Hong Kong Lounge Gets Conditional Pass for Wall Repairs

Hong Kong Lounge at 5322 Geary Boulevard in Outer Richmond received a conditional pass during a reinspection on November 17, 2025, successfully addressing previous pest control issues while identifying structural repairs needed to maintain full compliance. The Chinese restaurant can continue serving customers while completing required wall and door maintenance by November 24. Inspector Jessica Jang conducted the follow-up inspection from 11:15 AM to 12:00 PM, finding significant improvement from the restaurant's previous failed inspection in October. Most notably, the inspection found no evidence of cockroaches or rodent droppings after the operator installed a new metal screen door, demonstrating the establishment's commitment to pest control measures.

Structural Issues Requiring Attention

While pest control efforts proved successful, the inspection identified several structural deficiencies that must be addressed within a week. The primary violation cited under California Retail Food Code Section 114143 and 114266 involves floors, walls, and ceiling maintenance that directly impacts the restaurant's ability to maintain sanitary conditions. The inspector documented four specific areas requiring immediate attention. Gaps were observed in the FRP (fiber-reinforced plastic) wall panels behind tiles in the aquarium room, which must be sealed to prevent pest entry. The FRP wall on the front left side panel showed signs of caving in the produce storage area, requiring replacement or repair to withstand regular cleaning procedures. Additional concerns include a hole at the bottom left corner of the exterior door frame and multiple holes inside the walk-in refrigerator door. The inspector specifically noted that spray foam should not be used for any of these repairs, indicating the need for professional-grade sealing materials that meet food service standards.

Continued Operations During Compliance Period

The conditional pass status allows Hong Kong Lounge to remain open while addressing these maintenance issues. The restaurant, accessible via the 38 Geary bus, serves the Outer Richmond community and can continue normal operations as the structural violations do not pose immediate food safety risks. The facility has until November 24, 2025, to complete all required repairs and improvements. This timeline provides adequate opportunity for the restaurant to hire qualified contractors and obtain proper materials for professional repairs that will ensure long-term compliance with health department standards.

Previous Inspection History

The current conditional pass represents significant progress from Hong Kong Lounge's October 21 inspection, which resulted in a failed grade. That routine inspection revealed extensive problems including rodent droppings in produce boxes and on shelves, dead cockroaches in multiple areas, improperly cooled soups that had to be discarded, and grease buildup on ventilation hoods. The dramatic improvement in pest control measures demonstrates the restaurant's responsiveness to health department guidance. The successful elimination of rodent and cockroach evidence in less than a month shows effective implementation of recommended sanitation protocols and structural improvements like the new screen door installation.

Compliance Timeline and Follow-up

Inspector Jang will conduct a follow-up inspection after November 24 to verify completion of all structural repairs. The restaurant must document completion of wall panel repairs, hole sealing, and any necessary replacements before receiving full approval status. This inspection highlights the collaborative process between the San Francisco Department of Public Health and local restaurants to maintain food safety standards while supporting business operations. Leon, the restaurant representative, received the inspection report and compliance timeline during the visit, ensuring clear communication of requirements and expectations for the upcoming follow-up inspection.