Homeless shelter next door blamed for ‘vermin infestation’ in bougie Santa Monica restaurant where steaks go for $120
A well-known Santa Monica restaurant was temporarily shut down last month after failing a health inspection, and a local critic is blaming a nearby taxpayer-funded homeless shelter for the problem.
Dr. Houman David Hemmati, an ophthalmologist and outspoken critic of California policies, argues that Elephante’s pest issues are not the restaurant’s fault but stem from conditions outside its walls. In a video posted on X, Hemmati pointed to the neighboring facility, saying, “This is called Step Up on Second, a city taxpayer-funded homeless shelter. 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 organization that provides supportive housing and services for people experiencing homelessness. According to its website, the group receives “major funding” from the city of Santa Monica.
The California Post first reported that Elephante, where steaks can cost more than $120, was closed on Jan. 20 after inspectors found evidence of a vermin infestation. Health officials documented seven violations during a routine inspection, including major issues related to rodents or insects. The restaurant received a “B” rating but was allowed to reopen two days later, according to the health department.
Elephante has not publicly addressed Hemmati’s claims regarding the nearby shelter and did not respond to a request for comment.
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