J & A Chinese Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass, Fixes Needed

J & A Restaurant in San Francisco's Excelsior district received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on November 19, 2025, with inspectors identifying 8 violations that require correction while allowing the Chinese restaurant to continue serving customers. The inspection, conducted by inspector Montre Tieu from 11:00 AM to 1:15 PM at the Mission Street location near Balboa Park BART, revealed a mix of major and minor violations that highlight the restaurant's need for improved food safety protocols while maintaining its ability to operate safely.

Inspection Violations Found

The most significant issue discovered during this inspection was the absence of a sanitizer bucket, a critical food safety tool that helps prevent cross-contamination. This major violation was corrected on site, demonstrating the restaurant's immediate response to inspector feedback. Inspectors also identified equipment repair needs, specifically noting that wood planks were covering the grease interceptor when a proper metal cover is required. This type of equipment violation can create sanitation challenges and requires prompt attention to maintain proper commercial kitchen standards. Several food storage and labeling issues were documented, including a lack of labels on bulk containers. Proper labeling ensures food safety by tracking expiration dates and preventing cross-contamination between different ingredients.

Corrected Violations

Three violations were addressed immediately during the inspection, showing the restaurant's willingness to cooperate with health officials. Wet wiping cloths found on food preparation tables were properly relocated, and cloths that were not stored in sanitizer solution were corrected on site. These quick fixes demonstrate the establishment's commitment to maintaining safe food handling practices. Additional minor violations included gaps in the hood filter system and general cleanliness issues throughout the facility. Inspectors noted personal items stored throughout the restaurant and recommended decluttering the premises to improve overall sanitation standards.

Conditional Pass Status

The conditional pass designation means J & A Restaurant can continue normal operations while working to address the identified violations. This status is common for establishments that have violations requiring correction but do not pose immediate health risks to customers. Located at 5712 Mission Street in the heart of the Excelsior neighborhood, the restaurant serves the diverse community surrounding the busy transit corridor. The facility's proximity to Balboa Park BART makes it easily accessible to both local residents and commuters seeking authentic Chinese cuisine.

Next Steps

Restaurant management must address all outstanding violations within the timeframe specified by the health department to achieve full compliance. A follow-up inspection will be scheduled to verify that all corrections have been properly implemented. The establishment's ability to correct three violations on site during the initial inspection suggests management understands the importance of food safety protocols and is prepared to make necessary improvements. Customers can continue dining at the restaurant while these minor adjustments are completed. This marks the first recorded inspection for J & A Restaurant in the city's database, making it a new addition to the Excelsior district's dining scene. The conditional pass provides a foundation for the restaurant to build upon as it establishes its reputation for safe food handling practices in the competitive San Francisco market.