Starbelly, a neighborhood favorite in San Francisco, was temporarily shut down following a routine health inspection that uncovered multiple code violations. Inspectors cited evidence of rodent activity and other code violations, prompting an immediate suspension of the restaurant’s health permit.
Please note that the report mentioned here is from an inspection conducted on July 28. It may not represent the future health inspection status of the food establishment.
Highlights
- Starbelly restaurant in San Francisco underwent a routine health inspection on July 28 and was ordered to shut down due to health code violations.
- The health inspectors observed rodents and rodent droppings in the food storage areas.
- The restaurant must correct all the violations and reach out to the inspector for a follow-up.
Starbelly
- Where: 3583 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, US
- When: Monday, July 28, 2025
Inspectors noted several violations at Starbelly, a casual eatery known for its California-inspired comfort food. Rodents were reportedly seen running in front of both the inspector and a staff member during the inspection of the beverage room beneath the stairs.
They also observed rodent droppings under the prep table by the door in the kitchen, in the upstairs/attic dry storage room, beneath the shelving units used for storing food and oil, as well as in the outdoor storage area housing produce like potatoes, onions, and citrus.
The restaurant has been asked to provide a copy of the licensed pest control service. The report mentioned uncovered beverages consumed by the employee in the prep area of the bar. There were no paper towels available, and heavy equipment was blocking access to the handwashing sink.
The inspectors observed incorrect cooling methods. Soup measuring 164°F was reportedly stored in a large plastic container submerged in a prep sink with insufficient ice for proper cooling.
Grilled corn on the cob was left at room temperature on the cooling rack. Boiled shelled eggs were found submerged in water and left at room temperature. Both items were moved to a walk-in cooler.
Inspectors also documented a dead cockroach beneath the kitchen prep table near the doorway. The health inspectors have asked the restaurant to provide a correct plumbing drain, such as a floor drain, for the espresso/coffee machine. A detailed report of the health inspection can be found online.
Follow-Up Inspection
Inspectors have directed Starbelly to address the violations before requesting a follow-up inspection. To move forward, the restaurant must resolve all cited issues and submit proof of pest control services. Once these steps are completed, they may request a follow-up inspection.
