1 critical violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: Low temp dish washing machine not sanitizing at final rinse, 0ppm obtained at Cl test strips, no sanitizer chemical provided to machine while machine was being used. Instructed manager to provide proper sanitizer concertation at final rinse. Priority violation 7-38-025.
16
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: No hands washing signs in staff restrooms, instructed to post.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: Leaky drain pipe under dish room hand wash sink, faucet in poor repair at same sink, unable to shut off water completely. Instructed manager to repair plumbing and maintain.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: No splash guard at front hand wash sink, adjacent to prep table. Instructed to install.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: Heavy dust build-up noted at walk-in fan covers, instructed to clean and maintain.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: Grease and food debris noted behind food equipment at the main cook line, instructed to clean and maintain.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: Employees clothing stored on utensils shelf, instructed to keep away.
56
64
Mar 15, 2023
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: O6-201.16 BSERVED MISSING CEILINGS TILE PANELS IN THE REAR DRY STORAGE AREA NEAR THE DISH ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING PANELS OF CEILING TILES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 6-501.14 OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON THE FAN/VENTILATION VENTS OF THE LOW-TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS/VENTS.
56
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E) OBSERVED AN ICE SCOOPER STORED ON THE OUTSIDE REAR BOTTOM OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH THE FOOD CONTACT SURFACE EXPOSED. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES PROPERLY.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19 OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE REAR DRY STORAGE AND FRONT COOK LINE AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: 4-602.13 OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE 3-DOOR COOLER TO BE SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND SPLASH. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
78
Mar 13, 2023
Routine
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 5 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING SINK NOT MAINTAINED WITH HOT WATER: IMPROPER TEMPERATURE OF HOT WATER OBSERVED AT THE REAR HAND SINK IN THE DISHWASHING AREA (63.6F). INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE OF HOT WATER AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS MUST BE AT LEAST 100F. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-030(C). CITATION ISSUED.
10
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY-TO-EAT, TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOOD (SALSA VERDE) STORED IN THE WALK-IN COOLER, NOT DATE MARKED TO INDICATE THE PRODUCT'S NAME AND DATE IN WHICH THE FOOD MUST BE SOLD, DISCARDED, OR CONSUMED WITHIN 7 DAYS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE PROPER LABELS FOR DATE MARKING AND DISCARD DATE FOR REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOODS HELD OVER 24HRS PLACED IN ALL COLD-HOLDING UNITS. AN EMPLOYEE PROVIDED THE PROPER DATE MARK ON THE SALSA VERDE DURING THE INSPECTION TIME. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ICE SCOOPER STORED ON THE OUTSIDE REAR BOTTOM OF THE ICE MACHINE WITH THE FOOD CONTACT SURFACE EXPOSED. INSTRUCTED ON HOW TO STORE ICE SCOOP BETWEEN USES PROPERLY.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS SHELVING THROUGHOUT THE REAR DRY STORAGE AND FRONT COOK LINE AREA. MUST REMOVE AND PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE INTERIOR OF THE 3-DOOR COOLER TO BE SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND SPLASH. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MISSING CEILINGS TILE PANELS IN THE REAR DRY STORAGE AREA NEAR THE DISH ROOM. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING PANELS OF CEILING TILES.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON FAN/VENTILATION VENTS OF THE LOW-TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL FANS/VENTS.
56
61
Jan 26, 2022
Routine
1 critical violation. 2 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED READY TO EAT TIME/ TEMPERATURE FOR SAFETY FOOD:COOKED SAUSAGE, COOKED BACON, AND SLICED TURKEY WITH A PREPARED BY DATE 0F 1/13/22. ALSO NOTED COOKED SAUSAGE WITHOUT A DATE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO DISCARD SAID FOOD ITEMS. MUST HOLD FOOD ITEMS FOR A MAXIMUM OF SEVEN DAYS. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
23
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND CUTTING BOARDS STAINED WITH DEEP GROOVES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN OR RESURFACE .
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: FOUND GASKETS BROKEN ON 3 DOOR FREEZER LOCATED ON SERVICE FOOD HOT LINE. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REPLACE.
47
78
Oct 14, 2021
Reinspection
1 major violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: 2-501.11 OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.
5
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: 4-204.112(B) OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY READABLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT.
36
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: 3-304.14 OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON SEVERAL PREP SURFACE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. MUST MAINTAIN
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: 4-903.11 (A;B;D) NOTED FACILITY STORING BIN OF CLEAN CUPS AND OTHER UTENSILS ON THE FLOOR UNDER PREP TABLE SURROUNDING LOW TEMPARATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND PROPERLY STORE CLEAN EATING UTENSILS.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.11 OBSERVED 3-COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPERS MISSING/NOT WORKING AT RIGHT COMPARTMENT WHERE A WIPING CLOTH WAS NOTED IN PLACE TO STOP WATER FROM DRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE WORKING STOPPERS AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: 6-501.16 OBSERVED MOP IN A POSITION THAT DOES NOT ALLOW TO DRY PROPERLY AND PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. MUST STORE MOP AFTER USE IN A MOUNTED POSITION THAT ALLOWS FOR AIR-DRYING WITHOUT SOILING AND PEST HARBORAGING.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
67
Oct 7, 2021
Routine
2 critical violations. 3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: NOTED INTERNAL TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD ITEMS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLER IN THE COFFEE PREP AREA TO BE IMPROPER: 2 GALLONS OF MILK, 1 HALF GALLON OF CREAMER, AND 2 QUARTS OF NON-DAIRY ALMOND MILK AT 55F. MANAGER IMMEDIATELY AND VOLUNTARILY DISPOSED OF OF PRODUCTS WORTH $50 THROUGH DENATURING PROCESS. PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: NOTED IMPROPER COLD-HOLD TEMPERATURE OBSERVED BETWEEN 47F-52F AT REACH IN COOLER IN COFFEE PREP AREA; UNIT TAGGED. INFORMED ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS SHALL MAINTAIN A PROPER TEMPERATURE OF 41F AND BELOW. REFRIGERATOR UNIT MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REINSPECTED BY CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH (CDPH). PRIORITY VIOLATION #7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
33
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ECOLAB PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK WITH LATEST REPORT DATED JULY 9,2020; NO LATER REPORTS FOR 2020, NOR 2021 SERVICE REPORTS. ALL RETAIL FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS MUST MAINTAIN A LOG BOOK WHICH SHALL BE KEPT FOR A PERIOD OF TWELVE (12) MONTHS AND INCLUDE A COPY OF THE SERVICE TICKETS AND THE PEST CONTROL COMPANY?S ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC (IDPH) HEALTH LICENSE NUMBER. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-020(C).
38
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO ESTABLISH AN APPROPRIATE EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY AND MAINTAIN WITH VERIFIABLE SIGNED COPIES ON SITE FOR ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES IN ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF REPORTING AGREEMENT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-010.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO WRITTEN PROCEDURES OR SUPPLIES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING OR DIARRHEAL EVENTS. SUPPLIES MUST INCLUDE ADEQUATE SANITIZER THAT ELIMINATES NOROVIRUS. INSTRUCTED FACILITY TO PROVIDE CLEAN UP POLICY AND SUPPLIES TO PROPERLY HANDLE BODILY FLUID SPILLS ON SITE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION #7-38-005.
5
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO AMBIENT AIR THERMOMETERS INSIDE THE REACH IN COOLERS. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE CONSPICUOUS AND EASILY READABLE THERMOMETERS INSIDE ALL REFRIGERATOR UNITS TO PROPERLY MONITOR THE AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE OF EQUIPMENT.
36
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WET WIPING CLOTHS ON SEVERAL PREP SURFACE AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION OF EQUIPMENT & FOOD. MUST MAINTAIN
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: NOTED FACILITY STORING BIN OF CLEAN CUPS AND OTHER UTENSILS ON THE FLOOR UNDER PREP TABLE SURROUNDING LOW TEMPARATURE DISH MACHINE. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE AND PROPERLY STORE CLEAN EATING UTENSILS.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 3-COMPARTMENT SINK STOPPERS MISSING/NOT WORKING AT RIGHT COMPARTMENT WHERE A WIPING CLOTH WAS NOTED IN PLACE TO STOP WATER FROM DRAINING. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE WORKING STOPPERS AT 3-COMPARTMENT SINK AND MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MOP IN A POSITION THAT DOES NOT ALLOW TO DRY PROPERLY AND PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE. MUST STORE MOP AFTER USE IN A MOUNTED POSITION THAT ALLOWS FOR AIR-DRYING WITHOUT SOILING AND PEST HARBORAGING.
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EXPIRED FOOD HANDLER CERTIFICATES. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN RECORDS AT ALL TIMES.
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH COMPLETION OF TRAINING. MUST PROVIDE DOCUMENTATION.
58
39
Jul 9, 2019
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 25, 2019
Complaint
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: APPROXIMATELY 75 LIVE FLIES WERE OBSERVED ON WALLS THROUGHOUT THE FRONT, REAR, AND COFFEE BAR PREP AREAS. FLIES WERE ALSO OBSERVED ON DRY GOODS, AND ON WALLS THROUGHOUT THE CUSTOMER DINING AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE FLIES, CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE AFFECTED AREAS. CONTACT PEST CONTROL FOR SERVICE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A) CITATION ISSUED.
38
Proper eating, tasting, drinking, or tobacco use
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE IN FRONT PREP WITH OPEN CONTAINER BEVERAGE. A FOOD EMPLOYEE may drink from a closed BEVERAGE container if the container is handled to prevent contamination. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
6
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE IN REAR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
16
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS UNDER HEAVY EQUIPMENT IN FRONT & REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
78
Mar 22, 2019
Routine
1 critical violation. 6 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Proper cold holding temperatures
Inspector notes: OBSERVED COLD TCS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM 48F TO 50F STORED ON TOP OF ON A COLD HOLDING UNIT. 3 LBS OF GUACAMOLE VALUED AT $15; 4 LBS OF DELI MEATS VALUED AT $15; 7 LBS OF SAUSAGE VALUED AT $15, 4 LBS OF BACON VALUED AT $5, 2 LBS OF SALSA VALUED AT $5. MANAGER VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AND DENATURE FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD TCS COLD FOODS AT 41F OR BELOW. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. CITATION ISSUED.
22
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: MUST LABEL FOOD CONTAINERS WITH COMMON FOOD NAMES, WHEN FOODS HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM ORIGINAL PACKAGING AND STORED IN FOOD CONTAINERS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
37
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN SANITIZING WATER (BUCKET) BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Utensils, equipment & linens: properly stored, dried, & handled
Inspector notes: OBSERVED UTENSILS BEING STORED ON THE SIDE OF COOKING EQUIPMENT, INSTRUCTED TO STORE PROPERLY TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION AND MAINTAIN.
44
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR BROKEN DOOR GASKETS ON FRONT PREP COOLERS (HOT FOOD LINE). ALSO, REPAIR THE BROKEN PREP SHELVE ON THE FRONT GRILL (REMOVE PLASTIC). INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN DRIED FOOD DEBRIS FROM FLOORS UNDER HEAVY EQUIPMENT. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN UNKNOWN DEBRIS FROM LIGHT SHIELDS THROUGHOUT FRONT & REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
55
64
Jan 29, 2018
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: Observed pre sliced deli meat in front cook line drawer cooler, under grill and pre sliced cheeses in walk in cooler with no dates or labels. Informed manager that all foods must be labeled and dated once removed from original package. Instructed manager to label and date at all times.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed no splash guard on left side of middle front line exposed hand sink, next to dry storage shelving unit. Instructed manager to provide.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: Observed black mold like substance embedded in the caulking along dish machine drain board area. Instructed manager to remove and resurface. Maintain at all times.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: Observed food and debris along floor and wall junction under 3 compartment sink. Instructed manager to detail clean and maintain at all.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed small leak at three compartment sink, under wash sink and rinsing. Instructed manager to repair and maintain at all times.
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed bulk food container of tortilla chips on floor next to front hot line. Instructed manager to elevate inventory items at least 6 inches off the floor at all times.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: Observed food handler in front serving area, rear prep and dish room area with no hair restraints. Instructed manager to ensure that food handlers properly restrain hair, in side hair restraint, whenever foods are prepared and or served. maintain at all times.
42
70
Sep 12, 2017
Complaint
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: Observed the following potentially hazardous foods at improper temperatures: In the hot holding unit, 1.5lbs of cooked chicken @ 82.5F; on the counter at the cooking line found 5lbs of egg based french toast batter @ 65.8F; on a cart in front prep area found 10lbs of raw eggs @ 52.5F; in the cold hold unit on the right side of cooking line found 1/2 lb of raw, shelled eggs @ 76.5F. Instructed all potentially hazardous foods must be held @ 40F or less or 140F or more at all times. Operator discarded denatured foods during inspection. Critical violation 7-38-005(a).
3
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: Observed wiping cloths improperly stored on the counter of front prep area. Must store all wiping cloths in a sanitizing solution when not in use. Must maintain same.
43
90
Jun 14, 2017
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Jun 12, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: Found the following potentially hazardous foods at improper temperatures sitting on top of the reach in prep cooler: 0.5lbs of (bagged and refrigerated) spinach @ 48.2F; 3lbs of raw eggs @ 59.8-60.1F; 1.5lbs of salmon @ 47.1F; 2lbs of mixed greens (bagged and refrigerated) @ 46.4F; and 1lb of egg whites @ 46.4F. Instructed all potentially hazardous foods must be @ 40F or less, or 140F or higher at al times. Operator voluntarily discarded denatured foods during inspection. Critical violation 7-38-005(a).
3
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed exposed hand sink near dish room not maintained. Hot water temperature @ 69.7F. Instructed all hand washing sinks must have hot water temperature of at least 85F at all times. Hand sink was turned off during inspection. Operator instructed staff not to wash hands at this sink until it is repaired. Critical violation 7-38-030.
11
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: Observed aluminum foil used as a liner on cooking equipment in the cook line. Must remove. All surfaces must be smooth and easily cleanable. Must maintain same.
32
86
Nov 15, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Adequate number, convenient, accessible, designed, and maintained
Inspector notes: AT TIME OF INSPECTION, OBSERVED NO HOT WATER AT THE WOMEN'S SHARED (EMPLOYEE/CUSTOMER) RESTROOM HAND SINK. NOTED WATER TEMPERATURE TO BE 58 DEGREES. INSTRUCTED THAT MIXED/TEMPERED WATER MUST BE AT LEAST 85 DEGREES AT ALL TIMES. CRITICAL VIOLATION 7-38-030
11
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THAT A SPLASH GUARD IS NEEDED ON THE FRONT COFFEE BAR HAND SINK, WHERE COFFEE EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES ARE STORED DIRECTLY ON EITHER SIDE OF THE HAND SINK. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SPLASH GUARDS AT THIS SINK.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST ACCUMULATING ON THE FAN COVERS IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BOXES OF FOOD BEING STORED ON THE FLOOR IN THE WALK IN COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES ABOVE THE FLOOR. NOTED WATER POOLING ON THE FLOOR BELOW THE 3 DOOR FREEZER NEAR THE COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO ELIMINATE STANDING WATER.
34
82
Feb 26, 2016
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: ALUMINUMB FOIL IS BEING USED TO LINE THE SHELF ABOVE THE OMELET STATION WHERE FRYING PANS ARE STORED BETWEEN USES. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE THE FOIL AND MAINTAIN THE SURFACE TO BE SMOOTH, DURABLE AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
32
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EMPLOYEE BELONGINGS (JACKETS, BAGS) ARE BEING STORED ON DRY STORAGE SHELVES IN THE KITCHEN. INSTRUCTED TO STORE EMPLOYEE BELONGING SEPARATE FROM FOOD. OBSERVED BROOMS STORED ON THE FLOOR OF THE MOP SINK. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL MOPS AND BROOMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE FLOOR.
41
90
Mar 12, 2015
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS.
30
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN FLOORS UNDER THE STORAGE SHELVES.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN THE WALLS UNDER THE DISH MACHINE AND UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
35
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY STORE ALL WASH CLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHILE NOT IN USE.
43
82
Dec 11, 2014
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 4, 2014
Routine
8 minor violations.
View 8 violations
Hand washing facilities: with soap and sanitary hand drying devices, convenient and accessible to food prep area
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT THE FRONT PREP EXPOSED HAND SINK WHERE COFFEE/CAPPUCCINO IS PREPARED AND BAKED PASTRIES ARE SERVED. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-030.
12
* certified food manager on site when potentially hazardous foods are prepared and served
Inspector notes: NO CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES AT THE TIME OF THE INSPECTION. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012. MUST HAVE A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES AT ALL TIMES AND SUCH A PERSON MUST BE ON SITE WHILE FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-38-012.
21
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM 3-27-14 NOT CORRECTED. #30- MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS NOT IN THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.#38-MUST PROPERLY EXTEND THE WASTE LINE AT CAPPUCCINO MAKER TO A FLOOR DRAIN. MAY NOT DRAIN INTO A HAND SINK.#43-MUST PROVIDE A SANITARY CONTAINER TO STORE ICE DISPENSING UTENSILS. SERIOUS CITATION ISSUED 7-42-090.
29
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: KNIVES OBSERVED IMPROPERLY STORED BETWEEN THE WALL AND PREP TABLE AT THE ONE COMPARTMENT SINK PREP STATION. MUST PROPERLY STORE.MUST PROVIDE PROPER SCOOPS WITH HANDLES FOR PREPARED FOODS IN COOLERS.
31
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: TABLE TOP CAN OPENER WITH ENCRUSTED FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN AFTER EACH USE.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: EXTREMELY LOW COLD WATER PRESSURE AT THE NORTH END EXPOSED HAND SINK ON THE COOKS LINE. MUST REPAIR TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE COLD WATER. LEAK UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK DRIPPING ONTO THE FLOOR AND CREATING POOLING WATER. MUST REPAIR LEAK.
38
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: ALL EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREPARATION AREAS HANDLING FOODS MUST WEAR A HAT OR HAIR RESTRAINT.
42
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: WIPING CLOTHS IN THE FRONT FOOD PREP AREA MUST BE STORED IN A CLEAN CONTAINER WITH A SANITIZING SOLUTION.
43
67
Mar 27, 2014
Complaint
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Potentially hazardous food meets temperature requirement during storage, preparation display and service
Inspector notes: NOTED POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. NOTED APPROXIMATELY 6LBS OF COOKED TURKEY SAUSAGE AND COOKED MUSHROOMS AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES RANGING BETWEEN 98-110 DEGREES F. MUST MAINTAIN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS HOT FOODS AT 140 DEGREES F AND ABOVE. CRITICAL CITATION ISSUED 7-38-005A
3
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY LABEL ALL BULK FOOD ITEM CONTAINERS NOT IN THEIR ORIGINAL CONTAINERS.
30
Clean multi-use utensils and single service articles properly stored: no reuse of single service articles
Inspector notes: MUST INVERT ALL MULTI USE ITEMS.
31
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROPERLY EXTEND THE WASTE LINE AT CAPPUCINO MAKER TO A FLOOR DRAIN. MAY NOT DRAIN INTO A HAND SINK.
38
Food (ice) dispensing utensils, wash cloths properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE A SANITARY CONTAINER TO STORE ICE DISPENSING UTENSILS.
43
78
Dec 4, 2013
License
No violations found.
100
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Yolk Cafe last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Yolk Cafe on file is from Jan 26, 2026. The public record contains 24 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Yolk Cafe?
Across the inspection record, “physical facilities installed, maintained & clean” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Yolk Cafe.
Has Yolk Cafe's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Yolk Cafe have averaged around one violation per visit, down from roughly five earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Yolk Cafe 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 Yolk Cafe inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Yolk Cafe is inspected around two times per year on average.
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