Arguello Market Gets Conditional Pass for Food Storage Issues

Arguello Market Corp in Inner Richmond received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on November 21, 2025, after inspectors identified several minor food storage violations that required immediate correction. The market, located at 782 Arguello Boulevard near the 38 Geary bus line, remains open to customers while addressing these correctable issues. The inspection, conducted between 11:30 AM and 12:30 PM, revealed three specific violations related to food handling and equipment maintenance practices. The most significant issue involved improper food storage methods that posed potential contamination risks but did not warrant closure of the facility.

Food Storage Violations Identified

During this inspection, the health department inspector discovered double-stacked sliced cheese being stored in the cold top prep cooler, a practice that violates food safety protocols. The employee immediately corrected this violation by placing the cheese into separate food inserts within the cooler unit, demonstrating the establishment's willingness to address issues promptly. A more concerning violation involved the storage of opened aluminum cans containing food products in the walk-in cooler. Food safety regulations require that once aluminum cans are opened, their contents must be transferred to durable metal or plastic containers, as aluminum cans are designed for single use only. This practice prevents potential contamination and ensures proper food preservation. The third violation cited involved debris found in the floor sink beneath the cheese reach-in cooler, requiring immediate cleaning to maintain sanitary conditions in food preparation areas.

Immediate Corrections and Compliance

The inspector noted that one violation was corrected on site, indicating the establishment's cooperative approach to maintaining health standards. The double-stacked cheese issue was resolved immediately when staff reorganized the storage system to meet safety requirements. The conditional pass status allows Arguello Market Corp to continue serving customers while implementing necessary corrections for the remaining violations. This designation reflects the minor nature of the issues found and the establishment's ability to operate safely while addressing inspector concerns.

Neighborhood Market Context

Located in the heart of Inner Richmond, Arguello Market serves a diverse community with convenient access via public transportation. The market's position along Arguello Boulevard makes it a neighborhood staple for local residents seeking grocery and prepared food options. The establishment operates as a restaurant and market combination, providing both retail grocery items and prepared foods to the surrounding residential area. Its proximity to the 38 Geary bus route makes it easily accessible for customers throughout the Richmond District.

First-Time Inspection Record

This November 2025 inspection represents the first recorded health department visit for Arguello Market Corp in the available inspection database. The conditional pass result suggests an establishment working to establish proper food safety protocols while maintaining operations. The three violations cited fall within the range typically seen during initial inspections of food service establishments, focusing primarily on storage procedures and facility maintenance rather than critical food safety failures that would require immediate closure. Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections