Chao Pescao Fails Reinspection with Live Cockroaches Found

A Tenderloin restaurant failed its health department reinspection when inspectors discovered live cockroaches scurrying through the facility, despite previous warnings and pest control efforts. Chao Pescao, located at 272 McAllister Street near Powell St BART/Muni, received a failing grade during this inspection on August 13, 2025, marking a troubling continuation of pest problems. The reinspection revealed that despite apparent efforts to address previous violations, the restaurant's pest control measures had failed dramatically. Inspector Jesus Zapien documented finding two live cockroaches in the downstairs area of the facility during the noon inspection, alongside multiple dead cockroaches trapped on glue boards placed throughout the restaurant.

Widespread Cockroach Infestation Discovered

The inspection uncovered evidence of a persistent cockroach infestation that had spread throughout multiple areas of the restaurant. Dead cockroaches were found on glue traps positioned along piping next to the walk-in refrigerator, while additional deceased insects were discovered on separate glue traps in the downstairs dry storage area. The discovery of live cockroaches during a reinspection is particularly concerning, as it indicates that previous pest control interventions had failed to eliminate the problem. Health experts note that cockroaches carry 33 different types of bacteria and six parasitic worms, posing serious health risks to restaurant customers. These pests can contaminate food preparation surfaces, utensils, and stored ingredients with dangerous pathogens including Salmonella, E. coli, and other foodborne illness-causing bacteria. The presence of cockroaches in both the refrigerated storage area and dry storage zones suggests the infestation had access to the restaurant's entire food storage system. Customers dining at the establishment could have been unknowingly consuming food that had come into contact with these disease-carrying pests or their droppings.

Additional Sanitation Violations

Beyond the cockroach problem, inspectors identified multiple sanitation issues that contributed to the restaurant's failing grade. Dust accumulation was found on walk-in refrigerator fan covers, creating additional health hazards and potentially compromising food storage temperatures. These equipment issues were corrected on-site during the inspection. The restaurant also violated proper food handling protocols by using cups as scoops inside large flour and rice bins in the downstairs storage area. This practice creates cross-contamination risks and violates California retail food code standards for food contact surfaces.

Previous Inspection History

The failed reinspection followed earlier concerns about the restaurant's operations. Records show that Chao Pescao received a conditional pass during a follow-up inspection on August 21, 2025, suggesting ongoing struggles with health code compliance. The progression from conditional approval to outright failure demonstrates the restaurant's inability to maintain consistent food safety standards.

Required Follow-Up Actions

The San Francisco Department of Public Health has mandated that the restaurant address all violations before resuming normal operations. A follow-up inspection was scheduled for August 21, 2025, to verify that proper pest control measures have been implemented and that all sanitation issues have been resolved. For diners in the Tenderloin area seeking restaurant options, this inspection serves as a reminder to check health department records before visiting establishments. The restaurant remains open despite the failed reinspection, though customers should be aware of the documented health violations. The inspection was conducted by Jesus Zapien, who can be reached at jesus.zapien@sfdph.org for additional information about the violations and required corrective actions.