SF Bar Gets Conditional Pass for Equipment & Plumbing Issues

Plough & Stars, a popular bar located at 116 Clement Street in San Francisco's Inner Richmond district, received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on November 21, 2025. The establishment can continue normal operations while addressing minor equipment cleaning and plumbing violations that require correction by December 21st. Inspector Lucas Willis conducted the 45-minute inspection from 3:00 PM to 3:45 PM, identifying three violations that need attention but do not pose immediate health risks to patrons. The conditional pass designation allows the bar to remain open for business while implementing the necessary corrections within the specified timeframe.

Inspection Details

The most significant violation involved improper plumbing configurations behind the bar area. Inspector Willis observed several drain lines extending directly into the floor sink, creating potential backflow issues. The establishment must cut or raise these drain lines to maintain at least a half-inch gap above the floor sink to prevent contamination and comply with California Retail Food Code Section 114099.6. Equipment cleanliness emerged as another area requiring improvement. The inspection revealed debris buildup on fan covers and keg tubing within the walk-in cooler, along with accumulated grime on door gaskets of both the walk-in cooler and several reach-in beverage coolers. These non-food contact surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned and maintained to prevent pest attraction and bacterial growth. During the inspection, staff demonstrated quick responsiveness when a minor food safety issue was identified. Inspector Willis observed a knife improperly stored in an ice bin designated for beverage service. Bar staff immediately removed the knife upon notification, showing the establishment's commitment to maintaining proper food safety protocols.

Compliance Timeline and Follow-up

Plough & Stars has until December 21, 2025, to address all identified violations and prepare for a follow-up inspection. The relatively minor nature of these issues suggests that compliance should be achievable within the given timeframe without disrupting normal business operations. The inspection report indicates that facility representative Sean Heaney received the violations list and timeline for corrections. This systematic approach allows the bar to prioritize the plumbing modifications while simultaneously addressing the equipment cleaning requirements.

Neighborhood Context

Located along the busy Clement Street corridor near the 38 Geary bus line, Plough & Stars serves as a neighborhood gathering place in the Inner Richmond district. The establishment's ability to continue operations during the correction period ensures minimal disruption to local patrons and the surrounding business community. The conditional pass reflects the inspector's assessment that while improvements are necessary, the violations do not present immediate health hazards that would require closure. This classification is common for establishments with minor maintenance issues that can be readily addressed through proper cleaning protocols and infrastructure adjustments.

Restaurant Operations

Customers can expect normal service hours and menu availability while Plough & Stars implements the required corrections. The bar's management has demonstrated cooperation with health department protocols, as evidenced by the immediate removal of the improperly stored knife during this inspection. The December follow-up inspection will verify completion of all required corrections, with successful compliance resulting in a full approval status. This process ensures that the establishment maintains the high standards expected for San Francisco food and beverage establishments while allowing continued service to the community.