Precita Park Cafe Reopens After Resolving Health Issues

Precita Park Cafe on Precita Avenue in San Francisco's Mission District has successfully reopened after passing a comprehensive reinspection on September 26, 2025, marking the end of a months-long closure that began following serious health violations discovered during a routine inspection in July 2025. The cafe at 500 Precita Ave, operated by Park Cafe Group Inc, had been shuttered since the summer after health inspectors uncovered a range of troubling violations that posed significant risks to public health. The original inspection revealed evidence of rodent infestation with droppings found throughout the facility, live cockroaches on food contact surfaces, and serious equipment malfunctions that compromised food safety.

Comprehensive Remediation Efforts

Inspector Cristina Zepeda's reinspection report documented the cafe's successful resolution of all previously identified violations. The facility has implemented monthly professional pest control services, completely eliminating the rodent and cockroach problems that had plagued the establishment. Staff now demonstrate proper knowledge of sanitizer protocols, with the dishwasher registering appropriate chlorine levels at 50 ppm, meeting health department standards. The cafe's management invested significantly in equipment repairs and upgrades during the closure period. The problematic floor sink drainage system has been completely overhauled, and the hand sink in the scullery room that had been out of order is now functioning properly. These infrastructure improvements were critical violations that had contributed to unsanitary conditions and the facility's inability to maintain proper hygiene standards.

Health Risks and Customer Safety

The violations that led to Precita Park Cafe's closure posed serious health risks to patrons. Rodent droppings can transmit diseases including salmonella, E. coli, and hantavirus through contamination of food surfaces and ingredients. The presence of live cockroaches on food contact surfaces created additional contamination risks, as these pests carry bacteria and pathogens that can cause foodborne illness. The malfunctioning hand washing facilities had prevented staff from maintaining proper hygiene, potentially leading to cross-contamination during food preparation. Without functioning sinks and proper sanitizer protocols, employees could unknowingly transfer harmful bacteria from contaminated surfaces to food served to customers.

Mission District Dining Scene

The cafe's reopening provides relief to residents in the Mission District, particularly those living near the 24th Street Mission BART station. Precita Park Cafe serves as a neighborhood gathering spot, offering coffee and light fare to local residents and commuters. The establishment's closure had removed a convenient dining option from an area already impacted by restaurant closures during recent years. The successful reinspection demonstrates the effectiveness of San Francisco's health department oversight system. By requiring comprehensive remediation before allowing reopening, the department ensures that establishments meet stringent safety standards that protect public health.

Moving Forward

With all violations corrected and systems in place to prevent future problems, Precita Park Cafe can now serve customers with confidence in its food safety practices. The monthly pest control contract provides ongoing protection against infestations, while the repaired equipment ensures proper sanitation capabilities. The cafe's reopening represents a significant investment by ownership in meeting health standards and serving the Mission District community safely. Customers can now return to the establishment knowing that comprehensive measures have been taken to address the serious violations that led to its temporary closure. Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections