Chicken G's Chinatown Closed After Rodent Droppings Found

San Francisco health officials have ordered the immediate closure of Chicken G's in Chinatown after discovering widespread evidence of an active rodent infestation throughout the restaurant during a routine inspection on September 4, 2025. The violations were so severe that the establishment failed its inspection and was forced to shut down operations. Inspector Alyssa Manzano documented extensive rodent droppings in shocking locations throughout the 346 Kearny Street restaurant, including areas where customers and food preparation intersect. The most alarming discoveries included droppings on shelves containing boxes of sodas next to the front customer service counter and on shelves of to-go bags where customers would receive their orders.

Extensive Kitchen Contamination

The inspection revealed that the rodent infestation had penetrated deep into the restaurant's food preparation areas. Mouse droppings were found scattered across the kitchen floor in multiple locations, including next to storage shelves, under beverage dispensers, and inside the walk-in cooler where food is stored at critical temperatures. The contamination extended into the basement storage areas, where droppings were discovered on bags of flour used for food preparation. The severity of the infestation suggests that rodents had established a significant presence throughout the facility, potentially exposing customers to serious health risks including salmonella, hantavirus, and other foodborne pathogens commonly transmitted through rodent contamination.

Health Violations and Safety Concerns

Beyond the rodent infestation, inspectors identified additional critical violations that contributed to the restaurant's closure. A hand sink adjacent to the walk-in cooler had been improperly connected to a portable washing machine, compromising essential handwashing facilities required for food safety. The basement also contained an excess of unused equipment that provided additional harborage for vermin. Health experts warn that mice can produce up to 50 droppings daily, each potentially containing dangerous bacteria. The presence of droppings in food storage and customer service areas creates direct pathways for contamination of ingredients and prepared foods served to unsuspecting diners.

Restaurant History and Closure Impact

This inspection represents the first recorded health department review for Chicken G's, making the extensive violations particularly concerning for public health officials. The restaurant's person in charge, Ameena Begum, refused to sign the inspection report, according to inspector documentation from this inspection. Located near the Montgomery St BART station, Chicken G's serves a bustling area frequented by both tourists and local workers in San Francisco's historic Chinatown district. The closure removes a dining option from one of the city's most visited neighborhoods, where food safety standards are crucial for protecting both residents and the thousands of daily visitors. The restaurant must address all violations and pass a reinspection before being permitted to reopen. No timeline has been established for when Chicken G's might resume operations, leaving customers seeking alternatives in the surrounding area. Inspector Manzano can be reached at (415) 252-3980 for additional information about the inspection findings and reinspection requirements.