CHICAGO, IL - A routine inspection at Iguana Cafe on 08/12/2025 resulted in citations for health code violations.
The dining establishment functions from 517-519 N Halsted Street in West Loop, a well-trafficked section of Chicago recognized for its restaurant culture.
Inspectors documented: "No hand wash sink at rear dish washing area. Found 3 containers of cooked chicken in prep cooler with no discard date." This finding indicates a need for compliance with established food safety protocols.
Health department officials noted violations related to hand washing, which require attention for public health compliance.
Public health authorities continually highlight the fundamental significance of comprehensive hand washing practices. Studies from public health organizations show that Proper hand hygiene represents the single most effective method for preventing cross-contamination in food service. The CDC Hand Hygiene Guidelines offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.
The examination revealed violations related to sanitation, which need to be addressed for proper compliance.
Industry experts consistently emphasize the critical importance of proper sanitation protocols. The FDA Sanitation Standards clearly states that Proper sanitation practices prevent cross-contamination and maintain the integrity of food preparation environments.
The inspection identified violations related to pest control, an important area of food safety.
Public health authorities continually highlight the fundamental significance of comprehensive pest control practices. Studies from public health organizations show that Federal food safety regulations require all food service establishments to maintain comprehensive pest exclusion programs. The FDA Food Code Standards offers detailed requirements for maintaining compliance.
The implications extend to broader community food safety standards. Health department data shows that correction of violations helps maintain community health standards.
City health officials have required that Iguana Cafe promptly correct these infractions before continuing food service. Re-examination will be conducted to ensure corrections.
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.
| Inspection ID | 2622133 |
| DBA Name | Iguana Cafe |
| AKA Name | Iguana Cafe |
| License # | 1092172 |
| Facility Type | Restaurant |
| Risk | Risk 1 (High) |
| Address | 517-519 N HALSTED ST |
| City | CHICAGO |
| State | IL |
| Zip | 60642 |
| Inspection Date | 08/12/2025 |
| Inspection Type | Canvass |
| Results | Fail |
| Violations | 10. ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE - Comments: NO hand wash sink at rear dish washing area. instructed to install. Priority foundation violation 7-38-03-(c) | 23. PROPER DATE MARKING AND DISPOSITION - Comments: Found 3 containers of Cooked chicken in prep cooler with no discard date. Instructed to date. Priority foundation violation. 7-38-005. | 36. THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE - Comments: Several coolers missing thermometer |
| Instructed To Install. | 40. PERSONAL CLEANLINESS - Comments | Food handlers missing hair restraints. instructed to wear. |
| Latitude | 41.891754039612955 |
| Longitude | -87.64749334480629 |
| Location | (41.891754039612955 |
This inspection was conducted on August 12, 2025.
Chicago Department of Public Health
The following violations were found: hand-washing, sanitation, pest-control.
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.
All inspection data for this report is sourced directly from the Chicago Department of Public Health . View the original data source .
Food safety standards referenced in this report are based on:
Important Note: This article is based on official inspection reports at the time of inspection. Current conditions may differ. Always check the most recent inspection results before dining. Establishments have the opportunity to correct violations and request re-inspection.
