Hinodeya Ramen Union Square Gets Conditional Pass on Reinspection

Hinodeya Ramen Union Square received a conditional pass during a reinspection on October 30, 2025, showing substantial improvement from previous violations while addressing one remaining issue that requires attention before the next routine inspection. The Japanese restaurant at 219 O'Farrell Street in the Tenderloin district demonstrated significant progress in correcting health code violations, allowing it to continue operating while working to achieve full compliance. Inspector John Wells conducted the reinspection from 4:30 PM to 4:45 PM, finding that most previously cited violations had been successfully corrected. The restaurant had addressed issues with handwash sink towels, walk-in cooler temperatures now maintained at proper 41°F, food storage elevated six inches above floor level, and kitchen surfaces thoroughly cleaned. However, one major violation remains: the handwash sink in the garbage area still lacks hot water, requiring immediate attention.

Inspection Details

The outstanding violation centers on the handwash sink in the trash room, where hot running water under pressure of at least 100°F must be provided according to California Retail Food Code Section 114192. This requirement is critical for proper sanitation, as hot water is essential for effective handwashing and dish sanitization. Without adequate hot water temperature, viruses and bacteria that cause foodborne illness can survive on surfaces and hands. Restaurant owner Hiro Takasaki received the inspection report directly from Inspector Wells. The facility operates under Sasala Dining USA Inc and can be reached at (415) 200-6466 for customers seeking additional information about operations during the correction period.

Operational Status

Despite the conditional status, the restaurant remains open for business while addressing the hot water issue. The conditional pass allows Hinodeya Ramen Union Square to continue serving customers in the Tenderloin neighborhood, conveniently located near Powell St BART/Muni stations for easy transit access. The inspector's report from this inspection emphasizes the restaurant's commitment to food safety improvements. The correction of multiple previous violations demonstrates management's dedication to maintaining health standards while serving authentic Japanese ramen dishes to San Francisco diners.

Next Steps for Compliance

The restaurant must install proper hot water service to the handwash sink in the garbage area before the next routine inspection. This correction is straightforward and involves ensuring water temperature reaches at least 100°F under adequate pressure. Once this final issue is resolved, the establishment should achieve full compliance with San Francisco Department of Public Health regulations. The San Francisco Health Department will follow up during the next routine inspection to verify that hot water has been properly installed and is functioning correctly. This systematic approach ensures that all facilities maintain the highest standards of food safety while allowing businesses to operate during minor correction periods. Located in the bustling Tenderloin district, the restaurant continues serving its popular ramen selections while implementing the necessary plumbing improvements. The conditional pass status reflects the inspector's confidence in the establishment's ability to quickly resolve the remaining issue and achieve full compliance. This inspection demonstrates San Francisco's balanced approach to restaurant regulation, allowing establishments with minor correctable violations to remain operational while ensuring public health standards are ultimately met through systematic follow-up procedures.