A routine health inspection by the San Francisco Department of Public Health on November 4, 2025, has led to the temporary closure of the restaurant Local Roots. The inspection, which also included a foodborne illness investigation, revealed multiple violations that necessitated immediate action. Local Roots is scheduled for a reinspection before it can resume operations.
Inspection Findings and Violations
During the inspection at 70 Leidesdorff St, inspectors identified significant issues concerning food safety. Management voluntarily disposed of various food items due to temperature abuse or insufficient cooler space. Several potentially hazardous foods were found stored outside the recommended temperature range, including cauliflower at 120°F and cooked sweet potato at 108°F.
Other temperature violations included cream cheese at 53°F, blue cheese at 60°F, and sliced tomatoes at 59°F. Additional items, such as pinto beans and chicken salad, were also recorded at unsafe temperatures. The report indicated that multiple coolers in the restaurant failed to maintain food at 41°F or below, posing a serious risk to customer health.
The inspection also noted a lack of proper sanitation. The chlorine sanitizer during the dishwashing cycle registered at zero parts per million (ppm), and the quaternary ammonium in a front counter towel bucket also measured at zero ppm. Furthermore, several unlabeled containers with bulk ingredients were discovered in the back kitchen, raising concerns about food safety protocols.
Next Steps for Local Roots
In light of these findings, Local Roots has been mandated to close temporarily until they rectify the identified issues. Management is expected to address the temperature control failures and sanitation concerns before the scheduled reinspection. According to the regulations, they may request a hearing within 15 days of the inspection if they wish to contest the findings.
A comprehensive health report detailing the recent inspection is available online, with an additional report regarding the foodborne illness investigation expected to be released soon. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
