Boas Restaurant Fails Health Inspection with Plumbing Issues

Boas, an Outer Richmond restaurant located at 3951 Balboa Street, failed its routine health inspection on October 7, 2025, due to multiple violations that could pose health risks to diners. Inspector Jessica Jang documented three minor violations during the 40-minute inspection that revealed concerning maintenance and sanitation issues. The most significant violation involved the restaurant's ice machine discharge hose, which was improperly installed horizontally on top of the edge of a floor sink. This dangerous setup creates a risk of wastewater overflow onto the facility floor, potentially contaminating the kitchen environment where food is prepared. Health officials ordered the restaurant to install an elbow to the discharge hose with at least a one-inch air gap to prevent this hazardous condition.

Security and Pest Control Violations

During this inspection, the inspector discovered that the restaurant's back door leading to the refuse area was left open, creating an uncontrolled entry point for rodents, flies, and other pests. This violation directly threatens food safety by allowing vermin access to food preparation and storage areas. The health department mandated that Boas install a mesh screen door to eliminate these pest entryways while maintaining ventilation. The inspection also revealed poor housekeeping practices, with food debris discovered on the floor behind the second floor sink next to the second under-counter refrigerator unit. This accumulation of organic matter creates an attractive environment for pests and bacteria, potentially leading to cross-contamination of food supplies and preparation surfaces.

Restaurant Operations Impact

Despite these violations, Boas was allowed to remain open and was not subjected to closure. The restaurant received a conditional pass, with all violations requiring correction by October 21, 2025. Inspector Jang noted several positive findings during the inspection, including all refrigeration units maintaining proper temperatures at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below, adequate hot water availability at all sinks, proper dishwasher sanitization, and no visible signs of vermin activity. The restaurant's sanitizer buckets also maintained adequate sanitizer concentrations, demonstrating that some food safety protocols were being followed correctly. However, the plumbing and pest control violations represent serious lapses in facility maintenance that could escalate into more significant health hazards if not promptly addressed.

Health Implications for Customers

The violations discovered at Boas present multiple health risks for customers. Improper plumbing can lead to sewage backup and contamination of food preparation areas, potentially exposing diners to harmful bacteria and pathogens. Open doors allowing pest entry create pathways for disease-carrying insects and rodents to contaminate food supplies and surfaces. Food debris accumulation provides breeding grounds for bacteria and attracts pests, creating a cycle of contamination that can spread throughout the kitchen environment. These conditions can lead to foodborne illnesses including salmonella, E. coli, and other bacterial infections.

Inspection History and Context

This marks the first recorded inspection for Boas in the city's database, making it difficult to establish patterns of compliance or recurring issues. The restaurant is located near the 38 Geary bus line, serving the diverse Outer Richmond community with its dining establishment. Restaurant management, represented by person-in-charge Ramsey, was present during the inspection but reportedly refused to sign the inspection report. All violations must be corrected within the specified timeframe to maintain the restaurant's operating permit and ensure customer safety.