Lou's Cafe in San Francisco's Tenderloin district has failed its health reinspection, marking a troubling pattern of ongoing violations despite previous warnings from city health inspectors. The cafe operation near Powell St BART/Muni was cited for serious equipment and infrastructure violations that pose significant health risks to customers.
Inspection Details
During this inspection conducted on October 16, 2025, Inspector Jessica Jang discovered exposed wood underneath the tiles at the counter, a violation that creates an unsanitary food preparation environment. The operator informed the inspector they were "in the process of getting the counters replaced," but the ongoing delay in addressing this critical issue resulted in the failed reinspection. The exposed wood surfaces present multiple health hazards as they cannot be properly cleaned and sanitized, creating ideal conditions for bacteria growth and contamination. Health officials noted that the facility must replace the damaged areas with NSF approved materials that are "durable, easy-to-clean, and nonabsorbent."Food Preparation Area Violations
Beyond the counter issues, inspectors found the meat slicing area lacking adequate walls and proper coving for food preparation. Half of the room featured exposed wood surfaces and missing FRP (Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic) panels, creating an environment where proper sanitation is impossible. The facility was ordered to "provide FRP throughout the whole room including behind the two door refrigerator up to the height of the highest wire rack." Additionally, health officials demanded tile coving to floors to prevent water pooling during cleaning sessions, a critical requirement for maintaining sanitary conditions in food service operations. These equipment issues create serious contamination risks, as exposed wood and inadequate wall coverings cannot withstand the rigorous cleaning required in commercial food operations. Bacteria can harbor in cracks and crevices of deteriorating surfaces, potentially leading to foodborne illness among customers.Previous Inspection History
The failed reinspection comes just weeks after a previous inspection on September 23, 2025, when the cafe passed despite violations related to proper hot and cold holding temperatures. That earlier inspection by Inspector Alyssa Manzano identified temperature control issues that could allow dangerous bacterial growth in food products. The pattern of repeated violations suggests ongoing challenges with basic food safety compliance at the establishment. Temperature violations combined with infrastructure problems create a concerning environment for food service operations in the busy Tenderloin neighborhood.Neighborhood Impact
Located in the heart of the Tenderloin district near major transit connections, Lou's Cafe serves an area with limited dining options. The facility's struggles with basic health compliance affect not only regular customers but also the broader community that relies on local food establishments. The cafe has been given until December 15, 2025, to correct all violations and bring the facility into compliance with California Retail Food Code requirements. Until these corrections are completed and verified through another inspection, customers face potential health risks from the substandard food preparation environment. Health officials emphasize that proper equipment maintenance and sanitary surfaces are fundamental requirements for any food service operation, making the ongoing violations at Lou's Cafe a serious public health concern requiring immediate attention.📍 Related Information
| Restaurant Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Lous cafe |
| Address | |
| District | Tenderloin |
| Cuisine | Cafe |
| Inspection Date | October 16, 2025 |
| Inspection Type | Reinspection Inspection |