CAFE HAROLD'S LLC in CHICAGO, IL Failed Its Health Inspection on 04/14/23

CHICAGO, IL - Health inspectors documented violations at CAFE HAROLD'S LLC during a routine inspection conducted on 04/14/2023.

The facility operates from 1552 W 119TH ST in Mount Greenwood, an area known for its diverse dining options. Health inspections in this district help ensure consistent food safety standards.

The inspection identified 8 distinct violations requiring correction. These findings represent specific conditions observed during the inspection that must be addressed to meet health code requirements.

The first violation involved hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Adequate Handwashing Sinks Properly Supplied and Accessible - Comments: Observed No Hand Washing Signs at Hand Washing Sinks. Instructed Manager to Provide Hand Washing Signs at All Hand Washing Sinks Used By Employees.. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands.

The second violation related to food safety requirements. Inspectors documented: Proper Cooling Methods Used. Violations of health codes can increase the risk of foodborne illness.

The third violation concerned temperature control. Inspectors documented: Adequate Equipment for Temperature Control - Comments: Observed Walk-in Freezer Not Operable. Instructed Manager to Repair and Maintain. Priority 7-38-005. The FDA Food Code requires cold foods to be held at 41°F or below and hot foods at 135°F or above to prevent bacterial growth in the "danger zone." For more information, see FDA guidelines on temperature control. Improper temperature control can lead to bacterial growth including Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

The fourth violation related to pest management. Inspectors documented: Contamination Prevented During Food Preparation, Storage & Display - Comments: Observed No Shelving for Storage. Instructed Manager to Provide.. The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Flies can transfer pathogens from garbage and feces to food preparation areas.

The fifth violation involved hand sanitation. Inspectors documented: Warewashing Facilities: Installed, Maintained & Used. According to FDA guidelines, proper handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds is the single most effective way to prevent foodborne illness transmission. For more information, see FDA handwashing requirements. Cross-contamination from raw foods to ready-to-eat items often occurs through unwashed hands.

The sixth violation related to pest control. Inspectors documented: Test Strips - Comments: Observed No Chemical Test Kit Available. Instructed Manager to Provide for Proper Concentration in Sanitizing Solutions. Priority Foundation 7-38-005. The FDA Food Code requires establishments to eliminate conditions that attract and harbor pests, including proper waste management and facility maintenance. For more information, see FDA pest control standards. Flies can transfer pathogens from garbage and feces to food preparation areas.

The seventh violation concerned cleaning procedures. Inspectors documented: Non-food/food Contact Surfaces Clean - Comments: Observed Dust Buildup on Counter and Shelving Units. Instructed Manager to Clean and Maintain.. FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Inadequate sanitization allows bacteria to survive and multiply on food contact surfaces.

The eighth violation concerned sanitization. Inspectors documented: Toilet Facilities: Properly Constructed, Supplied, & Cleaned - Comments: Observed No Covered. FDA sanitation guidelines require regular cleaning and sanitizing of all food contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination and bacterial growth. For more information, see FDA sanitation standards. Allergen cross-contact can occur when surfaces are not properly cleaned between uses.

Health code violations require prompt correction to maintain operating permits. The health department typically conducts re-inspections to verify that identified issues have been properly addressed.

This inspection data is provided by Chicago Department of Public Health. The establishment had violations identified during the 04/14/2023 inspection. Conditions may have changed since this inspection. For current compliance status, consult the Chicago Department of Public Health. For more information about restaurant inspection regulations in this area, visit the Chicago Food Service Sanitation Rules. Learn more about food safety at FDA.gov and CDC.gov.