CARMELITA'S TAQUERIA

1206 W LAWRENCE AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60640 · Restaurant

Inspection summary

CARMELITA'S TAQUERIA has been inspected 19 times by Chicago Department of Public Health since November 23, 2010. The most recent inspection, on May 6, 2026, recorded 4 infractions.

1 of 19 inspections on record found no infractions at all. In the past 12 months there was 1 inspection with 4 infractions recorded. The higher-risk findings here relate to: Cleaning and sanitizing, Food temperature control and Food source, labelling and allergens.

Recent inspections have recorded more infractions than earlier ones, so it is worth reading the latest reports closely.

What these findings mean

Health authorities word their violations differently, so we group them by what they mean for food safety. Higher-risk findings are the ones inspectors treat as critical, because they can directly make someone sick.

Cleaning and sanitizingHigher risk
Anything that touches food, such as cutting boards, dishes and utensils, must be washed, rinsed and sanitized. Inspectors check dishwasher temperatures, sanitizer strength and how wiping cloths are stored. Poor sanitizing lets bacteria survive from one use to the next.
Recorded 4 times across 3 separate inspections, most recently on March 25, 2025. For example: WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS
Food temperature controlHigher risk
Bacteria multiply fastest between about 4 °C and 60 °C (40 °F to 140 °F). Inspectors check that cold food stays cold, hot food stays hot, cooked food is cooled quickly, and that staff have accurate thermometers. Temperature problems are one of the most common causes of food poisoning, so these are treated as critical findings.
Recorded 4 times across 4 separate inspections, most recently on April 20, 2022. For example: PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES
Food source, labelling and allergensHigher risk
Food must come from approved suppliers, stay in labelled containers and be thrown out when it is spoiled or damaged, such as dented or swollen cans. Labelling matters for allergies: an unlabelled container can hide an allergen.
Recorded 4 times across 3 separate inspections, most recently on March 2, 2021. For example: FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER
Handwashing and staff hygieneHigher risk
Hands are the main way germs like norovirus move from people to food. Inspectors look for stocked, accessible handwashing sinks, staff washing hands when required, hair restraints, and sick employees being kept away from food. Gaps here can spread illness quickly.
Recorded 3 times across 3 separate inspections, most recently on May 6, 2026. For example: PROPER EATING, TASTING, DRINKING, OR TOBACCO USE
PestsHigher risk
Signs of mice, rats, cockroaches or flies, or gaps and clutter that let them get in or hide. Pests carry bacteria and can contaminate food and surfaces, so evidence of activity is treated seriously and usually triggers a follow-up visit.
Recorded 2 times across 2 separate inspections, most recently on April 20, 2022. For example: INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT

About this data

These results come from Chicago Department of Public Health, which inspects food premises and other public facilities in this area. We republish the authority's public disclosure data and refresh it regularly; the official record is the final word.

19 inspections

CanvassMay 6, 2026
4 infractions
- 6. PROPER EATING, TASTING, DRINKING, OR TOBACCO USE
  - NOTED EMPLOYEES DRINKING AND PREPARING FOOD AT THE KITCHEN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT TO PROVIDE A DESIGNATED AREA FOR EMPLOYEES TO DRINK AND EAT AND NOT AT THE PREP AREAS.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - NOTED TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE PREP SERVICE COOLERS AT THE KITCHEN PREP OF 1ST FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN AND/OR REPLACE.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - NOTED SOME USE OF MILK CRATES FOR ELEVATION AT THE BASEMENT KITCHEN AREA/DRY STORAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE MILK CRATES FOR ELEVATION TO PREVENT HIDING PLACES FOR PEST. MUST PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SHELVING FOR STORAGE. ALL FOOD ITEMS MUST ALSO BE STORED 6" AWAY FROM THE WALL.
- 58. ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
  - NOTED CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS ON DUTY WITH NO ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION (EXPIRED CERTIFICATE). INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT THAT ALL FOOD SERVICE MANAGERS ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
CanvassMar 25, 2025
3 infractions
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND REPAINT OR REPLACE RUSTY METAL STORAGE RACKS IN THE BASEMENT PRPE AREA (BY THE HAND SINK).
- 48. WAREWASHING FACILITIES: INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & USED; TEST STRIPS
  - INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE 3 WORKING DRAIN STOPPERS FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK.
- 49. NON-FOOD/FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEAN
  - INSTRUCTED TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN STORAGE RACKS WITH FOOD DEBRIS ACCUMULATION INSIDE THE PREP COOLER (BEHIND FRONT PREP SERVICE COUNTER) AND INSIDE THE BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER,
CanvassMar 6, 2024
5 infractions
- 10. ADEQUATE HANDWASHING SINKS PROPERLY SUPPLIED AND ACCESSIBLE
  - INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK IN THE BASEMENT PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
- 16. FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED
  - INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN INTERIOR SURFACES OF ICE MACHINE WITH CALCIUM BUILD-UP (BEHIND UPPER PANEL).
- 53. TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED
  - TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED INSIDE WASHROOM. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE LID/COVER.
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND REPLACE MISSING FLOOR BASEBOARD (BY THE ICE MACHINE) IN BASEMENT PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOOR ALONG THE WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS IN BASEMENT PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
CanvassJan 12, 2023
3 infractions
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - OBSERVED CEILING VENT COVERS IN EMPLOYEE TOILET ROOM WITH DUST BUILD-UP. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO CLEAN, REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - OBSERVED SOME FOOD DEBRIS ON FLOOR IN REAR PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
- 58. ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
  - OBSERVED ONE CERTIFIED FOOD SERVICE MANAGER WITH AN EXPIRED ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED THE PERSON IN CHARGE TO RENEW EXPIRED ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE AND ENSURE THAT ANY INDIVIDUAL THAT HOLDS A CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE RECEIVES ALLERGEN AWARENESS TRAINING AND OBTAINS ALLERGEN AWARENESS CERTIFICATE.
CanvassApr 20, 2022
2 infractions
- 22. PROPER COLD HOLDING TEMPERATURES
  - FOUND PORK HELD AT IMPROPER TEMPERATURE INSIDE PREP COOLER AT 52.0 F HOWEVER, SAID COOLER AMBIENT AIR TEMPERATURE AT 40.0 F. ALL OUT OF TEMPERATURE PORK VOLUNTARILY DISCARDED AT THIS TIME. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL TCS FOODS MUST BE HELD AT 41.0 F OR BELOW IF HELD COLD. PRIORITY VIOLATION 7-38-005
- 38. INSECTS, RODENTS, & ANIMALS NOT PRESENT
  - OBSERVED 1/4 INCH GAP ALONG THE DOOR SWEEP OF SIDE EXIT DOOR LEADING TOWARDS GARBAGE AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL DOORS MUST BE RODENT PROOF.
CanvassMar 2, 2021
9 infractions
- 16. FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES: CLEANED & SANITIZED
  - BEGINING OF MINERAL BUILD-UP INSIDE ICE MACHINE AT FRONT PANEL OF ICE BIN. CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
- 36. THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE
  - BROKEN THERMOMETERS INSIDE REFRIGERATION UNITS AT FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE
- 37. FOOD PROPERLY LABELED; ORIGINAL CONTAINER
  - PREPACKAGED DESSERTS NOT PROPERLY LABELED. MUST LABEL PACKAGES WITH FOOD NAME, INGREDIENTS, NET CONTENTS, SOURCE, AND LIST OF ALLERGENS.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - NOTED ICE BUILD UP INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER ON THE FLOOR AND SHELVES. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN THE CONDENSATION UNIT.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - DEBRIS ON CAN OPENER HELD FROM A NYLON DIRTY STRING, CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - TORN RUBBER GASKET INSIDE THE PREP SERVICE COOLER BY THE POP COOLER AT FIRST FLOOR. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL REPAIR AND MAINTAIN OR REPLACE. THE DOOR OF PREP COOLER DOOR HINGES ARE BROKEN, FIRST FLOOR. REPAIR. MISSING RELEASE KNOB FROM INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER IN BASEMENT, MUST BE REPLACE.
- 47. FOOD & NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES CLEANABLE, PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED & USED
  - CUTTING BOARDS WITH OPEN SEAMS AND DARK STAINS IN BASEMENT PREP AREA, MUST REFINISH OR REPLACE.
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - PLASTIC BASEBOARD DETACHED FROM WALL UNDER THE DOOR OF WALK-IN COOLER. RE-SEAL.
- 55. PHYSICAL FACILITIES INSTALLED, MAINTAINED & CLEAN
  - CRACKED CAULKING BETWEEN WALL AND HANDWASHING SINK AT FIRST FLOOR PREP AREA,NEED TO REPAIR. SURFACE MUST BE SMOOTH CLEANBLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL
CanvassFeb 4, 2020
4 infractions
- 5. PROCEDURES FOR RESPONDING TO VOMITING AND DIARRHEAL EVENTS
  - FOUND NO DISINFECTANT RATED FOR NOROVIRUS INSIDE VOMIT SPILL KIT. PRIORITY FOUNDATION. NO CITATION ISSUED.7-38-005. MUST PROVIDE.
- 51. PLUMBING INSTALLED; PROPER BACKFLOW DEVICES
  - FOUND NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE INSTALLED AT ICE MACHINE WATERLINE. MUST PROVIDE WHERE IT CAN BE LOCATED AND SERVICED.
- 53. TOILET FACILITIES: PROPERLY CONSTRUCTED, SUPPLIED, & CLEANED
  - FOUND TRASH CAN INSIDE RESTROOM WITH NO LID. MUST PROVIDE.
- 56. ADEQUATE VENTILATION & LIGHTING; DESIGNATED AREAS USED
  - FOUND EXHAUST VENT INSIDE RESTROOM NOT WORKING. MUST REPLACE/REPAIR.
CanvassMay 8, 2019
2 infractions
- 36. THERMOMETERS PROVIDED & ACCURATE
  - OBSERVED NOT ALL COOLERS HAVE WORKING THERMOMETERS. INSTALL AND MAINTAIN.
- 58. ALLERGEN TRAINING AS REQUIRED
  - OBSERVED NO APPROVED ALLERGEN TRAINING IN ACCORDANCE WITH PA 100-0367 ON SITE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSONS WITH THE CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SANITIATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH ALLERGEN TRAINING AND MAINTAIN
CanvassJun 7, 2018
8 infractions
- 30. FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED
  - OBSERVED GROCERY BAGS USED TO STORE BREAD. INSTRUCTED TO USE FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS TO PROPERLY STORE FOOD ITEMS AT ALL TIMES.
- 30. FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED
  - OBSERVED PREPARED FOOD ITEMS IN THE FRONT REFRIGERATION UNITS WITHOUT DATES OF PREPARATION. MUST PROVIDE DATE LABELS FOR ALL PREPARED FOODS ON PREMISES.
- 31. CLEAN MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES PROPERLY STORED: NO REUSE OF SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES
  - OBSERVED A CUP USED TO DISPENSE SPICES IN THE FRONT PREPARATION AREA. INSTRUCTED TO USE A HANDLED SCOOP TO DISPENSE FOOD AND TO STORE THE SCOOP EITHER IN THE FOOD WITH THE HANDLE FACING UP OR IN A SEPARATE CONTAINER IN BETWEEN USE.
- 36. LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED
  - MUST PROVIDE LIGHT SHIELD FOR THE LIGHT FIXTURE ABOVE THE FRONT PREP AREA WHERE HIBISCUS AND LEMONADE ARE STORED.
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - THE FAN VENTILATION UNIT INSIDE OF THE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM IS NOT PROPERLY FUNCTIONING. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR FAN VENT TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE VENTILATION IN THE EMPLYOEE WASHROOM AT ALL TIMES.
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - FACILITY HAS 2 3-COMPARTMENT SINKS WITH ONLY 5 STOPPERS. MUST PROVIDE A STOPPER FOR EACH COMPARTMENT ON PREMISES. MUST PROVIDE ONE MORE ADDITIONAL STOPPER.
- 41. PREMISES MAINTAINED FREE OF LITTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEANING EQUIPMENT PROPERLY STORED
  - OBSERVED EMPLOYEE PERSONAL ITEMS STORED ON A FOOD STORAGE RACK IN THE BASEMENT. PERSONAL ITEMS MUST BE STORED SEPARATE AND AWAY FROM ANY FOOD STORAGE AND PREPARATION AREAS.
- 43. FOOD (ICE) DISPENSING UTENSILS, WASH CLOTHS PROPERLY STORED
  - INSTRUCTED TO STORE WIPING CLOTHS IN A SANITIZER SOLUTION IN BETWEEN USE.
CanvassJul 31, 2017
7 infractions
- 16. FOOD PROTECTED DURING STORAGE, PREPARATION, DISPLAY, SERVICE AND TRANSPORTATION
  - OBSERVED FOODS NOT PROTECTED DURING STORAGE. RAW EGGS ON OPEN FLATS BEING STORED ON TOP SHELVING DIRECTLY OVER UNCOVERED, FRESH PRODUCE, JALAPEÑO PEPPERS AND ASSORTED PREPARED FOODS INSIDE THE WALK-IN COOLER. MANAGEMENT REMOVED EGGS. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
- 21. * CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER ON SITE WHEN POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED
  - NO CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER PRESENT DURING THE INSPECTION WHILE FOODS WERE BEING PREPARED AND SERVED SUCH AS BEANS AT 154.4F. INSTRUCTED THAT A CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER MUST BE PRESENT AT ALL TIME POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS ARE PREPARED AND SERVED. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-012.
- 29. PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATION(S) CORRECTED 7-42-090
  - PREVIOUS MINOR VIOLATIONS FROM REPORT #1770559 ON 5-10-16 NOT CORRECTED.#34- REMOVE CARDBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR MAT IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA 1ST FLOOR. PROVIDE RUBBER FLOOR MAT INSTEAD.#41-FOUND EMPLOYEES CLOTHES(SWEAT SHIRT, SHIRT, COAT,ETC) HANGING ON THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVINGS IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE ONE AREA TO PUT ALL EMPLOYEES CLOTHES,NOT ON THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVE. MANAGEMENT REMOVED CARDBOARD AND EMPLOYEE CLOTHING DURING THE INSPECTION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-42-090.
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - MUST NOT USE TIN FOIL AS LINER FOR SHELVING/EQUIPMENT ON THE COOKS LINE. MUST MAINTAIN A SMOOTH CLEANABLE SURFACE. MANAGEMENT REMOVED DURING THE INSPECTION.
- 35. WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS
  - PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE EMPLOYEE WASHROOM. MUST REMOVE.
- 40. REFRIGERATION AND METAL STEM THERMOMETERS PROVIDED AND CONSPICUOUS
  - INACCURATE INTERNAL THERMOMETER IN THE BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER. MUST REPLACE.
- 45. FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS MET
  - NO PROOF OF FOOD HANDLER TRAINING FOR ALL REQUIRED EMPLOYEES NOTED DURING THE INSPECTION. MUST PROVIDE.
CanvassMay 10, 2016
5 infractions
- 33. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS
  - FAN GUARD OF THE ONE DOOR REACH IN COOLER IN THE KITCHEN 1ST FLOOR WITH HEAVY DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN. MUST CLEAN THE FOOD CART IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA AND MAINTAIN.
- 34. FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED
  - CLEAN IN DETAIL THE FLOOR THRU-OUT THE BASEMENT PREP AREA.ALONG THE WALL BASE. ALL CORNER. UNDER ALL THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVINGS AND MAINTAIN. REMOVE CARDBOARD BEING USED AS FLOOR MAT IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA 1ST FLOOR. PROVIDE RUBBER FLOOR MAT INSTEAD. ALL FOOD CONTAINERS INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND WALK IN FREEZER NEEDS TO BE ELEVATED 6" OFF THE FLOOR.
- 35. WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS
  - PEELING PAINT ON THE WALLS IN THE KITCHEN/PREP AREA. MUST SCRAPE PEELING PAINT AND RE PAINT. WALL VENT COVER ON THE DINING AREA WITH HEAVY DUST ACCUMULATED. MUST CLEAN,REMOVE DUST AND MAINTAIN.
- 36. LIGHTING: REQUIRED MINIMUM FOOT-CANDLES OF LIGHT PROVIDED, FIXTURES SHIELDED
  - MISSING ONE LIGHT BULB ON THE HOOD/CANOPY. MUST REPLACE LIGHT BULB.
- 41. PREMISES MAINTAINED FREE OF LITTER, UNNECESSARY ARTICLES, CLEANING EQUIPMENT PROPERLY STORED
  - FOUND EMPLOYEES CLOTHES(SWEAT SHIRT, SHIRT, COAT,ETC) HANGING ON THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVINGS IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. MUST PROVIDE ONE AREA TO PUT ALL EMPLOYEES CLOTHES,NOT ON THE FOOD STORAGE SHELVE. UNNECESSARY ITEMS/ARTICLES INSIDE THE SMALL STORAGE ROOM BESIDE THE PREP AREA IN THE BASEMENT. MUST CLEAN, ORGANIZE AND DISCARD ITEMS/ ARTICLES NOT BEING USE TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE.
Complaint Re-InspectionAug 4, 2015
0 infractions
ComplaintJul 27, 2015
3 infractions
- 18. NO EVIDENCE OF RODENT OR INSECT OUTER OPENINGS PROTECTED/RODENT PROOFED, A WRITTEN LOG SHALL BE MAINTAINED AVAILABLE TO THE INSPECTORS
  - FOUND A 2 INCH GAP AT THE BOTTOM OF THE REAR ENTRANCE/EXIT DOOR THAT LEADS INTO THE BUILDING. AFTER YOU ENTER THROUGH THE REAR DOOR, THE BASEMENT STAIRCASE IS DOWN THE HALL ON THE LEFT SIDE AND THE BASEMENT DOOR HAS BEEN REMOVED AND THE DOOR TO ENTER CARMELITA'S MAIN KITCHEN IS ON THE RIGHT WITH THE DOOR PROPPED OPEN. FOUND APPROXIMATELY 40 MICE DROPPINGS IN THE BASEMENT, 0 DROPPINGS WERE OBSERVED IN THE FOOD PREP AREA OF THE BASEMENT. ADDITIONAL PEST CONTROL SERVICE IS REQUIRED TO MINIMIZE OR ELIMINATE ACTIVITY. INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE, DETAIL CLEAN, AND SANITIZE ALL INFECTED AREAS WHERE DROPPINGS WERE OBSERVED. MUST INSTALL A PROPER DOOR SWEEP ON THE BOTTOM OF THE BUILDING ENTRANCE/EXIT DOOR. CARMELITA'S HAS BEEN PROPPING THEIR DOOR THAT LEADS INTO THE KITCHEN DUE TO THE AIR CONDITIONING NOT FUNCTIONING. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-020
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - RUBBER TRIM UNDER THE WALK-IN COOLER DOOR IS PEELING AWAY FROM THE WALL. INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE MISSING/RIPPED TRIM AND MAINTAIN TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE.
- 34. FLOORS: CONSTRUCTED PER CODE, CLEANED, GOOD REPAIR, COVING INSTALLED, DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS USED
  - FOUND THE FLOORS DIRTY IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA FROM DOLLY TIRES DURING DELIVERIES. INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN THE FLOORS AND MAINTAIN.
CanvassJan 23, 2015
4 infractions
- 30. FOOD IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER, PROPERLY LABELED: CUSTOMER ADVISORY POSTED AS NEEDED
  - ELEVATE STOCK IN THE WALK-IN FREEZER AT LEAST 6 INCHES OFF THE GROUND AT ALL TIMES.
- 31. CLEAN MULTI-USE UTENSILS AND SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES PROPERLY STORED: NO REUSE OF SINGLE SERVICE ARTICLES
  - FOUND A CONTAINER OF UNWRAPPED PLASTIC FORKS FACING IN ALL DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS. INSTRUCTED TO STORE SINGLE SERVICE UTENSILS IN ONE DIRECTION TO AVOID HAND CONTACT WITH FOOD CONTACT SURFACE OF UTENSILS.
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - FOUND MEAT STORED IN GROCERY BAGS IN THE WALK-IN FREEZER. MUST STORE FOODS IN FOOD GRADE STORAGE BAGS/CONTAINERS TO PROPERLY PROTECT FOOD DURING STORAGE.
- 45. FOOD HANDLER REQUIREMENTS MET
  - FOUND EMPLOYEES ONSITE WITH NO FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE. ALL EMPLOYEES MUST PROVIDE A FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INFORMATION REGARDING FOOD HANDLERS CERTIFICATE WAS PROVIDED.
CanvassJan 15, 2014
2 infractions
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - NO SPLASH GUARD PROVIDED BETWEEN THE EXPOSED HAND SINK AND DISPLAY PREP COOLER,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE WITH A SMOOTH,CLEANABLE AND NON-ABSORBENT MATERIAL. OBSERVED KNIFES STORED BETWEEN THE WALL AND THREE COMPARTMENT SINKS,INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE A KNIFE RACK.
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - WORKING STOPPERS IS NEEDED AT THREE COMPARTMENT SINK,PRESENTLY DRAIN IS CLOSED WITH PLASTIC BAG.
CanvassMay 10, 2013
2 infractions
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - 1-DOOR REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASEKET RIPPED AND 2-DOOR REACH IN COOLER RIGHT SIDE DOOR HINDGE BROKEN. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN DAMAGED GASKET AND COOLER DOOR.
- 33. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS
  - OBSERVED FOOD DEBRIS/FOOD STAINS ON EXTERIOR OF HANDWASH BOWL AND 3-COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST CLEAN SINKS.
Short Form ComplaintMar 22, 2012
3 infractions
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - SEE REPORT DATED ON 06/01/12
- 35. WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS
  - SEE REPORT DATED ON 03/01/12
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - SEE REPORT DATED ON 03/01/12
CanvassMar 1, 2012
4 infractions
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - All food and non-food contact equipment and utensils shall be smooth, easily cleanable, and durable, and shall be in good repair. OBSERVED ICE BUILD UP ON FLOOR INSIDE WALK IN FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO REMOVE ALL ACCUMULATED ICE ON FLOOR IN FREEZER/MAINTAIN FREEZER.
- 33. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT EQUIPMENT UTENSILS CLEAN, FREE OF ABRASIVE DETERGENTS
  - All food and non-food contact surfaces of equipment and all food storage utensils shall be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized daily. OBSERVED FOOD BUILD UP ON HORCHATA/TEA DRINK NOZZLES. MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN UNCLEAN NOZZLES.
- 35. WALLS, CEILINGS, ATTACHED EQUIPMENT CONSTRUCTED PER CODE: GOOD REPAIR, SURFACES CLEAN AND DUST-LESS CLEANING METHODS
  - The walls and ceilings shall be in good repair and easily cleaned. OBSERVED CRACKED/MISSING WALL TILES BY 1ST FLOOR PREP HANDWASH BOWL AND BY HORCHATA/TEA DRINK MACHINE. MUST REPLACE DAMAGED WALL TILES/SEAL GAPS IN WALL TILES.
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - Ventilation: All plumbing fixtures, such as toilets, sinks, washbasins, etc., must be adequately trapped, vented, and re-vented and properly connected to the sewer in accordance with the plumbing chapter of the Municipal Code of Chicago and the Rules and Regulations of the Board of Health. PREP AREAS 3-COMPARTMENT SINKS FAUCETS LEAKING AT BASE. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN SINKS.
CanvassNov 23, 2010
2 infractions
- 32. FOOD AND NON-FOOD CONTACT SURFACES PROPERLY DESIGNED, CONSTRUCTED AND MAINTAINED
  - A SPLASHGUARD IS NEEDED BETWEEN THE EXPOSED HANDSINK AND THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK IN THE BASEMENT PREP AREA. MUST INSTALL.
- 38. VENTILATION: ROOMS AND EQUIPMENT VENTED AS REQUIRED: PLUMBING: INSTALLED AND MAINTAINED
  - 3 DRAIN STOPPERS ARE MISSING AT THE BASEMENT 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. MUST PROVIDE.

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4810 N BROADWAY, CHICAGO, IL 60640
29 inspections
CARAVAN
4810 N BROADWAY, CHICAGO, IL 60640
2 inspections
PROVISIONS UPTOWN
4812 N BROADWAY, CHICAGO, IL 60640
1 inspection
CHARMING WOK
4801 N BROADWAY, CHICAGO, IL 60640
1 inspection

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CARMELITA'S TAQUERIA

Inspection summary

What these findings mean

Cleaning and sanitizingHigher risk

Food temperature controlHigher risk

Food source, labelling and allergensHigher risk

Handwashing and staff hygieneHigher risk

PestsHigher risk

About this data

19 inspections

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