PASS W/ CONDITIONS
Risk 1 (High)
CHICAGO WAFFLES Gets Conditional Pass on Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
July 1, 2024
Complaint
License #2652928
19
Total Violations
6
Critical
2
Major
11
Minor
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
19
Violation #8
CRITICAL
Violation Details
HANDS CLEAN & PROPERLY WASHED - Comments: OBSERVED COOK OPERATING LOW TEMP. DISH MACHINE AND PROCEED TO PREPARE RTE FOOD WITHOUT PROPERLY WASHING HANDS. NOTED SERVERS BUSSING TABLES AND SERVING TABLES WITHOUT PROPERLY WASHING HANDS. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO ENSURE EMPLOYEES WASH HANDS WHEN THERE IS A POSSIBLE SOURCE OF CROSS-CONTAMINATION. THE MANAGER INSTRUCTED THE EMPLOYEE TO WASH THEIR HANDS, CHANGE GLOVES, PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Improper sanitization fails to kill pathogens, allowing contaminated equipment to spread illness throughout facility.
Food Code Requirement
Sanitizing solutions and rinse water must meet specific requirements for effectiveness.
Specific Requirements
Chemical sanitizers: Chlorine 50-100 ppm, Quaternary ammonium 200-400 ppm, Iodine 12.5-25 ppm; Hot water: 171°F for 30 seconds or 180°F at dish surface; Test strips required; Proper contact time.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-501.114, 4-702.11
Violation #9
CRITICAL
Violation Details
NO BARE HAND CONTACT WITH RTE FOOD OR A PRE-APPROVED ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURE PROPERLY ALLOWED - Comments: OBSERVED COOK PREPARING RTE STRAWBERRIES IN REAR PREP WITH BARE HANDS, MUST USE GLOVES OR OTHER ALTERNATIVE APPROVED METHODS WHEN HANDLING READY TO EAT FOOD AND PRODUCTS. 5# OF PRODUCT $15. VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-010 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Contaminated water spreads waterborne diseases. Insufficient hot water prevents proper sanitization.
Food Code Requirement
Potable water supply must be adequate, protected, and properly heated.
Specific Requirements
Water from approved public system; Sufficient pressure for all operations; Hot water minimum 120°F at fixtures, 180°F for high-temp dishwashers; Backflow prevention installed; No cross-connections.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-101.11, 5-103.11
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: NO PAPER TOWELS AT HAND WASH SINKS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN PRIORITY FOUNDATION #7-38-030(C) CITATION ISSUED
Why This Matters
Blocked or unsupplied sinks force employees to skip handwashing, spreading fecal bacteria and viruses to food.
Food Code Requirement
Handwashing sinks must be accessible, properly supplied, and used only for handwashing.
Specific Requirements
Each sink needs: Warm water (100°F minimum); Soap in dispensers; Paper towels or air dryers; Waste receptacles; Signage; Clear access; Used only for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.12, 6-301.11
Violation #16
CRITICAL
Violation Details
FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED - Comments: FOUND LOW TEMPERATURE DISH MACHINE INADEQUATELY SANITIZING DISHES AT 0 PPM. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDE A SANITIZING SOLUTION TO ADEQUATELY SANITIZE DISHES PER MANUFACTURER'S INSTRUCTIONS. TECHNICIAN ARRIVED ON SITE TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS DISHWASHER NOW READING 50 PPM. PRIORITY VIOLATION. 7-38-025. CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Dirty equipment harbors and spreads pathogens, causing cross-contamination and illness.
Food Code Requirement
All food contact surfaces must be properly cleaned and sanitized.
Specific Requirements
Wash, rinse, sanitize after each use; Clean between different raw foods; Every 4 hours for continuous use; When contaminated; Proper procedures and chemicals.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11, 4-602.11
Violation #21
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS IN HOT HOLDING AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES: 4# COUNTRY GRAVY AT 98.3F AND 5# SHREDDED CHICKEN AT 114.3F. 9 POUNDS WITH VALUE OF $35.00 VOLUNTARILY DISCARD & DENATURED FOOD. INSTRUCTED TO HOLD HOT TCS FOODS AT 135F OR ABOVE. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
Why This Matters
Temperatures above 41°F allow rapid bacterial multiplication, doubling every 20 minutes.
Food Code Requirement
Cold foods must be held at 41°F or below.
Specific Requirements
Maintain 41°F or below; Check temperatures regularly; Properly functioning refrigeration; Thermometers in all units; Keep doors closed.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-501.16(A)(2)
Violation #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED UNWARAPPED 6 INCH PAN OF COOKED SAUSAGE LINK ON FLOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER, MUST PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD CONTAINERS 6" OFF FLOOR
Why This Matters
Contamination during preparation is a leading cause of foodborne illness.
Food Code Requirement
Prevent contamination during all food handling.
Specific Requirements
Minimize bare hand contact; Prevent cross-contamination; Use clean equipment; Proper employee hygiene.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-307.11
Violation #44
MINOR
Violation Details
UTENSILS, EQUIPMENT & LINENS: PROPERLY STORED, DRIED, & HANDLED - Comments: OBSERVED DELI CUPS NOT PROPERLY AIR DRIED BEFORE STACKING, INSTRUCTED TO ALLOW TO AIR DRY PRIOR TO STACKING DELI CUPS.
Why This Matters
Clutter harbors pests and prevents proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Facility must be free of unnecessary items and litter.
Specific Requirements
Remove unnecessary equipment; No litter; Organized storage; No living quarters; Personal items in designated areas.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.114
Violation #46
MAJOR
Violation Details
GLOVES USED PROPERLY - Comments: OBSERVED COOK USE GLOVES WITHOUT WASHING HANDS INSTRUCTED TO WASH HANDS BEFORE PUTTING GLOVES ON TO PREPARE FOOD.
Why This Matters
Improper glove use spreads contamination worse than bare hands.
Food Code Requirement
Single-use gloves must be used correctly.
Specific Requirements
Wash hands before donning; Change when contaminated; Change between tasks; Single use only; Not a substitute for handwashing.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-304.15
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED IN WALK-IN COOLER A PIECE OF RAW WOOD USED AS A SHELF WITH BUS PANS AS A BASE, INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE PROVIDE PROPER, RAISED SHELVING TO STORE FOOD.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED MILK CRATES BEING USED AS EVEVATION IN THE FOLLWING AREAS: REAR PREP, DISHWASHING AREA, WALK IN COOLER AND GARAGE/DRY STORAGE. MUST REMOVE ALL CRATES AND ELIMINATE THE USE OF CRATES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE SHELVING THAT IS 6" OFF THE FLOOR AND PROVIDES FLOOR ACCESSIBILITY TO ENSURE ADEQUATE FACILITY CLEANING.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED CARDBOARD USED AS LINER ON SHELVES OF WALK-IN COOLER INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE.
Why This Matters
Poor design creates areas that harbor bacteria.
Food Code Requirement
All surfaces must be designed to be easily cleanable.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, non-porous surfaces; Free of cracks and crevices; Easily disassembled; Accessible for cleaning.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-101.11
Violation #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED 3 COMPARMENT SINK IN DISREPAIR LEAKING FROM 1ST AND 3RD COMPARTMENT FROM DRAIN, INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Backflow can contaminate entire water supply with sewage or chemicals.
Food Code Requirement
Plumbing must be properly installed with backflow prevention.
Specific Requirements
Air gaps at fixtures; Backflow preventers on connections; No cross-connections; Annual testing of devices; Proper drainage.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-202.13
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOORS IN FRONT AND REAR PREP AREAS, INSTRUCTED TO INCREASE CLEANING FRQUENCY AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING CEILING TILES IN REAR PREP, INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MIANTAIN.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED UNUSED EQUIPMENT AND CLUTTER IN REAR GARAGE/DRY STORAGE AREA INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL UNUSED ARTICLES AND EQUIPMENT TO PREVENT PEST HARBORAGE.
Why This Matters
Deteriorated facilities harbor pests and prevent proper cleaning.
Food Code Requirement
Building must be maintained in good condition.
Specific Requirements
No holes in walls/ceilings; Doors and windows intact; Fixtures functional; No water damage; Surfaces intact.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.11
Violation #56
MINOR
Violation Details
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED ALL CEILING AND WALL VENTS IN DINING ROOM AND FRONT AND REAR PREP WITH EXCESSIVE DUST INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Poor ventilation causes condensation and grease buildup; inadequate lighting hides contamination.
Food Code Requirement
Proper ventilation and lighting required throughout.
Specific Requirements
Ventilation prevents condensation; Adequate lighting for operations; Fixtures shielded; Hoods over cooking equipment.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11, 6-304.11
Violation #56
MINOR
Violation Details
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING LIGHT BULB IN IN HOOD SYSTEM INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Poor ventilation causes condensation and grease buildup; inadequate lighting hides contamination.
Food Code Requirement
Proper ventilation and lighting required throughout.
Specific Requirements
Ventilation prevents condensation; Adequate lighting for operations; Fixtures shielded; Hoods over cooking equipment.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11, 6-304.11
Violation #56
MINOR
Violation Details
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING PROTECTIVE SHIELD FROM LIGHT BULBS IN EXHAUST SYSTEM, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Poor ventilation causes condensation and grease buildup; inadequate lighting hides contamination.
Food Code Requirement
Proper ventilation and lighting required throughout.
Specific Requirements
Ventilation prevents condensation; Adequate lighting for operations; Fixtures shielded; Hoods over cooking equipment.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11, 6-304.11
Violation #56
MINOR
Violation Details
ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED - Comments: OBSERVED MISSING PROTECTIVE SHIELD FROM LIGHT BULBS IN EXHAUST SYSTEM, INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
Why This Matters
Poor ventilation causes condensation and grease buildup; inadequate lighting hides contamination.
Food Code Requirement
Proper ventilation and lighting required throughout.
Specific Requirements
Ventilation prevents condensation; Adequate lighting for operations; Fixtures shielded; Hoods over cooking equipment.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-303.11, 6-304.11
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