North Beach Bar Gets Conditional Pass Despite Minor Issues

The Bamboo Hut on Broadway in North Beach received a conditional pass during its October 30 reinspection, allowing the bar to continue serving customers while addressing minor violations that do not pose immediate health risks. The reinspection revealed that management had successfully corrected restroom handwash station issues identified in previous visits. However, three violations remain that require attention but do not warrant closure of the establishment located at 479 Broadway, near the Powell-Mason Cable Car line.

Inspection Details

During this inspection, health officials documented ongoing issues with the dishwasher's sanitization cycle. The machine registered 0 parts per million (ppm) of chlorine sanitizer instead of the required 50 ppm during the sanitize cycle. This technical issue affects the facility's ability to properly sanitize dishes and utensils, though it does not immediately endanger patrons. The inspection also revealed that The Bamboo Hut lacks proper food safety certifications for its staff. Officials could not locate a food safety manager certification on the premises, nor could they find food handler cards for employees. California retail food code requires all food service establishments to maintain a certified food safety manager and ensure all other employees possess valid food handler cards. Additionally, inspectors observed several knives and a spatula wedged between a work table and the dishwash machine. This improper storage method creates areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly, potentially harboring bacteria and compromising food safety standards.

Continued Operations

The conditional pass status allows The Bamboo Hut to remain open while addressing these correctable issues. Restaurant management must work promptly to repair or recalibrate the dishwashing equipment to achieve proper sanitization levels. Staff members need to complete food handler certification courses, and management must designate and certify a food safety manager. The facility must also establish proper utensil storage procedures that allow for adequate cleaning and sanitization. These changes represent standard operational improvements rather than major structural modifications.

Previous Inspection History

The Bamboo Hut's inspection record shows a pattern of working to address health department concerns. The facility's October 9 routine inspection also resulted in a conditional pass, indicating ongoing efforts to achieve full compliance with health regulations. More recently, a November 13 reinspection showed partial progress, with the knife storage issue corrected but sanitization and certification problems persisting.

Neighborhood Context

Located in the heart of North Beach, The Bamboo Hut serves a diverse clientele in one of San Francisco's most vibrant neighborhoods. The establishment continues to welcome patrons while working through these administrative and equipment-related corrections. Health department officials will conduct follow-up inspections to verify that all violations have been properly addressed. The conditional pass framework allows businesses to maintain operations while demonstrating good faith efforts to achieve full compliance with food safety regulations. Customers can continue to visit The Bamboo Hut with confidence that the identified issues are minor in nature and being actively addressed through the standard regulatory process designed to ensure long-term food safety excellence.