Marina Indian Cuisine Fails with Food Safety Violations

Marina Indian Cuisine on Lombard Street failed its health inspection on October 15, 2025, with inspectors discovering multiple food safety violations that could put customers at serious risk of foodborne illness. The Marina district Indian restaurant at 1968 Lombard Street received a failing grade after inspector Amelia Castelli identified four significant violations during the routine inspection. The most alarming discovery involved improper food cooling practices that create ideal conditions for bacterial growth. Inspectors observed a large pot of chicken curry cooling at dangerous room temperature, with the operator claiming it would remain at room temperature for 4-6 hours before proper refrigeration. This practice violates basic food safety protocols and can allow harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli to multiply rapidly in the food. The inspector provided immediate training on proper cooling procedures, but the damage to any food already served using these methods could have serious health consequences for customers.

Handwashing and Sanitation Failures

Multiple violations centered around critical handwashing and sanitation requirements. Inspectors found food and items stored directly in front of the handwashing sink, making it impossible for employees to properly wash their hands. Studies show that only 31% of food service workers wash their hands adequately when facilities are blocked or supplies are missing, creating a direct pathway for handwashing violations to spread norovirus and other pathogens to hundreds of customers. Adding to the sanitation concerns, inspectors discovered missing sanitizer solution in the buckets used for storing wiping rags. Without proper sanitizer, cleaning rags become vehicles for spreading contamination rather than eliminating it. Food contact surfaces remained improperly sanitized, violating California Retail Food Code sections 114117, 114125(b), and 114141. These violations were corrected on-site, but any food prepared before the corrections could have been exposed to dangerous levels of bacteria.

Structural and Maintenance Issues

The inspection revealed significant structural problems that compromise food safety. Inspectors found unsealed cracks and openings in the wall near the walk-in cooler, creating entry points for rodents and other pests. The walk-in cooler itself showed signs of poor maintenance, with dirty walls that harbor bacteria and make proper cleaning impossible. These deteriorated surfaces create biofilms that protect harmful microorganisms from standard cleaning procedures.

Inspection History and Consequences

This inspection represents the first recorded health department visit for Marina Indian Cuisine, making the multiple violations particularly concerning for a new establishment. The restaurant was not ordered to close but must address all violations before the next inspection. The person in charge, identified as Ganga, reportedly refused to sign the inspection report, an unusual response that could indicate resistance to implementing necessary food safety improvements. Located near the 30 Stockton bus line, the restaurant serves the busy Marina district where residents and tourists expect safe dining options. The violations discovered during this inspection highlight the importance of proper food safety training and maintenance in protecting public health. Customers who visited Marina Indian Cuisine around the inspection date should monitor for symptoms of foodborne illness and seek medical attention if they experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The San Francisco Department of Public Health will conduct follow-up inspections to ensure all violations have been properly addressed before the restaurant can demonstrate compliance with city health codes.