Dan Abrams, a name synonymous with sharp legal commentary on ABC News and host of the hit show “On Patrol: Live,” is venturing boldly into the culinary world once again. Known primarily for his media insight and legal analysis, Abrams has already demonstrated a distinct knack for hospitality, having co-owned notable New York City restaurants such as White Street in Tribeca and The Lion in Greenwich Village. His forthcoming project, dubbed Danny’s, promises to reinvigorate the New York dining experience by focusing on a concept that combines his personal passions and a nostalgic yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Unlike the large-scale White Street, which accommodated over 200 guests and attracted a powerhouse clientele including celebrities and political figures, Danny’s adopts an intentionally intimate setting with only 75 seats. Located in the pulsating heart of the Madison Square Park neighborhood, this smaller footprint allows Abrams to create a more personal and curated dining environment. The shift from the sprawling, trendy spots he previously helmed to a modest, neighborhood-focused bistro suggests a meaningful evolution in his approach, one that values quality, character, and community over sheer scale.
Championing American Wines: A Refreshing Take
One of the most compelling aspects of Danny’s is its distinctive wine program, which diverges dramatically from the typical Californian or European-centric wine lists dominating NYC establishments. Abrams’ personal ownership of Ev&Em Vineyards on Long Island, named after his children, gives him both credibility and passion when advocating for lesser-known American wine regions. His wine list will showcase gems from states like New York, Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and Michigan—areas often underestimated in the wine world.
This emphasis on domestic wines is not just a clever marketing angle but a thoughtful cultural statement. By spotlighting America’s diverse viticultural regions, Abrams challenges the conventional fine-dining script that often looks outward rather than inward for inspiration. Danny’s aims to make these lesser-known vineyards household names, inviting diners to broaden their palates and appreciation for American craftsmanship.
An Atmosphere Rooted in Nostalgia and Elegance
Abrams’ vision for Danny’s goes beyond food and drink; it’s a holistic homage to a bygone era of New York dining elegance, blending influences from iconic spots like Elaine’s, Keith McNally’s establishments, and Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar. Expect an old-school vibe—banquettes, vintage photographs, and a mural that pays tribute to the Ladies’ Mile Historic District, where the restaurant is located.
This design philosophy represents more than just décor. It’s a deliberate effort to evoke stories, memories, and an enduring community spirit—something rare in today’s often transient restaurant scene. By rooting Danny’s in a specific historical and cultural narrative, Abrams is not only selling a meal but an experience steeped in legacy and place.
Beyond Hospitality: A Multifaceted Entrepreneur Embracing New Challenges
Abrams’ trajectory from law media mogul to restaurateur reveals a restless ambition and a desire to explore new creative spaces beyond his established media empire. Following his lucrative sale of the Law & Crime Network earlier in 2023, Abrams seems poised to pour his energies into ventures that align with his personal interests—food, wine, and neighborhood culture.
His role as CEO of Abrams Media and its flagship site Mediaite indicates that his focus remains multifaceted. Yet, Danny’s symbolizes a refreshing detour into a more tactile, sensory domain where Abrams can curate not just content but an entire environment. This project highlights how the convergence of passion and business strategy can yield innovative enterprises that enrich urban life through thoughtful hospitality.
In a city bursting with dining options, Danny’s stands out not through sheer novelty but by weaving authenticity, personal investment, and cultural pride into a concept that promises to resonate deeply with New Yorkers and wine lovers alike.