The inspection report notes: "08a. Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. (critical: not critical). 04h. Raw, cooked or prepared food is adulterated, contaminated, cross." Food safety guidelines indicate that such conditions should be addressed promptly.
Health department officials noted violations related to pest control, which require attention for public health compliance.
Pest control violations represent some of the most significant infractions in food service inspections Data compiled by food safety institutions reveals that Federal food safety regulations require all food service establishments to maintain comprehensive pest exclusion programs. Per FDA Food Code Standards, such standards maintain that dining facilities comply with comprehensive protection measures.
Such infractions require attention for the business to maintain compliance with community safety standards. Public health officials note that addressing these violations helps maintain trust in dining establishments.
City health officials have required that Exquisito Restaurant promptly correct these infractions before continuing food service. Re-examination will be conducted to ensure corrections.
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 31, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 04A: Food Protection Certificate (FPC) not held by manager or supervisor of food operations. | 09C: Design, construction, materials used or maintenance of food contact surface improper. Surface not easily cleanable, sanitized and maintained. | 05F: Insufficient or no hot holding, cold storage or cold holding equipment provided to maintain Time/Temperature Control for Safety Foods (TCS) at required temperatures | 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. | 06C: Food, supplies, or equipment not protected from potential source of contamination during storage, preparation, transportation, display, service or from customer’s refillable, reusable container. Condiments not in single-service containers or dispensed directly by the vendor. | 20-06: Current letter grade or Grade Pending card not posted | 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. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 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. | 04F: Food preparation area, food storage area, or other area used by employees or patrons, contaminated by sewage or liquid waste. | 06D: Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred. | 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..
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.