Gertrude “Gert” Laxer may be one of the lesser-celebrated figures in Tampa’s restaurant history, but her influence was profound. She, along with her husband, Bern, co-founded and ran one of Tampa’s most iconic eateries, Bern’s Steak House. While Bern was often the public face of the restaurant—appearing in press photos and interviews—it was Gert who played a vital role behind the scenes, helping to establish the brand and overseeing the family farm that supplied much of the restaurant’s fresh produce.

Gert grew up in a small agricultural community in upstate New York and attended New York University, studying advertising. It was at NYU that she met Bern, whom she married in 1950.

In 1956, the couple purchased Beer Haven, a modest bar dating back to the 1940s, for $4,500. When it came time to rename the business, they salvaged letters from the old sign to save money; thus, Bern’s Steak House was born. Over the years, they acquired neighboring storefronts and gradually expanded the restaurant from a 40-seat room into a 350-seat, world-renowned dining institution.

Gert pitched in wherever help was needed. Waiting tables, bussing, and washing dishes were just the behind-the-scenes duties. After the Laxers bought their farmland, she was the inspiration behind their organic approach to planting, while most other growers resorted to fumigation and spraying. She shoveled compost, dug holes, and supervised the harvest, all with the idea of serving better, healthier food to their customers.

Beyond her work at the restaurant and farm, Gert also gave generously of her time to the community. She volunteered at her children’s school and served actively at the Jewish Community Center.

Gertrude Laxer passed away in 2020, leaving behind a quiet but profound legacy—rooted in family, friends, food, and service.

 © Chip Weiner. All rights reserved