Johnny Foleys Irish House Gets Conditional Pass with Minor Fix

Johnny Foleys Irish House in San Francisco's Tenderloin district received a conditional pass during its October 2 reinspection, with inspectors identifying minor equipment storage violations that require attention but do not impact the restaurant's ability to serve customers safely. Inspector John Wells conducted the reinspection at the Irish restaurant located at 243 O'Farrell Street, near Powell St BART, finding two minor violations related to equipment storage and use that must be corrected before the next routine inspection.

Equipment Storage Issues Identified

The primary concern identified during this inspection involved an unsecured CO2 cylinder positioned adjacent to a Dunkers one-door upright cooler in the customer area. Health officials require that all CO2 cylinders be chained up or otherwise secured to prevent them from falling over, which could pose safety risks to both staff and patrons. The violation falls under California Retail Food Code Section 114161 and 114178, which govern proper equipment storage and use in food service establishments. While classified as a minor violation, proper securing of gas cylinders is essential for maintaining a safe dining environment. The inspection report notes that the same equipment storage violation was cited twice, suggesting the unsecured cylinder issue was consistent throughout the customer area. The restaurant management, represented by Mary Connolly who received the inspection report, will need to install proper chains or securing mechanisms for all CO2 equipment.

Significant Progress from Previous Inspection

The conditional pass represents notable improvement from Johnny Foleys Irish House's previous inspection on September 11, when inspectors found multiple violations including improper hot and cold holding temperatures, food labeling issues, and plumbing problems. According to the reinspection notes, several critical violations from the September inspection have been successfully corrected. Foods in all coolers now measure the required 41 degrees Fahrenheit, and items on the cook's steam table maintain proper holding temperatures at 135 degrees Fahrenheit. All refrigeration units are now properly maintaining foods at or below 41 degrees, and bulk food storage bins in the kitchen display proper labeling. The restaurant's commitment to addressing health violations demonstrates responsible management practices in maintaining food safety standards for its customers in the busy Tenderloin neighborhood.

Outstanding Plumbing Issue

One violation from the previous inspection remains uncorrected and will be monitored during the next routine inspection. Inspectors noted that drain lines continue to be submerged in the floor sink at the south end of the bar area. Health regulations require that all drain pipes be elevated at least one inch above the rim of floor sinks to prevent potential contamination and ensure proper drainage. This plumbing issue, while not immediately dangerous to food safety, needs resolution to meet San Francisco health code requirements. The restaurant will have additional time to address this infrastructure concern before facing potential penalties.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Despite the conditional status, Johnny Foleys Irish House remains open and continues serving customers in the Tenderloin area. The restaurant cuisine establishment maintains its regular hours while working to complete the required equipment modifications. The conditional pass allows the restaurant to operate normally while demonstrating good faith efforts to correct the minor violations. Inspector Wells noted that the establishment has made substantial progress since the September inspection, indicating management's commitment to maintaining proper health and safety standards. Johnny Foleys Irish House can be reached at (415) 954-0771 for customers seeking information about current operations and menu offerings.