Ricopan Bakery Reopens After Vermin Infestation Closure

Ricopan Bakery at 3717 Mission Street in San Francisco's Mission District has successfully reopened after addressing a serious vermin infestation that forced health officials to suspend its operating permit just three days earlier. The bakery passed its reinspection on October 31, 2025, demonstrating comprehensive remediation efforts that eliminated the health hazards. The facility was originally closed on October 28, 2025, following the discovery of an active vermin infestation during a routine health inspection. The severity of the situation prompted the San Francisco Department of Public Health to immediately suspend the bakery's operating permit, requiring extensive corrective measures before reopening could be considered.

Successful Remediation Efforts

During this inspection, health inspector Cristina Zepeda found no evidence of rodents or cockroaches throughout the facility. The bakery's management had implemented a comprehensive cleaning and pest control program that addressed all areas of concern identified during the original closure inspection. The inspection report detailed several critical improvements made by the bakery. Equipment throughout the facility had been thoroughly degreased, eliminating potential food sources that could attract pests. Floors and shelves showed evidence of deep cleaning, with no debris or contamination visible during the reinspection. Additionally, the facility installed new door sweeps to prevent future pest entry points, demonstrating a commitment to long-term prevention strategies. The bakery also established proper sanitizer bucket stations throughout the facility, ensuring staff have immediate access to cleaning supplies to maintain hygiene standards. These measures reflect industry best practices for preventing future infestations and maintaining food safety compliance.

Health Department Oversight

Inspector Cristina Zepeda, who can be reached at cristina.zepeda@sfdph.org, conducted the thorough reinspection that cleared the facility for reopening. The inspection lasted approximately one hour and twenty minutes, covering all areas of the bakery's food preparation, storage, and service areas. The facility's owner, Noel Omar Torres, received the inspection report and certification allowing immediate resumption of operations. This reinspection represents the first recorded inspection for this establishment in the health department's current database, suggesting either a newly opened facility or recent permit transfer.

Mission District Food Safety

The successful reopening of Ricopan Bakery provides reassurance to Mission District residents who rely on local food establishments. Located near the 24th Street Mission BART station, the bakery serves a busy neighborhood where food safety compliance is essential for public health. Vermin infestations in food service establishments pose significant health risks, including potential transmission of pathogens like salmonella and other foodborne illnesses. Rodents and cockroaches can contaminate food surfaces, utensils, and ingredients, creating dangerous conditions for customers. The rapid response by both the health department and the bakery's management demonstrates the effectiveness of San Francisco's restaurant inspection system. The three-day closure period allowed for comprehensive remediation while minimizing disruption to the local community. Customers can now visit Ricopan Bakery with confidence that proper food safety protocols have been restored and verified by health officials.