The inspection details: "04e. Toxic chemical or pesticide improperly stored or used such that food contamination may occur. (critical: critical). 08a. Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents." These circumstances require correction according to industry standards.
The inspection found infractions involving temperature control, a fundamental aspect of food service operations.
Food safety professionals regularly stress the essential nature of adequate temperature control procedures. As outlined in FDA Temperature Safety Guidelines, Maintaining proper food temperatures is the most effective method for preventing bacterial growth and foodborne illness. These federal guidelines guarantee that restaurants adhere to strict health requirements.
Health department officials noted violations related to hand washing, which require attention for public health compliance.
Public health officials identify poor hand hygiene as a primary factor in foodborne illness transmission Research conducted by federal health agencies demonstrates that Proper hand hygiene represents the single most effective method for preventing cross-contamination in food service. The CDC Hand Hygiene Guidelines provides comprehensive guidance for preventing such violations.
Inspectors documented deficiencies involving pest control, an essential component of restaurant operations.
Industry experts consistently emphasize the critical importance of proper pest control protocols. The FDA Pest Control Guidelines clearly states that Federal food safety regulations require all food service establishments to maintain comprehensive pest exclusion programs.
The examination revealed violations related to sanitation, which need to be addressed for proper compliance.
Sanitation violations encompass a broad spectrum of cleanliness and maintenance issues that affect food safety 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.
Beyond regulatory requirements, such infractions may affect the restaurant's standing and customer relationships. Local food safety organizations monitor inspection results to provide information to the public.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has mandated that Nepali Momo Cafe immediately address all identified violations before resuming normal operations. A follow-up inspection has been scheduled to verify compliance.
This inspection emphasizes the fundamental necessity of strict regulatory adherence in dining establishments. Area customers have the right to access compliance documentation when selecting food service establishments.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was this inspection conducted?
This inspection was conducted on July 23, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 04E: Toxic chemical or pesticide improperly stored or used such that food contamination may occur. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 06E: Sanitized equipment or utensil, including in-use food dispensing utensil, improperly used or stored. | 10F: Non-food contact surface or equipment made of unacceptable material, not kept clean, or not properly sealed, raised, spaced or movable to allow accessibility for cleaning on all sides, above and underneath the unit. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas. | 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. | 06A: Personal cleanliness is inadequate. Outer garment soiled with possible contaminant. Effective hair restraint not worn where required. Jewelry worn on hands or arms. Fingernail polish worn or fingernails not kept clean and trimmed. | 06D: Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred..
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.