Anzu Restaurant Reopens After Fixing Health Violations

Anzu Restaurant, a Japanese establishment in San Francisco's Tenderloin district, has successfully reopened after addressing critical health violations that led to previous inspection failures. The restaurant, located at 222 Mason Street near Powell St BART/Muni, passed its reinspection on November 7, 2025, demonstrating complete resolution of equipment and food safety issues.

Successful Violation Corrections

During this inspection, health inspector John Wells confirmed that all violations from the October 24 reinspection had been properly addressed. The restaurant successfully removed foods from a non-functional Traulsen cooler that had been compromising food safety standards. Management invested in repairs to ensure their sandwich cooler now maintains the required 41°F temperature, preventing potential bacterial growth that could lead to foodborne illnesses. The establishment also corrected critical infrastructure issues that had prevented proper food preparation. The prep sink, essential for maintaining sanitary food handling procedures, was restored to full operational status. Additionally, the restaurant ensured test strips were available for proper chemical sanitizer monitoring, and completed necessary wall repairs that had been flagged during previous visits.

Previous Inspection Challenges

Anzu Restaurant's path to reopening required addressing failures from both October 24 and October 8 inspections. The initial routine inspection on October 8 identified multiple violations that required immediate attention. When the restaurant failed its first reinspection on October 24, it demonstrated the complexity of the equipment issues that needed resolution. The repeated failures highlighted serious concerns about temperature control in food storage areas. Non-functional refrigeration equipment posed significant risks for customers, as improperly stored foods can harbor dangerous bacteria including Salmonella and E. coli. The compromised prep sink also created potential for cross-contamination during food preparation, particularly concerning for a Japanese restaurant serving raw fish preparations.

Neighborhood Impact and Customer Safety

The successful reopening represents positive news for the Tenderloin dining scene, where residents and workers rely on accessible restaurant options. Located in a high-traffic area near major transit connections, Anzu Restaurant serves an important role in the neighborhood's food landscape. The establishment's commitment to addressing all identified violations demonstrates responsibility toward public health and customer safety. Inspector John Wells, who can be reached at john.wells@sfdph.org, conducted the thorough reinspection that confirmed all corrections were properly implemented. Kevin Dempsey received the inspection report on behalf of the restaurant, indicating management's direct involvement in the correction process.

Restaurant Operations Resume

With all health violations now resolved, Anzu Restaurant has resumed normal operations under the ownership of DATAM SF LLC. The establishment can be reached at (415) 398-0232 for reservations and inquiries. The successful reinspection allows customers to dine with confidence, knowing that proper food safety protocols and functional equipment are now in place. The restaurant's experience underscores the importance of regular equipment maintenance and proper food handling procedures in commercial kitchens. For diners in the Tenderloin area seeking Japanese cuisine, Anzu Restaurant's commitment to correcting violations and maintaining health standards provides reassurance about food safety practices.