PASS
Risk 1 (High)
ESPARZA'S TACOS, LLC Passes Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
November 14, 2025
Complaint
License #2912244
5
Total Violations
2
Major
3
Minor
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
5
Violation #35
MINOR
Violation Details
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD ITEM THAWING IMPROPERLY SITTING IN STAGNANT WATER IN FOOD CONTAINER IN 3RD COMPARTMENT OF 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN DISH WASH AREA. INSTRUCTED TO THAW PROPERLY.
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 #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD ITEMS STORED IN WALK-IN COOLER, COLD HOLD UNITS/2 DR REFRIGERATORS AND PREP AREA COOLERS UNCOVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE FOOD GRADE LIDS AND/OR COVERS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION.
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: OBSERVED FOOD HANDLERS NOT WEARING BEARD RESTRAINTS. INSTRUCTED TO WEAR WHEN PREPARING FOOD.
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 #54
MAJOR
Violation Details
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED - Comments: OBSERVED REAR HAND WASH SINK WITHOUT A WASTE RECEPTACLE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
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 #54
MAJOR
Violation Details
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED - Comments: OBSERVED REAR HAND WASH SINK WITHOUT A WASTE RECEPTACLE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
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
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