FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
DOG HAUS Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
October 2, 2023
Complaint
License #2536489
27
Total Violations
9
Critical
5
Major
13
Minor
1
Corrected On Site
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
27
Violation #1
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PERSON IN CHARGE PRESENT, DEMONSTRATES KNOWLEDGE, AND PERFORMS DUTIES - Comments: THE PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION.
Why This Matters
Without knowledgeable supervision, critical food safety practices may be overlooked, significantly increasing risk of foodborne illness outbreaks affecting multiple customers.
Food Code Requirement
The person in charge must be present during all hours of operation, hold valid certification, and demonstrate food safety knowledge.
Specific Requirements
Person in charge must: Be present during all operating hours; Hold valid City of Chicago Food Service Sanitation Certificate; Demonstrate knowledge of foodborne disease prevention, HACCP principles, and Code requirements; Ensure employee compliance with food safety practices.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-102.11, 2-102.12
Violation #2
CRITICAL
Violation Details
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE - Comments: NO VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE POSTED ON THE PREMISES OR SUCH A PERSON ON SITE WHILE TCS FOODS ARE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED. 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 #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: NOTED NO PAPER TOWELS AVAILABLE AT THE COOKS LINE HAND WASHING SINK WHEN FOODS WERE PREPARED AND SERVED. MUST PROVIDE AT ALL TIMES AT ALL HAND SINKS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 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 #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: NO SOAP AVAILABLE IN THE BASEMENT WASHROOMS. MUST PROVIDE SOAP AT ALL HAND WASHING SINKS AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. SEE THE ABOVE VIOLATION #10 FOR CITATION.
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: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WASHING POTS AND UTENSILS AT THE THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK WITHOUT SANITIZER. REVIEWED PROPER METHOD OF WASHING, RINSING AND SANITIZING. THE MANAGER PROVIDED CHLORINE AND TEST STRIPS FOR SANITIZER DURING THE INSPECTION. 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 PREPARED TCS FOODS HELD IN THE STEAM TABLE AT IMPROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES. CHILI AT 123.8F, CARAMELIZED COOKED ONIONS AT 122.3F. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY VIOLATION: SEE VIOLATION #22 FOR CITATION.
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 #22
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS IN TWO SEPARATE COOLERS ON THE COOK LINE HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES.COLESLAW AT 56.4F, SLICED TOMATOES AT 57.6F, AND COOLER WITH AN AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF 61.1F. RAW CHICKEN AT 55.4F & 56.3F WITH AN AMBIENT TEMPERATURE OF 49.8F. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Temperatures below 135°F allow bacteria to multiply, especially spore-formers that survive cooking.
Food Code Requirement
Hot foods must be held at 135°F or above.
Specific Requirements
Maintain 135°F or above; Check temperatures regularly; Proper hot holding equipment; Cannot reheat in hot holding units.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-501.16(A)(1)
Violation #23
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING PREPARED TCS FOODS WITH EXPIRED PREPARATION DATES IN THE COOKS LINE COOLER AND THE WALK-IN COOLER: CARAMELIZED ONIONS WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE OF 9/25 AND 9/30.COOKED VEGETABLES IN THE WALK-IN COOLER WITH AN EXPIRATION DATE OF 9/25. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Inadequate reheating fails to kill bacteria that grew during storage.
Food Code Requirement
Foods must be reheated to 165°F within 2 hours.
Specific Requirements
Reheat to 165°F within 2 hours; Use proper equipment (not hot holding units); Discard if not reaching temperature in time.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-403.11
Violation #33
MAJOR
Violation Details
PROPER COOLING METHODS USED; ADEQUATE EQUIPMENT FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL - Comments: NOTED THE COOKS LINE THREE DOOR COOLER WITH A TEMPERATURE OF 61.1F WITH TCS SLICED TOMATOES AT 57.6F AND THE COOKS LINE ONE DOOR COOLER AT 49.8F WITH CHICKEN AT 56.3F. BOTH COOLERS ARE TAGGED AND HELD FOR INSPECTION AND MUST NOT BE USED UNTIL REPAIRED, MAINTAIN A TEMPERATURE OF 41F OR BELOW, AND C.D.P.H. CONTACTED FOR RE-INSPECTION AND TAG REMOVAL. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Dirty equipment harbors bacteria and attracts pests.
Food Code Requirement
All equipment and utensils must be clean and properly maintained.
Specific Requirements
Equipment clean to sight and touch; Free of food debris and grease; Maintained in good repair; Stored properly when clean.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-601.11
Violation #35
MINOR
Violation Details
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED - Comments: NOTED IMPROPERLY THAWING FROZEN DAIRY PRODUCTS IN BUCKETS OF STANDING WATER BEHIND THE BAR. REVIEWED PROPER THAWING METHODS.
Why This Matters
Damaged surfaces cannot be properly cleaned and may harbor pests.
Food Code Requirement
Walls and ceilings must be smooth, cleanable, and in good repair.
Specific Requirements
Smooth, washable surfaces in food areas; Light colored; No holes or cracks; Clean and maintained.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-201.11
Violation #37
MAJOR
Violation Details
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER - Comments: ALL BULK FOOD CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH THE PRODUCT COMMON NAME.
Why This Matters
Missing allergen labeling can cause severe allergic reactions.
Food Code Requirement
All food properly labeled with required information.
Specific Requirements
Common name; Ingredients; Allergen declarations; Date marking; Manufacturer info; Net quantity.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-202.18
Violation #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: NOTED FOOD CONTACT ITEMS SUCH AS TO-GO FOOD CONTAINERS AND STORED BULK SPICES BEING STORED DIRECTLY UNDER WASTEWATER PIPELINES THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT DRY FOOD STORAGE. MUST REMOVE FROM UNDER WASTE WATER LINES AND SAFELY STORE PROTECTED.
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 #40
MINOR
Violation Details
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS - Comments: NOTED FOOD HANDLERS NOT WEARING EFFECTIVE HAT/HAIR RESTRAINT. MUST PROVIDE.
Why This Matters
Poor personal hygiene transfers contaminants to food.
Food Code Requirement
Food handlers must maintain personal cleanliness.
Specific Requirements
Clean outer clothing; Hair restraints; Short, clean fingernails; No jewelry except plain ring; Clean hands and arms.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-303.11
Violation #43
MINOR
Violation Details
IN-USE UTENSILS: PROPERLY STORED - Comments: KNIVES IMPROPERLY STORED BETWEEN THE COOK'S LINE PREP TABLES. MUST PROPERLY STORE IN A CLEAN KNIFE HOLDER.
Why This Matters
Improper storage contaminates utensils between uses.
Food Code Requirement
In-use utensils must be properly stored between uses.
Specific Requirements
Store in food with handle out; On clean surface; In running water; In water at 135°F or above.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-304.12
Violation #44
MINOR
Violation Details
UTENSILS, EQUIPMENT & LINENS: PROPERLY STORED, DRIED, & HANDLED - Comments: ALL CLEAN STORED POTS, PANS BOWLS MUST BE STORED INVERTED.
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 #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: NOTED A TORN RUBBER DOOR GASKET ON THE COOKS LINE ONE DOOR CHICKEN COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
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: THERE WAS A BROKEN DOOR ON THE TALL REACH-IN COOLER AT THE FRONT PREP 1ST FLOOR ---THE BROKEN DOOR HANDLE ON THE GRILL DRAWER COOLER WAS REPAIRED WITH TAPE. MUST REPAIR/REPLACE AND MAINTAIN ALL.
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 #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: EXTREMELY DIRTY AND STAINED CUTTING BOARD AT THE COOKS LINE PREP COOLER AND DIRTY ICE SHOOT ON THE DINING ROOM ICE DISPENSING MACHINE. MUST CLEAN OR REPLACE ----NOTED A FOOD-ENCRUSTED AND RUSTY TABLE TOP CAN OPENER AT THE BASEMENT PREP TABLE. MUST REPLACE OR REMOVE FOOD AND RUST.
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: MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS LINER FOR SHELVING UNDER THE STORED DRY ONIONS IN THE BASEMENT PREP.----INTERIOR CABINETS UNDER THE DINING ROOM SODA DISPENSING SYSTEM WITH DIRT AND SYRUP SPILLAGE. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
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 #54
MAJOR
Violation Details
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED - Comments: UNUSED COOLER STORED AT OUTDOOR PARKING/GARBAGE AREA MUST BE REMOVED. ALL PILED CARDBOARD IN SAME AREA MUST BE REMOVED.
Why This Matters
Poor waste management attracts pests and creates contamination sources.
Food Code Requirement
Refuse must be properly contained and removed.
Specific Requirements
Leak-proof, pest-proof containers; Tight-fitting lids; Clean storage areas; Frequent removal; Containers cleaned.
CDPH Food Code: Section 5-501.111
Violation #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: MISSING BASEBOARD FLOOR/WALL COVERING UNDER THE BASEMENT THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK AND ADJACENT COMPRESSORS. MUST REPLACE.
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: ALL UNNECESSARY ITEMS STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT AND ALL CLOSETS MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES. ALL OTHER NEEDED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
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: NOTED DIRTY FLOOR DRAIN AT THE 1ST FLR. ONE COMPARTMENT PREP SINK.-----FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE REAR HALLWAY STORAGE AND BEHIND THE BASEMENT TATER TOT BOX FREEZER WITH DIRT AND FOOD DEBRIS.----EXCESSIVE DUST ON CEILING VENTS ON THE FRONT PREP 1ST FLR.ABOVE THE HAND WASHING SINK ----EXCESSIVE GREASE AND FOOD SPLATTER ON THE WALLS AND LIGHT SHIELDS THROUGHOUT ALL FOOD PREP AND DISHWASHING AREAS.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL. MISSING/DAMAGED FLOOR TILE ON THE COOKS LINE, UNDER THE BASEMENT THREE-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST REPLACE.NOTED A HOLE IN THE WALL IN THE BASEMENT MEN'S WASHROOM. MUST SEAL.
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: NOTED EMPLOYEES PERSONAL BELONGS BEING STORED IN THE BASEMENT PREP/DISH AREA. MUST PROVIDES A DESIGNATED EMPLOYEE STORAGE AREA.
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 #57
MINOR
Violation Details
ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES HAVE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING - Comments: NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING OR CERTIFICATES FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES. MUST PROVIDE.
Why This Matters
Smoking contaminates hands and food with nicotine and tar residues.
Food Code Requirement
Smoking prohibited in food establishments.
Specific Requirements
No smoking in any part of establishment; Designated areas away from food; Proper signage posted.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-401.11
Violation #60
CORRECTED
MAJOR
Violation Details
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2564417 ON 9-27-22 WERE NOT CORRECTED. #55- DEBRIS ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA UNDER EQUIPMENT, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#54- EXCESS GREASE OUTSIDE THE SURROUNDING OIL CONTAINER AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. THE OIL CONTAINERS MUST BE ALSO CLEANED.#47-: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES, INCLUDING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLERS.#49- UNUSED EQUIPMENT STORED IN THE REAR AREA BY THE SIDE DOOR MUST BE CLEANED AND MAINTAINED OR REMOVED ITEMS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Deviating from approved procedures removes critical safety controls.
Food Code Requirement
Must comply with all approved plans and procedures.
Specific Requirements
Follow approved plans; Maintain required records; Operate as permitted; No unauthorized changes.
Status
This violation was corrected during the inspection.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-304.11
Violation #60
CORRECTED
MAJOR
Violation Details
PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION CORRECTED - Comments: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #2564417 ON 9-27-22 WERE NOT CORRECTED. #55- DEBRIS ON FLOOR IN PREP AREA UNDER EQUIPMENT, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.#54- EXCESS GREASE OUTSIDE THE SURROUNDING OIL CONTAINER AREA. INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. THE OIL CONTAINERS MUST BE ALSO CLEANED.#47-: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE PREMISES, INCLUDING INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLERS.#49- UNUSED EQUIPMENT STORED IN THE REAR AREA BY THE SIDE DOOR MUST BE CLEANED AND MAINTAINED OR REMOVED ITEMS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Deviating from approved procedures removes critical safety controls.
Food Code Requirement
Must comply with all approved plans and procedures.
Specific Requirements
Follow approved plans; Maintain required records; Operate as permitted; No unauthorized changes.
Status
This violation was corrected during the inspection.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-304.11
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