Zip Z Express

1635 W Howard St, Chicago, IL 60626
Other
Last inspected: Mar 11, 2025
86
Score
Low Risk

Zip Z Express has been inspected 21 times since 2010. On Mar 11, 2025, the health department conducted the most recent visit. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.

The picture has improved over the last few visits: recent inspections have averaged around four violations, down from roughly eight violations earlier in the record.

The pattern that stands out is “proper cooling methods used”, which has been cited 11 times.

Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Zip Z Express is doing better than most peers. The record reflects steady performance over time.

21
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 11, 2025
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: REMOVE GLUE BOARDS WITH DEAD INSECTS ON IT.
38
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: GREASE ON ONE BURNER UNIT STORED AT REAR STORAGE AREA,CLEAN OR REMOVE
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: STCKY FLOOR THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES,INSTRUCTED TO MOP AND KEEP CLEAN.
55
86
Jun 14, 2024
License
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: ACCUMULATED GREASE AND FOOD DEBRIS ON WALLS, UTILITY CONNECTIONS AND EQUIPMENT SURFACES BEHIND COOKING LINE.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
49
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: STAFF WASHROOM DOOR NOT SELF CLOSING,INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR ISSUE.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: GREASE BUILD-UP UNDER, BEHIND AND ALONG BASEBOARD WALLS BEHIND THE COOKING EQUIPMENT.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING CERTIFICATE PROVIDED ON SITE,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE
57
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES PROVIDED ON SITE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOR ALL CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS
58
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: MUST STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN PREP AREAS IN SANITIZER BUCKET BETWEEN USES TO PREVENT CROSS CONTAMINATION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE PROPER SINK STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK.
47
70
Aug 26, 2022
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: 6-202.15-- REAR EXIT SCREEN DOOR WITH TORN MESH SCREEN. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING MESH SCREENED DOOR WITH NO OPEN HOLES, SEAMS OR OPENINGS.
38
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: 4-501.16 NO PLUG/STOPPERS FOR THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK TO ENABLE PROPER WASHING, RINSING, AND SANITIZING. MUST PROVIDE.
48
90
Aug 16, 2022
License
1 critical violation. 1 major violation. 18 minor violations.
View 20 violations
Sewage & waste water properly disposed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WASTE WATER BACKING UP FROM ONE COMPARTMENT OF THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK INTO THE OTHERS WHEN WATER IS RUNNING. MY REPAIR TO HAVE WASTE WATER PROPERLY DRAIN FROM THE SINK. PRIORITY VIOLATION.
52
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO WRITTEN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
3
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO PAPER TOWELS AT ANY HAND WASHING SINKS. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: NO SOAP AT WASHROOM HAND WASHING SINK. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE GREASE ON ALL FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES. MUST REMOVE ALL GREASE AND MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.----INTERIOR OF ALL COOLERS AND FREEZERS WITH GREASE, POOLING LIQUID AND EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. MUST CLEAN/REMOVE.
16
Proper cooling methods used; adequate equipment for temperature control
Inspector notes: FRONT AREA BOX FREEZER MUST MAINTAIN AN ADEQUATE FROZEN TEMPERATURE OR BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES.
33
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE FUNCTIONAL METAL STEM THERMOMETER THAT IS ACCURATE AND ABLE TO READ.
36
Insects, rodents, & animals not present
Inspector notes: REAR EXIT SCREEN DOOR WITH TORN MESH SCREEN. MUST PROVIDE A TIGHT FITTING MESH SCREENED DOOR WITH NO OPEN HOLES, SEAMS OR OPENINGS.
38
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: ALL AREAS OF THE FRONT RAW WOODEN SHELVING MUST BE PAINTED/SEALED.----EXCESSIVE GREASE ON ALL PLUMBING FIXTURES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY. MUST REMOVE TO BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE PLASTIC BAGS AS A MEANS OF COVER FOR UNUSED PLUMBING FIXTURES AT THE FROM. MUST PROVIDE A SMOOTH, CLEANABLE COVER.
47
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO PLUG/STOPPERS FOR THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK TO ENABLE PROPER WASHING, RINSING AND SANITIZING. MUST PROVIDE.
48
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: NO CHLORINE CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS ON THE PREMISES. MUST PROVIDE.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: LEAK UNDER THE UTILITY SERVICE SINK ONTO THE FLOOR. MUST REPAIR.
51
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: WASHROOM WASHBOWL FAUCET REPAIRED WITH DUCT TAPE. MUST REPLACE/PROPERLY REPAIR.
51
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NOTED EXTREMELY DIRTY TOILET AND HAND WASHING SINK IN THE WASHROOM. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: WASHROOM THAT OPENS TO THE FOOD PREP AREA WITH A BROKEN SELF-CLOSING DEVICE. MUST REPLACE.
53
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: NO TOILET TISSUE IN THE WASHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OUTSIDE WASTE RECEPTACLE WITH OVER FLOWING DEBRIS, UNABLE TO CLOSE LID TO BE TIGHT FITTING. MUST REMOVE ALL OVERFLOWING GARBAGE.
54
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE GREASE ON ALL WALLS, FLOORS AND ATTACHED WOODEN DOOR AT ENTRANCE TO THE KITCHEN AND ALL ATTACHED ELECTRICAL OUTLETS, PIPING AND COVING. MUST REMOVE ALL GREASE AND DEBRIS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: NON-FUNCTIONAL LIGHTING ABOVE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AREA. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE/ PROVIDE ADEQUATE LIGHTING.
56
32
Oct 22, 2021
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: MUST NOT USE DUCT TAPE AS A MEANS OF REPAIR ON THE DOOR OF THE LONG CHEST FREEZER IN THE STORAGE AREA.THE SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
47
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: SOME WATER AND DEBRIS UNDER THE COOKING EQUIPMENT, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
55
90
Jan 7, 2020
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: NOTED ASSORTED FOOD ITEMS INSIDE 2 DOOR COOLER STORED INSIDE GROCERY BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE ALL FOOD ITEMS INSIDE APPROVED FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN SHELVES INSIDE THE 2 DOOR REFRIGERATION UNITS AT THE MAIN KITCHEN AREA WITH DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS.
47
90
Jan 11, 2019
Routine
3 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL INCIDENT CLEAN UP POLICY IN PLACE AND KIT ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: ALL PREPARED FOODS IN COOLERS MUST BE PROPERLY LABELED WITH PRODUCT NAME, AND EXPIRATION DATE WITHIN 7 DAYS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION:7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION#: 7-38-012(A) NO CITATION ISSUE -
3
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: EXCESS DIRTY,BROKEN DUCT TAPE ARE WRAPPED AT FEET OF THE DINING TABLES,INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE KEEP SURFACE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE
47
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FACILITY FOOD SERVICE SANITATION MANAGERS WITHOUT REQUIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION. MUST OBTAIN AND MAINTAIN.
58
67
Apr 23, 2018
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUCT TAPE ON INTERIOR OF REACH IN 2 DOOR STANDING COOLER NEXT TO MOP SINK. DUCT TAPE IS BEING USED TO REPAIR CONDENSER UNIT AT TOP. REMOVE ALL DUCT TAPE AND RESTORE ALL SURFACES TO SMOOTH EASILY CLEANABLE CONDITION. OBSERVED STANDING FREEZER WITH EXCESS ICE ACCUMULATION. DEFROST AND MAINTAIN AND REMOVE DUCT TAPE USED TO REPAIR SHELVING. REMOVE AND RESTORE ALL SHELVING TO A SMOOTH EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SLUSHIE MACHINE UNCLEAN. CLEAN AND SANITIZE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF SLUSHIE MACHINES PRIOR TO USE OF BEFORE STORING. CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF REFRIGERATORS. MAINTAIN.
33
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: OBSERVED WORKING THERMOMTERS NEEDED IN ALL COOLERS. INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
40
86
Apr 10, 2017
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED MARRED CUTTING BOARD AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK AREA.ISTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO REPLACE/REPAIR.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: INTERIOR AN EXTERIOR OF TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER AT HOT LINE IN KITCHEN AREA NEEDS CLEANING. KITCHEN AND WORK BENCH SHELVING NEEDS CLEANING AND SANITIZING. NOTED GRILL,RANGE AND FRYER GAS CHUTES WITH FOOD PARTICULATES AND GREASY.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS NEED CLEANING THROUGH OUT KITCHEN AREA.
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: NOTED HOOD OVER HOT LINE IN KITCHEN GREASY.INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO CLEAN.
38
82
Dec 29, 2016
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Dec 14, 2016
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous minor violation(s) corrected 7-42-090
Inspector notes: OBSERVED PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT 1763829, DATED 4/28/2016. VIOLATIONS INCLUDE; #32; OBSERVED THE USE OF CARDBOARD INSIDE COOLERS AND ON KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. DEFROST BOTH DEEP FREEZERS IN THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DISCONTINUE USE OF CARDBOARD, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. #33; OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND EXCESSIVE GREASE ON THE FOLLOWING FOOD AND NON FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT; STOVE, GRILL, FRYER, AND ALL CONTACT SURFACES IN THE KITCHEN. ALSO, CLEAN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE UPRIGHT AND DEEP FREEZERS. CLEAN INTERIOR OF STORAGE BINS UNDER THE FRONT PREP TABLES, AND ALL WINDOW SILLS IN SEATING AREA. MAINTAIN SAME. #34; OBSERVED DIRTY FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. 35; OBSERVED KITCHEN HOOD AND FILTERS WITH GREASE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN. VIOLATIONS STILL EXISTS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090
29
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS BEING USED TO STORE FOOD,IN THE FREEZER BEHIND THE FRONT COUNTER. INSTRUCTED THAT GROCERY BAGS ARE PROHIBITED, DISCONTINUE USE. USE FOOD GRADE BAGS INSTEAD AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LOWER SHELVES ON PREP TABLES IN REAR PREP NOT CLEAN. ALSO, DRY STORAGE RACKS IN FRONT OF PREMISES (ACROSS FROM DEEP FREEZER) ARE NOT CLEAN. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: EXCESSIVE CLUTTER IN THE REAR PREP AREA AROUND THE HOT WATER TANK. INSTRUCTED TO DISCARD ITEMS NOT BEING USED. ELEVATE OTHER ITEMS 6" OFF FLOOR TO PREVENT RODENT HARBORAGE AND MAINTAIN .
41
82
Apr 28, 2016
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE USE OF CARDBOARD INSIDE COOLERS AND ON KITCHEN EQUIPMENT. DEFROST BOTH DEEP FREEZERS IN THE FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS. INSTRUCTED TO DISCONTINUE USE OF CARDBOARD, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS AND EXCESSIVE GREASE ON THE FOLLOWING FOOD AND NON FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT; STOVE, GRILL, FRYER, AND ALL CONTACT SURFACES IN THE KITCHEN. ALSO, CLEAN THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE UPRIGHT AND DEEP FREEZERS. CLEAN INTERIOR OF STORAGE BINS UNDER THE FRONT PREP TABLES, AND ALL WINDOW SILLS IN SEATING AREA. MAINTAIN SAME.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DIRTY FLOORS AND CORNERS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: OBSERVED KITCHEN HOOD AND FILTERS WITH GREASE BUILD UP. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN, SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.
35
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS NOT MET. INFORMATION PROVIDED.
45
78
Nov 17, 2015
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Nov 10, 2015
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOOD NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE: FOUND READY TO EAT FOOD(LETTUCE,ONIONS ETC.) STACKED ON TOP EACH OTHER INSIDE THE TWO DOOR COOLER IN PREP AREA.COOKED RICE WAS COVERED WITH A LARGE PLASTIC NON-FOOD BAG(FOAM WAS PRIOR STORED),FROZEN FOOD UNCOVERED AND STACKED ON TOP EACH OTHER.OBSERVED UNCOVERED PLASTIC CONTAINER WITH CHICKEN WINGS IN IT DEFROSTING INSIDE THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK(MIDDLE COMPARTMENT),ON TOP OF IT ANOTHER CONTAINER WITH SOAP DIRTY WATER AND SPONGES.FOOD REMOVED.FOOD PROTECTION WAS EXPLAINED,ALSO MUST USE FOOD GRADE BAGS OR FOOD CONTAINERS WITH LIDS.DIPPER WELLS(USED TO SCOOP FRESH ICE CREAM FOR CUSTOMERS) WITH RUST ON SURFACE ALSO UNKNOWN PARTICLES IN WATER,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN/REPLACE. SERIOUS VIOLATION: 7-38-005(A)
16
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: WE(CERTIFIED MANAGER/OWNER)OBSERVED LIVE ROACHES ON PREMISES.ONE BABY ROACH BETWEEN OPENED FLOOR TILES UNDER THE TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER,ACROSS FROM COOKING EQUIPMENT.ONE ADULT ROACH ON EAST WALL BEHIND FRONT COUNTER IN DINING AREA,AND 10-20 BABY ROACHES TO ADULT ROACHES BEHIND THE VIENNA HOT DOG ADVERTISE BOARDS,BEHIND THE MENU BOARDS.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ROACHES,CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREA.REMOVE UNNECESSARY ADVERTISE BOARDS.NOT AN INFESTATION. SERIOUS VIOLATION:7-38-020
18
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: BROKEN STOPPERS PROVIDED AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THREE NEW STOPPERS FOR PROPER:WASH,RINSE AND SANITIZE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: GREASE BUILD-UP AT FOLLOWING EQUIPMENT:INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT,BURNERS,HOOD AND FILTERS,DEEP FRYERS,ALL SHELVES IN THE KITCHEN AND ALL INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOLERS DOOR TRACKS AND HANDLES.TOILET AND WASH BOWL WITH GRIMES INSTRUCTED TOO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL MENTIONED ABOVE.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: GREASE,DEBRIS AND DUST ON FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES,SPECIALLY UNDER EQUIPMENTS,SHELVES,COOLERS THREE COMPARTMENT SINK ETC.FLOOR MUST BE CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.SEAL OPENED FLOOR TILES UNDER THE TWO DOOR COOLER.RUBBER MATS EXCESS GREASE ON THEM GREASE STICKS AT BOTTOM OF THE SHOES INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS WITH EXCESS DUST,SPILLAGE AND GRIMES, FRONT SERVING/DINING AREA.NEED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
35
74
Apr 27, 2015
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUSTY SHELVES INSIDE THE TWO DOOR REACH-IN COOLER AT EAST WALL AT FRONT PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR/REPLACE RUSTY SHELVES.PART OF MESH FOR REAR DOOR IN POOR REPAIR,INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE. BROKEN LINER AND RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE LID OF THE CHEST FREEZER AT STORAGE ROOM.INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR(WITH FOOD GRADE MATERIAL)OR REPLACE.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DIPPING WELL WITH FOOD DEBRIS AT BOTTOM OF THE UNIT,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESS GREASE AND ENCRUSTED FOOD, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.INTERIOR OF TWO SLIDING DOOR OF REACH IN COOLER ACROSS FROM COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH EXCESS FOOD DEBRIS,ALSO DEEP FRYERS,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.SHELVES THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES WITH FOOD DEBRIS INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: GREASE AND GRIMES ON FLOOR THROUGHOUT THE PREP AREA,UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT AND UNDER SHELVES,INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN
34
86
Sep 10, 2014
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND BULK FOOD NOT LABELED.(RICE,ETC.)
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: FOUND 3COMPARTMENT SINK NOT CLEAN.
32
90
Aug 8, 2013
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: BURNED FOOD DEBRIS UNDER THE BURNERS, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALL UNEVEN BESIDE THE HOT WATER TANK UNDER THE WINDOW,SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
35
90
Feb 21, 2012
Reinspection
No violations found.
100
Feb 8, 2012
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
No evidence of rodent or insect outer openings protected/rodent proofed, a written log shall be maintained available to the inspectors
Inspector notes: WE OBSERVED(CERTIFIED FOOD HANDLER/OWNER)LIVE ROACHES UNDER AND AROUND TWO DOOR REFRIGERATOR, ACROSS FROM STOVE IN PREP AREA. ADULTS AND BABIES ROACHES WERE COMING OUT FROM HOLES LOCATED AT FRAME OF THE COOLER.(8 LIVE ROACHES) INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT PEST CONTROL. MUST CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREA. OUTER OPENINGS NOT PROTECTED: REAR SCREEN DOOR NOT COMPLETELY ENCLOSED, MAIN REAR DOOR OPENED. FRONT DOOR MUST BE RODENT AND INSECT PROOFED,GAP 1/2". SERIOUS VIOLATION: 7-38-020 HOOOO77581-12.
18
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: LABEL DRY FOOD PRODUCTS THAT ARE STORED IN CONTENAIRS.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REMOVE ALL NEWS PAPER AND CARDBOARDS USED TO LINE SHELVES THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: DETAIL CLEANING INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF COOKING EQUIPMENTS,INSIDE THE COOLERS AND FREEZER INCLUDED RUBBER GASKET(FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE BUILD-UP).NEED TO CLEAN WHEEL OF COOKING EQUIPMENT AND PIPE BEHIND THE EQUIPMENT.NEED TO CLEAN ALL SHELVED IN PREP AND FRONT COUNTER(BUILD-UP OF DEBRIS). WHEN WATER IS RELEASED FROM THREE COMPARTMENT SINK A FOUL ODOR IS COMING FROM GREASE TRAP INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: CLEAN FLOOR UNDER AND AROUND COOKING EQUIPMENT AND UNDER THE TWO DOOR COOLER.NEED TO CLEAN UNDER THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK BEHIND THE GREASE TRAP.
34
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: HAIR RESTRAINT IS NEEDED IN PREP AREA AT ALL TIMES,INCLUDED OWNERS.
42
74
May 4, 2011
Routine
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
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. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR DAMAGE DINING CHAIR COVERS.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN STAINS AND DEBRIS ON 3COMP.SINK,TOILET BOWL,HAND WASH SINK IN TOILET,EXTERIORS OF STOVE,TABLES IN DINING,MOP SINK,AND EXPOSE HAND WASH SINK AT FRONT CORNER.
33
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. INSTRUCTED TO MOVE EXPOSE HAND WASH SINK FROM OUTSIDE OF KITCHEN PREP AREA INTO THE KITCHEN TO BE NEAR TO FOOD PREP AREA, FOR PROPER HAND WASHING OF FOOD HANDLERS,WHILE MOP SINK WHICH IS IN KITCHEN COULD BE RELOCATE WHERE EXPOSE HAND WASH SINK IS PRESENTLY (OUTSIDE KITCHEN).
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: All parts of the food establishment and all parts of the property used in connection with the operation of the establishment shall be kept neat and clean and should not produce any offensive odors. OBSERVED EXCESS CLUTTER ON PREMISES(AT FRONT COUNTER,MEDDLE STORAGE AREA AND IN KITCHEN.INSTRUCTED TO DECLUTTER FACILITY.
41
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: All employees must wear garments that are clean and of washable character and nature. OBSERVED CHEF HANDLING FOODS IN KITCHEN IN SOILED CLOTHS,INSTRUCTED TO WEAR CLOTHINGS WHILE HANDLING FOODS AT ALL TIMES.
42
78
Jun 17, 2010
Complaint
6 minor violations.
View 6 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. The licensee shall inform the public in writing of the Chicago Department of Public Health?s Consumer Advisory relating to consuming raw and undercooked animal products. found food items not properly dated/labeled in coolers, freezers. must date and label all food items.
30
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. All utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each usage. non food contact surfaces of cooler shelving, storage shelving need detailed cleaning.
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. floors under hevy equipment, cooking equipment, and storage area need detailed cleaning(corners).
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. Use dustless cleaning methods. walls in rear prep area need cleaning.
35
Lighting: required minimum foot-candles of light provided, fixtures shielded
Inspector notes: All rooms in which food or drink is prepared, or in which utensils are washed, shall be lighted so that a minimum of 50-foot candles of light is available on all work surfaces. Shielding to protect against broken glass falling into food shall be provided for all artificial lighting sources in preparation, service, and display facilities. light shields in prep areas need cleaning.
36
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: The flow of air discharged from kitchen fans shall always be through a duct to a point above the roofline. Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. exhaust vents(ventilation) in coolers need cleaning.
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Frequently Asked Questions

When was Zip Z Express last inspected?

The most recent health inspection at Zip Z Express on file is from Mar 11, 2025. The public record contains 21 inspections in total.

What is the most common violation at Zip Z Express?

Across the inspection record, “proper cooling methods used” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Zip Z Express.

Has Zip Z Express' inspection record improved over time?

Yes. Recent inspections at Zip Z Express have averaged around four violations per visit, down from roughly eight earlier in the record.

What does a low risk rating mean?

A low risk rating at Zip Z Express 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 Zip Z Express inspected?

Based on the inspection history on file, Zip Z Express is inspected roughly once per year on average.