A well-known burger spot in San Francisco has shut down following a viral image from last month that revealed uncooked meat patties being left on the street outside the establishment during a period of intense heat.
The news—initially shared by Eater SF—emerged as the group was involved in controversy and “wasn’t reaching” that point.
“We weren’t achieving the momentum required at that spot,” said Tan Truong, co-owner of the Hamburger Project.
The location was situated at the intersection of Guerrero and 18th Street in the well-known Mission District, recognized for its stylish dining spots and nightlife.
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The news arrives just a few months after four thick bundles of hamburger meat and a big jar of mayonnaise were left outside the restaurant in very hot weather by a delivery driver, as no one was available to receive them, accompanied by a message that said: “Hiiii, I don’t have time.”
The image being shared on social media has generated debate and intense responses from both customers and local residents.
Exposing raw meat and mayonnaise to intense heat can render them unfit for consumption within a single hour.
The mixture of warmth and air increases the rate at which bacteria multiply, creating a significant chance of foodborne illness.
Right after witnessing this, the proprietors reacted, tackling the issues.
“Clearly, we got rid of the item right after discovering it. We value the community’s alertness and ongoing support,” the restaurant stated in an Instagram post, adding that they had also revised their delivery processes to prevent such an incident from occurring again.
Truong told the Chronicle due to the high demand at that time, they had a limited supply of beef.
He could not be present for the birth himself, as he was on a flight back to San Francisco, as stated in the report.
“It’s a terrible sight to see ground beef on the sidewalk, but we have guidelines that prevent using such items, and we certainly don’t approve of leaving them outside,” Truong stated.
The “burger-gate” incident at Smashburger is not the sole reason the place gained widespread attention.
The restaurant’s co-founder was also involved in allegations of verbal and sexual misconduct made by a local influencer who had dined at and reviewed the establishment.
Chef Geoffrey Lee exited his three restaurants following a public controversy. The conflict started when influencer Kat Ensign published a critical review of Hamburger Project. Lee reacted with offensive messages, which were circulated online and further spread by Maggie Z, leading to public criticism.
As scrutiny increased, Lee was no longer the executive chef and left Ju-Ni, Hand Roll Project, and Hamburger Project.
Whether it was bad luck, delicious food, uncooked meat, or mere chance, the area has a history of closed businesses.
The location at 598 Guerrero Street is frequently referred to as “cursed” due to the numerous restaurants that have failed quickly, even though the area is known for its high foot traffic.
For years, locations such as Ebb & Flow and AL’s Deli remained operational for just a few months, as reported by a KQED investigation.
Some attribute the bad luck to its unique past: during the 1800s, psychic Mrs. C. Mayo-Steers is said to have conducted séances there.
Later, employees mentioned unusual occurrences such as flashing lights and objects that appeared to move, strengthening the idea that the place might be haunted or cursed.
