Aalami restaurant, a well-known East African restaurant in San Diego, underwent a routine health inspection on Monday. The inspector noted unsafe food handling and unsanitary conditions at the facility. The inspector ordered a temporary closure to allow the restaurant to correct the violations.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from inspections conducted on June 16 and may not represent the future health inspection status of the food establishment.
Highlights
- Aalami restaurant is an East African restaurant that mainly serves Somali cuisine.
- Located on University Ave in San Diego, the restaurant went through a health inspection on June 16.
- Improper ventilation, vermin infestation, and non-compliant food storage were some of the violations observed.
Aalami Restaurant – Somali Cuisine
- Where: 4879 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
- When: June 16, 2025
Aalami restaurant is located on University Ave. It opens throughout the week and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The outlet is mainly known for its Somali cuisine. Locals visit the restaurant for East African and Somali-style dishes.
The Department of Environmental Health and Quality conducted a routine health inspection at the outlet. The inspection findings revealed a vermin infestation in the facility. The inspector reminded staff not to touch pet animals when on duty. The premises were instructed to be pest-proofed to prevent rodent and insect entry.
The inspector found that raw and cooked food in the restaurant were not kept separated to avoid cross-contamination. Also, food was not properly stored at least 6 inches off the floor.
According to the report, mechanical ventilation was missing for some cooking equipment. The inspection found exposed light bulbs above food and equipment storage areas.
The condition of the floor, walls, and ceiling did not comply with safety standards. The inspector instructed that the walls and ceilings shall have durable and washable surfaces. Food facilities are required to be kept clean and in good repair, in accordance with health code regulations.
Screenshot of San Diego Aalami Restaurant’s Health Inspection (Source: sdfoodinfo.org)
Health inspections are a part of the broader efforts to ensure that food businesses meet health guidelines. Due to the observed violations and potential health hazards, the restaurant was temporarily closed. Once the compliance status is re-established, the outlet will be allowed to reopen.
