Daniel Scott Ripley Caterer Closed for Ceiling Holes Health

Daniel Scott Ripley Caterer on Barneveld Avenue in Bayview was forced to close its doors after health inspectors discovered multiple ceiling holes throughout the kitchen and storage areas that created dangerous pathways for pest contamination during this inspection on November 5, 2025. The catering facility at 425 Barneveld Avenue failed its follow-up inspection when inspectors found holes in the ceiling over dry storage areas and around conduit lines throughout the kitchen. These structural breaches represent serious food safety violations that could allow rodents, insects, and debris to contaminate food preparation and storage areas.

Critical Structural Violations

Health inspectors documented ceiling holes in multiple locations during the 90-minute inspection from 12:10 PM to 1:40 PM. The violations centered around unsealed openings above food storage areas and kitchen workspace, creating direct contamination pathways. Inspectors ordered immediate corrective action to "seal all holes to prevent" further contamination risks. The facility received citations for equipment issues, improper warewashing facilities, and contaminated food contact surfaces. Each violation was linked to the same underlying problem of holes observed throughout the ceiling structure over critical food handling areas.

Health Risks and Food Safety Concerns

Ceiling breaches in commercial kitchens pose severe health risks by allowing rodents and insects direct access to food preparation areas. Contaminated particles, pest droppings, and bacteria can fall directly onto food contact surfaces, equipment, and stored ingredients. The violations put customers at risk for foodborne illnesses including salmonella and other bacterial infections. The inspector found that food contact surfaces required cleaning and sanitization, indicating possible contamination had already occurred. Dirty cutting boards and utensils can cause cross-contamination affecting dozens of food items, while biofilms protect harmful bacteria from standard cleaning procedures.

Equipment and Sanitation Problems

Beyond the structural issues, inspectors cited the facility for inadequate warewashing facilities and equipment problems. The dishwashing violations are particularly concerning for a catering operation that serves large volumes of food to multiple customers. Improper dishwashing spreads pathogens across all dishes and can cause recurring outbreak cycles. Equipment violations included unapproved or improperly maintained commercial equipment that cannot withstand the demands of professional food service. Household-grade equipment often harbors bacteria in cracks and crevices that are impossible to properly sanitize.

Inspection History and Facility Background

This closure came just one week before the facility would pass a reinspection on November 12, when inspectors found the business in compliance with food safety requirements. The successful reinspection noted that Chef Laurel Flinn was scheduled to complete required food safety manager certification. The catering business, owned by Daniel S. Ripley, operates near the T-Third Muni line in the Bayview district. The facility can be reached at (415) 626-2545 for customers seeking information about affected events or catering orders.

Industry Impact

The closure highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining aging commercial kitchen infrastructure in San Francisco. Ceiling integrity is critical for food safety compliance, as even small openings can compromise entire food preparation operations. The successful reinspection demonstrates that structural repairs can be completed quickly when operators prioritize food safety compliance. For Bayview residents and catering customers, this closure serves as a reminder of the importance of regular facility maintenance in commercial food operations. The health department's swift action protected consumers from potential foodborne illness exposure during the facility's temporary closure period.