Here’s a press release from the Chicago Department of Public Health.
Lai Lai Oriental Express Shut By City Health Department Cockroach Infestation Unacceptable
A Loop restaurant was ordered closed today after Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH) inspectors discovered critical violations of the City Health Code.
Lai Lai Oriental Express, 330 S. Wells, was shut down after CDPH inspectors discovered live cockroaches in the kitchen.
The restaurant also was cited for holding cooked food at unsafe temperatures. About 20 pounds of food was ordered to be discarded, including cooked chicken found at 110 degrees and egg rolls at 108 degrees—significantly below the 140 degrees required.
Inspectors also cited Lai Lai for improper storage of cleaning solvents and other toxic chemicals under a food preparation table.
Today’s visit by CDPH was a routine, unannounced inspection.
The restaurant will remain closed until its management has taken corrective action and passed re-inspection.
The enforcement action was the 45th time in 2008 that Health Department inspectors have shut a food establishment for health violations.
Representatives of Lai Lai will have to explain themselves at an administrative hearing on May 8 and pay a fine expected to total $2,250.
Chicagoans who believe that a restaurant or other food establishment is operating in an unsafe manner are encouraged to dial 311 and report it.