SOMA Bar Receives Conditional Pass Despite Minor Violations

Soma Restaurant and Bar at 85 5th Street in SOMA received a conditional pass during its November 13 health inspection, allowing the bar to continue operating while addressing several minor violations discovered by inspectors. The routine inspection revealed old rodent droppings beneath shelving and prep tables near the back door, as well as in cleaning supply storage areas. Inspector also cited missing soap and paper towels at the handwash sink, lack of sanitizing solution, and improper food handling practices including a coffee cup placed on the food prep surface.

Inspection Details

During this inspection conducted from 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM, the health department documented four total violations: one critical, two major, and one minor. Two violations were corrected on site during the inspection visit. The critical violation involved rodent droppings found underneath shelving and prep tables adjacent to the back door, as well as in storage areas used for cleaning supplies. Inspector noted that all areas affected by rodent droppings were cleaned and sanitized during the inspection, demonstrating the restaurant's immediate response to address the issue. Major violations included the absence of sanitizing solution, which was corrected when staff provided a solution with 100 parts per million chlorine during the inspection. The second major violation involved missing soap and paper towels at the handwash sink in the cook line, creating potential handwashing compliance issues for kitchen staff.

Health Violations Found

The rodent droppings discovery highlights ongoing pest management challenges that many SOMA establishments face due to the urban environment. Health officials note that mice can produce up to 50 droppings daily, potentially carrying dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus. The missing handwashing supplies presented another concern for food safety protocols. Studies indicate that only 31% of food service workers properly wash their hands when adequate supplies are unavailable, potentially leading to norovirus transmission among customers and staff. The improper food handling violation involved a coffee cup with lid placed on top of a chopping board on the prep cooler across the cook line. While seemingly minor, such practices can introduce contaminants to food preparation surfaces.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Despite these violations, the conditional pass allows the bar near Civic Center BART to remain open while implementing corrective measures. The establishment, operated by Zilan Inc, serves the busy SOMA district with its bar offerings and food service. The conditional inspection result requires the restaurant to address outstanding violations within a specified timeframe. A follow-up inspection will verify that proper pest control measures have been implemented, adequate handwashing stations are maintained, and food handling protocols are properly followed.

First Recorded Inspection

This marks the first documented health inspection for Soma Restaurant and Bar in the available inspection database, making it difficult to assess long-term compliance trends. The establishment's response during the inspection, including immediate cleaning and sanitizing of affected areas, demonstrates willingness to address violations promptly. The SOMA district's dense urban environment presents unique challenges for restaurants regarding pest control and sanitation. Successful establishments in the area typically maintain rigorous cleaning schedules and work with professional pest management services to prevent infestations. Customers can continue dining at Soma Restaurant and Bar while the establishment works to resolve the minor violations identified during the November 13 inspection. The conditional pass ensures that immediate health risks have been addressed while requiring ongoing improvements to maintain full compliance.