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Elephante Closed for Vermin, Doctor Blames Nearby Shelter

2/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Health officials temporarily closed Elephante in Santa Monica after a health code violation, including a vermin infestation.
Dr. Houman David Hemmati, an ophthalmologist, blamed the nearby Step Up on Second homeless shelter for Elephante's pest issues, saying, "Put a homeless shelter right by the nicest restaurants, and you’re going to get rats and roaches."
Elephante reopened two days later.
Elephante has not commented on Hemmati's allegations.

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Story summary

Health officials temporarily closed Elephante in Santa Monica after a health code violation, including a vermin infestation.
Dr. Houman David Hemmati, an ophthalmologist, blamed the nearby Step Up on Second homeless shelter for Elephante's pest issues, saying, "Put a homeless shelter right by the nicest restaurants, and you’re going to get rats and roaches."
Elephante reopened two days later.
Elephante has not commented on Hemmati's allegations.