Marina Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass Despite Mouse Issues

Earthbar - Chestnut in San Francisco's Marina district received a conditional pass during a health department reinspection on October 9, 2025, after inspectors discovered lingering mouse droppings behind equipment in the front preparation area. The restaurant at 2234 Chestnut Street can continue serving customers while addressing the remaining pest control issues. Inspector Amelia Castelli conducted the afternoon reinspection from 3:15 PM to 3:35 PM, finding that most violations from the previous inspection had been corrected. However, one major violation persisted: old mouse droppings were still present on the floor behind and beside a cooler in the front prep area, violating California Retail Food Code Section 114259 regarding pest control.

Conditional Pass Requirements

The conditional pass allows the health-conscious eatery near the 30 Stockton bus line to remain open for business while implementing additional pest control measures. Unlike a failed inspection that would force immediate closure, the conditional status recognizes that the establishment meets most health standards but requires specific corrections within a designated timeframe. Mouse infestations pose significant health risks in food service environments. According to health department guidelines, mice can produce up to 50 droppings daily, potentially contaminating food preparation surfaces with dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. The presence of old droppings suggests an ongoing issue that requires comprehensive pest management solutions.

Previous Inspection History

This inspection followed a routine inspection conducted on October 1, 2025, which also resulted in a conditional pass. The pattern suggests the restaurant has been working diligently to address health department concerns while maintaining operations in the competitive Marina dining scene. Inspector Castelli noted that all other violations from the previous inspection had been successfully abated, indicating the restaurant's commitment to compliance. The person in charge, identified as Desiree, refused to sign the inspection report, though this does not affect the conditional pass status or the restaurant's ability to operate.

Pest Control Focus

The specific nature of the violation indicates that while the restaurant has addressed most health concerns, the mouse problem requires more intensive intervention. Professional pest control typically involves sealing entry points, removing food sources, and implementing ongoing monitoring systems to prevent future infestations. The location of the droppings behind equipment suggests mice may be accessing the preparation area through gaps or openings near cooling systems. Restaurant operators commonly face this challenge in older buildings where small openings around utilities provide entry points for rodents seeking food and shelter.

Community Impact

Marina residents and visitors can continue dining at the establishment while management works to resolve the pest control issue. The conditional pass demonstrates the health department's balanced approach to regulation, allowing businesses to correct violations without unnecessary economic hardship while ensuring public safety remains the priority. The restaurant industry faces ongoing challenges with pest management, particularly in urban environments where rodent populations thrive. Success requires vigilant maintenance, professional pest control services, and staff training to identify and report early signs of infestations. Earthbar - Chestnut must schedule a follow-up inspection to demonstrate full compliance with health codes before receiving an unconditional pass rating.