Bodega SF Gets Conditional Pass Despite Rodent Droppings

Bodega SF in the Tenderloin district received a conditional pass during a September 15 reinspection, allowing the restaurant to continue serving customers while addressing minor health violations that include rodent droppings in a storage area and refrigeration temperature concerns. The restaurant at 138 Mason Street, located near Powell St BART, was cited for three violations during the half-hour inspection conducted between 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM. Inspector Michael Mooney found issues that required attention but did not warrant closure of the establishment.

Inspection Details

The most serious violation involved evidence of rodent activity in the dry storage room, where mouse droppings were discovered on the floor beneath shelving units. Importantly, no damaged food products were observed, and restaurant staff immediately began cleaning and sanitizing the affected area during the inspection. This violation was classified as critical due to health risks associated with rodent contamination, as mice can produce up to 50 droppings daily that may contain harmful bacteria including Salmonella. Temperature control issues were also identified with the restaurant's two-door upright refrigerator in the kitchen. While the unit had recently been serviced and was maintaining temperatures of 43-44 degrees Fahrenheit for most items, the inspector noted the digital display showed temperatures jumping to 47 degrees when the door remained open for one to two minutes. The inspector recommended additional servicing to ensure consistent temperatures at or below 41 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.

Minor Storage Violations

Additional minor violations included improper food storage practices, with some items found stored directly on the ground in the basement rather than being elevated the required six inches above floor level. The inspector also noted issues with food storage container identification that needed to be addressed. One major violation was corrected on-site during the inspection, demonstrating the restaurant's commitment to immediate compliance when issues are identified. This proactive approach allowed Bodega SF to maintain its conditional operating status rather than facing closure.

Previous Inspection History

This reinspection followed a previous conditional result from August 25, when the restaurant was advised to contact the district inspector for reinspection. The September 15 visit represents a follow-up to ensure compliance improvements were being implemented. The conditional pass designation means Bodega SF can continue normal operations while working to correct the identified issues. The restaurant must address the rodent control measures, improve refrigeration monitoring procedures, and ensure proper food storage elevation throughout the facility.

Ongoing Operations

Located in the busy Tenderloin district with convenient access to public transportation, Bodega SF serves the local community and continues welcoming customers during the correction period. The inspector's findings, while requiring attention, were classified as correctable violations that do not pose immediate risk to public safety when properly managed. Restaurant management is expected to implement enhanced pest control measures, establish regular temperature logging procedures, and ensure all food storage areas meet health department elevation requirements. A follow-up inspection will verify that all corrections have been completed satisfactorily. The September 15 inspection highlights the ongoing oversight provided by San Francisco health inspectors to ensure restaurants maintain safe food handling practices while allowing establishments to remain operational during minor compliance corrections.