SOMA Restaurant Fails with Ice Machine Mold, Storage Issues

A SOMA restaurant failed its health inspection this week after inspectors discovered organic growth contaminating the ice machine and multiple equipment cleanliness violations that posed direct risks to customer safety. 475 Sixth Street SF LLC, located at 475 Sixth Street near Civic Center BART, received a failing grade during this inspection conducted by Inspector Katherine Tuazon on October 8, 2025. The routine inspection revealed four minor violations that collectively created an unsanitary food preparation environment.

Ice Machine Contamination Discovery

The most concerning violation involved organic growth discovered on the front inside panel of the restaurant's ice machine. This type of contamination represents a serious health hazard, as ice comes into direct contact with beverages served to customers. Organic growth in ice machines can harbor dangerous bacteria including Salmonella, E. coli, and Legionella, which can cause severe foodborne illnesses. Health experts warn that contaminated ice is particularly dangerous because customers consume it directly without any cooking process to kill harmful bacteria. The inspector immediately ordered the establishment to clean and sanitize the entire ice machine before continuing operations.

Equipment Cleanliness Failures

Inspectors also documented significant equipment issues throughout the facility's food storage areas. The walk-in cooler door, the ramp by the walk-in freezer door, and the floor underneath metro rack shelving all showed heavy dirt accumulation. These areas are critical for maintaining food safety standards, as dirty surfaces can cross-contaminate stored ingredients. The walk-in freezer presented additional concerns, with inspectors finding heavy ice accumulation on the floor corner below the fan guard. This type of buildup indicates potential temperature control problems and creates slip hazards for kitchen staff.

Improper Storage Violations

Food safety protocols were further compromised by improper utensil storage practices. Inspectors found ice scoops stored on top of the ice machine rather than in dedicated hangers inside the unit. This violation exposes the scoops to airborne contaminants and defeats the purpose of maintaining a sanitary ice supply. Additional cleanliness issues extended to the dry storage room, where debris had accumulated underneath shelving, and behind the ice machine. Even common areas showed neglect, with dust accumulation noted on coat hangers near the mop sink.

Health Implications for Customers

The combination of violations created multiple pathways for foodborne illness transmission. Contaminated ice could directly sicken customers, while dirty equipment surfaces could cross-contaminate food during preparation. Improperly stored utensils risk transferring bacteria to clean surfaces and food items. The SOMA location serves an area with heavy foot traffic from nearby office workers and residents, making food safety compliance particularly crucial for public health protection.

Inspection History and Next Steps

This marks the first recorded inspection for the establishment in the city's database, indicating either a new business or recent permit holder. The restaurant was not ordered to close despite the failing grade, but must address all violations before passing a follow-up inspection. Inspector Tuazon can be reached at (415) 252-3865 for questions about compliance requirements. The establishment must demonstrate correction of all cited violations before receiving approval to continue normal operations. The restaurant industry in San Francisco faces increasing scrutiny following several high-profile food safety failures across the city this year.