Tenderloin Cafe Gets Conditional Pass After Minor Violations

Village Tea House in San Francisco's Tenderloin district received a conditional pass on its health reinspection, allowing the cafe to continue serving customers while addressing remaining minor violations. The October 9 reinspection by Inspector Patrick Wood found significant improvement from the restaurant's previous failed inspection in September.

Inspection Details

During this inspection, which lasted 30 minutes, inspectors documented seven total violations - one major and six minor infractions. The conditional pass status indicates the restaurant demonstrated sufficient progress to remain operational while completing final corrections. The major violation involved mouse feces discovered on the basement floor, though inspectors noted that no new rodent activity was observed during the reinspection. The restaurant had previously hired a pest control service in August, with documentation showing "no rodent activity was noted during the inspection and/or service." However, inspectors emphasized the need to complete all action items listed on the pest control service report and contact the provider for clarification if instructions were unclear. Minor violations centered on food safety protocols and equipment maintenance. Inspectors found wet dishes drying while the sanitizer compartment remained empty, violating proper dishwashing procedures that require washing, rinsing, and sanitizing. The absence of sanitizer buckets for wiping cloths at food preparation stations also drew citation.

Equipment and Sanitation Issues

Additional minor violations included storing food contact items like baking sheets in a manner allowing floor contact, using cardboard or paper towels as shelf-lining, and maintenance issues with the soap dispenser at the downstairs handwash sink in the preparation area. Inspectors also noted grease accumulation on the service hood above the cook's line and wiping cloths left outside of sanitizer buckets. The restaurant corrected several violations on-site during the inspection, demonstrating cooperation with health officials. Inspector Wood provided specific guidance to minimize ground-level clutter, particularly in the basement where rodent activity was previously observed, recommending items be moved at least six inches off the ground.

Previous Inspection History

The conditional pass represents improvement from Village Tea House's previous inspection on September 16, which resulted in a failure. That routine inspection identified issues including inadequate handwashing facilities, pest control problems, and ventilation concerns. Located near the Powell St BART station, the cafe serves the busy downtown corridor with traditional cafe offerings. The restaurant's permit expires March 31, 2026, and maintains certification through Village Tea House Inc.

Next Steps

Inspector Wood noted that all violations listed on the routine inspection report have been corrected, with no new rodent activity observed in the basement. The conditional pass allows the restaurant to continue operations while addressing remaining minor issues. A follow-up inspection will determine if the establishment achieves full compliance. The Tenderloin location continues serving customers while implementing the inspector's recommendations. Restaurant management can contact Inspector Wood at (415) 252-3915 for clarification on any compliance requirements. Village Tea House demonstrates the collaborative approach between San Francisco's health department and food establishments, where conditional passes provide opportunity for correction while maintaining public safety standards.