Dan Abrams is better known as a sharp legal analyst and media entrepreneur, but his emerging role as a restaurateur demonstrates a fascinating and ambitious reinvention of his public persona. Having previously co-owned trendy New York dining spots such as White Street and The Lion, Abrams is now gearing up to open a new establishment called Danny’s, set to debut in the fall. This new restaurant serves as a testament to his ability to bridge cultural worlds—from legal commentary to gourmet experiences—showcasing a genuine passion that goes beyond mere celebrity side projects.
A Distinctive Vision: More Than Just Another Eatery
Danny’s is shaping up to be more than a conventional restaurant; Abrams describes it as an “American wine bistro,” which is already a strong signal that it aims to celebrate not just food but also a unique and thoughtfully curated wine experience. Unlike the predictably international wine selections commonly found in New York City, Abrams has committed to spotlighting American vineyards that are often overlooked—states like New York itself, Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and Michigan. This focus aligns with a larger cultural movement to rediscover the richness of American terroir and support local or lesser-known producers. Abrams’ personal connection to this movement is underscored by his ownership of Ev&Em Vineyards on Long Island, an enterprise that not only ties into the Danny’s concept but also signals serious intentions rather than fleeting celebrity endorsements.
Crafting Ambiance with Nostalgia and Local Flair
What intrigues me most about Abrams’ vision is his desire to evoke a specific atmosphere, inspired by iconic New York establishments such as Elaine’s, Keith McNally’s venues, and Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar. These references evoke a blend of literary charm, urban sophistication, and a timeless aesthetic that is increasingly rare in the era of ultra-modern, sometimes forgettable restaurant interiors. With its slated features—banquettes, vintage photographs, murals, and artwork celebrating the Ladies’ Mile Historic District—Danny’s attempts to root itself firmly in the fabric of its neighborhood while evoking Old New York glamour. The decision to cap seating at 75 guests contrasts sharply with the large-capacity White Street, suggesting a deliberate shift toward intimacy, quality, and exclusivity.
Leveraging Cultural Capital and Reinvention
Abrams is no stranger to cultivating spaces where power brokers and celebrities converge, as his previous ventures attracted media stars and political high-flyers—including major names at ABC News and even President Obama. What differs with Danny’s is the blending of his media savvy with genuine personal passion projects. His recent sale of Law & Crime Network provided not only capital but also the freedom to pursue ventures driven by enjoyment and creativity rather than sheer business necessity. Also serving as CEO of Abrams Media, he sits at the intersection of media, culture, and now, gastronomy, making his return to the restaurant world worth watching. Far from a vanity project, Danny’s reflects a matured vision: one that respects tradition while embracing fresh, American-forward concepts both in design and menu.
Through these efforts, Dan Abrams is staking a claim on a cultural niche often overlooked—a neighborhood bistro that becomes a gathering place for authentic experiences, exceptional local wines, and refined yet accessible dining. This blend of carefully curated elements and personal investment promises a restaurant that is both distinctively Abrams and thoroughly New York.