Castro Mediterranean Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass

Gyro Xpress Mediterranean Cuis on Castro Street received a conditional pass during a September 25 reinspection, allowing the popular Mediterranean restaurant to remain open while addressing minor violations requiring correction within seven days. Health inspectors found manageable issues during this inspection that do not pose immediate public health risks, enabling the Castro district establishment at 499 Castro Street to continue serving customers while implementing required improvements.

Inspection Details

The reinspection revealed four total violations across critical, major, and minor categories, with two violations corrected on-site during the inspector's visit. The most significant issue involved temperature control of prepared foods, where cut tomatoes, olives, and lettuce were found measuring between 47 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in prep cooler wells, slightly above the required 41-degree standard. Inspectors noted the foods had been placed in the wells less than two hours prior to the inspection. Restaurant staff immediately transferred the items to the proper refrigerated section of the prep cooler during the inspection. The inspector recommended installing thermometers on all cooling units and implementing daily temperature monitoring protocols to prevent future occurrences.

Pest Control Measures

A critical violation was immediately addressed when inspectors discovered one live cockroach crawling on food debris near the ice machine. Staff promptly removed the debris and cockroach, followed by thorough cleaning and sanitizing of the affected area. The restaurant provided documentation of pest control service performed on September 24, demonstrating proactive maintenance efforts. Inspectors requested copies of the day's pest control report be submitted to health department officials, ensuring proper documentation of ongoing pest management efforts at the Mediterranean establishment near the Castro St Muni station.

Cleanliness Requirements

Minor violations requiring attention within seven days include cleaning food debris and dust accumulation on kitchen refrigerator and freezer walls and fan guards. Inspectors observed organic growth requiring sanitization at the ware wash sink's wall conjunction and grease buildup on electrical outlets and switches. The inspection also noted improper storage of wiping cloths on prep tables, with inspectors directing staff to keep sanitizing cloths in designated sanitation buckets when not in active use, a standard food safety protocol for Mediterranean restaurants and all food service establishments.

Operational Continuity

Despite the violations requiring correction, Gyro Xpress Mediterranean Cuis demonstrates commitment to food safety through immediate corrective actions and existing pest control partnerships. The conditional pass status allows normal operations to continue while the restaurant addresses documented deficiencies. Located in the vibrant Castro neighborhood, this Mediterranean restaurant serves the community while working to perfect its food safety operations. The establishment's willingness to immediately correct violations during the inspection and provide pest control documentation reflects professional kitchen management standards. Health department officials will conduct follow-up inspections to verify completion of required corrections, ensuring the restaurant maintains proper food safety protocols for continued service to Castro Street diners seeking quality Mediterranean cuisine. Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections