Start the Bidding: City Now Accepting Proposals for Tavern on the Green 2.0

Central Park: With the LeRoy family's lease for Tavern on the Green set to expire at the end of the year, the Parks Department has finally released the long awaited RFP (request for proposals) for the 25,000 square foot space. Donald Trump has already shown interest in the space, and Danny Meyer, Drew Nieporent, and the Boarthouse's Dean Poll have been named as obvious contenders. Of course, the current operator Jennifer Oz LeRoy will fight to keep the space, one of the top grossing restaurants in the country. The full RPF is downloadable here, but here's a taste of what they're looking for:

"Parks is seeking imaginative and thoughtful proposals that will respect the architectural intent of the original building and its location within the park landscape. Parks will evaluate proposals based on several specific criteria listed in the RFP, which includes the fee offered to the City, plans for capital improvements, the proposer’s operating experience, planned operations for the restaurant, and proposer’s financial capability."

According to the Observer, site visits are scheduled for March, and proposals are due May 1. The 20 year licensing agreement will begin in January 2010.
· Tavern on the Green: Now Up for Grabs! [NYO]
· Business Opportunities [NYC Parks Dept]
· Eater Contest: Conceptualize Tavern on the Green 2.0! [~E~]

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67th St. Central Park West, New York, NY 10023 212-877-TOTG Visit Website