The Midway Bar Gets Conditional Pass for Test Strip Issue

The Midway, a popular bar located at 900 Marin Street in Bayview, received a conditional pass during a November 14 reinspection, demonstrating significant progress in correcting health code violations while addressing one remaining minor issue. The reinspection revealed substantial improvements from the establishment's previous inspection, with most violations successfully corrected. Health inspectors found that The Midway had addressed critical issues including walk-in refrigeration temperature control, proper consumer advisory posting, and manager certification requirements. However, the facility still needs to provide approved chemical test strips for monitoring quaternary ammonium sanitizer concentration.

Inspection Details

During this inspection conducted between 10:00 AM and 11:15 AM, inspector Montre Tieu found one major violation remaining from the previous inspection cycle. The specific issue involved employees being unable to provide approved test strips for monitoring sanitizer concentration in the warewashing facilities. The violation falls under California Retail Food Code Section 114095 and 114099, which requires establishments to maintain proper sanitizer monitoring equipment. Test strips are essential for ensuring that dishwashing sanitizer reaches appropriate concentration levels to eliminate harmful pathogens. Without proper monitoring, improperly sanitized dishes can harbor dangerous bacteria including Hepatitis A, which can survive on surfaces for weeks and cause serious health outbreaks. The inspector's report noted that "Employee was unable to provide approved test strips for monitoring sanitizer concentration. Provide approved chemical test strips for monitoring quaternary sanitizer concentration." This requirement ensures that all dishes, glasses, and utensils are properly sanitized before being used by customers.

Progress and Improvements

The conditional pass result represents significant progress for The Midway, which operates near the T-Third Muni line in the Bayview neighborhood. The establishment successfully corrected multiple previous violations, including critical temperature control issues in walk-in refrigeration units and proper posting of consumer advisories required by health regulations. Manager certification compliance was also achieved, ensuring that qualified personnel oversee food safety operations. These improvements demonstrate the establishment's commitment to maintaining health standards while serving the local community.

Continued Operations

The conditional pass allows The Midway to continue normal operations while addressing the remaining test strip requirement. Bar patrons can continue to visit the establishment, which serves as a neighborhood gathering place in the Bayview district. The facility must provide approved chemical test strips for sanitizer monitoring to achieve full compliance. Follow-up inspection will verify that proper sanitizer concentration monitoring procedures are in place and that staff can demonstrate correct usage of testing equipment.

Restaurant Operations

The Midway, owned by Marin Street Enterprises Inc., continues to serve customers at its Marin Street location. The establishment can be reached at (415) 641-4318 for questions about operations or hours. Health inspectors will conduct a follow-up visit to verify that approved test strips have been obtained and that staff properly understand sanitizer monitoring procedures. Once this minor requirement is addressed, the establishment should achieve full compliance with San Francisco health regulations. The conditional pass demonstrates how restaurants can work collaboratively with health inspectors to maintain safety standards while continuing to serve their communities. The Midway's progress shows dedication to food safety and customer protection in the Bayview neighborhood.