FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
HIMALAYAN - CURRY AND PIZZA Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
April 11, 2023
Complaint
License #2766791
19
Total Violations
5
Critical
4
Major
10
Minor
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
19
Violation #21
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED THE FOLLOWING TCS FOODS HELD HOT IN A STEAM TABLE AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURES. CHICKEN AT 122.7F, CURRY SAUCE AT 123.2F & 74.4F, SPINACH AT 83.1F. ALL FOODS DISCARDED. REVIEWED PREPARED TCS FOODS MUST BE RAPIDLY REHEATED TO 165.F THEN HELD HOT IN THE STEAM TABLE 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 #22
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED PREPARED YOGURT HELD AT IMPROPER FOOD TEMPERATURES IN BUCKETS ON THE FLOOR OF THE REAR KITCHEN. HOMEMADE YOGURT NOTED AT 77.9F & 76.1F. ALL DISCARDED. REVIEWED PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005. SEE THE ABOVE VIOLATION #21 FOR CITATION.
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 #29
CRITICAL
Violation Details
COMPLIANCE WITH VARIANCE/SPECIALIZED PROCESS/HACCP - Comments: OBSERVED APPROXIMATELY 20 LBS YOGURT HOMEMADE ON THE PREMISES WITHOUT AN APPROVED VARIANCE. MUST OBTAIN AN APPROVED VARIANCE FROM C.D.P.H. MANAGER DISCARDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Specialized processes without proper controls can create deadly toxins like botulism.
Food Code Requirement
Special processes require approved HACCP plans or variances.
Specific Requirements
Written HACCP plan for: Vacuum packaging; Sous vide; Smoking for preservation; Curing; Using additives. Plan must be approved by CDPH.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-201.14
Violation #32
MAJOR
Violation Details
VARIANCE OBTAINED FOR SPECIALIZED PROCESSING METHODS - Comments: NO HACCP/VARIANCE ON SITE FOR YOGURT PREPARED ON SITE. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 SEE VIOLATION #29 FOR CITATION.
Why This Matters
Unapproved processes may lack critical safety controls.
Food Code Requirement
Variance required before conducting specialized food processes.
Specific Requirements
Submit application to CDPH; Include HACCP plan; Await approval before starting; Maintain all required records.
CDPH Food Code: Section 8-103.12
Violation #37
MAJOR
Violation Details
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER - Comments: BULK RICE CONTAINER 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 #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: NO PEST CONTROL SERVICE REPORTS ON THE PREMISES. PEST CONTROL LOG BOOK ON SITE WITH SERVICE CONTRACT ONLY DATED 12-20-21 WITH NO SERVICE REPORTS. MUST PROVIDE A CURRENT LOG BOOK WITH CURRENT SERVICE REPORT FROM A LICENSED PEST CONTROL CO. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(C) CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Pests spread numerous diseases through contamination.
Food Code Requirement
No pests or animals allowed in facility.
Specific Requirements
No evidence of pests; No live animals except service animals; Effective pest control program.
CDPH Food Code: Section 6-501.111
Violation #40
MINOR
Violation Details
PERSONAL CLEANLINESS - Comments: ALL FOOD PREPARERS MUST WEAR EFFECTIVE HAIR AND BEARD RESTRAINTS.
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 #44
MINOR
Violation Details
UTENSILS, EQUIPMENT & LINENS: PROPERLY STORED, DRIED, & HANDLED - Comments: FOOD UTENSILS MUST NOT BE STORED DIRECTLY NEXT TO OR ABOVE THE HAND WASHING SINK.
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 #45
MINOR
Violation Details
SINGLE-USE/SINGLE-SERVICE ARTICLES: PROPERLY STORED & USED - Comments: ALL STORED ITEMS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FACILITY MUST BE ELEVATED FROM THE FLOORS.
Why This Matters
Contaminated single-use items transfer pathogens to food and customers.
Food Code Requirement
Single-use items must be protected from contamination.
Specific Requirements
Store in original packaging; Protect from contamination; Handle by non-contact surfaces; Cannot reuse.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-903.11
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: MUST NOT USE MILK CRATES AS A MEANS OF ELEVATION FOR ALL STORED ITEMS.
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: PREP COOLER CUTTING BOARD WITH DEEP BLACKENED GROOVES. MUST RESURFACE OR 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 #48
CRITICAL
Violation Details
WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS - Comments: NO QUATERNARY CHEMICAL TEST STRIPS ON SITE TO CHECK THE SANITIZATION LEVEL AT THE THREE COMPARTMENT SINK WHILE WASHING, RINSING AND SANITIZING. MUST PROVIDE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED.
Why This Matters
Cannot verify sanitization without test strips, risking contaminated equipment.
Food Code Requirement
Warewashing facilities must be properly equipped and supplied.
Specific Requirements
3-compartment sink or dishwasher; Test strips for sanitizer; Thermometers for water temperature; Adequate drainboards; Proper detergents.
CDPH Food Code: Section 4-302.14
Violation #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: INTERIOR OF COOLERS AND FREEZERS WITH EXCESSIVE FOOD DEBRIS. 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 #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: EXTERIOR OF STOVE TOPS WITH FOOD DEBRIS.MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN. ALL METAL SURFACES WITH PLASTIC AND TIN FOIL AS A PROTECTANT MUST BE REMOVED. SURFACES MUST BE SMOOTH AND CLEANABLE.
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: NOTED THE OUTSIDE GREASE RECEPTACLE IN THE ALLEY WITH EXCESSIVE GREASE SPILLAGE ON THE SURROUNDING GROUND AND GREASE SPILLAGE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE CONTAINER DRIPPING DOWN ON THE GROUND. SURROUNDING GROUND WITH FOOD AND PAPER DEBRIS. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE ALL GREASE FROM OUTSIDE OF THE CONTAINER, GREASE AND DEBRIS ON THE SURROUNDING GROUND. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020(B) CITATION ISSUED.
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: WOODEN PALLET STORED ON THE OUTSIDE PATIO MUST BE REMOVED.---- ALL UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED THROUGHOUT THE BASEMENT MUST BE REMOVED FROM THE PREMISES. ALL OTHER NEEDED ITEMS MUST BE STORED ELEVATED AND ORGANIZED.
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: FLOORS THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IN ALL AREAS OF KITCHEN, DISH, FRONT COUNTER WITH DIRT, DEBRIS AND GREASE.----EXCESSIVE FOOD SPLATTER ON WALLS THROUGHOUT STOVE AREA. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL.----PLASTIC AND TAPE ON THE FLOOR OF THE FRONT SERVICE COUNTER.----MUST NOT USE CARDBOARD AS MATTING FOR FLOORS. MUST REMOVE ALL.
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 ONE BURNER GAS STOVE NOT UNDER VENTILATION. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE VENTILATION DIRECTLY ABOVE THE STOVE OR REMOVE.
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: NOTED ONE BURNER GAS STOVE NOT UNDER VENTILATION. MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE VENTILATION DIRECTLY ABOVE THE STOVE OR REMOVE.
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