SF Subway Fails Reinspection with Temperature Violations

A popular Subway #7154 location in San Francisco's Bayview district failed its critical reinspection on October 28, 2025, with inspectors discovering dangerous temperature violations and multiple equipment issues that put customers at serious risk of foodborne illness. The restaurant at 3801 3rd Street Suite 310, conveniently located near the T-Third Muni line, received a failing grade during this inspection conducted between 3:10 PM and 4:10 PM by inspector Roy Bwogi. The establishment was cited for three violations, including one major infraction that required immediate correction on-site.

Critical Temperature Violations Discovered

The most serious violation involved improper hot and cold holding temperatures, a major food safety breach that the inspector required to be corrected immediately. This type of temperature violation is particularly concerning because it creates ideal conditions for dangerous bacterial growth. According to health experts, temperature abuse is responsible for 63% of all foodborne illness outbreaks, with bacteria like Clostridium perfringens multiplying rapidly when food is held between 70-120°F. The violation directly threatens customer safety, as improperly held food can harbor deadly pathogens including Listeria, which can grow even at refrigeration temperatures. Customers who consumed food during the period when temperatures were not properly maintained could face serious health risks including food poisoning, gastrointestinal distress, and in severe cases, hospitalization.

Equipment Safety Concerns

Inspector Bwogi also identified two minor violations related to equipment approval, cleanliness, installation, and repair capacity. These infractions suggest ongoing maintenance issues that could compromise food safety standards. Improper equipment can harbor bacteria in cracks and crevices, while the use of unapproved materials like latex gloves can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The equipment violations indicate systemic problems with the restaurant's food safety infrastructure. Commercial kitchen equipment must meet specific standards to withstand the demands of high-volume food service while maintaining sanitary conditions. Household-grade equipment or improperly maintained commercial equipment cannot provide the reliability needed for safe food preparation.

Reinspection Failure Raises Concerns

The failure of this reinspection is particularly troubling as it suggests the restaurant had previously been cited for violations and given an opportunity to correct them. Reinspections are typically conducted when establishments fail to meet health standards during routine inspections, providing restaurants with a chance to address violations and demonstrate compliance. The fact that Subway #7154 failed this follow-up inspection indicates either inadequate corrective measures or insufficient commitment to food safety protocols. This pattern raises questions about the restaurant's management practices and staff training regarding proper food handling procedures.

Restaurant Status and Customer Impact

Despite the failed inspection, the restaurant was not ordered to close and did not require a reopening inspection, though this does not diminish the seriousness of the violations found. The establishment received the inspection report from employee Mercedes, who accepted the documentation on behalf of the restaurant. Customers who frequent this Bayview location should be aware of these food safety lapses when making dining decisions. The restaurant's proximity to public transit makes it a popular choice for commuters and local residents, making the widespread impact of these violations particularly concerning for the community. The inspection records show that Subway #7154 later passed a subsequent reinspection on November 4, 2025, suggesting the violations were eventually corrected. However, the initial failure highlights ongoing challenges with maintaining consistent food safety standards at this location.