Tratto Italian Restaurant Gets Conditional Pass on Reinspection

Tratto, the Italian restaurant located at 501 Geary Street in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, received a conditional pass during its November 21st reinspection, demonstrating significant progress in addressing previous health code violations while working toward full compliance. The reinspection, conducted by Inspector John Wells from 9:45 to 10:00 AM, revealed that the restaurant had successfully corrected several previously identified issues. Most notably, the establishment installed and made operable the faucets at their three-compartment sink, addressing a critical infrastructure need for proper dishware sanitization. Additionally, the restaurant properly labeled their bulk food storage bins, ensuring clear identification of ingredients and allergen information for kitchen staff.

Outstanding Compliance Issue

Despite these improvements, one minor violation remains unresolved. The facility's food safety manager certification could not be verified during this inspection. While the restaurant operator confirmed that the general manager possesses the required food safety certification, they were unable to provide documentation at the time of the inspection. This certification requirement, outlined in California Retail Food Code Section 113947.1, ensures that at least one designated person on staff has completed formal training in food safety protocols. Research indicates that certified food safety managers reduce critical violations by 60% through their understanding of temperature control, contamination prevention, and proper hygiene practices that help prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.

Restaurant Remains Open for Service

The conditional pass allows Tratto to continue serving customers near the Powell Street BART/Muni station while addressing the documentation requirement. The restaurant's location in the bustling Tenderloin neighborhood means it serves both local residents and visitors exploring the area's diverse dining scene. The establishment's ability to operate during this period reflects the minor nature of the outstanding violation. Unlike critical violations that pose immediate health risks and can result in closure, administrative issues like certification verification typically allow restaurants to maintain operations while working toward compliance.

Inspection History Shows Progress

Tratto's inspection record reveals a pattern of addressing health code requirements over recent months. A previous inspection on October 23rd also resulted in a conditional pass, while the initial routine inspection on September 11th identified multiple areas for improvement including proper hot and cold holding temperatures, hot and cold running water availability, and personal cleanliness requirements. The restaurant's systematic approach to correcting violations demonstrates management's commitment to maintaining proper food safety standards. The successful installation of functional sink faucets and implementation of proper food labeling systems shows concrete steps toward full compliance with San Francisco health regulations.

Next Steps for Full Compliance

To achieve an unconditional pass, Tratto must simply provide documentation verifying their general manager's food safety certification. This administrative step should be straightforward, as the restaurant operator has already confirmed the certification exists. Inspector John Wells, who can be reached at (415) 252-3801, will likely schedule a follow-up visit to verify the documentation and potentially upgrade the restaurant's status to a full pass. The establishment was received by Titiana Bucurici during the November inspection. For diners seeking Italian cuisine in the Tenderloin area, Tratto continues to operate while finalizing its compliance documentation, representing the restaurant's ongoing commitment to food safety excellence.