Coit Liquors Gets Conditional Pass - Minor Issues Need Fix

Coit Liquors on Powell Street in North Beach received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on December 4, 2024, with inspectors identifying several minor violations that require correction but do not warrant closure. The liquor store can continue operating while addressing the issues found during this inspection. San Francisco Department of Public Health inspectors conducted the routine inspection between 2:45 PM and 3:15 PM, discovering six total violations that included one critical issue, two major concerns, and three minor infractions. The establishment successfully corrected one temperature violation on-site during the inspection, demonstrating immediate responsiveness to inspector recommendations.

Inspection Details

The most significant finding involved evidence of rodent activity, with inspectors observing what appeared to be rodent rub marks near corners of doorways in the rear of the facility behind boxes. Health officials recommended that the establishment continue working with licensed pest control professionals to eliminate vermin and thoroughly clean and sanitize affected areas. Additionally, inspectors discovered caged birds on the premises, which are not permitted in food facilities and must be removed according to California health regulations. Temperature control issues emerged as another area requiring attention. Inspectors found sealed egg nog in a single-door refrigeration unit holding at 47°F, which exceeds safe storage temperatures. The inspector requested that staff relocate the egg nog to a properly functioning refrigeration unit or adjust temperatures to maintain food safety standards. This violation was among those addressed during the inspection visit. Handwashing facility accessibility presented operational challenges during the inspection. The handwash sink located in the hallway at the back of the house was obstructed at the time of the visit. Inspectors emphasized the importance of ensuring handwash sinks remain supplied with soap, paper towels, and warm water at all times to maintain proper hygiene standards for staff.

Facility Maintenance and Storage Issues

Several facility maintenance concerns were identified that require attention but do not impact immediate food safety. Inspectors noted a hole in the ceiling of the rear supply room that needs repair, along with wear to laminate plank flooring in the sales area. These maintenance issues should be addressed to prevent potential contamination and maintain facility integrity. Storage and pest control practices also required correction. A can of Raid residential pesticide was found in the restroom, which must be removed as residential-use toxic pest control products are not permitted in food facilities. The restroom door also lacks proper self-closing mechanisms, which inspectors recommended installing to maintain sanitation standards.

Operational Context

Located at 1657 Powell Street near the Powell-Mason Cable Car line, Coit Liquors serves the busy North Beach neighborhood with convenient access for both residents and tourists. The establishment operates under permit holder Najwa Inc and can be reached at (415) 362-4444 for customer inquiries. This inspection represents the first recorded health department visit for this facility in available public records, providing a baseline for future compliance monitoring. The conditional pass status allows the business to remain operational while implementing the necessary corrections identified by inspectors. The San Francisco Department of Public Health will likely conduct a follow-up inspection to verify that all violations have been properly addressed. Establishments receiving conditional passes typically have a specified timeframe to complete corrections and demonstrate full compliance with health regulations. Customers can continue patronizing Coit Liquors with confidence that the identified issues are minor and correctable, representing typical operational adjustments rather than serious health hazards that would require immediate closure.