Seniores Pizza in San Francisco's Tenderloin district failed a critical reinspection on August 19, 2025, after health inspectors discovered old rat droppings near flour storage containers and multiple sanitation violations that put diners at serious risk.
The Italian restaurant, located near Powell St BART/Muni, received four violations during this inspection, including three critical infractions that could lead to foodborne illness. The most alarming discovery came when inspectors found evidence of rodent activity in the upstairs food storage area, directly adjacent to flour containers used in pizza preparation.
Critical Rodent Infestation Issues
Despite a pest control report from July 24, 2025, claiming no rodent activity was observed, inspectors documented clear evidence of ongoing rodent problems during the reinspection. Old rat droppings were scattered on the floor near flour storage containers, creating a direct contamination risk for ingredients used in food preparation. The situation was further complicated by the discovery of rodenticide pellets scattered on the floor underneath the flour storage container, indicating both active pest control measures and potential chemical contamination near food storage areas. This combination of rodent evidence and chemical pest control materials in food preparation zones represents a serious health hazard for customers. Inspectors also identified a structural vulnerability that enables continued rodent entry - a gap underneath the customer entrance door that remains unsealed despite previous warnings. This opening provides easy access for mice and rats to enter the facility and contaminate food preparation areas.Sanitation and Management Violations
Beyond the rodent issues, inspectors documented additional critical violations that suggest systemic problems with food safety protocols. A worker was observed dumping dirty mop water directly into a prep sink basin, contaminating surfaces used for food preparation. This practice creates direct cross-contamination risks between cleaning chemicals and food contact surfaces. The person in charge failed to properly oversee operations and ensure timely correction of health code violations, indicating management awareness issues. Additionally, the employee restroom upstairs had a jammed paper towel dispenser, preventing proper handwashing procedures essential for food safety.Health Risks for Diners
The violations documented at Seniores Pizza create multiple pathways for foodborne illness transmission. Rat droppings can contain dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus, while a single mouse produces approximately 50 droppings daily. When these contaminants are found near flour storage, they can directly contaminate ingredients used in pizza dough and other menu items. The improper sanitation practices observed, including contaminated prep sinks and inadequate handwashing facilities, compound these risks by creating additional opportunities for bacterial transmission to food products.Previous Inspection History
This failed reinspection represents ongoing struggles with basic food safety compliance at the Tenderloin location. The facility's inspection history shows a pattern of violations requiring follow-up inspections, with the most recent September 18, 2025 reinspection resulting in a conditional pass after addressing some issues. The restaurant was not closed following this failed reinspection, but must address all critical violations before receiving approval to continue operations. Customers visiting this Italian establishment should be aware of these documented food safety issues until proper corrective measures are implemented and verified through additional inspection. Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections📍 Related Information
| Restaurant Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Seniores pizza |
| Address | |
| District | Tenderloin |
| Cuisine | Italian |
| Inspection Date | August 19, 2025 |
| Inspection Type | Reinspection Inspection |