Gramercy Tavern : TAVERNgram

By Scott Reinhardt

If you’ve ever been to Gramercy Tavern, you’ve surely noticed our amazing floral arrangements and seasonal produce displays. Inspired by visions of 17th century taverns nestled in the countryside, these all-natural beauties are the work of Roberta Bendavid, Gramercy Tavern’s in-house floral designer who has been with us since opening day.

After 20 fabulous years in the fashion world, Roberta successfully transformed her lifelong love for flowers into a second career. While working for Blooming Hill Organic Farm in the Hudson Valley, Roberta brought flowers from the farm to sell at the Union Square Greenmarket. It was there one morning that she met Danny Meyer as he walked to work at his new restaurant, Union Square Cafe. A few years later in 1994, Danny brought Roberta on board for the opening of Gramercy Tavern…and the rest, as they say, is restaurant history in glorious petals, branches, leaves, fruits and vegetables.

Roberta and her staff arrive at the restaurant each morning (as they have been doing for 15 years) to change the flowers, freshen the “harvest table” and create stunning arrangements for events taking place in our Private Dining Room. Roberta is also responsible for our festive holiday displays. Over the years, she has evolved into the role of unofficial “Chief Interior Decorator” and consultant on all things visual! Having been fortunate enough to translate her passion into a career, Roberta says that she remains excited and inspired every day when she arrives at Gramercy Tavern. That goes double for our team, the appreciative admirers of her brilliant eye!