Bern's Steakhouse

1208 S Howard Ave
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 251-2421

Review Date: Mar 28, 2008

I am shocked by anyone who would give this less than 5 stars. Best steakhouse experience I have ever had.

The wine list has wines from 1700s-2006 with WBG from the 70s. The wine is stored in a cellar with over 800,000 wines - including an 1841 Lafite ($10k).

The steaks come with soup (french onion), a salad, potatoes, and veggies. The 12oz NY strip was about $45 which is very reasonable - especially considering all the additional items (normal steakhouses charge 8-9 for a salad or soup.

I ordered the strip Pitts-Rare and it was cooked perfectly. My date thought her filet was a bit dry...but I thought it was delicious (she ordered MR). We also ordered the Spinach Gratin which was one of the best I've ever had.

I ordered a split of 1960 Cote Rotie, a Rutz Pinot Noir, and a 78 Rhone. Everything but the glass of 78 was fantastic.

For dessert, we had a "crusted port" (blends of multiple vintages and aged for an additional 2 years) and a Sauternes with our Creme Brulee. The Sauternes and creme brulee were outstanding - but I wouldn't order the port again.

We also had a tour of the kitchen and wine cellar. Our server, Juan, was extremely knowledgeable about the place and the wine. Servers must train for 2 years before they're allowed on the floor (including time on the farm up the street). One server has been there for 21 years without missing a single day (they close only on Labor day and Christmas).

Dinner for 2 people, including a split of 60 Cote Rotie, 2 glasses of wine came to $170. Dessert for 2, including 1 glass of port, 1 glass of Sauternes, and a creme brulee came to $37. Quite an impressive meal for $110/person.

With the exception of French Laundry - I can't imagine a better experience.