Health department documentation states: "08a. Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. (critical: not critical). 02h. After cooking or removal from hot holding, TCS food not cooled b." Such infractions require correction to meet regulatory standards.
Inspectors documented deficiencies involving temperature control, an essential component of restaurant operations.
Industry research indicates that improper food temperatures can allow dangerous bacteria to multiply rapidly According to FDA Temperature Safety Guidelines, Maintaining proper food temperatures is the most effective method for preventing bacterial growth and foodborne illness. This regulatory framework ensures that food service establishments meet rigorous safety standards.
The inspection identified violations related to pest control, an important area of food safety.
Food safety professionals regularly stress the essential nature of adequate pest control procedures. As outlined in FDA Pest Control Guidelines, Federal food safety regulations require all food service establishments to maintain comprehensive pest exclusion programs. These federal guidelines guarantee that restaurants adhere to strict health requirements.
Among the findings were infractions involving sanitation, a key component of food safety protocols.
Industry best practices require establishments to maintain rigorous cleaning schedules and equipment maintenance Data compiled by food safety institutions reveals that Federal regulators use FDA sanitation guidelines as the benchmark for evaluating food service establishment compliance. Per FDA Sanitation Standards, such standards maintain that dining facilities comply with comprehensive protection measures.
These types of violations require attention to maintain compliance standards for the establishment and its customers. Health officials note that addressing such conditions helps maintain public confidence in food service establishments.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has mandated that 161 Bar Grill Restaurant immediately address all identified violations before resuming normal operations. A follow-up inspection has been scheduled to verify compliance.
This incident highlights the critical importance of rigorous food safety protocols in commercial food service. Local residents are encouraged to review public inspection records when making dining decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was this inspection conducted?
This inspection was conducted on July 21, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 02H: After cooking or removal from hot holding, TCS food not cooled by an approved method whereby the internal temperature is reduced from 140 °F to 70 °F or less within 2 hours, and from 70 °F to 41 °F or less within 4 additional hours. | 10B: Anti-siphonage or back-flow prevention device not provided where required; equipment or floor not properly drained; sewage disposal system in disrepair or not functioning properly. Condensation or liquid waste improperly disposed of. | 02G: Cold TCS food item held above 41 °F; smoked or processed fish held above 38 °F; intact raw eggs held above 45 °F; or reduced oxygen packaged (ROP) TCS foods held above required temperatures except during active necessary preparation. | 04M: Live roaches in facility's food or non-food area..
Why are these violations concerning?
Health code violations can increase the risk of foodborne illness. Common concerns include improper food temperatures (which can allow bacteria growth), inadequate handwashing facilities (which can spread germs), pest activity (which can contaminate food), and cross-contamination risks. These violations are monitored by health departments to ensure public safety and prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.