Mission Chinese Food Gets Conditional Pass on Minor Violations

Mission Chinese Food SF received a conditional pass during a health department reinspection on September 9, allowing the popular Chinese restaurant to continue serving customers while addressing minor cleaning and maintenance violations. The Mission District establishment at 2234 Mission Street underwent the reinspection following a previous closure in August, with inspector Katie Dea finding issues that require correction but do not pose immediate health risks to diners. The restaurant can remain open while implementing the necessary improvements.

Minor Violations Identified

During this inspection, health officials documented one critical violation related to nonfood contact surfaces that require additional cleaning attention. The inspector observed grease and debris accumulation on prep cooler hinges and gaskets, areas that can harbor bacteria if not properly maintained. Additional findings included grease buildup on walls and ceiling areas near the hood system's left piping, as well as green residue accumulation on piping near and under the warewash sinks. These violations, while categorized as critical under health code Section 114115 and 114117, represent maintenance issues rather than immediate food safety threats. The inspector discussed cleaning and degreasing procedures with restaurant operators on-site, providing guidance on proper sanitation protocols. Recommendations also included removing existing spray foam and resealing surfaces to create smooth, durable, and easily cleanable conditions that prevent vermin attraction and harborage.

Continued Operations with Corrections

Unlike restaurants that face closure orders, Mission Chinese Food SF's conditional pass status allows continued service while management addresses the identified cleaning deficiencies. This designation reflects the inspector's assessment that the violations, while requiring attention, do not compromise the immediate safety of food preparation or customer health. The restaurant, known for its innovative take on traditional Chinese cuisine, maintains its operations near the 24th St Mission BART station, continuing to serve its loyal customer base throughout the correction period. The conditional status demonstrates the health department's balanced approach to ensuring compliance while recognizing correctable maintenance issues.

Restaurant History and Context

Mission Chinese Food SF's recent inspection history shows the establishment's commitment to addressing health department concerns. The restaurant faced a closure on August 25 during a follow-up inspection, but the September 9 reinspection shows progress toward full compliance. The facility operates under Mission Chinese Food SF LLC with proper certification and maintains regular contact with health department officials. Restaurant management has demonstrated responsiveness to inspector recommendations, working collaboratively to resolve identified issues through proper cleaning protocols and facility maintenance. Located in the heart of the Mission District, the restaurant serves a diverse clientele who appreciate its unique culinary offerings. The conditional pass allows continued service while ensuring that all health code requirements will be met through systematic cleaning improvements and surface maintenance upgrades. The health department will likely conduct a follow-up inspection to verify that all cleaning and maintenance corrections have been properly implemented, with the goal of achieving full compliance status.