Snow Tea Bar Gets Conditional Pass Despite Minor Violations

Snow Tea Bar in North Beach received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on November 20, 2025, allowing the popular bubble tea establishment to continue serving customers while addressing minor violations discovered by city health inspector Kyle Chan. The inspection, conducted between 11:30 AM and 12:15 PM at the 2800 Leavenworth Street location, identified three violations requiring correction but none serious enough to warrant closure. The conditional pass status means the restaurant can remain open for business while working to resolve the identified issues within the required timeframe.

Inspection Violations Found

During this inspection, health officials documented one critical violation involving pest control, one major violation related to equipment sanitation, and one minor violation that was corrected on-site. The most serious concern identified was rodent droppings found near the grease barrel and mop sink area, which prompted the critical violation citation under California Retail Food Code Section 114259. The major violation centered on food contact surface cleanliness, specifically debris buildup discovered on the ice machine and refrigeration units. These surfaces require immediate attention to prevent potential cross-contamination and maintain proper food safety standards. Ice machines and refrigeration equipment must be kept clean to prevent bacterial growth and ensure safe beverage preparation. The minor violation involved improper storage of wiping cloths, which were not being stored in sanitizer solution as required. This violation was corrected on-site during the inspection, demonstrating the restaurant's willingness to address issues immediately when identified by health officials.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Despite the violations found, Snow Tea Bar remains open and serving customers in the bustling North Beach district. The conditional pass allows the business to continue operations while implementing corrective measures for the identified issues. The restaurant is conveniently located near the Powell-Mason Cable Car line, making it easily accessible to both locals and tourists. The establishment specializes in bubble tea beverages and has built a customer base in the North Beach area. The conditional pass indicates that while improvements are needed, the violations do not pose an immediate threat to public safety that would require closure.

Correction Timeline and Follow-up

Restaurant management must address all identified violations within the timeframe specified by the health department. The critical pest control issue requires immediate attention, including professional pest management services and thorough cleaning of affected areas. The equipment cleaning violations must be resolved through deep sanitization of the ice machine and refrigeration units. Inspector Kyle Chan will likely schedule a follow-up inspection to verify that all corrections have been properly implemented. The restaurant must demonstrate that rodent entry points have been sealed, affected areas have been thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, and proper cleaning protocols are being followed for all food contact surfaces.

Facility Background

This marks the first recorded inspection for Snow Tea Bar since its establishment in the North Beach location. The restaurant operates under the official permit name "Snow Tea Bar, Inc." and serves the local community with specialty bubble tea beverages and related refreshments. The conditional pass result reflects the restaurant's commitment to addressing health department concerns while maintaining service to customers. With proper corrective action, the establishment should achieve full compliance during its next inspection cycle, ensuring continued safe operations in the competitive North Beach food service market.