Kung Food Restaurant Fails Inspection with Mouse Droppings

Kung Food, a restaurant located at 1615 McAllister Street in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury district, failed its routine health inspection on October 28, 2025, after inspectors discovered mouse droppings on the ground and multiple serious food safety violations that put customers at risk of foodborne illness. The most alarming discovery during this inspection was evidence of a rodent infestation, with inspector Zack Parsons documenting mouse droppings on the ground. This violation represents a severe health hazard, as mice produce up to 50 droppings daily containing dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus that can cause serious illness in restaurant patrons.

Temperature and Food Storage Violations

Inspectors found potentially hazardous foods including eggs and chicken stored at approximately 49 degrees Fahrenheit, well above the safe holding temperature. This temperature abuse creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth, particularly dangerous pathogens like Clostridium perfringens and Listeria that can multiply rapidly and cause severe foodborne illness outbreaks. The restaurant was also cited for storing food items inside sanitizer buckets and directly on the ground, practices that expose food to chemical contamination and pest access. Food stored on floors becomes vulnerable to rodent contamination and bacterial growth, while storing edibles in chemical containers can cause serious poisoning.

Sanitation and Equipment Issues

The inspection revealed widespread sanitation problems throughout the facility. Food items were found stored directly under soap dispensers, creating potential chemical contamination. The restaurant lacked proper handwashing facilities, with items blocking access to sinks and missing towels for the back handwashing station. Sanitizer buckets were not provided in all food preparation areas, a critical violation that prevents proper cleaning and sanitizing of food contact surfaces. Cross-contamination from dirty surfaces causes 76% of foodborne illness cases, making this a serious public health concern.

Facility Condition and Deep Cleaning Needs

The inspection revealed that the entire facility requires extensive deep cleaning. Inspectors noted large grease buildup throughout the kitchen and storage areas on floors, walls, and ceilings. Hood filters showed significant grease accumulation, creating fire hazards and unsanitary conditions. Equipment throughout the restaurant showed signs of neglect, with leaking and broken sinks and drains that create standing water and breeding grounds for bacteria. The facility was cited for needing deep cleaning of all non-food contact surfaces including handles and shelving.

Public Health Impact

Located near the N-Judah line and Cole Valley, Kung Food serves a busy neighborhood frequented by residents and visitors. The combination of rodent activity, temperature abuse, and poor sanitation practices creates multiple pathways for foodborne illness transmission. The restaurant was not closed following the inspection but must address all violations before receiving approval to continue operations. Inspector Parsons can be reached at (415) 252-3848 for verification of corrections. This marks the first recorded inspection for this location, making it impossible to determine if these are ongoing issues or recent developments. The extensive nature of the violations suggests systemic food safety problems that require comprehensive remediation to protect public health.