Tavern on the Green closure (2009–2014)
The Central Park landmark closed in 2009 after its operator's city contract ended amid a legal dispute. The building sat empty for years while officials chose a new manager.
The space remained dark through the legal fight; the city eventually awarded the contract to a new operator.
The restaurant reopened in 2014 after a renovation, showing that even a prime NYC restaurant space can sit vacant for years.
The 290 Hudson Street space has also sat without a liquor license for 14 months; the new license is a first step, but reopening can still take many more months.
