Culinary Maestro Manhattan: Danny Meyer

In a city with over 25,000 eateries, many of which fail within a single year, Danny Meyer’s story is a remarkable testament to the power of hospitality. What began in 1985 as a single groundbreaking restaurant—Union Square Cafe—has evolved into Union Square Hospitality Group, with upscale spots like Gramercy Tavern and The Modern, casual favorites like Blue Smoke and Marta, an events company, an investment fund and New York’s beloved Shake Shack. Danny, his restaurants and chefs have earned an unprecedented 28 James Beard Awards, and he was named to the Time magazine list of the Most Influential People of 2015; in 2017 he was the recipient of the Julia Child Award.

You’ve dined in his restaurants, thrilled at the food and reveled in his hospitality. Now hear from Danny Meyer himself about his childhood culinary experiences, his last-minute decision not to go to law school, and his pioneering crusade against tipping.

Moderated by Budd Mishkin.