Wiener’s Circle, an iconic hot dog stand on the North Side, was shut down by the city Friday after inspectors found several food safety violations, including finding no hot running water at the Lincoln Park restaurant.
The hot-water violation was noted as significant by the City Health Department because it meant workers were unable to wash their hands in an acceptable manner and food utensils and cooking equipment could not be washed properly, according to a statement.
The restaurant, located at 2622 N. Clark St., was also cited after inspectors found two pounds of cooked onions being stored at unsafe temperatures, the city department said. It said the onions were being stored more than 30 degrees below the required standard.
The inspection followed an inspection Dec. 12 after a customer called 311, claiming the restaurant had a rodent infestation. There was no evidence found of rodents, the release stated, but management was ticketed for having an overflowing garbage container.
The eatery is famous for its rambunctious late-night crowd and foul-mouthed staff.
