SF David's Deli Fails Reinspection with Grease Violations

David's Deli&bistro in San Francisco's Tenderloin district failed its health reinspection on October 17, 2025, after inspectors discovered persistent grease accumulation throughout the kitchen despite previous warnings. The French restaurant at 474 Geary Street near Powell St BART was cited for violations involving walls, ceilings, and floors that create serious health hazards for diners.

Inspection Details

Inspector John Wells found extensive grease accumulation on the walls and ceiling above and around the ventilation hoods in the kitchen during this inspection. Additional grease buildup was discovered on the floor by the fryer, creating slippery conditions and potential fire hazards. These violations under California Retail Food Code Section 114143 and 114266 indicate serious deficiencies in the restaurant's cleaning protocols. The grease accumulation poses multiple health risks to customers. When grease builds up on kitchen surfaces, it creates an ideal environment for bacteria growth that can contaminate food preparation areas. The sticky residue attracts dust, debris, and insects, while also creating fire safety concerns in a commercial kitchen environment. Customers dining at establishments with such violations face increased risk of foodborne illnesses and exposure to unsanitary conditions.

Health Violations Found

While the reinspection showed some improvements from the previous conditional pass, critical issues remain unresolved. The restaurant corrected several violations from their September inspection, including food handler card availability, proper refrigerator temperatures that were previously at dangerous levels, hot water access at sinks, and wastewater leak repairs. Inspectors also noted that previous mouse droppings had been cleaned throughout the facility. However, the persistent grease accumulation and missing License Certificate and Permit to Operate demonstrate ongoing compliance failures. The owner told inspectors they have a deep cleaning scheduled with an outside company for November, but the facility continues operating with these violations present.

Previous Inspection History

This failed reinspection follows a conditional pass on September 25, 2025, when inspectors found multiple serious violations including inadequate handwashing facilities, improper hot and cold holding temperatures, and hot water issues. The pattern suggests systemic problems with the restaurant's food safety protocols and maintenance standards. The September inspection revealed a litany of problems that put customers at risk, including temperature control failures that could allow dangerous bacterial growth in food products. The restaurant's inability to maintain basic sanitation standards despite previous warnings raises concerns about management commitment to food safety.

Neighborhood Impact

Located in the heart of the Tenderloin near major transit lines, David's Deli&bistro serves a diverse customer base of residents, workers, and tourists. The restaurant's continued operation despite these violations affects the broader dining landscape in an area already challenged by food safety concerns at various establishments. The facility remains open despite the failed reinspection, though customers should be aware of the ongoing violations. Inspector Wells can be reached at (415) 252-3801 for additional information about the inspection findings. The restaurant owner, Osman Uner, received the violation notice but refused to sign the inspection report. With grease accumulation creating both immediate health risks and long-term sanitation problems, David's Deli&bistro must address these fundamental cleaning and maintenance issues to protect customer safety and comply with health department standards.