Financial District Sohunan Fails Reinspection Mouse Droppings

Sohunan, a Chinese restaurant in San Francisco's Financial District, has failed its health reinspection despite having a week to address serious violations, with inspectors discovering persistent rodent infestations and broken sanitizing equipment that put diners at risk of foodborne illness. The Chinese restaurant at 674 Sacramento Street, near Embarcadero BART, received a failing grade during this inspection on August 22, 2025, when health inspector John Wells found that critical violations remained uncorrected from the previous visit.

Health Violations Found

The most alarming discovery was the continued presence of mouse droppings next to water heaters in the downstairs restroom. While restaurant staff had cleaned some areas since the initial inspection, the persistent rodent problem indicates an ongoing infestation that poses serious health risks to customers and staff. Health experts warn that mice produce up to 50 droppings daily, each potentially contaminated with dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. The location near water heaters is particularly concerning, as the warm environment provides ideal breeding conditions for bacteria and parasites. Equally troubling, inspectors found the restaurant's dishwashing machine dispensing zero parts per million of chlorine sanitizer during the sanitize cycle. California health code requires at least 50 ppm chlorine to effectively kill harmful bacteria on plates, utensils, and food contact surfaces. This equipment failure means every dish served to customers potentially harbored dangerous microorganisms. The facility also lacked a certified food safety manager, with only one of approximately four employees holding a basic food handler card. Research shows that certified managers reduce critical violations by 60% through proper understanding of temperature control, contamination prevention, and hygiene protocols. Additional violations included inadequate handwashing facilities, with warm water temperatures measuring only 84 degrees Fahrenheit at the upstairs restroom sink, far below the required 100-108 degree range needed for effective hand sanitation.

Inspection Details

Inspector Wells noted some improvements during the reinspection, including corrected food temperatures, fixed wastewater leaks, and partial cleanup of rodent droppings. However, the persistence of major violations after receiving official warnings demonstrates the restaurant's failure to prioritize customer safety. The inspection occurred during the dinner rush from 3:00 to 3:30 PM, when the kitchen would typically be at peak operation. Diners eating at Sohunan that evening were unknowingly exposed to food prepared with improperly sanitized equipment in a facility with active rodent activity.

Previous Inspection History

This failed reinspection followed an initial inspection that identified the same critical violations. The restaurant's inability to address these fundamental food safety issues within the allotted timeframe raises serious questions about management's commitment to health standards. The Financial District location serves office workers and tourists visiting nearby attractions, making the health violations particularly concerning given the high volume of potential customers at risk. Following this failed reinspection, Sohunan was required to undergo another follow-up inspection. Records show the restaurant eventually received a conditional pass on August 29, indicating most violations were finally corrected after multiple warnings and inspections. The persistent violations highlight the importance of regular health inspections in protecting San Francisco diners from preventable foodborne illnesses and unsafe dining conditions.