Mulan Malatang Gets Conditional Pass for Minor Violations

Mulan Malatang, the Chinese restaurant located at 2110 Clement Street in Outer Richmond, received a conditional pass during its December 3, 2025 health inspection despite several minor violations that require correction. The establishment can continue serving customers while addressing issues identified during the routine inspection, with a follow-up required by December 17th. The San Francisco Department of Public Health inspection revealed six total violations during this inspection, including one critical violation and five major violations. Three of the violations were corrected immediately on-site, demonstrating the restaurant's commitment to addressing health concerns promptly.

Inspection Details

The most serious finding involved dried rodent droppings discovered in the back equipment storage area on the concrete floor skirting, which constituted the critical violation. This violation requires immediate attention as rodent activity poses significant health risks, with mice capable of producing 50 droppings daily that can contain harmful bacteria like Salmonella. Temperature control issues were also identified when inspectors found the sauce self-service refrigerator containing chopped garlic operating at 48 degrees Fahrenheit, above the safe food storage temperature. The operator immediately corrected this violation by adjusting the refrigeration unit from setting 2 to 3. Food safety protocols needed attention when inspectors observed various frozen foods, including fish fillets and packaged meats, thawing at room temperature rather than using approved thawing methods. This violation was corrected on-site when the operator relocated the items to proper refrigeration. Additionally, the cook line initially lacked a sanitizer bucket, though adequate sanitizer solution was available at the front counter and was promptly provided to the cook area.

Structural and Maintenance Issues

The inspection also revealed maintenance concerns that require follow-up attention. Water was observed dripping into condensate pans of two upright refrigerators in the back of the kitchen, with debris accumulation noted on top of the dishwasher. These issues highlight the need for regular equipment maintenance and cleaning protocols. Vermin-proofing deficiencies were identified, including gaps underneath both the mesh door and main door in the back of the kitchen. These structural gaps provide potential entry points for pests and must be sealed to prevent future rodent activity. The inspector also noted equipment in dry storage that is either not in use or in disrepair, requiring removal or repair.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Despite these violations, Mulan Malatang remains open for business while working to address the identified issues. The conditional pass status allows the restaurant to continue serving the Outer Richmond community, which is easily accessible via the 38 Geary bus route. The establishment specializes in Chinese cuisine and malatang, a popular spicy hot pot dish. This represents the restaurant's first recorded inspection since opening, with no previous violation history on file with the health department. The December 17th deadline provides a reasonable timeframe for the restaurant to complete necessary corrections, particularly addressing the rodent activity and structural improvements needed for long-term compliance. The inspection demonstrates the ongoing oversight provided by San Francisco health officials to ensure food service establishments maintain proper safety standards while supporting local businesses in their compliance efforts. *Staff Reporter at SF Restaurant Inspections*