We Ask Nate Wilson about Bern’s Steak House in Tampa

Photos by Pezz Photos

Bern’s Steak House in Tampa stands out among other high-end restaurants for its unwavering dedication to excellence.

Nate Wilson, the Director of Spirits, exclaims that the restaurant combines meticulous attention to detail and warm, personalized service, making it more than just a dining destination; it is a landmark since 1956.

“From its handcrafted interiors to one of the largest working wine collections in the world, Bern’s transcends expectations and is more than a restaurant; it’s a landmark institution in Tampa.”

The legacy of Bern’s began when Bern and Gert Laxer, originally from New York, transformed a small luncheonette into a steakhouse in Tampa. Over time, their vision expanded, adding dining rooms and cultivating a reputation for exceptional steaks, personalized service, and an impressive wine collection. In 1985, they further cemented their legacy with the creation of the Harry Waugh Dessert Room, providing guests with unique after-dinner experiences. The restaurant’s legacy continues through the Laxer family today, and Wilson proclaims that Bern’s Steak House remains a testament to the Laxers’ dedication to quality and hospitality, with son David Laxer continuing to uphold the tradition of excellence.

Bern’s cocktail menu reflects the restaurant’s storied past and forward-thinking approach. Wilson explains that the bar team’s guiding principle is: “Is this worthy of the Bern’s legacy, and how will it impact it?” This philosophy blends tradition with innovation, offering reinterpreted classic cocktails. One of the most iconic drinks is the Old Fashioned, with varieties like the Dry-Aged Old Fashioned, which incorporates beef fat-washed Blanton’s bourbon and smoked ice. Then comes the Macadamia Nut Old Fashioned, a creation from resident cocktail expert Madeline Kaye. “Our resident cocktail guru Madeline Kaye has dared to take our world-famous Macadamia Nut ice cream, one of our hand-selected bourbons, and our proprietary syrup and clarified it to give our guests one of the most balanced and viscous Old Fashioneds to hit a palate.”

Incorporating current trends like Asian influences and garden-inspired flavors, Bern’s bar continues to evolve. For example, the “Hot Manzana” features Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, alongside Código Rosa Reposado and green apple liqueur, while the “Garden Party” cocktail offers a refreshing mix of Gin Mare, cucumber, pear, and arugula. Wilson exclaimed that these innovative cocktails reflect the restaurant’s commitment to pushing boundaries while staying grounded in its legacy: “We aim to set a tone with the menu—one that balances a conservative touch with a daring perspective.”

Cocktails are integral, but we can’t forget the vino. Wine plays an essential role at Bern’s, with its extensive collection elevating the dining experience. The wine list is carefully curated with hard-to-find labels and featured vintages to complement every meal. The wine cellar is complemented by a spirits list filled with rare offerings, including Cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados dating back to the early 1800s. “One of the most challenging tasks is maintaining our vast wine list and then having a spirits list that can proudly stand next to it.”
The atmosphere at Bern’s is equally important in shaping the guest experience. Guests are enveloped in an elegant, timeless setting, with soft lighting and rich wood paneling creating a welcoming ambiance. The intimate dining rooms provide a sense of exclusivity, while the impeccable service ensures that each guest feels cared for. “The atmosphere enhances every aspect of the dining experience, making each visit feel like a special occasion.”

The Harry Waugh Dessert Room, inspired by a memorable evening shared by the Laxers and the former director of Château Latour, provides a luxurious space for indulging in handmade desserts and after-dinner drinks. With private booths crafted from old wine casks, the room offers a serene setting for guests to enjoy vintage ports, rare wines, and aged cognacs. Wilson describes the room as “an elegant, intimate space dedicated to the art of indulgence.”

If it isn’t obvious enough, Bern’s Steak House is a destination in itself that keeps guests coming back with its exceptional cocktails, rare spirits, and unique atmosphere. Whether enjoying a pre-dinner drink at the bar or savoring a dessert in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room, the experience at Bern’s is one of indulgence, hospitality, and timeless tradition.