Angelina's Gets Conditional Pass Despite Minor Equipment Issues

Angelina's on California Street received a conditional pass during a recent health department reinspection, allowing the popular Outer Richmond cafe to continue serving customers while addressing minor equipment and food storage violations. The November 10 reinspection at 6000 California Street revealed manageable issues that don't threaten public safety but require attention to maintain full compliance. Inspector Jessica Jang documented concerns including an unlicensed soft-serve ice cream dispenser and improper food storage arrangements that were partially corrected during the visit.

Equipment Licensing Requirements

The primary violation centered on the restaurant's soft-serve ice cream dispenser operating without the required California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) dairy license. This equipment certification ensures that dairy-serving machines meet state health and safety standards for temperature control and sanitation protocols. Angelina's management must contact CDFA's Milk and Dairy division to obtain proper licensing and submit the certificate to the health department. The inspector requested evidence of application submittal, indicating the restaurant has begun the correction process. Additionally, a new turbofan oven requires district approval and documentation specifying its intended use for reheating purposes only.

Food Storage Corrections

During this inspection, health officials observed raw eggs stored inappropriately next to ready-to-eat deli meats in the food preparation refrigeration area. This arrangement creates potential cross-contamination risks between raw and prepared foods, which could lead to foodborne illness if not properly managed. The violation was immediately addressed when an employee covered the deli meats with plastic wrap during the inspection. However, inspectors recommended relocating or permanently covering the raw egg mixture to ensure ongoing separation between raw ingredients and ready-to-eat items.

Ongoing Operations and Safety

The conditional pass allows Angelina's to remain open while addressing these correctable issues. The cafe, located near the 38 Geary bus line, continues serving its regular menu to neighborhood residents and visitors exploring the Outer Richmond district. This reinspection followed a September routine inspection where the restaurant received a passing grade despite similar food protection concerns. The pattern suggests ongoing attention to food separation protocols, with staff making immediate corrections when violations are identified.

Follow-up Requirements

Angelina's has until November 17 to complete the required corrections and provide documentation to the health department. The restaurant must submit proof of CDFA license application progress and obtain district approval for the new oven installation. The cafe's owner, David Ababseh, and staff demonstrated cooperation during the inspection process by immediately addressing the food storage issue. This proactive response to inspector recommendations typically facilitates smoother compliance and helps maintain customer confidence in food safety practices. The conditional pass reflects San Francisco's health department approach of working with establishments to achieve full compliance while allowing continued operations when violations pose minimal immediate risk. Customers can expect normal service at Angelina's as the restaurant works through these administrative and equipment corrections over the coming week.