Dan Abrams, widely recognized for his role as ABC News chief legal analyst and host of “On Patrol: Live,” is venturing beyond the media spotlight to open a new restaurant named Danny’s in Manhattan. This marks yet another chapter in his evolving journey as a restaurateur, following his previous involvements with Tribeca’s White Street and Greenwich Village’s The Lion. Unlike these previous larger and more bustling establishments, Danny’s is shaping up to be a more intimate, thoughtful space that leans heavily into an American wine bistro concept—a direction that aligns with Abrams’ personal interest as a winery owner himself.
Intentional Ambiance and a Nod to Local Heritage
What sets Danny’s apart from Abrams’ earlier ventures is the deliberate atmosphere he is aiming to create. Positioned in the Ladies’ Mile Historic District near Madison Square Park, the bistro promises a nostalgic vibe that Abrams juxtaposes with influences from iconic New York spots like Elaine’s as well as legendary eateries owned by Keith McNally and Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar. The design will be classic yet personal, featuring banquettes, old photographs, and a mural that homage the neighborhood’s storied past. This indicates Abrams’ ambition to root Danny’s deeply in its local cultural and historical context rather than merely offering a generic dining experience.
A Grape Revolution: Spotlight on Underappreciated American Wines
One of the restaurant’s most intriguing elements is its wine list, which will apparently champion American wines from lesser-known states such as New York, Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and Michigan. This is a refreshingly patriotic take amid a global market long dominated by European vintages. Given Abrams’ ownership of Ev & Em Vineyards on Long Island—named after his children—it’s clear that the wine selection is a personal passion project that seeks to elevate and celebrate domestic viticulture. This “Make America Grape Again” approach has the potential to educate and delight wine enthusiasts eager for new discoveries, differentiating Danny’s in a crowded bistro scene.
A Strategic Shift Towards Intimacy and Neighborhood Focus
Unlike White Street’s large 220-seat capacity and a clientele filled with media power players and celebrities, Danny’s is designed to be a smaller, cozier venue with only 75 seats. This strategic downsizing shows Abrams’ matured perspective on hospitality, perhaps informed by his past experiences. Choosing to open in his own neighborhood near Madison Square Park rather than in the more isolated Tribeca also signals a desire to embed himself locally, offering a genuine “third place” experience for residents. It is a subtle but significant move, suggesting hospitality with a community spirit rather than a celebrity magnet.
Innovative Vision Backed by Business Acumen
Abrams’ timing to dive into this venture is telling. Following the lucrative sale of his Law&Crime Network in 2023, he appears to be channeling his resources and energy into projects that excite him on a more personal level. As a media entrepreneur who understands branding and audience engagement, Abrams is likely to leverage these strengths to ensure Danny’s is not only a restaurant but a distinct lifestyle destination. His ability to curate experiences—whether in news, digital media, or hospitality—will be crucial in an industry where authenticity and uniqueness are prized.
In sum, Danny’s is shaping up to be a deeply considered, intimate bistro with a strong sense of place, community, and a bold commitment to American wine culture. This venture reflects Dan Abrams’ growing sophistication as a restaurateur and his passion for blending personal narrative with hospitality innovation.
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