The inspection report notes: "06b. Tobacco or electronic cigarette use, eating, or drinking from open container in food preparation, food storage or dishwashing area. (critical: critical). 10f. Non-food contact surface or equipme." Food safety guidelines indicate that such conditions should be addressed promptly.
Among the findings were infractions involving temperature control, a key component of food safety protocols.
Professional food safety experts consider temperature monitoring essential for preventing foodborne illness Data compiled by food safety institutions reveals that Maintaining proper food temperatures is the most effective method for preventing bacterial growth and foodborne illness. Per HACCP Temperature Monitoring, such standards maintain that dining facilities comply with comprehensive protection measures.
Among the findings were infractions involving hand washing, a key component of food safety protocols.
Public health authorities continually highlight the fundamental significance of comprehensive hand washing practices. Studies from public health organizations show that Federal guidelines require food service workers to wash hands for a minimum of 20 seconds using soap and warm water. The CDC Hand Hygiene Guidelines offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.
The examination revealed violations related to pest control, which need to be addressed for proper compliance.
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.
The inspection found infractions involving sanitation, a fundamental aspect of food service operations.
Public health authorities continually highlight the fundamental significance of comprehensive sanitation practices. Studies from public health organizations show that Proper sanitation practices prevent cross-contamination and maintain the integrity of food preparation environments. The Food Safety Modernization Act offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.
These compliance issues require correction to maintain proper standards for the restaurant and public health. Food safety professionals indicate that addressing non-compliance helps ensure customer safety standards.
The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has mandated that Montague Diner 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 29, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 06B: Tobacco or electronic cigarette use, eating, or drinking from open container in food preparation, food storage or dishwashing area. | 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. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 05D: No hand washing facility in or adjacent to toilet room or within 25 feet of a food preparation, food service or ware washing area. Hand washing facility not accessible, obstructed or used for non-hand washing purposes. No hot and cold running water or water at inadequate pressure. No soap or acceptable hand-drying device. | 02B: Hot TCS food item not held at or above 140 °F. | 04A: Food Protection Certificate (FPC) not held by manager or supervisor of food operations. | 04N: Filth flies or food/refuse/sewage associated with (FRSA) flies or other nuisance pests in establishment’s food and/or non-food areas. FRSA flies include house flies, blow flies, bottle flies, flesh flies, drain flies, Phorid flies and fruit flies. | 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. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas..
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.