PASS
Risk 1 (High)
THE CONGRESS HOTEL Passes Health Inspection - Chicago Restaurant
THE CONGRESS HOTEL
(AKA: THE CONGRESS HOTEL(TAVERN HALL-RAFAEL))
520 S MICHIGAN AVE, CHICAGO 60605
Restaurant
September 22, 2025
Canvass Re-Inspection
License #49248
3
Total Violations
1
Critical
2
Minor
Inspection Summary
This restaurant was inspected by the Chicago Department of Public Health on September 22, 2025. The inspection type was "Canvass Re-Inspection" and resulted in a Pass outcome.
This establishment is classified as Risk 1 (High), which determines the inspection frequency and focus areas.
The inspector documented 3 violations during this inspection, including 1 critical violation that required immediate attention.
Violations Cited by Chicago Health Inspector
3
Violation #47
MINOR
Violation Details
FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED - Comments: OBSERVED TORN/DAMAGED RUBBER GASKET ON DOOR OF THE FREEZER IN THE FRONT PREP AREA BY THE HANDSINK ; INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR OR REPLACE GASKET.
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 #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED LEAKY FAUCET AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE PREP AREA. WATER IS STILL LEAKING WHEN FAUCET ITS TURNED OFF.
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 #51
CRITICAL
Violation Details
PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES - Comments: OBSERVED LEAKY FAUCET AT THE HANDWASHING SINK IN THE PREP AREA. WATER IS STILL LEAKING WHEN FAUCET ITS TURNED OFF.
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
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