Rm 212 Financial District Restaurant Fails Second Inspection

Rm 212, a restaurant located at 690 Sacramento Street in San Francisco's Financial District, has failed its reinspection despite previous warnings, with health officials discovering ongoing violations that pose risks to customer safety. The October 7th follow-up inspection revealed that the establishment had not addressed critical equipment issues and plumbing problems that were likely flagged during their previous visit.

Equipment Failures Compromise Food Safety

The most concerning violation discovered during this inspection was a two-door beer cooler at the bar operating at a dangerous 52°F - well above the safe refrigeration temperature that should be maintained at 41°F or below. Inspector Sophia Huie documented that the person in charge claimed to have scheduled an appointment to repair the cooler "this week," indicating the equipment had been malfunctioning for an extended period. This temperature violation represents a serious health hazard, as beverages and any perishable items stored in the malfunctioning cooler could harbor harmful bacteria. At 52°F, the cooler falls into the dangerous "temperature danger zone" where pathogens multiply rapidly, potentially causing foodborne illnesses in customers who consume products stored at these unsafe temperatures.

Plumbing Problems Create Sanitation Concerns

Adding to the establishment's troubles, health inspectors found a leaking spray faucet at the three-compartment sink in the basement. The faucet was observed leaking whenever water was turned on, creating ongoing sanitation issues in an area critical for proper dishwashing and food preparation cleanup procedures. The malfunctioning sink equipment violates California Retail Food Code Section 114099.6, which requires proper plumbing and backflow prevention devices. A leaking faucet in the dishwashing area can lead to cross-contamination, unsanitary conditions, and difficulty maintaining the proper cleaning protocols essential for safe food service operations.

Pattern of Neglect in Financial District Location

The fact that this was a reinspection suggests that Rm 212 had previously failed to meet health standards and was given an opportunity to correct violations. The discovery of ongoing equipment and plumbing problems during the follow-up visit indicates a pattern of neglect in addressing basic food safety infrastructure. Located near the Embarcadero BART station in the busy Financial District, the restaurant serves an area with high foot traffic from office workers and tourists. The establishment's failure to maintain basic equipment puts this customer base at risk of foodborne illness.

Regulatory Response and Next Steps

Inspector Sophia Huie, who can be reached at sophia.huie@sfdph.org, documented three total violations during the reinspection, all classified as minor under current regulations. However, the cumulative effect of multiple unaddressed violations following previous warnings suggests more serious underlying management issues. The restaurant was not ordered closed following the failed reinspection, meaning it continues to operate while violations remain unaddressed. However, the establishment will likely face additional follow-up inspections until all equipment and plumbing issues are properly resolved. Customers visiting the Financial District establishment should be aware that basic food safety equipment was not functioning properly as of the most recent inspection, potentially compromising the safety of beverages and food storage throughout the facility.