Broadway Taco Reopens After Fixing Mouse Droppings Violations

Broadway Taco on Broadway in North Beach has successfully reopened after addressing serious health violations that included mouse droppings, improper food temperatures, and staff hygiene issues. The Mexican restaurant at 464 Broadway passed its reinspection on September 26, 2025, demonstrating complete correction of all previously identified problems.

Successful Resolution of Health Violations

Inspector John Wells confirmed during this inspection that all violations discovered during the September 19 visit had been properly addressed. The restaurant's steam table foods were now maintaining the required 135°F temperature, ensuring hot foods remain in the safe zone to prevent bacterial growth that can cause foodborne illness. Most significantly, the facility had completely removed all mouse droppings that were previously found on the premises. The presence of rodent waste in food service areas poses serious health risks, as mice can carry salmonella, E. coli, and other dangerous pathogens that contaminate food preparation surfaces and utensils. The kitchen staff had also implemented proper hygiene protocols, with all cooks now wearing the required hair restraints during food preparation. This essential food safety practice prevents hair and other contaminants from falling into food, protecting customers from potential health hazards.

Food Storage and Temperature Corrections

Perhaps most critically for customer safety, Broadway Taco corrected its food storage violations. Raw meats are now properly stored below ready-to-eat foods in the coolers, preventing dangerous cross-contamination. When raw proteins are stored above prepared foods, harmful bacteria like salmonella and campylobacter can drip down and contaminate items that won't be cooked before serving. The temperature violations that were corrected represent one of the most serious food safety concerns restaurants can face. Foods held at improper temperatures create ideal breeding conditions for bacteria that cause foodborne illness. The restaurant's swift correction of these issues demonstrates a commitment to customer safety.

Restaurant Background and Location

Located near the Powell-Mason Cable Car line, Broadway Taco serves the busy North Beach district known for its vibrant dining scene. The restaurant operates under owner Amisha Food Inc. and can be reached at (415) 299-5097 for customers wanting to confirm current operations.

Previous Inspection History

The facility's inspection record shows this was the second visit in September 2025. The initial September 9 routine inspection resulted in a conditional pass, with violations including inadequate handwashing facilities, improper hot and cold holding temperatures, and evidence of insects, rodents, and other pest issues. The September 19 inspection that prompted the closure found the more serious violations including the mouse droppings and temperature problems. The fact that the restaurant was able to quickly address all these issues and pass its reinspection within a week shows the management's responsiveness to health department requirements.

Reopening Success

With all violations corrected and the facility cleared for operation, Broadway Taco can now safely serve its Mexican cuisine to North Beach diners. The successful reinspection demonstrates that the restaurant has implemented proper food safety protocols to protect customer health moving forward. The inspector's clearance confirms that customers can now dine at the establishment with confidence that proper food safety standards are being maintained.