Saru Japanese Restaurant Castro Reopens After Health Fix

Saru, the Japanese restaurant at 3856 24th Street in Castro, has successfully reopened after correcting serious health violations that led to concerns about food safety. The San Francisco Department of Public Health conducted a reinspection on November 6, 2025, confirming that the restaurant had addressed all critical issues identified during a September 18 routine inspection. The original September inspection revealed multiple concerning violations that put customer health at risk. Inspector Katie Dea discovered problems with handwashing procedures, improper glove use, and evidence of rodent activity within the facility. Additionally, inspectors found issues with food separation and protection protocols that could have exposed customers to contamination.

Health Violations Addressed

During this inspection, health officials confirmed that Saru had completely resolved the rodent infestation that previously threatened food safety. The restaurant removed equipment that was contributing to sanitation problems, including a vacuum sealer that was not properly maintained. Staff also implemented proper handwashing procedures and corrected glove usage protocols that are essential for preventing foodborne illness transmission. The presence of rodents in food service establishments poses significant health risks to customers, as these pests can carry dangerous bacteria including Salmonella and E. coli. Contaminated surfaces and improperly washed hands can transfer these pathogens directly to food, potentially causing severe gastrointestinal illness in diners.

Castro District Dining Safety

The successful reopening of Saru provides reassurance to Castro residents and visitors who frequent the popular Japanese dining scene along 24th Street. Located near Castro St Muni transit lines, the restaurant serves a busy neighborhood where food safety compliance is particularly important given the high volume of foot traffic and diverse customer base. Restaurant owner AKAI SARU CORPORATION worked diligently to address all health department concerns following the conditional pass received during the previous inspection. The September inspection had resulted in a conditional pass rather than an outright failure, indicating that while serious violations were present, the restaurant was given an opportunity to correct them promptly.

Inspection Process and Results

Inspector Katie Dea conducted the November 6 reinspection between 10:10 AM and 10:25 AM, thoroughly examining all areas where violations had previously been documented. The inspection report specifically notes that proper handwashing procedures are now being followed, no rodent activity was observed, and all equipment had been properly cleaned and maintained. The restaurant's quick response to health department requirements demonstrates a commitment to customer safety that should reassure diners returning to the establishment. Food safety experts emphasize that restaurants willing to invest in proper corrections typically maintain higher standards going forward.

Moving Forward

With all violations now corrected, Saru can resume normal operations serving Japanese cuisine to Castro district diners. The restaurant's phone number (415) 812-1189 connects customers directly with staff who can answer questions about current operations and safety protocols. The successful resolution of these health concerns reinforces the importance of San Francisco's inspection system in protecting public health while allowing businesses to correct problems and continue serving the community safely.