Located at 1845 India Street, Civico 1845 faced a swift shutdown after a routine inspection triggered by a customer complaint about a rodent on a bar shelf exposed a series of health violations, including a significant vermin infestation. The closure lasted less than a day, with the restaurant reopening on March 13 after earning an A rating with a 96 score following a reinspection.
The March 12 inspection report detailed an active vermin problem as the primary reason for the closure. Specialists observed multiple rodent droppings in critical areas: inside the bar's dish machine, under the handwashing sink, behind kitchen prep tables, and near the cooking oven. A hole in the kitchen prep area ceiling indicated poor vermin-proofing, allowing pests entry despite pest control efforts documented on February 24, 2025. Labeled an imminent health hazard under California Retail Food Code Section 114259.1, the infestation mandated immediate closure until resolved.
The March 12 inspection report detailed an active vermin problem as the primary reason for the closure. Specialists observed multiple rodent droppings in critical areas: inside the bar's dish machine, under the handwashing sink, behind kitchen prep tables, and near the cooking oven. A hole in the kitchen prep area ceiling indicated poor vermin-proofing, allowing pests entry despite pest control efforts documented on February 24, 2025. Labeled an imminent health hazard under California Retail Food Code Section 114259.1, the infestation mandated immediate closure until resolved.
Food safety issues compounded the situation. Cooked chicken, mushrooms, and potatoes in low-boy units were found at 55°F, 49°F, and 46°F - well above the required 41°F or below - though staff reported the items had been there for less than four hours. The ice machine harbored heavy black growth on its interior panel, posing a contamination risk to ice. A broken handwashing sink in the kitchen prep area lacked hot and cold water, with hot water needing to reach at least 100°F, further violating safety standards.
Sanitation lapses added to the concerns. Inspectors noted extreme dust and grease buildup in electrical conduits, dirty standing water in the bar area, and unclean non-food contact surfaces - all potential vermin attractants. The absence of a valid food safety manager certification on-site was also flagged, requiring proof of enrollment or a certificate within seven days.
The justified complaint triggered a fee for permit renewal, and the restaurant's "A" grade card was replaced with a "Closed" sign until compliance was verified. By March 13, Civico 1845 addressed the major issues, though the reinspection still cited minor violations: improper holding temperatures, non-compliant warewashing facilities, and ongoing premises and vermin-proofing deficiencies. A 15-day follow-up inspection was scheduled, with longer-term 60/90-day routine checks to ensure sustained compliance.
Sanitation lapses added to the concerns. Inspectors noted extreme dust and grease buildup in electrical conduits, dirty standing water in the bar area, and unclean non-food contact surfaces - all potential vermin attractants. The absence of a valid food safety manager certification on-site was also flagged, requiring proof of enrollment or a certificate within seven days.
The justified complaint triggered a fee for permit renewal, and the restaurant's "A" grade card was replaced with a "Closed" sign until compliance was verified. By March 13, Civico 1845 addressed the major issues, though the reinspection still cited minor violations: improper holding temperatures, non-compliant warewashing facilities, and ongoing premises and vermin-proofing deficiencies. A 15-day follow-up inspection was scheduled, with longer-term 60/90-day routine checks to ensure sustained compliance.
The temporary closure, one of more than 300 vermin-related shutdowns in San Diego County this fiscal year, tested the restaurant's resilience amid expansions like a new pizzeria next door and Civico 2064 in Los Angeles, launched in July 2024. Its rapid recovery highlights its commitment to maintaining its standing in Little Italy's competitive dining landscape.
Civico 1845 is located at 1845 India Street in San Diego's Little Italy. For more information, visit civico1845.com.
Civico 1845 is located at 1845 India Street in San Diego's Little Italy. For more information, visit civico1845.com.
Originally published March 20, 2025.