Philly Group Takes Over NYC's Tavern on the Green

Whoa. Jim Caiola and David Salama, owners of L'Etage and Beau Monde, have been approved by the Parks & Recreation Department to take over NYC's iconic Tavern on the Green. The ownership team is known as Emerald Green Group, and have been granted a 20-year license. Their pitch was the highest rated of all the proposals, and includes outdoor seating for 300 patrons, and a new take-out service, as well.

The opening date has been set for the fall of 2013. For those who aren't familiar with the restaurant, the building is located in Central Park, just west of the Sheep Meadow near 67th Street.

The group has already named Katy Sparks as the executive chef of the new Tavern on the Green. Sparks has a serious resume, which includes critically acclaimed restaurants The Quilted Giraffe, Bobby Flay's Mesa Grill and Bolo, and Quilty's in the Soho neighborhood.

There is an extensive renovation plan for the building, and it's a two-headed process. The city is responsible for the outside appearance and grounds, making sure the new look works with the park setting, and Emerald Green is designing the interior. Big congratulations to Caiola and Salama, who are bringing a bit of Philly to one of the most iconic restaurants in the U.S.

· All Tavern on the Green Coverage [~EPHI~]
· Tavern on the Green [Official]