Deja Vu Pizza & Pasta Closed for Rodent Droppings in SOMA

Deja Vu Pizza & Pasta in SOMA has been closed by San Francisco health inspectors after officials discovered rodent droppings scattered throughout critical areas of the restaurant, raising serious concerns about food safety and sanitation practices at the 16th Street establishment. During this inspection conducted on August 20, 2025, Inspector Carlos Barragan found approximately five rodent droppings in two particularly concerning locations: on the floor adjacent to the water heater and beneath the upright cooler. These discoveries prompted immediate closure of the restaurant, which serves pizza and pasta to residents and visitors in the bustling SOMA district near Civic Center BART.

Health Violations Found

The rodent infestation discovered at the 3227 16th Street location poses significant health risks to customers. Mice produce up to 50 droppings daily, each containing dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. The placement of droppings near the water heater and cooler is particularly alarming, as these areas are integral to food storage and preparation operations. Beyond the immediate rodent problem, inspectors also identified structural issues that could exacerbate sanitation problems. Missing grout and cracked floor tiles were discovered in the warewash and pizza preparation areas, creating ideal conditions for bacteria growth and making thorough cleaning nearly impossible. These damaged surfaces can harbor harmful microorganisms and provide additional entry points for pests. The inspection revealed a facility struggling with basic pest control measures. Rodents in restaurant environments spread multiple diseases including plague and leptospirosis, while their droppings contaminate food preparation surfaces and storage areas. For customers who dined at the establishment before the closure, the presence of rodent droppings near food storage equipment means potential exposure to serious foodborne illnesses.

Inspection Details

The followup inspection, conducted between 4:45 PM and 5:30 PM, resulted in two total violations - one critical and one minor. The critical violation for pest presence triggered the immediate closure under California Retail Food Code Section 114259, which prohibits insects, rodents, birds, and other non-service animals in food establishments. Inspector Carlos Barragan, who can be reached at carlos.barragan@sfdph.org, documented the extent of the rodent problem throughout the facility. The inspection was received by an individual identified as "Sak," though the restaurant's certified food manager status remained unclear during the closure proceedings.

Restaurant History and Impact

This marks the first recorded inspection for Deja Vu Pizza & Pasta in the city's database, making it impossible to determine whether pest issues represent an ongoing problem or recent development. The restaurant, located in the heart of SOMA's dining scene, had been serving pizza and pasta to local residents, workers, and tourists visiting the area's many attractions. The closure impacts not only the restaurant's operations but also dining options for the neighborhood's diverse population. SOMA's proximity to major transit hubs like Civic Center BART makes restaurants in the area popular with commuters and visitors exploring downtown San Francisco. According to the inspection report, the facility's permit to operate was eventually reinstated, allowing the restaurant to reopen to the public after addressing all violations related to the imminent health hazards. However, the discovery of rodent droppings and structural damage highlights the importance of regular pest control measures and facility maintenance in food service establishments. The San Francisco Department of Public Health continues monitoring restaurants throughout the city to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and protect public health from preventable foodborne illnesses.