According to inspection records: "06. Contract with a pest management professional not in place." This type of violation requires correction to maintain food safety standards.
Among the findings were infractions involving temperature control, a key component of food safety protocols.
Food safety professionals regularly stress the essential nature of adequate temperature control procedures. As outlined in HACCP Temperature Monitoring, Temperature abuse remains the leading cause of foodborne illness outbreaks in restaurant settings. These federal guidelines guarantee that restaurants adhere to strict health requirements.
The inspection found infractions involving pest control, a fundamental aspect of food service operations.
Health experts emphasize that pest activity can rapidly contaminate food preparation surfaces and stored ingredients According to FDA Food Code Standards, Effective pest control is considered a critical control point in preventing foodborne illness outbreaks. This regulatory framework ensures that food service establishments meet rigorous safety standards.
The inspection identified violations related to sanitation, an important area of food safety.
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 Food Safety Modernization Act, 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 El Comedor Restaurante 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 August 7, 2025.
Who conducted this inspection?
Chicago Department of Public Health
What violations were found during this inspection?
The following violations were found: 04M: Live roaches in facility's food or non-food 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. | 09C: Design, construction, materials used or maintenance of food contact surface improper. Surface not easily cleanable, sanitized and maintained. | 04L: Evidence of mice or live mice in establishment's food or non-food areas. | 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. | 28-06: Contract with a pest management professional not in place. Record of extermination activities not kept on premises. | 06D: Food contact surface not properly washed, rinsed and sanitized after each use and following any activity when contamination may have occurred. | 08A: Establishment is not free of harborage or conditions conducive to rodents, insects or other pests..
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.