Central Park Natural Fails Health Inspection Food Storage

Central Park Natural in Haight-Ashbury failed its health inspection on October 22, 2025, after inspectors discovered the restaurant was storing food items and beverages directly on the floor, creating significant contamination risks for customers. The restaurant at 1900 Hayes Street received two minor violations during the routine inspection conducted by San Francisco Department of Public Health Inspector Zack Parsons. Both citations involved the same serious food storage violation under California Retail Food Code Section 114047 and 114049.

Health Violations Found

During this inspection, health officials observed drinks, boxes, and other food-related items being stored directly on the ground throughout the restaurant. This practice creates multiple health hazards for diners, as items stored on floors are exposed to contamination from cleaning chemicals, pest droppings, and bacteria that accumulate on floor surfaces. The violation represents a fundamental breach of food safety protocols that protect customers from foodborne illnesses. When food containers and beverages are stored on floors, they become susceptible to contamination from water used during floor cleaning, which can carry dangerous bacteria into the food supply chain. Health experts warn that this type of storage violation can lead to serious health consequences for restaurant patrons. Floor-stored items can harbor salmonella, E. coli, and other harmful bacteria that cause severe food poisoning. Additionally, storing food on the ground creates easy access points for rodents and insects, potentially introducing additional contamination sources.

Inspection Details

The inspection took place during the restaurant's operating hours, from 2:30 PM to 3:13 PM, allowing inspectors to observe the establishment's food handling practices during active service. Inspector Zack Parsons documented the violations and provided specific instructions to discontinue storing drinks, boxes, and other items directly on the ground. The restaurant's permit holder, identified as Rasha, was present during the inspection but refused to sign the inspection report, according to official records. This refusal to acknowledge the violations raises additional concerns about the establishment's commitment to addressing the identified food safety issues.

Restaurant History and Context

This marks the first recorded health inspection for Central Park Natural, making it the restaurant's initial evaluation by San Francisco health authorities. The establishment operates in the vibrant Haight-Ashbury neighborhood, an area known for its diverse dining scene and proximity to the N-Judah transit line. The restaurant was not ordered to close following the failed inspection, indicating that while the violations were serious enough to result in a failing grade, they did not pose an immediate threat requiring emergency closure. However, the establishment must address the storage violations before its next inspection to avoid potential closure or additional penalties. Located near Cole Valley, Central Park Natural serves an area with heavy foot traffic from both residents and tourists. The failed inspection highlights the importance of proper food storage practices in protecting public health, particularly in high-traffic dining areas where violations can affect numerous customers daily. The restaurant must implement proper storage solutions, including shelving systems and elevated storage areas, to prevent future violations and ensure customer safety.