Imagine sitting down at your favorite local restaurant, only to discover it’s been shut down due to a rodent infestation. Yes, it happened in SLO County, and it’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to health violations uncovered in December 2025. San Luis Obispo County health inspectors conducted surprise visits to dozens of eateries, revealing a startling range of issues—from rodent problems to improper food handling. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some establishments passed with flying colors, others were far from meeting basic health standards. Should diners be more informed about these violations? And this is the part most people miss: the scoring system has changed, making it even more critical to stay updated on your favorite spots.
Every month, The Tribune highlights the highest and lowest-ranked restaurants based on these inspections, giving you the inside scoop on where to dine—and where to avoid. Inspectors visit everything from restaurants and bars to grocery stores and mini-marts, scoring them on a 0-point scale. The lower the score, the more violations found. This new system replaces the previous 100-point scale, making it easier to identify businesses with serious issues. For instance, a score of 0 means a perfect inspection, while negative scores indicate violations.
To check the safety of your go-to spots, visit EatSafeSLO.org and explore the interactive map for full inspection reports. Now, let’s dive into the highs and lows of the 156 inspections conducted in December 2025.
Lowest-Rated Restaurants
Me-n-Ed’s (Nipomo)
Points Lost: 62
This pizza joint faced repeat violations, including fruit flies, food debris buildup, and unsanitary practices like employees wiping gloved hands on aprons. Their refrigeration units were also too warm, prompting a warning to fix the issue or face penalties. But here’s the kicker: these weren’t one-time mistakes—they were recurring problems. Doesn’t this raise questions about long-term accountability?
La Palapa Baywood (Los Osos)
Points Lost: 56
This restaurant was temporarily shut down after inspectors found evidence of an ongoing rodent infestation, including activity near food preparation areas. While they were allowed to reopen after remediation, it begs the question: how did this issue persist for so long? Other violations included improper food storage and unsanitary conditions, leaving diners wondering if they’ve unknowingly dined in such conditions.
Raku Ramen (San Luis Obispo)
Points Lost: 41
This ramen spot faced issues like employees not washing hands before gloving up and improper temperature control for hazardous foods. Shockingly, they lacked a probe thermometer for cold temperatures. Isn’t this a basic necessity for food safety?
Morenos Taqueria (Pismo Beach)
Points Lost: 39
Handwashing violations were rampant here, with no soap or paper towels available. Inspectors also found evidence of past cockroach issues, though no active infestation. Dishes weren’t properly sanitized, and food containers lacked lids. It’s enough to make you rethink your next taco run.
Morro Bay Golf Course
Points Lost: 38
This establishment voluntarily closed after rodent droppings and urine stains were found near food storage areas. While they addressed the issue, it highlights the importance of proactive pest control. Shouldn’t such measures be standard?
Other notable offenders include Los Berros Market Deli, Shandon Market & Deli, and Food4Less, each losing 30 or more points.
Highest-Rated Restaurants
These establishments earned perfect scores, proving that excellence is achievable:
San Luis Obispo: Abbott Apartments, Anderson Social, Bon Temps Creole Cafe, and more.
North Coast: Groggy Scallywag Coffee House, Hungry Fisherman, and The Brightside.
South County: Avila Beach Market, Brix Wine Bar, and Gilligan’s Sandwich Shop.
North County: ABC Cafe-Sunroom Coffee, Adelaida Cellars, and Trader Joe’s.
Food for Thought
While some businesses excel, others fall short—sometimes dangerously so. Should health inspection scores be more prominently displayed? Or is it the diner’s responsibility to stay informed? Share your thoughts below—this is a conversation worth having. After all, your next meal might depend on it.
