Korean Absteak Reopens After Fixing Temperature Violations

Absteak, the Korean restaurant at 124 Ellis St in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, has successfully reopened after addressing serious health violations that resulted in significant food waste and safety concerns during their previous inspection. The restaurant passed its reinspection on October 30, 2025, confirming that all previously identified violations have been corrected. Inspector John Wells verified during this inspection that the establishment had resolved critical issues including proper stocking of handwash sinks with soap and towels, and restored all refrigeration units to maintain the required 41°F temperature.

Previous Health Violations Resolved

The reopening comes after a failed routine inspection on October 16, 2025, which revealed major temperature violations throughout the facility. During that inspection, three large sections of dry aged beef had to be discarded due to being held at dangerous temperatures of 50-54°F overnight, creating significant food safety risks for customers. Multiple coolers throughout the restaurant were failing to maintain proper temperatures, putting customers at risk of foodborne illness from bacteria growth in improperly stored ingredients. The violations were particularly concerning given that Korean cuisine often involves marinated meats and fermented ingredients that require precise temperature control for safe consumption.

Comprehensive Corrections Implemented

The recent reinspection confirmed that Absteak's management took swift action to address all identified problems. All refrigeration units are now maintaining the proper 41°F temperature, including the banchan prep cooler where traditional Korean side dishes are prepared, cold drawers used for immediate service, the hot section prep cooler, and the specialized dry aging cooler critical for the restaurant's beef preparation. Additionally, the establishment corrected food storage violations by ensuring all items are properly stored off the floor in the walk-in cooler and eliminating direct contact between linens and food surfaces. The handwash sink, essential for preventing contamination, is now properly stocked with soap and towels as required by health regulations.

Restaurant Operations Resume

Located near the Powell St BART/Muni station, Absteak serves the diverse Tenderloin community with traditional Korean fare. The restaurant's successful correction of violations demonstrates management's commitment to food safety standards required for safe dining. The facility, operated by C & L Associates Inc and reachable at (415) 421-3800, has shown it can quickly address health department concerns. The rapid turnaround between the failed October 16 inspection and successful October 30 reinspection indicates efficient implementation of corrective measures.

Impact on Local Dining Scene

The successful reopening adds to the growing Korean dining options in the Tenderloin area. With proper temperature control and sanitation procedures now in place, customers can once again enjoy Korean specialties including the restaurant's signature dry-aged beef preparations that require precise temperature management for both safety and quality. The restaurant's ability to quickly resolve serious violations and pass reinspection provides confidence to diners seeking authentic Korean cuisine in the downtown corridor. Inspector Wells confirmed that all systems are now operating within health department standards, ensuring safe food preparation and service for the community.