OO, I can't imagine duking it out with you -- why, we'd have to put our white gloves on, for sure, two fine ladies as we are. I'd thrash you with my gladiolas until you writhe breathless on the ground, overcome with that oh-too-common Southern malady -- the vapors!

All jesting aside, I know that Berns is resting on its laurels. I guess I like what it's not. It's a restaurant that does one thing well -- steak! It doesn't offer any specials, and if it does, woe to the brave diner that tries them. And it does it's best to scoot you from one room to the next, as you say, but I like that about it -- Berns is an event. It is a pretentiousness that says it believes in fine dining, of an old-fashioned sort. For me, it's a place I've been going to since the 70s, and it's still just the same. But for some reason, it always seems so special -- and that's why I go there when I need to let someone know that they are special.

My only complaint about Berns is that it has separated itself from the Hyde Park community and is going to erect a 12-story hotel across the street. Following, I'm sure in the bold architectural tradition that it upholds so well -- the box.

GMHAV, this is a decades old argument that we Tampans engage in from time to time. You should be the judge yourself. IMHO, OOs time and mine would be better spent advising you from going to the Melting Pot. Instead, head to the Lobster Pot on Redington Beach.

I don't even like steak and yet Berns was awesome (had fish). The dessert room is a must. If you don't know if you will want dessert, why not book it anyway? At least have some coffee or something.

The decor is what I loved most about Berns.

To each his own.

WOW! So much information, so many choices. I think I need an advil. Thanks so much to everyone for all the great ideas. We're taking all this good info with us and we plan on trying everything, TWICE!
We made a res for Berns a few weeks ago. If all they serve is a fantastic steak then I'll be more than happy. My wife and I are snobs only when it comes to steaks. Too many places claim dry aged prime steaks and deliver neither. I'm sure Berns will be great.
My wife will be 7 months pregnant at the time, it's going to be our last solo vacation for 15-20 years give or take but who's counting. The other couple we are going with will be 4 months pregnant so I think the 4 of us will stick out like sore thumbs. Look for us in all the places listed above.

GMHV
Emjoy!!! My husband and I went to Ocean Springs, Mississippi, with our then-two year old and me 7 months pregnant 13 years ago. We had a blast! Life goes on - it just changes - and parents/sisters/brothers willing to babysit are a real blessing! You might want to check out Ybor City in Tampa - great Cuban food and a last hurrah for pre-children people! Bern's ha a wonderful reputation.

Le Croisette...........

can anyone tell me more about this restaurant on corey street?

Give le croisette a try! Nothing fancy, just a mom and pop breakfast place that happens to have a french accent, makes great Eggs Benedict, and wonderful pancakes and croissants (although I haven't had those - can't get away from the Veggie Benny's!).

P.S. To Olive: I hope things are going well with you...by the way you forgot the most important part of eating crawfish: Sucking the heads! (My husband's contribution to this discussion)

speaking of sucking heads, try large thai tiger shrimp, with the heads on, any asian deli, talk about some good eating!