Parkside Cafe Fails Reinspection with Raw Chicken Violations

Yy Coffee & Tea in Parkside has failed a critical health reinspection, with inspectors discovering the cafe was using household equipment to prepare raw chicken and operating multiple refrigeration units at dangerously high temperatures. The October 10 reinspection at 2620 Ocean Avenue revealed ongoing violations despite previous warnings, prompting health officials to issue an abatement hearing warning. The most alarming discovery during this inspection was the use of a household air fryer to prepare raw chicken - a critical violation that poses serious health risks to customers. Commercial kitchens require specialized equipment designed to withstand heavy use and maintain proper sanitation standards. Household appliances contain cracks and crevices that harbor dangerous bacteria like salmonella and campylobacter, which are commonly found in raw poultry.

Multiple Refrigeration Failures Endanger Food Safety

Inspector Cristina Fung-Autry documented widespread temperature violations throughout the establishment. The rice and yogurt storage unit was found operating at room temperature, while the fruit display case registered 50°F and another display unit reached 61°F - all well above the required 41°F maximum for cold food storage. These temperature failures create ideal conditions for rapid bacterial growth, particularly dangerous for dairy products and fresh produce served to unsuspecting customers. The cafe's time and temperature control logs showed boba tea had been held from 11 AM to 4 PM, exceeding the maximum four-hour limit for potentially hazardous foods. Such violations significantly increase the risk of foodborne illness outbreaks, as bacteria multiply exponentially when foods remain in the temperature danger zone.

Structural Issues Create Rodent Harborage

Beyond food safety violations, inspectors found numerous gaps and holes in the ceiling along with excessive storage items that could provide shelter for rodents. The presence of fly zappers positioned under equipment suggests ongoing pest issues. Most concerning, tea particles scattered across the floor made it impossible for staff to monitor for signs of rodent activity, while discolored walls near the air fryer indicated potential sanitation problems.

Additional Health Code Violations

The reinspection revealed multiple additional violations affecting customer safety. Food was stored directly on the floor in plastic containers throughout the kitchen and storage areas, violating basic sanitation protocols. The establishment lacked thermometers in refrigeration units, making temperature monitoring impossible. Staff were observed touching their faces and resuming food preparation without proper handwashing. Sanitation issues extended to cleaning procedures, with wiping cloths used on food contact surfaces containing no measurable sanitizer levels. The bathroom's hot water system failed to reach the required 100°F minimum, registering only 75°F maximum.

Previous Inspection History

This failed reinspection represents a concerning pattern for the Stonestown Muni area establishment. The facility eventually passed a subsequent reinspection on October 31, indicating management was able to address the most critical violations after receiving the abatement hearing warning. For Parkside residents and visitors to the Ocean Avenue corridor, this incident highlights the importance of health inspections in protecting public safety. The combination of improper equipment use, temperature control failures, and structural deficiencies created multiple pathways for foodborne illness transmission. The San Francisco Department of Public Health continues monitoring the establishment to ensure ongoing compliance with food safety regulations.