SF Sanguchon Restaurant Closed for Live Cockroaches & Leaks

Sanguchon, a restaurant located at 1182 Valencia Street in San Francisco's Mission district, was shuttered by health inspectors on October 21, 2025, following the discovery of live cockroaches and multiple critical health violations during a follow-up inspection. The most alarming discovery came when Inspector Tiombe Wiley observed a live cockroach antenna protruding from cracks between tiles and walls in the kitchen area. This finding immediately triggered closure proceedings, as live pest infestations pose severe health risks to customers and violate fundamental food safety standards.

Critical Health Violations Discovered

The inspection revealed a disturbing pattern of pest problems throughout the facility. In addition to the live cockroach, inspectors documented five dead cockroaches scattered across the flooring near the doorway connecting the kitchen to the food preparation area. This discovery suggests an established infestation that had been ongoing for an extended period. Equipment failures compounded the health hazards at the Valencia Street establishment. The walk-in refrigerator's door gasket had separated from the interior, allowing cold air to escape and potentially compromising food storage temperatures. Such temperature violations create ideal conditions for bacterial growth and foodborne illness. Plumbing issues presented another serious concern. Inspectors identified a leak from the piping closet to the grease trap underneath the three-compartment sink, creating unsanitary conditions and potential contamination pathways. The leak likely contributed to the moist environment that attracts cockroaches and other pests.

Food Safety Management Deficiencies

Beyond the immediate health hazards, this inspection revealed systemic food safety management problems. The facility lacked proper food manager safety certification, a requirement that helps prevent the exact types of violations discovered during the visit. Food debris was observed on flooring in the preparation and assembly area, indicating poor sanitation practices that attract pests and create breeding grounds for harmful bacteria. Additionally, inspectors found kitchen utensils in disrepair, which can harbor bacteria and contaminate food during preparation.

Health Implications for Customers

The violations discovered at Sanguchon posed immediate health risks to anyone dining at the establishment. Live cockroaches carry 33 different types of bacteria and six parasitic worms, according to health officials. These pests can contaminate food surfaces, utensils, and ingredients with dangerous pathogens including Salmonella, E. coli, and Staphylococcus. The compromised refrigeration equipment created additional risks, as improper food storage temperatures allow harmful bacteria to multiply rapidly. Foods stored at unsafe temperatures can cause severe foodborne illnesses, particularly dangerous for elderly customers, pregnant women, and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Restaurant Closure and Next Steps

The health department immediately closed Sanguchon following the inspection, and the restaurant remains shuttered with no reopening date announced. The facility must address all critical violations, implement comprehensive pest control measures, and pass a reinspection before resuming operations. Located near the 24th Street Mission BART station, Sanguchon's closure removes a dining option from the busy Valencia Street corridor. The restaurant had no previous inspection history on file, making this its first recorded health department evaluation. The closure serves as a stark reminder of the importance of regular pest control and proper food safety protocols in commercial kitchens, particularly in urban environments where pest pressure can be intense.