Tea Plus Cafe Gets Conditional Pass After Rodent Issue Fix

Tea Plus cafe in San Francisco's Visitacion Valley neighborhood received a conditional pass during a November 21 health reinspection, successfully addressing previous violations while correcting a minor rodent issue discovered during the visit. The cafe at 2541 San Bruno Avenue remains open for business as staff continues implementing recommended pest control measures.

Inspection Results

During this inspection conducted by Inspector Montre Tieu from 12:15 PM to 1:00 PM, health officials found that Tea Plus had corrected all previously cited violations. However, inspectors discovered fresh rodent droppings in the front storage area where equipment, chairs, and tables were kept. The cafe operator immediately cleaned and sanitized the affected area upon notification. The conditional pass allows Tea Plus to continue serving customers while addressing the minor pest control issue. The inspection cited two total violations, with one critical violation related to rodent activity that was corrected on-site. Inspector Tieu noted in the official report: "Reinspection. Previous violations corrected. Rodent droppings found in storage area - cleaned on site. Continue pest control efforts. Seal gaps and remove unused equipment."

Health Violations Found

The primary concern centered on violation #23 under California Retail Food Code Section 114259, which prohibits insects, rodents, birds, or animals in food service establishments. Health officials observed rodent droppings specifically in the front storage area where restaurant equipment was housed. The cafe's management responded promptly by cleaning and sanitizing the area immediately during the inspection. Additionally, inspectors noted structural issues contributing to potential pest access, including a gap beneath the front storage door and accumulation of unused equipment in both front and back storage areas. These conditions can provide hiding places and entry points for rodents, making ongoing pest control efforts more challenging.

Pest Control Recommendations

Inspector Tieu provided specific guidance for preventing future rodent activity, emphasizing the need to seal gaps around doors and remove unnecessary equipment that creates hiding spaces. The accumulation of unused chairs, tables, and equipment in storage areas provides ideal harborage for rodents, making regular cleaning and organization essential for maintaining pest-free conditions. Health officials stressed the importance of continued pest control efforts, as rodents pose significant health risks in food service environments. Mice can produce up to 50 droppings daily containing dangerous pathogens including Salmonella and hantavirus, while rats can spread plague and leptospirosis through their waste.

Restaurant Operations

Tea Plus continues normal operations following the conditional pass, serving customers in the Visitacion Valley area near the T-Third Muni line. The cafe specializes in beverages and light fare, maintaining its position as a neighborhood gathering spot despite the minor pest control challenges. The facility's management demonstrated cooperation during the inspection process, immediately addressing concerns raised by health officials. Owner Julian S. Ng can be reached at (415) 368-8378 for any questions regarding the establishment's compliance efforts. Future inspections will monitor the effectiveness of pest control measures and structural improvements recommended by health officials. The conditional pass status requires Tea Plus to demonstrate continued progress in maintaining pest-free storage areas while ensuring all food safety protocols remain in place. Author: Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections