Boston's dining scene is gearing up for a major boost, as hospitality mogul Danny Meyer sets his sights on the city with plans to open two new restaurants in 2025. The veteran restaurateur, whose Union Square Hospitality Group is behind New York staples like Gramercy Tavern and the Shake Shack empire, will roll out these eateries as a part of the Commonwealth Pier redevelopment—a mixed-use venture in the burgeoning Seaport District, according to the Boston Globe.
The incoming restaurants will reflect the group's established brands, designed to dovetail with the local demographic and vibe with promises of outdoor dining and at least a glimpse of the water; the lower level is set to offer a casual dining experience while the floor above will be aimed at a more 'culinary forward and creative' clientele, Union Square Hospitality Group CEO Chip Wade shared in his vision during his previous tenure as COO of Legal Sea Foods in the Seaport from 2004-06, he knows well the area's growth trajectory and its potential for the group's success.
Union Square Hospitality Group's import into Boston is a move that not only expands their geographic footprint but is also seen as a nod to the hospitality group's corporate ethos, as their website states, to "enrich lives through the power of Enlightened Hospitality" where caring for colleagues, guests, and the community creates a beneficial ripple effect—a philosophy Meyer's empire has earnestly adopted over decades.
With an array of culinary styles in its arsenal, including barbecue, Italian, Southern, and even an all-day taco stand, Meyer's hospitality group envisions bringing a taste of its New York flavor to Boston's diverse and growing foodie landscape, the decision to plant roots in Boston didn't come lightly, as Wade emphasized the importance of a prudent and modest expansion approach ensuring they maintain a close operational and executional relationship with their establishments.
Kristan McLaughlin of Pembroke, the Fidelity-affiliated real estate group spearheading Commonwealth Pier's development, ardently believes in Union Square Hospitality Group, expecting them to generate environments that are 'inclusive and approachable.' McLaughlin stated their goal for the restaurant operator is to "create spaces that are inclusive and approachable," as reported by the Boston Globe.
The expectation is that the new locations will bolster local employment, as the Union Square Hospitality Group is known for its practice of hiring from within the community. The venture into Boston marks a significant step for Meyer's group following its expansion into Washington, D.C., and its subsequent withdrawal—a testament to the company's careful navigation through the complexities of expanding a high-end restaurant group.
