SF Curry Up Now Closed for Broken Plumbing, Grease Buildup

Curry Up Now, a popular Indian restaurant in San Francisco's Mission District, was forced to close its doors on October 6, 2025, after health inspectors discovered critical plumbing violations and unsanitary conditions during a routine inspection. The restaurant at 659 Valencia Street near 24th Street Mission BART failed this inspection and remains closed with no confirmed reopening date.

Critical Plumbing Failure Forces Closure

The most serious violation that led to the restaurant's immediate closure involved a broken cold water faucet at the three-compartment dishwashing sink. Health inspectors cited this as a critical plumbing violation under California Retail Food Code Section 114099.6, which requires proper backflow devices and functioning water systems. Without cold running water at the dish sink, the restaurant could not properly sanitize dishes, utensils, and cooking equipment, creating a direct threat to customer safety. Inspector Katie Dea noted that the facility must provide verification of repair to the San Francisco Department of Public Health before any consideration for reopening. The broken faucet represents a fundamental breakdown in the restaurant's ability to maintain basic sanitation standards required for food service operations.

Widespread Sanitation Issues Discovered

Beyond the critical plumbing failure, inspectors documented extensive cleanliness violations throughout the kitchen. Significant grease and debris buildup was observed on piping under the cook line, creating conditions that attract pests and harbor dangerous bacteria. The accumulation of grease in food preparation areas poses serious fire hazards and creates breeding grounds for harmful microorganisms. Inspectors also discovered inappropriate use of tape on various surfaces, including leaky faucets, shelving, and beverage ice bins. This makeshift approach to repairs violates health codes that require smooth, durable, non-absorbent surfaces that can be properly cleaned and sanitized. The tape creates crevices where bacteria can multiply and makes proper cleaning impossible.

Structural Problems Compound Safety Concerns

The inspection revealed multiple structural issues requiring immediate attention. Inspectors found damaged walls near the walk-in cooler that need repair and refinishing. Cracks on both sides of the walk-in cooler had been filled with foam, which must be replaced with approved smooth, durable materials that can be properly sanitized. Additional cracks were discovered under the front bar counter where walls meet the counter surface. These gaps must be sealed with approved materials like silicone caulking rather than the spray foam currently in use. Dust, debris, and grease buildup was also noted on walls next to the hood system, indicating poor maintenance of critical kitchen ventilation areas.

Impact on Mission District Dining

The closure affects the busy Valencia Street corridor, a popular destination for Indian cuisine enthusiasts and workers near the BART station. The restaurant's failure represents a significant lapse in the food safety standards that protect the thousands of customers who frequent Mission District establishments daily.

No Previous Inspection History

This appears to be the restaurant's first recorded inspection, making the severity of violations particularly concerning. The extensive list of problems suggests systemic issues with food safety protocols and facility maintenance that developed over time without proper oversight. The San Francisco Department of Public Health has not announced when Curry Up Now might be eligible for a reinspection. The restaurant must complete all required repairs and provide verification before health officials will consider allowing reopening.