FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
NEW ZAIQA Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
December 5, 2023
Complaint
License #2796771
19
Total Violations
10
Critical
2
Major
7
Minor
1
Corrected On Site
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
19
Violation #2
CRITICAL
Violation Details
CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE - Comments: THE PERSON IN CHARGE DOES NOT HAVE A CITY CERTIFICATION OR DOCUMENTATION OF PENDING CITY CERTIFICATE AT THE TIME OF INSPECTION WHILE TCS FOODS SUCH AS RAW CHICKEN COOKED AND SERVED ON-SITE. NO OTHER ORIGINAL AND VALID CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE WAS POSTED NOR PROVIDED ON-SITE FOR THE PRESENT MANAGER ON DUTY. NO VALID DOCCUMENTATION ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A LEAST ONE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHEN TCS FOOD IS COOKED AND SERVED ON SITE. MANAGER ARRIVED AT APPROXIMATELY 2:45PM 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 #8
CRITICAL
Violation Details
HANDS CLEAN & PROPERLY WASHED - Comments: OBSERVED FOOD EMPLOYEE RINSE HANDS IN 3COMPARTMENT SINK BEFORE PREPARING FOOD. DISCUSSED WITH EMPLOYEES AND FOOD MANAGER THAT ALL FOOD EMPLOYEES MUST WASH HANDS WITH SOAP IN THE HANDSINK. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 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 #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED CHEMICAL SPRAY CAN AND GLOVES STORED IN THE HANDSINK LOCATED IN THE DISH AREA. ITEMS HAVE BEEN RELOCATED ON SITE. 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 PROVIDED AT HANDWASHING SINK IN THE PREP-LINE AREA. FACILITY MUST PROVIDE. SEE ABOVE PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-030 (c) CITATION THAT WAS 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: OBSERVED PIPE DISCONNECTED AT FRONT HANDWASHING SINK. HANDSINK WATER TEMPERATURE MUST FACILITY MUST PROVIDE WATER OF AT LEAST 100F THROUGH A MIXING VALVE OR COMBINATION FAUCET. SEE ABOVE 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 #21
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: MEASURED IMPROPER HOT HOLDING TEMPERATURE OF HOT TCS FOODS (SAMOSA FILLED WITH COOKED POTATOES) MEASURED AT 65.4F. APPROXIMATELY 2LBS AT AN APPROXIMATE COST OF $15 DISCARDED ON SITE. 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: MEASURED IMPROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES OF THE FOLLOWING FOODS FOUND IN THE LEFT AT ROOM TEMPERATURE SURFACE TOPS NEAR THE DISH AREA; 6LBS OF RAW CHICKEN AT 75.3F, 10LBS OF RAW BEEF MEASURED AT 48.6F. APPROXIMATELY 16LBS OF FOOD WAS DISCARDED AT A TOTAL APPROXIMATE COST OF $50. SEE ABOVE PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION THAT WAS 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: PREPARED FOODS IN ALL COLD HOLDING UNITS DOES NOT HAVE AN EXPIRATION/DISCARD/USE-BY-DATE. ANY FOODS HELD UNDER 41F FOR MORE THAN 24HOURS MUST HAVE A DATE LABEL. 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 #28
CRITICAL
Violation Details
TOXIC SUBSTANCES PROPERLY IDENTIFIED, STORED, & USED - Comments: OBSERVED BOTTLE OF SOAP STORED OVER BAG OF ONIONS NEAR BACK EXIT DOOR. MANAGER RELOCATED SOAP TO CHEMICAL AREA. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
Why This Matters
Unpasteurized products can contain dangerous pathogens.
Food Code Requirement
Only pasteurized dairy and eggs in certain situations; no prohibited foods.
Specific Requirements
Pasteurized eggs for recipes not fully cooked; Pasteurized dairy products; No home-prepared foods.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-401.11
Violation #35
MINOR
Violation Details
APPROVED THAWING METHODS USED - Comments: FROZEN CHICKEN AND LAMB IS THAWING AT ROOM TEMPERATURE IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. TIME AND TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY (TCS) FOOD MUST BE THAWED: UNDER REFRIGERATION THAT MAINTAINS THE FOOD TEMPERATURE AT 41F OR LESS; COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER RUNNING WATER AT A WATER TEMPERATURE OF 70F OR BELOW AND FOR A PERIOD OF TIME THAT DOES NOT ALLOW THAWED PORTIONS OF READY-TO-EAT FOOD TO RISE ABOVE 41F; PART OF A COOKING PROCESS; OR USING A PROCEDURE IF A PORTION OF FROZEN READY-TO-EAT FOOD IS THAWED AND PREPARED FOR IMMEDIATE SERVICE IN RESPONSE TO AN INDIVIDUAL CONSUMER'S ORDER.
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 #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: OBSERVED OVER APPROXIMATELY 60 LIVE ROACHES IN THE DISH AREA AND FOOD STORAGE CLOSET AND OVER 15 SMALL BLACK FLYING INSECTS IN THE DRY STORAGE CLOSET NEAR THE STAIRS. FACILITY MUST ELIMINATE LIVE ROACHES AND SMALL BLACK FLYING INSECTS USING PROPER PEST CONTROL SERVICES. PRIORITY VIOLAITON 7-38-020 (a) CITATION ISSUE.
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 #39
MAJOR
Violation Details
CONTAMINATION PREVENTED DURING FOOD PREPARATION, STORAGE & DISPLAY - Comments: OBSERVED BAG OF ONIONS AND CANNED FOOD STORED ON THE GROUND IN THE CLOSET STORAGE AND STAIRWAY AREA. FACILITY MUST ELEVATE ITEMS AT LEAST 6 INCHES ABOVE THE 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 DISH EQUIPMENT STORED ON FLOOR IN KITCHEN. ALL ITEMS MUST BE PLACED 6 INCHES ABOVE THE FLOOR.
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 #49
MINOR
Violation Details
NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN - Comments: OBSERVED ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT AND SINK FIXTURES HEAVILY SOILED WITH FOOD DEBRIS AND GREASE. FACILITY MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT.
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 #55
MINOR
Violation Details
PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN - Comments: FLOORS, WALLS, CEILINGS, AND IN BETWEEN KITCHEN EQUIPMENT IS HEAVILY SOILED IN KITCHE, DISH, AND FOOD STORAGE AREA. FACILITY MUST DEEP CLEAN AND MAINTAINED.
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: UNNECESSARY ITEMS / NONFUNCTIONAL EQUIPMENT FOUND IN BASEMENT AND FRONT REGISTER AREA. THE PREMISES SHALL BE FREE OF ITEMS UNNECESSARY TO THE OPERATION OR MAINTENANCE OF THE ESTABLISHMENT. THIS INCLUDES EQUIPMENT THAT IS NONFUNCTIONAL OR NO LONGER USED.
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: CAULK IS DAMAGED AROUND ALL SINK FIXTURES. FACILITY MUST RE-SEAL/CAULK ALL SINK FIXTURES TO SEAL GAPS/OPENINGS.
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 OPEN HOLES UNDER THE 3COMPARTMENT SINK (PLUMBING LEADING TO THE WALL) FACILITY MUST SEAL AND ENSURE ALL SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IS SEALED, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE, DURABLE, AND NON-ABSORBENT.
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 OPEN HOLES UNDER THE 3COMPARTMENT SINK (PLUMBING LEADING TO THE WALL) FACILITY MUST SEAL AND ENSURE ALL SURFACES THROUGHOUT THE FACILITY IS SEALED, SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE, DURABLE, AND NON-ABSORBENT.
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
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