Tampa

Bern's To Convert Haven Into Seafood Spot In South Tampa

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Published on May 04, 2026
Bern's To Convert Haven Into Seafood Spot In South Tampa Source: Google Street View

Haven, the Hyde Park sibling to Bern's Steak House known for small plates, an expansive wine and whiskey lineup, and that well-loved patio, is nearing its last call. Bern's Steak House Group plans to close the restaurant in late May, then spend months turning the South Tampa spot into a brand-new concept.

According to the Tampa Bay Business Journal, Haven will serve its final meals at the end of May so renovation work can begin on the Howard Avenue property. The May 4 report notes that Bern's intends to redevelop the space and debut a fresh dining concept under the Bern's umbrella.

Earlier coverage from the Tampa Bay Times reported that the replacement is planned as a seafood-focused restaurant, with a target opening in fall 2027 and Haven executive chef Chad Johnson set to lead the project. That February story first laid out the long-range timetable and the chef-driven approach for the Hyde Park address.

Chef's New Concept

Johnson told the Tampa Bay Business Journal he has been developing a restaurant idea called Peddler & Potter for years, and he said those ideas will help shape the new spot. The outlet reported that Bern's has not confirmed whether the Peddler & Potter name will be used publicly for the forthcoming restaurant.

Timeline and What to Expect

Construction on the former Haven space is scheduled to begin in late May, with months of buildout and kitchen retooling anticipated before the new concept is ready for service. The Tampa Bay Times reports that Bern's is aiming for a fall 2027 debut for the seafood restaurant.

What It Means for South Tampa

Bern's is a decades-old fixture in South Tampa and operates several nearby food and beverage outposts, including Haven and the Harry Waugh Dessert Room, according to the company's Bern's Steak House website. Local dining guides have long listed Haven among Hyde Park's go-to spots for small plates, wine and whiskey, and patio seating, so the conversion is expected to reshape the neighborhood's dining mix. The Bern's website and those neighborhood guides alike underline how visible the change will be for the area.