Posh NYC restaurant roasted by health inspectors

 One of New York City's most exclusive restaurants is in a real pickle after being served a "C" grade by the New York City Department of Health.

The restaurant, Per Se, was slammed by health inspectors after racking up 42 violation points during its inspection on February 19, city health department records showed.

Per Se, one of only seven in New York City to earn three Michelin stars, previously had an "A" rating before the inspection.

Violations listed in the latest health inspection included no hand-washing facility or soap in the food-prep area, hot and cold items held in improper temperatures, and eating or drinking in the food-prep area and tobacco use, all of which qualify as "critical" violations, according to the records.

In its last inspection in June 2013, Per Se had only one violation worth 7 points, but previous inspections in 2013 and 2011 also fell into the 40-point range.

Inspectors give an "A" for 0 to 13 points, "B" for 14 to 27 points and "C" for 28 or more, according to the health department's website.

Representatives for Keller did not immediately return calls or e-mails to CNN.

The restaurant will have a chance to argue the inspection at a hearing but must post a sign that reads "Grade Pending" until then.

Per Se's chef, Thomas Keller, oversaw the cuisine Sunday night at the Vanity Fair Oscar party, where guests enjoyed chicken pot pie and truffle lasagna, according to a menu that Keller tweeted.

Per Se is considered the East Coast interpretation of Keller's French Laundry restaurant in Northern California.

For those interested in putting their money where their mouth is, the eatery offers a nine-course tasting menu for $310 per person.