Starbelly Restaurant Closed After Failing Health Inspection

Starbelly Restaurant in San Francisco's Tenderloin district was forced to close its doors on August 28, 2025, after failing a routine health inspection conducted by the San Francisco Department of Public Health. The restaurant, located near Powell Street BART, received a failing grade that resulted in immediate closure with no reopening date currently scheduled.

Inspection Details

The health inspection, conducted between 2:00 PM and 4:15 PM on August 28, 2025, was carried out as part of the city's routine monitoring program. Inspector Katherine Tuazon from the San Francisco Department of Public Health led the assessment that ultimately resulted in the restaurant's closure. The inspection findings were severe enough to warrant immediate action by health officials. While specific violation details were not immediately disclosed in the public records, the failure grade and subsequent closure indicate serious health code violations that posed immediate risks to public safety. The Department of Public Health typically reserves closure orders for establishments with critical violations that cannot be immediately corrected or pose imminent health hazards to customers.

Health Implications and Public Safety

Restaurant closures in San Francisco are typically triggered by violations such as temperature control issues, inadequate sanitation practices, pest infestations, or equipment failures that compromise food safety. These violations can lead to serious foodborne illnesses including salmonella, E. coli, and norovirus infections, which can cause severe symptoms ranging from digestive distress to hospitalization in vulnerable populations. The Tenderloin location, a busy neighborhood near major transit hubs, serves a diverse customer base including tourists, commuters, and local residents. The closure protects these patrons from potential exposure to contaminated food or unsanitary conditions that could result in serious illness.

Restaurant Background and Operations

Starbelly Restaurant operates under the ownership of VAL 22 RI LLC and had been serving the Tenderloin community with standard restaurant fare. The establishment's proximity to Powell Street BART and Muni stations made it a convenient dining option for the area's heavy foot traffic. This inspection represents the first recorded health department evaluation for the establishment in available public records, making it particularly concerning that the initial assessment resulted in immediate closure. The lack of inspection history suggests this may be a relatively new operation or one that had not been previously inspected under current ownership.

Regulatory Response and Next Steps

The San Francisco Department of Public Health has not announced when Starbelly Restaurant might be eligible to reopen. Typically, closed restaurants must address all identified violations, undergo re-inspection, and receive approval from health officials before resuming operations. This process can take days to weeks depending on the severity of violations and the restaurant's response to corrective measures. Restaurant owners must work with health inspectors to develop a plan for addressing all identified issues, which may include deep cleaning, equipment repairs or replacement, staff retraining, and implementation of proper food safety protocols. Only after demonstrating compliance with all health codes can the establishment apply for reinspection. The closure serves as a reminder of the importance of consistent food safety practices in the restaurant industry. Customers who recently dined at Starbelly Restaurant and experience symptoms of foodborne illness should consult with healthcare providers and report their concerns to the San Francisco Department of Public Health. For updates on the restaurant's status, the public can contact the health department or monitor official inspection records. The establishment remains closed until further notice from city health officials.