El Rancho Grande Fails with Dead Cockroach, Raw Meat Mix

El Rancho Grande Taqueria in Haight-Ashbury failed its health inspection on October 28, 2025, after inspectors discovered a dead cockroach, dangerous temperature violations, and raw meat contaminating ready-to-eat foods. The Mexican restaurant at 855 Divisadero Street near the N-Judah/Cole Valley transit line accumulated seven violations during the routine inspection, including one critical violation that poses immediate health risks to diners. The most alarming discovery came when health inspector Zack Parsons found a dead cockroach on the premises during this inspection. Cockroaches are known carriers of 33 different types of bacteria and six parasitic worms, making their presence in any food establishment a serious public health concern. The inspector noted that the restaurant needs to continue deep cleaning efforts and maintain ongoing pest control measures to prevent future infestations.

Critical Temperature and Food Safety Violations

Beyond the pest problem, inspectors discovered that the restaurant's refrigeration unit was operating at a dangerous 49 degrees Fahrenheit, well above the safe temperature threshold for storing potentially hazardous foods. This temperature violation means that perishable foods were being stored in conditions that allow harmful bacteria to multiply rapidly, potentially causing foodborne illnesses including salmonella and E. coli infections for customers. The inspection also revealed serious cross-contamination issues when inspectors found raw meats, fish, and poultry being stored directly on top of or adjacent to ready-to-eat foods. This violation was corrected on-site, but represents a fundamental food safety failure that could have exposed customers to dangerous pathogens. Raw chicken and other meats commonly carry salmonella and campylobacter bacteria, which can cause severe gastrointestinal illness when they come into contact with foods that won't be cooked before serving.

Infrastructure and Sanitation Problems

The restaurant's infrastructure showed signs of neglect, with inspectors documenting a water leak in the back area near the ice machine. Such leaks create ideal breeding conditions for bacteria and can contaminate ice used in beverages. The inspector advised the restaurant to contact a plumber immediately to address the issue. Additional violations included inadequate sanitizer buckets for food preparation areas, dirty non-food contact surfaces including shelving and equipment, and compromised floors and walls that need both cleaning and repair. The inspector specifically noted that areas below and behind equipment required thorough cleaning, suggesting a pattern of poor maintenance throughout the facility.

First Inspection for Troubled Restaurant

This marks the first recorded health inspection for El Rancho Grande Taqueria in the city database, making it impossible to determine whether these violations represent ongoing problems or isolated incidents. The restaurant was not ordered to close despite the serious violations, but must address all cited issues to maintain its operating permit. The failed inspection raises concerns for diners in the popular Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, where the restaurant serves Mexican cuisine to both locals and tourists. With multiple transit options nearby including the N-Judah line, the establishment draws customers from across the city who expect safe dining experiences. Restaurant management now faces the challenge of implementing comprehensive cleaning protocols, repairing infrastructure issues, and establishing proper food storage procedures to prevent future health violations and protect customer safety.