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After a swanky Santa Monica restaurant was temporarily closed a few weeks ago for health code violations, a prominent critic is pointing the finger squarely at a taxpayer-funded homeless shelter next door.
Dr. Houman David Hemmati, an ophthalmologist and vocal critic of California policies, claims Elephante’s pest problem isn’t the restaurant’s fault.
“This is called Step Up on Second, a city taxpayer funded homeless shelter,” Hemmati said in an X video, showing its proximity to the fancy steakhouse. “Dozens of homeless people here at our expense, located right in the heart of downtown Santa Monica, a block from the beach, right by the ocean, and they’re housed right here. Stench all the time, flies everywhere … Put a homeless shelter right by the nicest restaurants, and you’re going to get rats and roaches.”
Step Up on Second is a nonprofit and supportive housing provider for people facing homelessness. The organization states on their website that they receive “major funding” from the city of Santa Monica.
The California Post first reported that health officials closed Elephante over a vermin infestation on Jan. 20, forcing the restaurant — where steaks can run upwards of $120 — to temporarily shut its doors.
Officials identified seven violations during a routine inspection, including “major” breaches for the presence of rodents or bugs, leading to the restaurant to receive a “B” rating. They were allowed to reopen two days later, according to the health department.
The restaurant has not publicly commented on Hemmati’s claims about the shelter’s proximity.
Elephante did not reply to The Post’s request for comment.
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