Red Tavern Fails Health Inspection with Paint, Black Growth

Red Tavern on Clement Street in San Francisco's Outer Richmond failed its health inspection on October 15, revealing troubling conditions including paint stripping off walls, black growth accumulation, and multiple violations that could put customers at serious risk of foodborne illness. During this inspection, San Francisco Department of Public Health inspector Jessica Jang discovered paint peeling behind the dishwasher area with concerning black growth accumulating on the walls. The inspector ordered immediate removal of the deteriorating paint and investigation of potential water damage, requiring replacement with durable, easy-to-clean materials by December 16.

Multiple Sanitation Failures

The restaurant at 2229 Clement Street faced additional violations for inadequate sanitizer concentration and a malfunctioning dishwasher system. Inspectors found the restaurant's sanitizer solution below required levels, forcing staff to correct the concentration on-site. More concerning, the dishwasher was not dispensing adequate sanitizer, leaving all dishes, utensils, and food contact surfaces potentially contaminated with dangerous pathogens. The dishwasher malfunction is particularly troubling since improperly sanitized dishes can harbor hepatitis A for weeks and spread foodborne illnesses across the entire operation. Restaurant management was instructed to contact their equipment company immediately and revert to manual three-compartment washing if the machine cannot be repaired by October 22.

Structural Issues Pose Additional Risks

Beyond the equipment issues and deteriorating surfaces, inspectors discovered holes in walls behind a mesh screen door where internet wires enter the building. These openings create entry points for vermin, requiring immediate sealing with approved materials. The inspection report specifically warned against using spray foam, demanding proper vermin-proof materials like steel wool or metal mesh. Additional structural problems included exposed foam in the walk-in cooler near the door, which must be sealed with approved materials to prevent contamination and maintain food safety standards.

Customer Health Implications

The combination of paint deterioration, black growth, and inadequate sanitization creates multiple pathways for foodborne illness. The black growth behind the dishwasher suggests moisture problems that can harbor dangerous bacteria and mold. Coupled with the sanitizer failures, customers dining at Red Tavern during this period faced elevated risks of salmonella, E. coli, and other serious infections. The peeling paint and exposed foam also violate basic food safety principles requiring all surfaces in food preparation areas to be smooth, easily cleanable, and non-absorbent to prevent bacterial growth.

First-Time Violations

This marks Red Tavern's first recorded health inspection, making the multiple violations particularly concerning for a new establishment. The restaurant received three minor violations but no closure order, allowing continued operation while addressing the required corrections. The Outer Richmond establishment, accessible via the 38 Geary bus line, serves the neighborhood's dining community near the busy Clement Street corridor. Local residents and tourists frequent this area for its diverse dining options, making food safety compliance crucial for public health. Restaurant management must complete all corrections by the specified deadlines and demonstrate proper maintenance protocols to prevent similar violations during follow-up inspections.