The inspection report documents: "06. Current letter grade or grade pending card not posted (critical: not critical). 06c." Health officials note that these violations need attention to maintain proper compliance.
The inspection identified violations related to temperature control, an important area of food safety.
Professional food safety experts consider temperature monitoring essential for preventing foodborne illness Research conducted by federal health agencies demonstrates that Temperature abuse remains the leading cause of foodborne illness outbreaks in restaurant settings. The USDA Safe Temperature Standards provides comprehensive guidance for preventing such violations.
The examination revealed violations related to hand washing, which need to be addressed for proper compliance.
Hand washing violations directly impact food safety and customer health protection According to FDA Hand Washing Standards, The CDC emphasizes that inadequate hand washing contributes to approximately 89% of foodborne illness outbreaks. This regulatory framework ensures that food service establishments meet rigorous safety standards.
Among the findings were infractions involving pest control, a key component of food safety protocols.
Food safety professionals regularly stress the essential nature of adequate pest control procedures. As outlined in FDA Food Code Standards, 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 identified violations related to sanitation, an important area of food safety.
Sanitation violations encompass a broad spectrum of cleanliness and maintenance issues that affect food safety Research conducted by federal health agencies demonstrates that Proper sanitation practices prevent cross-contamination and maintain the integrity of food preparation environments. The Food Safety Modernization Act provides comprehensive guidance for preventing such violations.
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.
City health officials have required that Central Park Cafe 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 August 5, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 20-06: Current letter grade or Grade Pending card not posted | 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. | 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. | 06D: Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred. | 04A: Food Protection Certificate (FPC) not held by manager or supervisor of food operations. | 02B: Hot TCS food item not held at or above 140 °F. | 09C: Design, construction, materials used or maintenance of food contact surface improper. Surface not easily cleanable, sanitized and maintained. | 08B: Garbage receptacle not pest or water resistant, with tight-fitting lids, and covered except while in active use. Garbage receptacle and cover not cleaned after emptying and prior to reuse. Garbage, refuse and other solid and liquid waste not collected, stored, removed and disposed of so as to prevent a nuisance. | 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. | 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. | 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. | 04H: Raw, cooked or prepared food is adulterated, contaminated, cross-contaminated, or not discarded in accordance with HACCP plan. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas. | 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..
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.