Credit: PHOTO CREDIT BERN'S STEAKHOUSE/ INSTAGRAM

Credit: PHOTO CREDIT BERN'S STEAKHOUSE/ INSTAGRAM
Kim Yelvington, owner of Chocolate Pi bakery, has filed a lawsuit against Bern’s Steak House alleging discrimination based on disability, religion and sex.

The allegations also include harassment by owner David Laxer.

Prior to opening Chocolate Pi, Yelvington was employed by Bern’s for nearly three decades, beginning late 1989, as as pastry chef prior to being terminated September of last year.

According to Yelvinton’s lawsuit allegations, she was fired after confronting Laxer about his harassing behavior.

When asked for comment today, Bern’s rep said, “We Bern’s Steak House, or it’s subsidiaries, and David Laxer have no comment (sic).”

The lawsuit further outlines harassment from Laxer regarding her bipolar disorder and religious beliefs.

Alleged comments by Laxer within the suit read, “The party is over — I am reaching my threshold because of your condition,” and “What would you do without me, no one will hire you with your condition?" 

Want to know everything going on with Tampa Bay's food and drink scene? Sign up for our Bites newsletter.