Financial District Acai Bowl Restaurant Shut Down for Rodents

Bowl'd Acai, a popular acai bowl restaurant in San Francisco's Financial District, was immediately shuttered by health inspectors on September 16, 2025, after discovering extensive evidence of rodent infestation throughout the facility. The restaurant at 155 Montgomery Street, conveniently located near Montgomery St BART, failed this inspection due to critical health violations that posed immediate risks to customer safety.

Critical Rodent Infestation Discovered

During the routine inspection conducted by Inspector Alyssa Manzano, old rodent droppings were found scattered on shelves in the upstairs dry storage room and on the floor underneath the three-compartment sink where dishes are cleaned. While no immediate food contamination was observed, the presence of rodent waste in food preparation and storage areas represents a severe health hazard that prompted immediate closure. The discovery of mice activity is particularly alarming for customers who may have consumed acai bowls and other healthy food options at the establishment. Rodent droppings can contain dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus, with mice typically producing up to 50 droppings daily in areas where they nest and forage for food.

Multiple Health Code Violations

Beyond the rodent infestation, inspectors identified critical failures in basic food safety protocols. The restaurant was found operating without proper handwashing facilities, as paper towels were completely absent from the hand sink located next to the three-compartment dishwashing station. This violation creates a direct pathway for contamination as staff cannot properly dry their hands after washing. Additionally, the restaurant was serving raw tuna to customers without the required consumer advisory warnings about potential health risks associated with consuming undercooked seafood. This violation puts customers at risk of foodborne illnesses without their knowledge or informed consent.

Immediate Remediation Required

Inspector Manzano ordered comprehensive remediation measures before the restaurant can consider reopening. The establishment must clean and sanitize all affected areas, obtain additional professional pest control services, and send documentation to the health department. Critical structural improvements are also required, including sealing all holes and gaps that allow rodent entry, installing door sweeps in the upstairs storage room, and addressing openings along walls and floors in the stairwell.

Previous Inspection History

This marks a troubling pattern for the acai restaurant, as a follow-up reinspection on September 30, 2025, also resulted in failure and continued closure. The facility has struggled to address the rodent problem and consumer advisory requirements, indicating systemic issues with food safety management.

Impact on Financial District Dining

The closure removes a popular healthy dining option from the bustling Financial District, where office workers and residents relied on Bowl'd Acai for nutritious breakfast and lunch options. The restaurant's location near Montgomery Street BART made it a convenient choice for commuters seeking quick, healthy meals. The San Francisco Department of Public Health has scheduled a reinspection for no earlier than September 23, 2025, to verify compliance with all corrective measures. Until then, the restaurant remains closed to protect public health and safety. Customers who recently dined at the establishment and experience any symptoms of foodborne illness should contact their healthcare provider immediately. The case highlights the critical importance of proper pest control and basic sanitation in food service establishments, particularly those serving ready-to-eat items like acai bowls and raw fish products.