Mama's on Washington Square Reopens After Cockroach Crisis

Mama's on Washington Square, the beloved North Beach breakfast institution, has successfully reopened after resolving a serious cockroach infestation that temporarily shuttered the restaurant. Health inspectors confirmed during this inspection on October 17, 2025, that the establishment had eliminated all live cockroaches, sealed entry points, and implemented proper pest control measures. The restaurant at 1701 Stockton Street, near the Powell-Mason Cable Car line, had its health permit temporarily suspended following a failed inspection earlier this month. The reopening inspection revealed that management had taken comprehensive action to address the infestation, with no live cockroaches observed during the thorough re-examination of the facility.

Successful Resolution of Health Violations

Health inspectors documented significant improvements throughout the restaurant during the reinspection. The pest control report provided by management demonstrated professional treatment of the infestation, and all previously identified entry points for rodents and insects had been properly sealed. The basement storage areas, which had been particularly problematic during the initial inspection, showed marked improvement in cleanliness and organization. However, the inspection still identified several ongoing concerns that require attention. Inspectors observed frozen raw chicken thawing at room temperature in the basement, creating potential for dangerous bacterial growth. This improper temperature control poses serious health risks, as chicken left in the danger zone between 40-140°F can harbor harmful pathogens like Salmonella and Campylobacter.

Food Storage and Safety Concerns

The inspection revealed problematic food storage practices that could compromise customer safety. Produce was being stored in the breezeway near garbage areas, creating contamination risks. More concerning, food items were found stored directly beneath sewer pipes in the basement without proper protective barriers. Inspectors mandated that all food in basement storage areas must be kept in containers with tight-fitting lids to prevent pest access and contamination. Raw shell eggs were discovered at 75°F after being stored at room temperature for approximately four hours, well above safe storage temperatures. These eggs were voluntarily discarded by management. Additionally, cooked potatoes were found cooling improperly near the outdoor ice machine at 78°F, three hours after cooking, creating ideal conditions for bacterial multiplication.

Previous Inspection History

The restaurant's recent inspection history shows this was not an isolated incident. A previous inspection on October 9, 2025, resulted in a conditional pass, indicating ongoing food safety challenges at the establishment. The progression from conditional to temporary closure to successful reopening demonstrates the seriousness with which health officials treated the violations.

Infrastructure and Equipment Issues

Beyond the pest control improvements, inspectors noted several infrastructure deficiencies requiring attention. The basement floors, walls, and ceilings need to be made smooth, durable, and easy to clean, with all ceiling holes properly sealed. Equipment issues include improper drainage for the ice and espresso machines, which must discharge with a proper one-inch air gap to prevent contamination. The restaurant also received citations for placing cardboard beneath non-slip mats on the cook line floor, a practice that can harbor bacteria and create unsanitary conditions in the food preparation area.

Community Impact

For the North Beach dining community, Mama's reopening represents a successful example of restaurant management taking health violations seriously. The establishment's willingness to address the cockroach infestation comprehensively and work with health officials demonstrates commitment to customer safety. Regular patrons can now return with confidence that the serious pest control issues have been resolved, though vigilance regarding food storage and temperature control practices will be essential for maintaining compliance going forward.