Bern’s Steakhouse is set to take a quick summer vacation. One of Florida’s most iconic restaurants will undergo significant renovations Tampa’s Bern’s Steak House announces today a temporary closure for design enhancements that will benefit both the patrons and employees. The last day of service before the summer closure is Sunday, July 2 with the renovations set to last two-weeks. Three main focal points include the lounge, kitchen updates, and an expanded and upgraded staff break area.
“Bern’s Steak House has always been an evolutionary restaurant, in the sense that it is constantly changing, from the aesthetics of the dining rooms and Harry Waugh Dessert Rooms to the menu, wine, and spirit offerings,” says David Laxer, owner, Bern’s Steak House. “My father, Bern, was constantly exploring ways to enhance the dining experience for guests, whether that be through new and different menu items or having a dining area just for desserts.”
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Bern’s lounge to be updated for the first time in 25 years
BDG Architects is overseeing the architectural design and Richard Zingale is leading the interior design for the lounge, which last saw a refresh in 1998. What started as an initial interest to expand the seating in the bar, took on a broader scope. The lounge is a focal point for guests entering the restaurant and the remodel will make way for more seats at the bar as well as a new back bar display.
“The room will be surrounded with banquette seating that brings an upholstered softness to the lounge. Traditional and historical Bern’s references will be complemented with updated details utilizing a combination of natural wood tones and plush fabrics,” says Zingale. “The Bern’s archived accessories will be presented once again, literally, in a fresh new light.” 
Undergoing a 2-week summer closure
Also, on deck to undergo a renovation is the heart and soul of any “home,” the kitchen. While several pieces of equipment have been updated throughout the years, new Jade Range stoves are being custom-built to Executive Chef Chad Johnson and his teams’ needs.
“The kitchen at Bern’s has produced amazing cuisine for decades,” said Johnson. “The upcoming remodel, will allow us to continue to build upon that legacy.”
The construction company overseeing both projects is David Nelson Construction.
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