The Union Square Cafe. The name conjures images of vibrant New York City, innovative cuisine, and a bustling atmosphere that epitomized the city’s culinary renaissance. But for many newer diners, the question remains: Where exactly was the original Union Square Cafe? It wasn’t always at its current location. Unraveling this piece of New York City history takes us back to a time when Union Square was a very different place, and a visionary restaurateur dared to dream of something more.
A Vision Takes Root: The Genesis of Union Square Cafe
To truly understand the significance of the original location, we need to delve into the mind of Danny Meyer, the restaurateur who brought Union Square Cafe to life. In the early 1980s, Union Square was not the vibrant, upscale neighborhood we know today. It was gritty, overlooked, and far from a destination for fine dining. Meyer, however, saw potential. He envisioned a restaurant that would not only serve exceptional food but also foster a sense of community, a place where everyone felt welcome.
He sought to create a restaurant that valued both its employees and its guests. This concept, revolutionary at the time, would become a hallmark of Meyer’s hospitality group, Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG). The location was key to his vision.
The Inaugural Address: 16th Street and Union Square West
The original Union Square Cafe opened its doors in 1985 at 16th Street and Union Square West. This address, now 101 East 19th Street, held more than just geographical significance. It represented a bet on the future of Union Square, a gamble that paid off handsomely.
The space itself was unassuming. It wasn’t a grand, sprawling ballroom, but rather a more intimate and inviting setting. This fostered the sense of warmth and community that Meyer sought to cultivate. The exposed brick walls, the carefully chosen artwork, and the bustling open kitchen all contributed to the restaurant’s unique character.
Why That Location? Understanding the Strategic Choice
Choosing 16th Street and Union Square West wasn’t a matter of chance. Several factors played a crucial role in Meyer’s decision.
- Affordable Rent: In the 1980s, rent in the Union Square area was significantly lower than in more established dining destinations like Midtown or the Upper East Side. This allowed Meyer to invest more in the quality of the food, the service, and the overall dining experience.
- Untapped Potential: As mentioned earlier, Union Square was an area on the cusp of change. Meyer recognized the potential for growth and saw an opportunity to be a pioneer in the neighborhood’s revitalization.
- Accessibility: Despite its then-gritty reputation, Union Square was easily accessible by subway, making it convenient for diners from all over the city.
- Central Location: Being close to other emerging neighborhoods such as the Flatiron district, Union Square was an ideal location.
The Ambiance and Design: Creating a Welcoming Space
The design of the original Union Square Cafe was as important as the food itself. Meyer wanted to create a space that felt both elegant and approachable, a place where people could relax and enjoy themselves.
The restaurant featured an open kitchen, allowing diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand. This added to the sense of transparency and authenticity that Meyer valued. The artwork on the walls was carefully chosen to complement the food and the atmosphere, creating a visually stimulating and engaging environment. The furniture was comfortable and inviting, encouraging guests to linger and savor their meals. The lighting was warm and flattering, creating a sense of intimacy. All these elements combined to create a truly unique and memorable dining experience.
The Menu and Culinary Innovation
Union Square Cafe was more than just a pretty face. The food was exceptional, showcasing fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. Chef Michael Romano played a pivotal role in shaping the restaurant’s culinary identity. His focus on simple, yet elegant dishes, allowed the quality of the ingredients to shine.
The menu changed frequently, reflecting the availability of seasonal produce. This commitment to freshness and seasonality was a hallmark of Union Square Cafe and helped to set it apart from other restaurants of the time. The restaurant also boasted an impressive wine list, curated to complement the food and enhance the dining experience.
Impact and Legacy: More Than Just a Restaurant
The original Union Square Cafe was more than just a restaurant; it was a cultural institution. It helped to transform Union Square into the vibrant neighborhood it is today. It served as a training ground for some of the city’s most talented chefs and restaurateurs. It set a new standard for hospitality, emphasizing the importance of treating employees and guests with respect and care.
The restaurant received numerous accolades, including multiple James Beard Awards. It was consistently ranked among the best restaurants in New York City, and it attracted a loyal following of locals and tourists alike. Its influence can still be felt in the city’s dining scene today.
The Move: Why Union Square Cafe Relocated
After more than three decades at its original location, Union Square Cafe faced a difficult decision. Rising rents and the changing landscape of the restaurant industry forced Meyer and his team to consider a move.
In 2016, the restaurant closed its doors at 16th Street and Union Square West. The closure was met with sadness and nostalgia by many New Yorkers who had fond memories of dining at the original location. But Meyer promised to reopen Union Square Cafe in a new location, ensuring that the restaurant’s legacy would continue.
The New Chapter: Union Square Cafe Today
In 2018, Union Square Cafe reopened at 101 East 19th Street, just a short distance from its original home, in the building where the old location once was. The new space is larger and more modern, but it retains the same warmth and hospitality that made the original Union Square Cafe so beloved.
While the location might be the same address, the experience has been adapted to the modern dining landscape. The menu has evolved, but it still showcases fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. The wine list remains impressive, and the service is as attentive and friendly as ever.
The move to a new space reflects the evolution of the restaurant and the neighborhood. The new Union Square Cafe honors the legacy of the original while embracing the future of dining in New York City. The spirit of innovation, hospitality, and culinary excellence that defined the original Union Square Cafe remains alive and well.
Remembering the Original: A Time Capsule of New York’s Culinary History
Although the Union Square Cafe has evolved, the memory of the original location at 16th Street and Union Square West remains a significant chapter in New York City’s culinary history. It was a place where food, community, and hospitality came together to create something truly special. It helped to shape the city’s dining scene and set a new standard for restaurants around the world. The original Union Square Cafe at 16th Street and Union Square West was more than just an address; it was a symbol of vision, innovation, and the transformative power of a great restaurant.
The legacy of that original location continues to inspire and influence chefs, restaurateurs, and diners alike. The building at 101 East 19th Street that housed the original restaurant stands as a silent testament to the restaurant’s impact, a reminder of the time when Danny Meyer took a gamble on a then-gritty neighborhood and created a culinary landmark that would forever change the landscape of New York City dining. While the physical space has changed, the heart and soul of Union Square Cafe remain the same: a commitment to exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a sense of community that makes everyone feel welcome.
Where was the original Union Square Cafe located?
The original Union Square Cafe was famously located at 16th Street and Union Square West in New York City. This location, at the heart of the then-emerging Union Square neighborhood, proved pivotal in the restaurant’s success and its contribution to the area’s revitalization. It became a beloved fixture in the community for decades, influencing the culinary scene and fostering a sense of local pride.
Its proximity to the Union Square Greenmarket was no accident; Danny Meyer, the owner, consciously chose the location to capitalize on the market’s fresh, seasonal ingredients. This decision was foundational to the restaurant’s commitment to farm-to-table dining, a philosophy that became increasingly important in the restaurant world. The location was not just an address, but an integral part of the Union Square Cafe’s identity.
Why did the Union Square Cafe have to move from its original location?
The primary reason for the Union Square Cafe’s relocation stemmed from a significant rent increase. After 30 years at the original site, the landlord substantially raised the rent, making it unsustainable for the restaurant to continue operating there. This situation highlights the challenges faced by many businesses in New York City’s competitive real estate market.
While other factors might have played a minor role, the rent increase was the decisive factor. Danny Meyer explored various options to remain in the original location, but ultimately, a mutually acceptable agreement could not be reached. This led to the difficult decision to close the original location and seek a new home for the iconic restaurant.
When did the original Union Square Cafe close its doors?
The original Union Square Cafe officially closed its doors on December 31, 2015. This marked the end of an era for the beloved restaurant at its iconic 16th Street location. The final service was met with an outpouring of support from loyal patrons and admirers who gathered to bid farewell to the establishment that had shaped the Union Square culinary landscape for three decades.
The closing was preceded by months of anticipation and nostalgia, with many regulars making reservations for one last meal in the familiar setting. The atmosphere during those final weeks was a mix of celebration of the restaurant’s legacy and sadness over its departure from the original location. The restaurant’s team was committed to providing exceptional service until the very last moment.
Where is the current Union Square Cafe located?
The current iteration of Union Square Cafe is located at 101 E 19th St, New York, NY 10003. This location is still within the Union Square neighborhood, albeit a few blocks away from the original site. The move allowed the restaurant to maintain its connection to the community while adapting to the changing real estate landscape.
The new location offers a modern and updated dining experience, while still retaining the spirit and essence of the original Union Square Cafe. The restaurant maintains its commitment to exceptional service, seasonal cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere that made the original establishment so popular. The current location continues to be a culinary destination in the heart of New York City.
How does the new Union Square Cafe compare to the original?
The new Union Square Cafe strives to maintain the spirit and culinary excellence of the original, while also embracing a modern aesthetic and updated menu. While the ambiance is different, the core values of hospitality, quality ingredients, and community connection remain central to the restaurant’s identity. The layout is more contemporary, but the focus on creating a welcoming and enjoyable dining experience is unchanged.
The menu features both classic dishes from the original location and new creations that reflect the evolution of culinary trends. Danny Meyer and his team have worked diligently to ensure that the new Union Square Cafe honors the legacy of its predecessor while also forging its own path in the ever-evolving New York City restaurant scene. Regulars of the original cafe will find familiar favorites alongside exciting new offerings.
What was the impact of Union Square Cafe on the Union Square neighborhood?
Union Square Cafe played a pivotal role in the revitalization and transformation of the Union Square neighborhood. When it opened in 1985, the area was considered less desirable, but the restaurant’s success helped attract other businesses and residents. It became a culinary anchor and a symbol of the neighborhood’s potential, contributing significantly to its economic and cultural growth.
The restaurant’s commitment to sourcing ingredients from the Union Square Greenmarket further solidified its connection to the community. This dedication to local and seasonal produce not only enhanced the quality of the food but also supported local farmers and producers. The Union Square Cafe helped establish Union Square as a vibrant and desirable destination, leaving an enduring legacy on the area.
Who was the chef at the original Union Square Cafe?
While many talented chefs contributed to the success of the Union Square Cafe over the years, Michael Romano is perhaps the most recognized and longest-serving chef associated with the original location. He joined the restaurant in its early years and played a crucial role in developing its signature cuisine and establishing its reputation for culinary excellence. His leadership in the kitchen was instrumental in the restaurant’s rise to prominence.
Other notable chefs who contributed to the restaurant’s culinary legacy include Ali Barker and Carmen Quagliata. Each chef brought their unique talents and perspectives to the kitchen, ensuring that the Union Square Cafe remained at the forefront of the New York City dining scene. Their collective efforts helped to shape the restaurant’s distinctive culinary identity and its enduring appeal.