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Santa Clara County, CA

Happy Sushi

3216 El Camino Real Ste 5

Last inspected Jun 18, 2026 · View Map ↗ · Compare ↗

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ImprovingThe latest inspection recorded fewer violations than the one before it. Review the dated records below.

The full inspection history

4 inspections

Follow-Up Inspection

Jun 18, 2026

Pass

1 recorded violation

minorCode K35Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils: Approved, in good repair, adequate capacity

Inspector’s notes

Observed working utensils (i.e rice paddle and scoop) stored in standing water. [CA] Utensils shall be stored in the following manner: 1) in the food with their handles above the top of the food and the container, 2) in running water, 3) in a container of water at 135°F or above, 4) at room temperature if washed within 4 hours of initial use.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jun 18, 2026 · Original Source

Routine Inspection

Jun 16, 2026

Conditional Pass

14 recorded violations

minorCode K27Other

Official wording

Food separated and protected

Inspector’s notes

In refrigeration units, observed storage of raw fish and shelled eggs over ready-to-eat produce. [CA] All food shall be separated and protected from cross-contamination. Store all raw meat or other raw products of animal origin below ready-to-eat food items.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K38Facility maintenance

Official wording

Adequate ventilation/lighting; designated areas, use

Inspector’s notes

Observed lack of adequate lighting at the ventilation hood over the cook line. Observed light for 1-door upright cooler is not operable. [CA] In every room and area in which any food is prepared, manufactured, processed or prepackaged or in which equipment or utensils are cleaned, sufficient natural or artificial lighting shall be provided.

In plain English

Floors, walls, ceilings, lighting, ventilation, or garbage areas needed repair or cleaning. These are usually less urgent than food-handling problems but still need to be fixed.

More about building upkeep issues
criticalCode K07Food temperature

Official wording

Proper hot and cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

Measured sushi rice at 84F. Per PIC, sushi rice was cooked and prepared less than 2 hours prior to temperature measurement. No evidence of time markings observed. [CA] Potentially Hazardous Foods shall be kept at 41F or below or 135F or above. [COS] PIC stated that sushi rice will be discarded in the next 2 hours (within 4 hours of initial removal from temperature control). TPHC form for sushi rice was completed during inspection.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
minorCode K01Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

Demonstration of knowledge; food safety certification

Inspector’s notes

Actively working employees lack food handler cards for review. [CA] All food handlers shall maintain a valid food handler card for the duration of their employment as a food handler. Food handler cards shall be available for review.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
criticalCode K14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food contact surfaces clean, sanitized

Inspector’s notes

**MAJOR** Observed employee washing knife used to cut raw fish in the 2-compartment sink without the use of sanitizer. Observed employee repeatedly wiping cutting board using the same soiled wiping cloth without the use of sanitizer. [CA] Manual sanitization shall be accomplished in the final sanitizing rinse by contacting a chlorine solution of 100 PPM concentration for at least 30 seconds or by contacting a quaternary ammonium solution of 200 PPM concentration for at least 60 seconds. [COS] Specialist directed PIC to set up the 3-compartment sink with sanitizer solution during inspection. Discussed warewashing procedures. **MINOR** Measured the chlorine sanitizer concentration in the mechancial dishwasher at 25 ppm. [CA] Mechanical sanitization shall be accomplished in the final sanitizing rinse by contacting a chlorine solution of at least 50 ppm, or as per manufacturer's specifications.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K30Other

Official wording

Food storage: food storage containers identified

Inspector’s notes

Observed storage of box of raw fish on the floor. [CA] Food shall be stored at least six inches above the floor to prevent contamination and facilitate ease of cleaning.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K40Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Wiping cloths: properly used, stored

Inspector’s notes

Observed soiled wiping cloths stored directly on food preparation counters and being repeatedly used to wipe cutting boards. [CA] Wiping cloths shall be stored in approved sanitizing concentration when not in use.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
criticalCode K05Handwashing

Official wording

Hands clean, properly washed; gloves used properly

Inspector’s notes

Observed employee cutting and handling raw fish with gloved hands, then using the same gloves to directly grab sushi rice and imitation crab without an intermediate handwashing step or changing gloves. Observed employees washing hands in the 2-compartment sink without the use of soap. [CA] Employees are required to wash their hands: 1) before beginning work, 2) before handling food or clean equipment, 3) as often as necessary during food preparation to remove soil and contamination, 4) when switching from raw to ready to eat foods, 5) after touching body parts, 6) after coughing, sneezing, eating, or drinking, 7) after using the restroom, and 8) any time when contamination may occur. [COS] Specialist intervened and directed employee to properly wash hands. Contaminated food was discarded. Recommend to use utensils or tongs to minimize hand contact with food.

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
minorCode K39Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Thermometers provided, accurate

Inspector’s notes

Observed refrigeration units lack thermometers for monitoring ambient temperatures. [CA] A thermometer shall be placed in each refrigeration unit where it is easily visible while checking ambient temperature.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
minorCode K21Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Hot and cold water available

Inspector’s notes

Measured the maximum water temperature at the preparation and 3-compartment sinks at 116F. [CA] Hot water shall be supplied at a minimum temperature of at least 120°F measured from the faucet throughout facility (or from 100-108F at handwash sinks.)

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems
minorCode K34Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Warewash facilities: installed/maintained; test strips

Inspector’s notes

Observed storage of raw fish inside the rightmost compartment of the 3-compartment sink, next to clean dishes. Food preparation sink available nearby. [CA] The warewashing sink shall be designated for use for washing, rinsing, and sanitizing dishes only. Food preparation shall take place in designated sink.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K45Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Floor, walls, ceilings: built,maintained, clean

Inspector’s notes

Observed excessive accumulation of food debris, grime, and grease on the floors, especially underneath the cook line and the warewashing area. [CA] Floors, walls, and ceilings shall be routinely cleaned and maintained in sanitary condition.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils, linens: Proper storage and use

Inspector’s notes

1) Observed working utensils stored in standing, contaminated water. [CA] Utensils shall be stored in the following manner: 1) in the food with their handles above the top of the food and the container, 2) in running water, 3) in a container of water at 135°F or above, 4) at room temperature if washed within 4 hours of initial use. 2) Observed ice handle stored in direct contact with ice. [CA] Store scoop handle in such a way that the handle does not come in direct contact with food to prevent contamination. 3) Observed bowls without handles used as scoop inside bulk ingredient bins. [CA] Provide approved utensils such as scoops or spoons with handles to ensure hands do not come in direct contact with food.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
minorCode K41Water, plumbing, and sewage

Official wording

Plumbing approved, installed, in good repair; proper backflow devices

Inspector’s notes

Observed the floor sink underneath the preparation sink is slow draining. Per PIC, this sink is not in active use. [CA] Plumbing fixtures shall be maintained in good repair and shall be adequately draining.

In plain English

The business had issues with hot or cold running water, plumbing, drains, backflow prevention, or sewage disposal. Some of these, like no hot water, can force a temporary closure until fixed.

More about water, plumbing, or sewage problems

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jun 16, 2026 · Original Source

Follow-Up Inspection

Jun 20, 2025

Pass

5 recorded violations

minorCode K44Pests

Official wording

Premises clean, in good repair; Personal/chemical storage; Adequate vermin-proofing

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
minorCode K14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food contact surfaces clean, sanitized

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
minorCode K35Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils: Approved, in good repair, adequate capacity

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
minorCode K06Handwashing

Official wording

Adequate handwash facilities supplied, accessible

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
minorCode K23Pests

Official wording

No rodents, insects, birds, or animals

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jun 20, 2025 · Original Source

Routine Inspection

Jun 18, 2025

Closed

The health department recorded a closure at this inspection.

10 recorded violations

minorCode K30Other

Official wording

Food storage: food storage containers identified

Inspector’s notes

Observed open bag of bulk food in dry storage area. [CA] Store open bulk foods in approved NSF containers with tight fitting lids.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
criticalCode K07Food temperature

Official wording

Proper hot and cold holding temperatures

Inspector’s notes

1. Smoked salmon in sushi display case in preparation area measured 56F. Per PIC, it is removed from refrigeration, prepared and placed into the display case prior to opening. Ambient air in unit was 49F. 2. Tempura batter measured 68F and used for raw shrimp is made fresh when facility opens at 10:30am. 3. Sushi rice measured 98F. Per PIC it is made fresh at 10:30 am and any leftovers are discarded when facility closes at 2:30pm. [CA] PHFs shall be held at 41°F or below or at 135°F or above. [SA] Items will be discarded when facility closes.

In plain English

Food was not kept cold enough, hot enough, cooled fast enough, or cooked or reheated to the right temperature. Bacteria grow quickly in the "danger zone" between 41°F and 135°F, which makes this one of the most important food-safety checks.

More about food kept at an unsafe temperature
minorCode K27Other

Official wording

Food separated and protected

Inspector’s notes

Observed raw shelled eggs stored above vegetables in reach in fridge. [CA] All food shall be separated and protected from cross-contamination. Store all raw meat or other raw products of animal origin below ready-to-eat food items.

In plain English

An issue that does not fit the common categories. Check the official wording for details.

More about other finding
minorCode K44Pests

Official wording

Premises clean, in good repair; Personal/chemical storage; Adequate vermin-proofing

Inspector’s notes

Observed several employee drinks stored on food preparation surfaces or where food equipment is stored. [CA] No person shall store clothing or personal effects in any area used for the storage and preparation of food or food contact surfaces.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects
minorCode K36Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils, linens: Proper storage and use

Inspector’s notes

Observed bowls used as scoops in bulk storage containers. [CA] Provide scoops with handles and store scoop handle in such a way that the handle does not come in direct contact with food to prevent contamination. Observed handle of ice scoop in contact with ice in ice machine. [CA] Handle to ice scoop shall be stored so that it is not in direct contact with ice. Observed knife stored in between a preparation unit and table. [CA] Multi-use utensils will be stored in a way that the working part of the utensil may not become contaminated.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
criticalCode K14Cleaning and sanitizing

Official wording

Food contact surfaces clean, sanitized

Inspector’s notes

1. Observed employee wash dish with soap and water then place back into storage for use without sanitizing. [CA] Manual warewashing shall be accomplished by using a three-compartment sink where the utensils are first precleaned, washed with hot soapy water, rinsed with hot water, sanitized with an approved method, and air dried. Use 1 TBS of bleach (5.25%) per 1 gal. of water for chlorine solution (100 PPM). Use 1 tbs of quaternary ammonium (10%) per 2 gal. of water for quaternary ammonium (200 PPM). [COS] PIC filled three compartment sink to wash, rinse and sanitize. Equipment was sanitized. 2. Observed heavy black mold like substance accumulated on interior panel of ice machine in contact with ice and water. [CA] Clean and sanitize ice machine and maintain in good condition to prevent accumulation. [SA] Ice machine must be cleaned and sanitized prior to facility reopening. MINOR: Chlorine in the mechanical warewash measured 0ppm. [CA] Maintain chlorine in mechanical warewash machine at 50 PPM.

In plain English

Dishes, equipment, or surfaces that touch food were not properly washed, rinsed, and sanitized, or sanitizer was not at the right strength. Clean surfaces help stop germs from spreading to food.

More about cleaning or sanitizing problems
criticalCode K06Handwashing

Official wording

Adequate handwash facilities supplied, accessible

Inspector’s notes

Paper towels were not provided at the only handwash sink in the preparation area. [CA] Single-use sanitary towels shall be provided in dispensers. [COS] PIC provided paper towels.

In plain English

Staff were not washing their hands when required, or a handwashing sink was blocked, missing soap or paper towels, or used for something else. Hands are one of the most common ways germs reach food.

More about handwashing problems
minorCode K01Permits, training, and postings

Official wording

Demonstration of knowledge; food safety certification

Inspector’s notes

Food handler cards for employees were not available at time of inspection. [CA] Each food handler shall maintain a valid food handler card for the duration of his or her employment as food handler available for review. A valid food handler card shall be provided within 30 days of after the date of hire.

In plain English

A required permit, food safety certificate, trained manager, or posted sign was missing or not current. These show the business is following the rules and has trained staff.

More about paperwork, training, or posting issues
minorCode K35Equipment and utensils

Official wording

Equipment, utensils: Approved, in good repair, adequate capacity

Inspector’s notes

Display sushi refrigerator is not maintaining PHF at 41F or below. [CA] Refrigeration must be capable of maintaining PHFs at 41°F or below. Observed cardboard lining shelf in preparation areas. [CA] Discontinue the use of cardboard boxes to line shelves/flooring, use approved equipment made of materials that is easily cleanable, durable, smooth, and nonabsorbent.

In plain English

Equipment, utensils, thermometers, cutting boards, or single-use items were not in good condition, not the right type, or not stored properly.

More about equipment or utensil issues
criticalCode K23Pests

Official wording

No rodents, insects, birds, or animals

Inspector’s notes

1. Observed Vermin: Documented in the following areas: Observed rodent droppings on equipment in dry storage area, observed rodent droppings on floor around reach in freezer and on floor in dry storage area. 2. Photographs: Taken for documentation purposes. 3. Supervisor Notified: 4. Notification: The person in charge during inspection, Jin, has been informed that the facility must close immediately. [CA]: The premises of each food facility must be maintained free of vermin. A facility cannot operate if there is a vermin infestation that leads to contamination of food contact surfaces, packaging, utensils, food equipment, or adulteration of food. The facility is required to cease operations immediately and must remain closed until all corrective actions on the provided checklist are completed. Requirements Before Reopening: 1. Email the signed and completed Reopening Checklist to the assigned inspector. 2. Submit a copy of the pest control report from a licensed provider.

In plain English

The inspector found mice, rats, cockroaches, flies, or evidence of them (like droppings) inside the business, or conditions that could attract them. Pests can spread bacteria to food and surfaces, so this is treated as one of the more serious findings.

More about signs of rodents or insects

Official record from Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health, Jun 18, 2025 · Original Source

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