Northern China BBQ Closed for Live Cockroach Infestation

Northern China BBQ has been forced to close its doors after San Francisco health inspectors discovered a widespread cockroach infestation throughout the SOMA restaurant during a reinspection on October 8, 2025. The Chinese BBQ establishment at 294 9th Street near Civic Center BART failed its reinspection when Inspector Farhan Khan found live and dead cockroaches in multiple life stages contaminating virtually every area of the restaurant. The shocking discovery led to an immediate closure order, marking the restaurant's third consecutive failed inspection in just over a week.

Widespread Cockroach Contamination

The inspection revealed a disturbing scene that posed serious health risks to customers. Live and dead cockroaches were discovered stuck on glue traps and crawling on walls throughout the dining room where customers eat. Even more alarming, the insects had infiltrated food preparation and storage areas, creating direct contamination risks. Inspectors found cockroaches inside refrigerator door hinges where food is stored, under food preparation equipment where meals are prepared, and in boxes of dry ingredients in the storage room. The presence of multiple life stages indicated an established infestation that had been developing over time, suggesting customers may have been unknowingly exposed to contaminated food and surfaces. The violations cited under California Retail Food Code Section 114259 highlight the serious nature of the problem. Cockroaches are known carriers of 33 different types of bacteria and six parasitic worms, making their presence in food establishments a critical health hazard. These insects can transmit salmonella, typhoid fever, cholera, and other foodborne illnesses through direct contact with food, utensils, and preparation surfaces.

Pattern of Failed Inspections

This closure represents the culmination of a troubling pattern for Northern China BBQ. The restaurant initially failed its routine inspection on September 30, 2025, which led to its first closure. A subsequent reinspection on October 6 also resulted in failure and continued closure, with inspectors noting that live and dead cockroaches were found in multiple life stages throughout the facility including the dining room, storage areas, and refrigerators. This inspection marked the third consecutive failure, demonstrating the restaurant's inability to address the serious pest control issues despite multiple opportunities to correct the violations.

Health Department Response

Inspector Farhan Khan, who can be reached at farhan.khan@sfdph.org, documented the extensive cockroach problem and ordered immediate closure. The inspection also revealed equipment issues, specifically requiring the restaurant to clean refrigerator door hinges and remove food and grease accumulation inside gaskets where cockroaches were found. The closure protects customers in the busy SOMA district, where office workers and residents frequently dine at local establishments. The restaurant's location near Civic Center BART makes it a popular spot for commuters seeking Chinese BBQ cuisine. Northern China BBQ must address all violations and pass a reinspection before reopening to the public. The restaurant's permit remains suspended until it can demonstrate that the cockroach infestation has been eliminated and proper pest control measures are in place. *Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections*