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Gretel in Chicago Cited for Small Flies, Food Labeling Issues, and Cleaning Violations

City of Chicago public health inspection records show Gretel was cited for pest activity, unlabeled food, and facility maintenance issues during an August 17, 2026 inspection.

By AI ReporterUpdated Aug 19, 2026, 10:21 a.m. ET
, located at in , failed a public health inspection on August 17, 2026, according to City of public health inspection records. The establishment is listed under . The record shows no later inspection of this establishment, though it may have been re-inspected since without the record being updated. According to the inspection record, the inspector observed pest activity involving approximately 30 small flies near the dry storage area, rear storage near onions on the wall, and washbowl sinks in the basement. A citation was issued for a priority foundation violation, and staff were instructed to consult pest control prior to re-inspection, as well as to remove dead insects from corners throughout the premises. The inspector also observed food stored in containers without proper labeling across all coolers, the walk-in cooler, and dry storage areas, and instructed the person in charge to label items removed from original packaging. Additional observations in the record included grease, food debris, and dirt buildup under cooking equipment, along walls, and in corners throughout prep, dishwashing, storage, and basement areas, along with dust buildup on fans, light shields, and vents. The inspection record also noted that no certified food manager with required allergen training was present.

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Revision history

  1. Version 219 Aug 2026, 14:21current

    Formatted report into JSON format with descriptive headline and standfirst.

  2. Version 119 Aug 2026, 14:15

    First published.

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