PASS W/ CONDITIONS
Risk 1 (High)
BENIHANA Gets Conditional Pass on Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
June 26, 2023
Complaint
License #2469246
4
Total Violations
1
Critical
3
Minor
Inspection Summary
This restaurant was inspected by the Chicago Department of Public Health on June 26, 2023. The inspection type was "Complaint" and resulted in a Pass w/ Conditions outcome.
This establishment is classified as Risk 1 (High), which determines the inspection frequency and focus areas.
The inspector documented 4 violations during this inspection, including 1 critical violation that required immediate attention.
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
4
Violation #2
CRITICAL
Violation Details
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE - Comments: OBSERVED NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WITH VALID ORIGINAL CERTIFCATE WHILE PREPARING AND SERVING SUSHI RICE, CHICKEN, EGGS, CALAMARI. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AT LEAST ONE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES WHILE OPEN AND OPERATING. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Lack of certification indicates potential gaps in food safety knowledge, increasing risk of improper food handling and foodborne illness.
Food Code Requirement
Valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate required and must be posted.
Specific Requirements
Certificate must be: Current and valid; Posted conspicuously in public view; Held by person in charge during all operating hours; Renewed before expiration date.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-102.11
Violation #36
MINOR
Violation Details
THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE - Comments: UNABLE TO LOCATE THERMOMETER INSIDE OF SUSHI PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED TO LOCATE.
Why This Matters
Inadequate lighting prevents detection of contamination and pests.
Food Code Requirement
Adequate protected lighting required in all areas.
Specific Requirements
50 foot-candles at prep surfaces; 20 foot-candles at 30 inches in storage; Shielded bulbs over exposed food; Clean fixtures.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11
Violation #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED REFRIGERATION UNITS, LIQUOR AND SIMPLE SYRUP STORAGE RACKS, DRAIN BOARDS, SHELVES IN BAR PREP WITH EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF DRIED FOOD DEBRIS AND STICKY SURFACES, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OF BUILD UP.
Why This Matters
Accumulated soil attracts pests and harbors bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be kept clean.
Specific Requirements
Clean equipment interiors and exteriors; Walls, ceilings, floors clean; Remove grease and debris; Clean as often as necessary.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11, 4-602.13
Violation #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED REFRIGERATION UNITS, LIQUOR AND SIMPLE SYRUP STORAGE RACKS, DRAIN BOARDS, SHELVES IN BAR PREP WITH EXCESSIVE AMOUNTS OF DRIED FOOD DEBRIS AND STICKY SURFACES, INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN OF BUILD UP.
Why This Matters
Accumulated soil attracts pests and harbors bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be kept clean.
Specific Requirements
Clean equipment interiors and exteriors; Walls, ceilings, floors clean; Remove grease and debris; Clean as often as necessary.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11, 4-602.13
Health Department Information
Department
Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH)
Division
Food Protection Program
Report Issues
Call 311 or File Online
More Information
CDPH Food Protection