Central Park’s iconic Tavern on the Green will reopen after 13 months

All photos courtesy of Tavern on the Green

After temporarily closing 13 months ago due to COVID-19, Central Park’s iconic restaurant Tavern on the Green will reopen on April 29, with reservations opening today. Guests can enjoy indoor dining, which will be limited to 50 percent capacity, outdoor dining, and a new to-go window perfect for park-goers or at-home diners. “Tavern is more than just a restaurant, it is a place for New Yorkers to unwind, relax in the heart of Central Park, and feel some kind of normalcy again,” said co-owner Jim Caiola.

The Tavern on the Green building was designed by Central Park architect Calvert Vaux as a sheepfold for the 700 animals grazing in the park’s Sheep Meadow. It was built in the 1880s and transformed into a restaurant by Robert Moses when he renovated the park in 1934. Over the years, there were additions such as the outdoor patio and the beautiful Crystal Room. But in 2009, the restaurant went on a hiatus. Current owners, restauranteurs Jim Caiola and David Salama, reopened it in 2014 after a renovation that included bringing back architectural details from the sheepfold days.

When Tavern on the Green reopens again this month, the outdoor dining offerings will include the Main Courtyard, situated right across from the Sheep Meadow, the Beer Garden out front, and the covered South Terrace that’s usually reserved for events. As for the to-go window, it will also offer cocktails. Guests can order ahead online from the park and receive a text when it’s ready for pick up.

All of the food will be prepared under executive chef Bill Peet, whose new spring menu includes both classics like the Tavern burger and the restaurant’s famous birthday cake and new specials like grilled lobster and spring pea risotto, caramelized rack of lamb, and cauliflower steaks.

“The past year has tested our industry, and we have come back more resilient and innovative than ever. It has been powerful to see how restaurants have adapted and we so look forward to bringing back such a special offering, whether our guests are coming in for dinner in the iconic Central Park Room, or grabbing a cheese plate and cocktails to enjoy in the park,” said Caiola.

Find menus and make reservations for Tavern on the Green here >>

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All photos courtesy Tavern on the Green