Latte Express SOMA Closed for Rodent Infestation Violations

Latte Express # 9 in San Francisco's SOMA district has been shuttered by health inspectors after a shocking reinspection revealed widespread rodent contamination throughout the coffee shop's kitchen and food storage areas. The establishment at 648 4th Street, located near the busy 4th & King Caltrain station, failed its November 5th reinspection with four critical violations that forced immediate closure. The most alarming discovery during this inspection was the extensive presence of rodent droppings contaminating food items intended for customer consumption. Health inspector Katherine Tuazon documented mouse droppings inside a grocery bag containing pinto beans and rice, scattered on top of canned goods, and underneath crates of white onions stored directly on the floor. The contamination extended to a cheese cloth positioned beneath the restaurant's rice cooker, creating a serious health hazard for anyone consuming food prepared at the establishment.

Critical Food Safety Violations

Beyond the widespread rodent infestation, inspectors discovered dangerous temperature violations that put customers at immediate risk of foodborne illness. White rice in the establishment's rice cooker was found at a shocking 51 degrees Fahrenheit, far below the safe holding temperature required to prevent bacterial growth. The owner voluntarily discarded both the contaminated rice and all food items affected by rodent droppings after inspectors identified the violations. The facility's pest control measures were found to be not only inadequate but dangerous to public health. Inspectors discovered improperly stored Raid insect spray and exposed rodent bait blocks throughout the premises, creating additional contamination risks. These toxic substances were ordered removed immediately from the facility.

Health Risks and Public Safety Concerns

The violations discovered at Latte Express # 9 represent serious threats to customer health and safety. Rodent droppings can carry dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus, with mice producing up to 50 droppings daily. The temperature violations compound these risks, as improperly held rice can harbor harmful bacteria that multiply rapidly in the danger zone between 41 and 135 degrees Fahrenheit. The combination of pest contamination and improper food storage creates a perfect storm for foodborne illness outbreaks. Customers who consumed food from this establishment in recent days may have been exposed to these dangerous conditions without their knowledge.

Inspection History and Closure Status

The November 5th inspection was conducted as a reinspection, suggesting the facility had previously failed to meet health department standards. Inspector records show the establishment received a subsequent reinspection on November 6th, which also resulted in failure and continued closure status. The facility remains closed with no reopening date announced. Located in the heart of SOMA near the major transit hub at 4th and King, Latte Express # 9 serves a busy commuter population and neighborhood workers. The closure removes a popular coffee option from an area with heavy foot traffic, but protects the public from serious health risks. The San Francisco Department of Public Health has ordered comprehensive remediation before any consideration of reopening, including complete pest elimination, thorough sanitization of all food contact surfaces, and implementation of proper food storage and temperature control procedures.