FAIL
Risk 1 (High)
SUPERMERCADO EL TAPATIO Fails Health Inspection - Chicago Grocery store
August 8, 2023
Canvass
License #1353913
24
Total Violations
9
Critical
5
Major
10
Minor
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
24
Violation #3
CRITICAL
Violation Details
MANAGEMENT, FOOD EMPLOYEE AND CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; KNOWLEDGE, RESPONSIBILITIES AND REPORTING - Comments: OBSERVED NO SIGNED EMPLOYEES HEALTH POLICIES. MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010)(CITATION ISSUED)
Why This Matters
Ill food workers cause 70% of foodborne outbreaks. Proper reporting prevents transmission of Norovirus, Hepatitis A, Salmonella, and other serious diseases.
Food Code Requirement
All food employees must understand and follow health reporting requirements and food safety responsibilities.
Specific Requirements
Employees must: Report illness symptoms and exposures; Be excluded/restricted when ill; Understand their role in preventing foodborne illness; Follow proper hygiene practices; Have signed health policy on file.
CDPH Food Code: Section 2-201.11 - 2-201.13
Violation #10
CRITICAL
Violation Details
ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: OBSERVED NO SOAP AT MAIN MEAT PREP AREA HAND SINK.MANAGER PROVIDED SOAP DURING INSPECTION.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
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 NO HAND DRYING DEVICE AT HAND SINK IN MAIN MEAT/DISH WASHING AREA.PAPER TOWELS PROVIDED DURING INSPECTION.MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-030(C)(CONSOLIDATED VIOLATION)(COS)
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 NO HAND WASHING SINK AT FRONT SERVICE COUNTER PREP AREA WHERE BREAD IS BAKED,BASEMENT PREP AREA WHERE MEATS ARE GRINDED & SEASONED,REPACKAGING OF SPICES AND BAGGING OF ICE SOLD TO CUSTOMER.MUST INSTALL A HAND SINK WITH HOT & COLD RUNNING WATER 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: OBSERVED AN EXCESSIVE AMOUNT OF BLACK & PINK SLIMY SUBSTANCE BUILD UP ON INTERIOR PANEL OF ICE MACHINE AND DRIPPING ON TO ICE IN MACHINE.MUST DISCARD ICE,CLEAN AND SANITIZE AND MAINTAIN.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005)(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 #22
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES - Comments: OBSERVED IMPROPER TEMPERATURES OF TCS COOKED READY TO EAT FOODS ON DISPLAY FOR SALE ON TOPSIDE OF MEAT DISPLAY UNIT SUCH AS 8.8LBS. CORN TAMALES-75.2F-76.3F.6LBS. CACTUS-54.1F.20.7LBS. BEANS 66.0F-62.9F.PRODUCT WAS DISCARDED BY MANAGER.MUST HAVE COLD HOLDING FOODS AT 41.0F OR BELOW. APPX.35.5LBS.$63.(COS)(PRIORITY 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 #33
MAJOR
Violation Details
PROPER COOLING METHODS USED; ADEQUATE EQUIPMENT FOR TEMPERATURE CONTROL - Comments: OBSERVED TABLE TOP HOT HOLDING UNIT WITH TCS FOODS STORED INSIDE AT 98.6F.A HELD FOR INSPECTION TAG PLACED ON UNIT. ONCE REPAIRED EMAIL:FOOD@CITYOFCHICAGO.ORG.MUST HAVE HOT HOLDING UNIT AT 135.0F OR ABOVE.(PRIORITY 7-38-005)(CITATION ISSUED)(COS)
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 #37
MAJOR
Violation Details
FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER - Comments: MUST LABEL REPACKAGED FOODS ON DISPLAY FOR SALE WITH INFORMATION GIVEN.
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: OBSERVED EVIDENCE OF APPX. 100 OR MORE MICE DROPPINGS SCATTERED ON 1ST FL. FOOD STORAGE AREAS UNDER AND IN BETWEEN CRATES AND ON & UNDERNEATH PALLETS AND IN BASEMENT ON PALLETS,ON & ON FLOOR UNDERNEATH FOOD STORAGE SHELVES,CONVEYOR BELT ALONG WALL.5-8 LIVE SMALL & LARGE FLIES FLYING AROUND PREMISES.MUST REMOVE DROPPINGS.CLEAN AND SANITIZE AREAS. RECOMMENDED TO HAVE A PEST CONTROL OPERATOR TO SERVICE PREMISES ON OR AFTER 8/8/23.(PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-020(A)(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 #38
CRITICAL
Violation Details
INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT - Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE GAPS ALONG BOTTOM OF FRONT,BOTH SIDE DOORS MUST MAKE TIGHT FITTING.
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: MUST PROVIDE A SPLASH GUARD IN BETWEEN HAND SINK AND 3- COMPARTMENT SINK.
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 #41
MAJOR
Violation Details
WIPING CLOTHS: PROPERLY USED & STORED - Comments: OBSERVED SOILED WIPING CLOTHS STORED ON CUTTING BOARD MUST STORE IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION WHEN NOT IN USE.
Why This Matters
Contaminated cloths spread bacteria across multiple surfaces.
Food Code Requirement
Wiping cloths must be properly sanitized and stored.
Specific Requirements
Store in sanitizer between uses (200ppm quat or 50-100ppm chlorine); Separate cloths for food and non-food surfaces; Test sanitizer concentration.
CDPH Food Code: Section 3-304.14
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: MUST REMOVE RUST FROM SHELVING UNITS IN BOTH WALK IN COOLERS,PREP TABLES IN BASEMENT.MUST ELIMINATE CRATES USED FOR FOOD STORAGE THROUGHOUT ALL STORAGE AREAS,BASEMENT,WALK IN COOLERS AND WHERE NEEDED AND PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELVING UNITS.
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: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN,PITTED CUTTING BOARDS IN ALL PREP AREAS.
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: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE WORN DOOR GASKETS ON WALL OF GLASS REACH IN COOLERS.
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: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM PREP TABLES,SERVICE COUNTER SHELVING UNITS,WALK IN COOLERS SHELVING UNITS,FANGUARD COVERS & COMPRESSOR UNIT,MEAT DISPLAY UNIT,PREP TABLES.MUST DEFROST ICE BUILD UP FROM FREEZERS.
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 #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE OBSERVED MOPSINK BASIN HAS WATER BACKING UP INTO SINK WHEN HAND SINK IN TOILET ROOM IS TURNED ON,SLOW DRAIN AT HAND SINK IN MEAT /DISH WASHING AREA.
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 #54
MAJOR
Violation Details
GARBAGE & REFUSE PROPERLY DISPOSED; FACILITIES MAINTAINED - Comments: OBSERVED BOXES BEING USED FOR GARBAGE IN MEAT PREP AREA MUST PROVIDE ADEQUATE GARBAGE CANS.
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: MUST CLEAN MOLD BUILD UP FROM WALLS AND CEILING IN WALK IN COOLERS.MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP AND DIRT FROM WALLS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
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: MUST REPAIR OR REPLACE DAMAGED,BROKEN AND MISSING FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT PREMISES,HOLE IN WALL NEAR SIDE DOOR,STAINED CEILING TILES IN REAR STORAGE ROOM,LOOSE WALL BASE ON SALES FLOOR BEHIND COOLER.MUST MAKE BASEMENT WALL IN PREP AREA SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
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 CHIPPING PAINT ON WALLS THROUGHOUT STAIRCASE TO BASEMENT,DRY FOOD STORAGE AREAS AND WHERE NEEDED.
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: MUST CLEAN DEBRIS BUILD UP FROM FLOOR UNDER,AROUND,ALONG WALL BASES THROUGHOUT PREMISES INCLUDING WALK IN COOLERS AND BASEMENT.
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: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHTS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
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: MUST REPLACE BURNTOUT LIGHTS THROUGHOUT PREMISES.
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