Matcha Cafe Maiko Gets Conditional Pass - Minor Issues

Matcha Cafe Maiko in Pacific Heights received a conditional pass during a routine health inspection on December 4, 2024, with inspectors identifying several minor violations that require attention but do not warrant closure. The popular Japanese cafe at 1581 Webster Street can continue serving customers while addressing issues including ice machine contamination and hot water temperature deficiencies.

Inspection Details

During this inspection conducted between 2:00 PM and 3:15 PM, health officials documented four total violations across critical, major, and minor categories. The most significant finding involved black and orange mold contamination inside the ice machine, requiring immediate ice disposal and thorough cleaning of the equipment. Inspectors observed the mold-like substance throughout the deflecting panel with water dripping through the contamination, adulterating the ice supply. The facility immediately corrected this critical violation during the inspection, with operators voluntarily condemning the contaminated ice and beginning the cleaning process. Inspectors also noted improper ice handling procedures, including the use of a plastic container directly touching ice instead of proper ice scoops with designated holders.

Hot Water and Sanitation Issues

Additional violations centered on inadequate hot water temperature and blocked handwashing facilities. Inspectors measured water temperature at the three-compartment sink at 115 degrees Fahrenheit, below the required 120-degree minimum for proper sanitation. The facility has 24 hours to adjust or repair the water heater to meet health code requirements. A major violation was corrected on-site when staff removed a garbage bin that was blocking access to the handwashing sink in the kitchen. Proper handwashing access is critical for preventing foodborne illness transmission, as studies show only 31 percent of workers wash hands adequately when facilities are obstructed.

Equipment and Temperature Monitoring

Inspectors also noted the absence of thermometers necessary for checking cooling temperatures of prepared foods, specifically mentioning cooked beans and strawberry puree. This minor violation affects the restaurant's ability to monitor food safety temperatures during preparation and storage processes. The conditional pass allows Matcha Cafe Maiko to remain open while addressing these correctable issues. The establishment, operated by TMC Ventures LLC, serves traditional Japanese refreshments and light fare to residents and visitors in the bustling Pacific Heights neighborhood, conveniently located near Fillmore bus lines.

Restaurant Operations Continue

Unlike restaurants that receive failing grades requiring immediate closure, conditional passes indicate minor violations that can be addressed while maintaining operations. The swift correction of the handwashing sink obstruction during the inspection demonstrates the staff's commitment to compliance and food safety standards. This marks the first recorded health inspection for Matcha Cafe Maiko, providing a baseline for future compliance monitoring. The establishment's proactive response to violations, including voluntary ice disposal and immediate cleaning efforts, suggests a cooperative approach to maintaining health department standards. The restaurant continues serving customers while implementing corrections to meet full compliance requirements. Follow-up inspections will verify that water heater adjustments provide adequate hot water temperatures and that proper ice handling procedures are maintained. The acquisition of food thermometers will enable staff to monitor critical temperatures during food preparation and storage processes. Customers can continue visiting this Webster Street location for their matcha beverages and Japanese treats while the establishment works to perfect its health code compliance in the coming days.