SF Vietnamese Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass on Reinspection

Viet Quan Vietnamese Noodle House in San Francisco's Parkside neighborhood received a conditional pass during their October 10th reinspection, successfully correcting handwashing facility violations on-site while maintaining operations for customers. The Vietnamese restaurant at 1757 Taraval Street near the West Portal Muni station addressed a repeat violation involving blocked handwashing facilities during this inspection conducted by Inspector William Bajjalieh between 10:00 AM and 10:20 AM.

Inspection Details

The primary issue identified during the reinspection involved the restaurant's dedicated handwashing sink in the prep area, which was blocked by two metal inserts and an ice scoop stored in the basin. This handwashing violation was immediately corrected when staff relocated the items to the dish wash area under the inspector's supervision. Inspector notes revealed that the facility had undergone professional cleaning followed by pest control treatment by Dewey Pest Control prior to the reinspection, with both service receipts observed and documented. This proactive approach demonstrates the restaurant's commitment to maintaining proper health standards. The violation falls under California Retail Food Code Section 113953, which requires adequate handwashing facilities to be supplied and accessible at all times. Studies indicate that only 31% of food service workers wash their hands properly when supplies are inadequate, potentially leading to the spread of foodborne illnesses including norovirus.

Conditional Pass Status

A conditional pass allows restaurants to remain open while addressing minor violations that do not pose immediate health risks. Unlike failed inspections that result in closure, conditional passes recognize establishments that can operate safely while making necessary corrections to achieve full compliance. The restaurant's conditional status requires completion of additional improvements, including installation of a vermin-proof screen in front of the louvre-type windows located next to the front customer door. Inspector Bajjalieh requested that management email a photo once this correction is completed, demonstrating the collaborative approach between health officials and restaurant operators.

Recent Inspection History

This reinspection followed a routine inspection conducted on October 3rd, which also resulted in a conditional pass. The previous inspection established the pattern of minor violations requiring attention, prompting the follow-up visit to ensure corrections were implemented. The inspector's joint visit with Inspector Thuan Tieu reflects the health department's thorough approach to ensuring food safety compliance in San Francisco's diverse restaurant scene. Inspector Bajjalieh emphasized the importance of maintaining safe food handling practices, particularly regarding rapid cooling procedures and preventing cross contamination.

Continued Operations

Customers can continue dining at Viet Quan Vietnamese Noodle House while the restaurant completes its remaining compliance requirements. The establishment's location in Parkside's vibrant Taraval corridor makes it a popular destination for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, particularly pho and noodle dishes. The restaurant's management received the inspection results, though they declined to sign the inspection report. This does not affect the conditional pass status or the restaurant's ability to operate while addressing the minor violations identified. Restaurant operators can contact Inspector Bajjalieh at (415) 252-3918 or william.bajjalieh@sfdph.org regarding compliance questions or to confirm completion of required improvements. The conditional pass demonstrates San Francisco's balanced approach to food safety enforcement, allowing businesses to correct minor issues while maintaining public health standards.