Z & Y Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass on Reinspection

Z & Y Restaurant in North Beach received a conditional pass during a September 4 reinspection, with health officials identifying three minor violations that require correction while allowing the Chinese restaurant to continue operations. The establishment at 655 Jackson Street can remain open to serve customers while addressing the correctable issues found during this inspection. Inspector Amy Johnson conducted the reinspection from 12:45 PM to 2:00 PM, documenting specific areas requiring attention but determining that the violations did not pose immediate health risks warranting closure. The conditional pass designation allows the restaurant to continue serving diners in the popular North Beach district while implementing necessary corrections.

Inspection Details

The primary concerns identified during the reinspection centered on food storage practices and equipment cleanliness. Inspectors found that Z & Y Restaurant was storing dry food bins and reach-in cooler items beneath a sewer line in the basement, a practice that must cease immediately to prevent contamination risks. Food storage violations carry particular importance in restaurant operations, as improper placement can lead to pest access and temperature abuse issues. The inspector's report emphasized that food stored on floors can contact contaminated water during cleaning procedures, while expired foods present illness risks to customers. Equipment cleanliness emerged as another area requiring attention, with inspectors noting that all kitchen and basement food preparation equipment needed thorough cleaning and sanitization. This includes both interior and exterior surfaces of refrigeration units, which can harbor bacteria and attract pests when not properly maintained.

Minor Violations and Corrections

The three violations cited all fall under the minor category, indicating that while correction is necessary, the issues do not represent immediate threats to public health. The first violation addressed food storage container identification and proper placement, specifically requiring the cessation of storing food items beneath the basement sewer line. Two additional violations focused on nonfood contact surface cleanliness, emphasizing the need for comprehensive cleaning of all equipment throughout the kitchen and basement preparation areas. Dirty surfaces can serve as bacterial reservoirs and attract cockroaches and rodents, making thorough sanitization essential for maintaining food safety standards. Hand washing facility adequacy also appeared in the inspector's summary, though specific details were not elaborated in the violation descriptions. Proper hand washing stations remain critical for preventing foodborne illness transmission in restaurant environments.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Despite the conditional designation, Z & Y Restaurant remains open for business, allowing customers to continue enjoying meals at the North Beach location. The establishment, accessible via the Powell-Mason Cable Car, can implement the required corrections while maintaining normal operating hours. The conditional pass status requires the restaurant to address all cited violations promptly, with follow-up inspections scheduled to verify compliance. This approach balances public health protection with recognition that the identified issues represent correctable operational matters rather than fundamental food safety failures. Z & Y Restaurant joins numerous San Francisco establishments working to maintain compliance with California Retail Food Code requirements, demonstrating the ongoing collaboration between restaurants and health officials to ensure safe dining experiences throughout the city. Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections