Novu at Ponce
Last inspected: Apr 7, 2026
18
Score
Going back to 2022, Novu at Ponce has 12 inspections in the public record. The most recent visit was on Apr 7, 2026. Diners may want to take note: high risk reflects issues that a health inspector considered important.
The trend has not been favorable: recent inspections average around 20 violations each, up from closer to 12 violations before.
When inspectors have written things up, “food-contact surface soiled with food debris” has been the most frequent reason, cited 10 times.
Compared to other St. Petersburg restaurants (averaging 77), there's room to close the gap. Taken together, the history suggests a facility that has struggled with consistency.
12
Inspections
1
Critical latest
11
Major latest
9
Minor latest
Inspection History
Apr 7, 2026
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 11 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 21 violations
High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Establishment is serving food and drinks to the public with a license that expired on 2/01/2026. Discussed with operator. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
50-17-3
Intermediate - Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Emailed the operator a Clean-Up of Vomiting and Diarrheal Events (DBPR HR 5030-104) form during the inspection. **Corrective Action Taken**
11-27-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. White cutting boards stained yellow.
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink does not have enough water pressure to properly wash hands. Only cold water dispensing from the handsink in the kitchen area.
27-19-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Handsink in bar is blocked for easy access by dish machine and bar counter. **Repeat Violation**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Menu does not identify which items contain raw or undercooked animal foods covered by the consumer advisory. Asterisk missing on Tuna Tartare. Added asterisk to 12 menus the establishment had during the inspection. **Corrected On-Site**
02B-01-5
Intermediate - No measuring device available for measuring utensil surface temperature when using hot water as sanitizer in a dishmachine. Discussed with operator. **Repeat Violation**
16-62-1
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Missing at handsink in bar. Paper towels stocked. **Corrected On-Site**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. No employee training could be provided for the employee present engaging in making scoping ice and making drinks for customers at the bar. The operator could not access any training certificates. **Warning**
53B-01-5
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Spray bottle of light purple liquid substance stored at bar entrance. Labeled as soap and water. **Corrected On-Site**
41-17-4
Intermediate - Two-compartment sink used for warewashing. Observed dish scrub and dish soap at single utility sink in kitchen area. **Corrected On-Site**
16-28-4
Intermediate - Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. No hot water a kitchen handsink.
27-16-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Fryer oil boxes stored on floor at entrance. Items moved off the floor. **Corrected On-Site**
08B-38-4
Basic - Equipment in poor repair. Gaskets torn on reach in cooler on cook line.
14-11-5
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Grooved cutting boards on reach in deli cooler. **Repeat Violation**
14-09-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Soiled with grease build up.
36-34-5
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Observed grease buildup on walls next to air fryer, stove/oven, and counter top fryer. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Oven interior soiled with burnt food debris. Ninja air fryer interior soiled with grease and food debris. **Repeat Violation**
22-08-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets on reach in deli cooler soiled with black mold like substance. **Repeat Violation**
23-03-4
Basic - Plumbing system in disrepair. Hot water faucet knob not dispensing any water. No hot water at handsink in kitchen.
29-08-4
Basic - Ventilation inadequate as evidenced by excessive steam or vapors in kitchen.
36-65-5
18
Oct 1, 2025
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 9 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 18 violations
High Priority - Wiping cloth sanitizer solution exceeds the maximum concentration allowed. Chlorine sanitizer bucket testing at 200+ PPM. Operator diluted chemical with water and chlorine is now testing at 100 PPM. **Corrected On-Site**
41-27-4
High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. License expired on 2/1/2025. The current ownership is still the same. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
50-17-3
Intermediate - Establishment has no written procedures for employees to follow in response to a vomiting or diarrheal event where the vomit or diarrhea is discharged onto surfaces in the establishment. Emailed operator DBPR Clean-Up of Vomiting and Diarrheal Events form.
11-27-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Reach inn deli cooler cutting board heavily stained. Magnetic knife strip above reach in deli cooler soiled with dried food debris. **Repeat Violation**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. High temperature dish machine and bar ice well obstructing access to bar hand washing sink. **Repeat Violation**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths. No chlorine test kit observed.
16-37-1
Intermediate - No measuring device available for measuring utensil surface temperature when using hot water as sanitizer in a dishmachine. **Repeat Violation**
16-62-1
Intermediate - No proof provided that food employees are informed of their responsibility to report to the person in charge information about their health and activities related to foodborne illnesses. For one employee who is currently on his 4th day of employment and one bartender/server who was hired 6 months ago.
11-26-1
Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. Observed employee training certificate for Gillian B. dated 11/9/2022 through Food Certified Food Handlers I.D. No other employee training could be provided for the other two employee currently present and engaging with food or in food preparation.
53B-13-5
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Of purple liquid substance in bar area. **Repeat Violation**
41-17-4
Intermediate - Two-compartment sink used for warewashing. Single compartment being used. Dishes are being sanitized in high temperature dish machine in bar area.
16-28-4
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Through the kitchen and bar area. **Repeat Violation**
14-09-4
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Observed grease buildup on walls in kitchen. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board. Cutting board next to hand sink in kitchen area. **Repeat Violation**
21-04-4
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Oven and air fryer interior soiled with burnt food debris.
22-08-4
Basic - No drainboards or equivalent provided for soiled items and/or air drying cleaned items. **Repeat Violation**
16-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Reach in deli cooler gaskets soiled with black mold like substance.
23-03-4
Basic - Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean. Throughout kitchen area. **Repeat Violation**
21-09-4
21
May 6, 2025
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 9 major violations. 11 minor violations.
View 21 violations
High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. **Admin Complaint**
50-17-3
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Magnetic knife rack on wall soiled Stained cutting boards. **Repeat Violation**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Hand sink at bar located in corner between dish machine and ice well with trash can in front of
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Ice in hand sink at bar, used as dump sink
31A-11-4
Intermediate - No chemical test kit provided when using sanitizer at three-compartment sink/warewashing machine or wiping cloths.
16-37-1
Intermediate - No measuring device available for measuring utensil surface temperature when using hot water as sanitizer in a dishmachine.
16-62-1
Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has been completely remodeled and no longer match plans on file. Operator has been given Plan Review contact information and has not submitted plans. Administrative Complaint has been issued in prior inspections for failing to submit plans. Per operator high temp dish machine behind bar used for all ware washing, no additional triple sink present, only single prep sink located in kitchen **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
51-16-7
Intermediate - Paper towel dispenser at handwash sink not working/unable to dispense paper towels. Broken paper towel dispenser at hand sink in kitchen
31B-05-4
Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Repeat Violation**
53B-13-5
Intermediate - Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Surface cleaner bottle hanging next to coffee machine
41-17-4
Basic - Ripped/worn tin foil used as shelf cover. On table next to oven
14-20-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Accumulation of grease on exterior of fryers
23-03-4
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable.
14-09-4
Basic - No drainboards or equivalent provided for soiled items and/or air drying cleaned items.
16-04-4
Basic - In-use wet wiping cloth/towel used under cutting board.
21-04-4
Basic - Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation. **Repeat Violation**
13-03-4
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. **Repeat Violation**
14-69-4
Basic - Wet wiping cloths used for occasional spills on equipment food- and nonfood-contact surfaces not clean. Under wall mounted AC unit to prevent dripping on to steam table
21-09-4
Basic - Duct tape used to repair nonfood-contact surface. Foam padding taped to edges of tables in kitchen
14-71-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Cans of tomatoes on floor in kitchen
08B-38-4
20
Sep 24, 2024
Routine - Food
1 critical violation. 4 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 11 violations
High Priority - Raw animal food stored over/not properly separated from ready-to-eat food. Raw fish over cream sauce in double door reach in cooler. **Repeat Violation**
08A-05-6
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting board on reach in cooler has built up food debris. **Repeat Violation**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Hand wash sink behind bar is blocked by beer cooler. **Repeat Violation**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has been completely remodeled and no longer match plans on file. Operator has been given Plan Review contact information and has not submitted plans. Administrative Complaint has been issued in prior inspections for failing to submit plans. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint**
51-16-7
Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Repeat Violation**
53B-13-5
Basic - Silverware/utensils stored upright with the food-contact surface up. Clean utensils in kitchen stored with food contact surfaces upright.
24-18-4
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Interior of microwave oven has food debris buildup. **Repeat Violation**
22-08-4
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer. **Repeat Violation**
14-69-4
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. **Repeat Violation**
36-68-5
Basic - Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation.
13-03-4
Basic - Current Hotel and Restaurant license not displayed.
50-09-4
43
Jun 4, 2024
Complaint Full
2 critical violations. 4 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 11 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. License expired on 02/01/2024. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: License expired on 02/01/2024. **Admin Complaint**
50-17-3
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. 1 live fly in kitchen not landing on food or food contact surfaces. 1 live fly behind bar not landing on food or food contact surfaces. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: 1 live fly in kitchen not landing on food or food contact surfaces. 1 live fly behind bar not landing on food or food contact surfaces. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: 1 live fly in kitchen not landing on food or food contact surfaces. **Admin Complaint**
35A-02-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards on reach in coolers in kitchen have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: Cutting boards on reach in coolers in kitchen have built up food debris. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Hand wash sink behind bar blocked by ice bin. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has undergone a remodel and no plans have been submitted. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: Kitchen has been reduced in size and equipment is has been move. Operator has not submitted plans to Plan Review. **Admin Complaint**
51-16-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
53B-13-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls and ceiling. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Ice buildup in stand up reach in freezer. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
14-69-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Microwave oven on cook line has built up food debris. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets in reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall in kitchen soiled with grease. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2024-06-04: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
39
Mar 29, 2024
Complaint Full
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 6 minor violations.
View 13 violations
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. License expired on 02/01/2024. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
50-17-3
High Priority - - From initial inspection : High Priority - Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. 1 live fly in kitchen not landing on food or food contact surfaces. 1 live fly behind bar not landing on food or food contact surfaces. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: 1 live fly in kitchen not landing on food or food contact surfaces. 1 live fly behind bar not landing on food or food contact surfaces. **Time Extended**
35A-02-6
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards on reach in coolers in kitchen have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: Cutting boards on reach in coolers in kitchen have built up food debris. **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Hand wash sink behind bar blocked by ice bin. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Hand wash sink behind bar used to dump ice. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: Hand wash sink in bar area used to rinse glasses. **Time Extended**
31A-11-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has undergone a remodel and no plans have been submitted. **Repeat Violation** **Admin Complaint** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
51-16-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
53B-13-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee cell phone stored on shelf above reach in cooler. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
40-06-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls and ceiling. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Ice buildup in stand up reach in freezer. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
14-69-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Microwave oven on cook line has built up food debris. - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets in reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall in kitchen soiled with grease. **Repeat Violation** - From follow-up inspection 2024-03-29: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
33
Mar 26, 2024
Complaint Full
3 critical violations. 5 major violations. 8 minor violations.
View 16 violations
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Employee Health Policies Present
FL-03
Food Received at Proper Temperature
FL-12
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Hot and Cold Water Available; Adequate Pressure
FL-25
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Equipment, Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Approved
FL-35
Lighting Adequate; Required Shields in Place
FL-36
Personal Cleanliness
FL-40
Wiping Cloths Properly Used and Stored
FL-41
Single-Use/Single-Service Articles Properly Stored and Used
FL-45
Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Designed and Constructed
FL-50
Plumbing Maintained; Sewage Disposal
FL-51
Toilet Rooms Maintained
FL-53
14
Dec 14, 2023
Routine - Food
3 major violations. 4 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: Cutting boards still have built up food debris at the time of this callback inspection report. **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: Cutting boards on reach in cooler still have food debris at the time of this callback inspection report. **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has undergone a remodel and no plan review on file. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: Spoke with N'deye D. in Plan Review and no plans have been submitted as of this callback inspection report. **Admin Complaint**
51-16-7
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: **Time Extended**
53B-13-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Cooking food grease on walls of kitchen. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Ice buildup in reach in freezer. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: **Time Extended**
14-69-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall in kitchen soiled with cooking grease. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended** - From follow-up inspection 2023-12-14: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
61
Oct 11, 2023
Routine - Food
3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
53B-13-5
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: Cutting boards still have built up food debris at the time of this callback inspection report. **Time Extended**
22-02-4
Intermediate - - From initial inspection : Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has undergone a remodel and no plan review on file. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
51-16-7
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Oven has built up food debris. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
22-08-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
23-03-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall in kitchen soiled with cooking grease. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
36-27-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee phone above a food prep area. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
40-06-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Employee with no beard guard/restraint while engaging in food preparation. Employee in kitchen preparing food with no beard guard. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
13-04-4
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Cooking food grease on walls of kitchen. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
36-68-5
Basic - - From initial inspection : Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Ice buildup in reach in freezer. **Warning** - From follow-up inspection 2023-10-11: **Time Extended**
14-69-4
52
Oct 10, 2023
Routine - Food
2 critical violations. 5 major violations. 9 minor violations.
View 16 violations
High Priority - Wiping cloth sanitizer solution exceeds the maximum concentration allowed. Wiping cloth solution over 200 ppm chlorine. Corrected to 100 ppm chlorine. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
41-27-4
High Priority - Roach activity present as evidenced by live roaches found. Live roach on cutting board in kitchen. Employee killed, removed and sanitized the cutting board. **Warning**
35A-05-4
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting boards on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Hand wash sink used to store coking utensils. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
31A-11-4
Intermediate - No plan review submitted and approved - renovations were made or are in progress. Must submit plans and plan review application to DBPR H and R Plan Review office located at 2601 Blair Stone Rd., Tallahassee, FL 32399-1011. Plans must be submitted AND approved within 60 days. The direct link to the Plan Review page is https://www2.myfloridalicense.com/hotels-restaurants/licensing/plan-review/. Kitchen has undergone a remodel and no plan review on file. **Warning**
51-16-7
Intermediate - Paper towel dispenser at handwash sink not working/unable to dispense paper towels. Hand wash sink in kitchen unable to dispense paper towels. Employee stored paper towels next to hand wash sink. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31B-05-4
Intermediate - Proof of required state approved employee training not available for some employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning**
53B-13-5
Basic - Wall soiled with accumulated grease, food debris, and/or dust. Wall in kitchen soiled with cooking grease. **Warning**
36-27-5
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets on reach in coolers have built up food debris. **Repeat Violation** **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Hood ventilation system inadequate as evidenced by grease accumulation on walls/ceiling. Cooking food grease on walls of kitchen. **Warning**
36-68-5
Basic - Ice buildup in reach-in freezer and/or walk-in freezer. Ice buildup in reach in freezer. **Warning**
14-69-4
Basic - Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of black substance/grease/food debris. Oven has built up food debris. **Warning**
22-08-4
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Employee beverage on a food prep table. **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Employee eating in a food preparation or other restricted area. Employee drinking beverages in a food prep area. **Warning**
12B-02-4
Basic - Employee personal items stored in or above a food preparation area, food, clean equipment and utensils, or single-service items. Employee phone above a food prep area. **Warning**
40-06-5
Basic - Employee with no beard guard/restraint while engaging in food preparation. Employee in kitchen preparing food with no beard guard. **Warning**
13-04-4
29
Jun 13, 2023
Routine - Food
3 critical violations. 4 major violations. 2 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Food Obtained from Approved Sources
FL-11
Hands Clean and Properly Washed
FL-08
Supervisor/Person in Charge Present
FL-01
Required Records Available; Shellstock Tags/Labels
FL-14
Food Contact Surfaces Clean and Sanitized
FL-22
Non-Food Contact Surfaces Clean
FL-23
Approved Thawing Methods Used
FL-31
Equipment, Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Approved
FL-35
Food and Non-Food Contact Surfaces Designed and Constructed
FL-50
39
Sep 7, 2022
Routine - Food
7 critical violations. 8 major violations. 18 minor violations.
View 33 violations
High Priority - Vacuum breaker missing at hose bibb or on fitting/splitter added to hose bibb. No vacuum breaker on hose bibb at three-compartment sink. **Warning**
29-34-4
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food required to be date marked is not date marked and time of opening/preparation cannot be determined. See stop sale. In three door reach in cooler along the wall, bleu cheese crumbles not date marked and can't determine the date they were opened. **Warning**
01B-17-5
High Priority - Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. In reach in cooler along wall in kitchen: Bulgarian cheese (44F - Cold Holding); heavy whipping cream (44F - Cold Holding) **Warning**
03A-02-5
High Priority - Ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food marked with a date that exceeds 7 days after opening/preparation. In three door reach in cooler along the wall, bleu cheese crumbles not date marked and can't determine the date they were opened. **Warning**
02C-01-5
High Priority - Pesticide-emitting strip present in food prep area. Pesticide emitting strip in the kitchen just inside the doorway. **Warning**
41-24-4
High Priority - Live, small flying insects in kitchen, food preparation area, food storage area and/or bar area. 1 live fly in bar area. **Warning**
35A-02-6
High Priority - Dishmachine chlorine sanitizer not at proper minimum strength. Discontinue use of dishmachine for sanitizing and set up manual sanitization until dishmachine is repaired and sanitizing properly. Dish machine is reading 0 ppm chlorine. Set up three-compartment sink with 100 ppm chlorine. Operator will use three-compartment sink to sanitize dishes. **Warning**
22-41-4
Intermediate - Certified Food Manager or person in charge lacks knowledge of foodborne illnesses and symptoms of illness that would prevent an employee from working with food, clean equipment and utensils, and single-service items. **Warning**
11-07-5
Intermediate - Commercially processed ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food opened and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked after opening. Milk and heavy whipping cream opened more than 24 hours and not date marked. Manager dated items 09/05/2022 and 09/04/2022 respectively. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
02C-03-5
Intermediate - Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Slicer on three door reach in cooler has built up food debris. Cutting board on prep table above three door reach in cooler has built up food debris. **Warning**
22-02-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink not accessible for employee use at all times. Water is turned off at hand wash sink near ware washing area. Hand wash sink in bar area is blocked by garbage cans and dish washer. **Warning**
31A-09-4
Intermediate - Handwash sink used for purposes other than handwashing. Cleaning supplies left in hand wash sink on cook line. **Warning**
31A-11-4
Intermediate - Menu does not identify which items contain raw or undercooked animal foods covered by the consumer advisory. Tuna tartare is not identified on menu as being raw or undercooked. **Warning**
02B-01-5
Intermediate - No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. No paper towels at hand wash sink on cook line. No paper towels at hand wash sink in front area of the kitchen. Employee put paper towels at hand wash sinks. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
31B-02-4
Intermediate - No proof of required state approved employee training provided for any employees. To order approved program food safety material, call DBPR contracted provider: Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (SafeStaff) 866-372-7233. **Warning**
53B-01-5
Basic - Employee beverage container on a food preparation table or over/next to clean equipment/utensils. Employee water bottles on dish prep area in the bar. Employee removed. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
12B-07-4
Basic - Floor soiled/has accumulation of debris. Floor in kitchen is soiled with food debris. **Warning**
36-73-4
Basic - Food stored on floor. Oil stored on the floor in the kitchen. Manager stored properly. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
08B-38-4
Basic - In-use tongs stored on equipment door handle between uses. Tongs stored on oven handle, employee removed. **Corrected On-Site** **Warning**
10-20-4
Basic - No copy of latest inspection report available. **Warning**
51-18-6
Basic - No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. No hand wash sign in unisex restroom at the bathroom attached to the hotel. **Warning**
31B-04-4
Basic - Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Gaskets on three door reach in cooler are soiled with mold like debris and food debris. **Warning**
23-03-4
Basic - Objectionable odors in kitchen or other areas of the establishment. Objectionable odor in rear kitchen hallway.
36-64-5
Basic - Open dumpster lid. **Warning**
33-16-4
Basic - Outer openings not protected during operation and vermin and/or environmental cross contamination present. Fly in open bar area. **Warning**
35B-05-4
Basic - Reuse of single-service or single-use articles. Meatballs stored in mozzarella container in reach in cooler across from cooktop. **Warning**
25-32-4
Basic - Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry. Mop in ware washing area not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry. **Warning**
42-01-4
Basic - Cutting board has cut marks and is no longer cleanable. Cutting board on prep table has grooved cut marks and is no longer cleanable. **Warning**
14-09-4
Basic - Covered waste receptacle not provided in women's bathroom. No covered receptacle in unisex bathroom attached to the hotel. **Warning**
32-12-5
Basic - Cove molding at floor/wall juncture broken/missing. Cove molding in hallway leading out of ware washing area is cracked. **Warning**
36-03-4
Basic - Ceiling/ceiling tiles/vents soiled with accumulated food debris, grease, dust, or mold-like substance. Ceiling in kitchen area is soiled with grease and food debris. **Warning**
36-34-5
Basic - Accumulation of debris on exterior of warewashing machine. **Warning**
16-21-4
Basic - Accumulation of black/green mold-like substance in the interior of the ice machine/bin. Ice machine in front area of kitchen has mold like debris. **Warning**
22-20-5
6
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Novu at Ponce last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Novu at Ponce on file is from Apr 7, 2026. The public record contains 12 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Novu at Ponce?
Across the inspection record, “food-contact surface soiled with food debris” has been cited 10 times, more than any other issue at Novu at Ponce.
How does Novu at Ponce compare to other restaurants in St. Petersburg?
Novu at Ponce most recently scored 18 out of 100, which is lower than the St. Petersburg average of 77.
Has Novu at Ponce's inspection record improved over time?
No. Recent inspections at Novu at Ponce have averaged around 20 violations per visit, up from roughly 12 earlier in the record.
What does a high risk rating mean?
A high risk rating at Novu at Ponce means the most recent inspection flagged either critical violations or a substantial number of smaller ones. Diners may want to read the violation details before deciding to visit.
How often is Novu at Ponce inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Novu at Ponce is inspected around three times per year on average.
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