Dan Abrams, best known for his role as ABC News chief legal analyst and host of “On Patrol: Live,” is stepping into the culinary world once again with his upcoming restaurant, Danny’s. Unlike many celebrity-backed ventures that capitalize solely on name recognition, Abrams approaches this new project with a clear sense of identity and deep-rooted enthusiasm. Having previously co-owned the Tribeca restaurant White Street and the Greenwich Village hotspot the Lion, Abrams understands the intricacies of the New York restaurant scene and is intent on creating an authentic dining experience that honors his personal tastes and community ties.
Reimagining the American Wine Bistro
Located at 46 West 22nd Street, Danny’s sets itself apart as more than just another eatery; it’s poised to be an American wine bistro with a sharp focus on showcasing underrated wine regions like New York, Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and Michigan. Abrams’ commitment to promoting American viticulture beyond the well-trod Napa and Sonoma is both refreshing and strategically savvy. This decision reflects a deeper mission—one that supports emerging local winegrowers and invites New Yorkers to reexamine their preconceived ideas about quality American wines. The tagline “Make America grape again” may sound playful, but it reveals a genuine advocacy for domestic viniculture that deserves more recognition.
Creating an Atmosphere of Timeless Elegance and Community
Danny’s isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel with flashy tech or avant-garde cuisine. Instead, Abrams is deliberately evoking the charm of classic New York dining legends such as Elaine’s, Keith McNally’s establishments, and Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar. The emphasis on banquettes, old photographs, and a mural celebrating the historic Ladies’ Mile district situate the restaurant within a rich cultural and architectural narrative. This classic ambiance suggests Abrams is not chasing trends but offering patrons a warm, approachable space steeped in tradition—an inviting counterbalance to the city’s often frenetic dining scene.
From Large Scale to Intimacy: A Shift in Scale and Focus
While his previous project, White Street, sprawled over 220 seats and attracted celebrities and political elites alike, Danny’s will be a more intimate 75-seat venue located in Abrams’ own Madison Square Park neighborhood. This shift not only signals a change in hospitality style—from large-scale social hub to a more personal, curated dining experience—but also reflects Abrams’ evolving priorities. After the successful sale of his Law & Crime Network last year, Abrams appears to be seeking projects where creativity, quality, and community intersect—rather than chasing purely commercial success.
Looking Ahead: Chef Selection and Design Innovation
With the restaurant aiming to open by the end of September, Abrams is actively interviewing chefs who can bring his vision to life. The selection of culinary leadership will be crucial, as the concept relies heavily on pairing thoughtfully curated wines with dishes that resonate with the American bistro spirit. Meanwhile, new interior design work is underway, promising a blend of old-world charm and fresh vibrancy. This focus on atmosphere alongside wine and food illustrates a holistic approach to hospitality—where every detail matters.
Dan Abrams’ Entrepreneurial Spirit Beyond the Spotlight
Abrams’ career trajectory is noteworthy not simply because of his media presence but due to his ability to pivot and diversify effectively. He is the CEO and founder of Abrams Media, which includes Mediaite, and more recently, he sold his Law & Crime Network in a lucrative deal. His investment in the Long Island winery Ev&Em Vineyards, named after his children, further underscores a personal and financial commitment to the culinary and wine industries. Danny’s emerges not as a side project, but as a natural extension of Abrams’ multifaceted passion for storytelling—now told through food, wine, and community rather than legal analysis.
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