Chez Joel in Little Italy Fails Health Inspection

CHICAGO, IL - A routine inspection at Chez Joel on 08/12/2025 resulted in citations for health code violations.

The establishment operates from 1119 W Taylor Street Chicago Illinois in Little Italy, a busy area of Chicago known for its dining scene.

Inspectors documented: "38. Insects, rodents, & animals not present - comments: observed 3 live cockroaches on the wall of the basement food prep area around the exposed hand washing sink. 49. Non-food/food contact surfaces clean - comments: 4-602." This finding indicates a need for compliance with established food safety protocols.

The inspection identified violations related to hand washing, an important area of food safety.

Public health officials identify poor hand hygiene as a primary factor in foodborne illness transmission Research conducted by federal health agencies demonstrates 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 provides comprehensive guidance for preventing such violations.

Inspectors documented deficiencies involving pest control, an essential component of restaurant operations.

Food safety professionals regularly stress the essential nature of adequate pest control procedures. As outlined in HACCP Prevention 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 The FDA Food Code establishes comprehensive sanitation requirements that form the foundation of safe food service operations. The Food Safety Modernization Act offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.

These types of violations require attention to maintain compliance standards for the establishment and its customers. Health officials note that addressing such conditions helps maintain public confidence in food service establishments.

Local regulatory authorities have ordered that Chez Joel swiftly remediate the documented deficiencies before reopening to customers. Additional review is planned to confirm remediation.

Food service professionals should take note of important insights from these findings, highlighting the importance of ongoing compliance to health code requirements. Public education continues to be an essential element in ensuring public health protection.