MERMAID'S SEAFOOD AND OYSTER BAR
3299 MAIN ST, Cottondale FL 32431 · 251-978-1671
Last inspected Apr 8, 2026 · 15 visits since October 2023
JAN 24
AUG 24
MAY 25
MAR 26
APR 26
≈ ERRATIC
5 inspections, swinging between B and F. Consistency is the problem here, not any single visit.
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
★ Spotless◆ Clean streak● Perfect year✓ Never fined
Awarded on the inspection record alone. What they mean →
Disciplinary actions
1 case · $400
| Case | Violation date | Final order | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6--2021046439 | Sep 29, 2021 | Nov 12, 2021 | $400 |
Inspection history
15 visits, newest first
Apr 8, 2026Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 11 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
3 High priority5 Intermediate3 Basic
What the inspector wrote — 11 findingsThe state's own report →
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Violation has already been addressed on the previous inspection.
Operator unable to verify source of shellstock. See stop sale. Observed a bag of oysters inside the walk in cooler without a tag and quarter of a bag oyster on the front line.
Stop Sale issued due to food originating from an unapproved source. Operator unable to verify source of shellstock. See stop sale. Observed a bag of oysters inside the walk in cooler without a tag and quarter of a bag oyster on the front line without a tag.
Certified Food Manager or person in charge failed to notify the division of employee diagnosed with Norovirus, Hepatitis A, Shigella spp., Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli, Typhoid fever (caused by Salmonella Typhi) or Salmonella (nontyphoidal).
Show the remaining 7 findings ▾
Clam/mussel/oyster tags not marked with last date served.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Cutting board on the reach in cooler.
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.
Water with a temperature of least 85 degrees Fahrenheit not provided/shut off at employee handwash sink. Observed the hot water valve shut off.
Employee with no hair restraint while engaging in food preparation.
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees. By the dish machine.
Water leaking from faucet/handle that three compartment sink.
Mar 10, 2026Administrative complaint recommendedRoutine Inspection
Referred for a formal case, which can lead to a fine. 12 violations recorded, 2 high priority.
2 High priority4 Intermediate6 Basic
Show 12 findings ▾
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license.
Toxic substance/chemical improperly stored. Observed a soap bottle setting on top of the reach in cooler on the cook line.
Establishment not maintaining clam/mussel/oyster tags for 90 days.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at both hand wash sinks in the kitchen area. Observed no paper towels at the hand sink by the three compartment sink.
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. Left a copy.
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.
Exterior door has a gap at the opens to the outside.
Interior of oven/microwave has accumulation of rust in the bar area.
No handwashing sign provided at a hand sink used by food employees, by the three compartment sink.
Open dumpster lid.
Water leaking from faucet/handle, three compartment sink.
Wet mop not stored in a manner to allow the mop to dry,on the floor by the three compartment sink.
Jun 17, 2025□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
May 12, 2025Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
May 12, 2025Inspection Completed - No Further ActionRoutine Inspection
Met inspection standards. 5 violations recorded, none serious enough to require a return visit.
0 High priority4 Intermediate1 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed no paper towels at handwash sink in kitchen. Manager restocked paper towels at time of inspection.
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/. This violation is being addressed on a previous inspection dated August 7, 2024.
No soap provided at handwash sink. Observed no soap at handwash sink in kitchen. Manager restocked soap at time of inspection.
Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Observed 1 unlabeled spray bottle containing blue substance. Manager labeled spray bottle as glass cleaner.
Walk-in cooler/freezer shelves with rust that has pitted the surface. Observed wire shelving in walk-in cooler with rust. Owner advises she will be painting shelves.
Apr 10, 2025Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Feb 18, 2025Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Jan 13, 2025Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Dec 10, 2024Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Nov 8, 2024Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Oct 9, 2024Call Back - Extension given, pendingRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems were not fixed yet and the kitchen was given more time.
0 High priority1 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 1 finding ▾
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
Aug 7, 2024Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 14 recorded, 4 high priority.
4 High priority8 Intermediate2 Basic
Show 14 findings ▾
Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Observed cooked chicken wings 44F at 2:13, per Cook wings were cooked yesterday. See stop sale.
Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 70 degrees Fahrenheit within two hours and from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within six hours. Cooked/heated time/temperature control for safety food not cooled from 135 degrees Fahrenheit to 41 degrees Fahrenheit within 6 hours. Observed cooked chicken wings 44F at 2:13, per Cook wings were cooked yesterday. See stop sale.
Operating with an expired Division of Hotels and Restaurants license. Observed expired license. License expired 06/01/2024. Owner renewed license over phone during inspection.
Time/temperature control for safety food cold held at greater than 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Observed shredded cheese 71F, diced tomatoes 73F, cut cabbage 64F, cut Roma tomatoes 71F in 3 door cooler. Per cook approximately 3 hours, Cook placed items inside chest freezer. New temperatures after 45 mins, cut Roma tomatoes 36F, diced tomatoes 35F, shredded cheese 41F, shredded cabbage 41F,
Commercially processed ready-to-eat, time/temperature control for safety food opened and held more than 24 hours not properly date marked after opening. Observed whole milk opened 2 days ago, per Cook with no date mark on it. Cook date marked.
Food-contact surface soiled with food debris, mold-like substance or slime. Observed cutting board in kitchen with buildup of food debris and green mold-like substance.
Inaccessible hand wash sink in dry storage area with boxes piled on it. Boxes moved at time of inspection. Inaccessible hand wash sink in server station blocked with server tray. Tray moved during inspection.
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/. Plans show hand wash sink in same room as dish pit. Observed dish pit in new room that is not on plans.
No soap provided at handwash sink. Observed no soap at server station hand wash sink. Cook restocked soap at sink.
Raw or undercooked oysters offered and establishment has no consumer advisory sign provided on wall, menu, placard, table tent or by any other written means. Raw animal foods must be fully cooked prior to service. Operator posted at time of inspection.
Spray bottle containing toxic substance not labeled. Observed unlabeled spray bottle with blue liquid inside near bar area. Cook labeled spray bottle.
Total lack of water at hand wash sink near upright freezer. Operator turned water on at time of inspection.
Exterior door has a gap at the threshold that opens to the outside. Observed gap at threshold of cook line door.
Nonfood-contact surface soiled with grease, food debris, dirt, slime or dust. Observed wire shelving in walk-in cooler with rust.
Aug 7, 2024□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
Jan 26, 2024Warning IssuedRoutine Inspection
Violations found and a warning issued, with a return visit required. 5 recorded.
0 High priority5 Intermediate0 Basic
Show 5 findings ▾
Clam/mussel/oyster tags not maintained in chronological order according to the last date they were served in the establishment.
Clam/mussel/oyster tags not marked with last date served.
Manager or person in charge lacking proof of food manager certification. Owner stated she would email a copy of certificate when she returned home.
No paper towels or mechanical hand drying device provided at handwash sink. Observed no paper towels at hand sink in kitchen area.
No soap provided at handwash sink. Observed no hand soap at sink in kitchen area.
Oct 24, 2023□ Call Back - CompliedRoutine Inspection
A return visit. The problems from the previous inspection had been dealt with.
0 High priority0 Intermediate0 Basic
This record follows the licence, not the owner. Restaurants change hands and the licence history normally does not, so an older entry may describe people who no longer run the place. Every inspection above links to the state's own report. Something wrong? Tell us.