Danny Meyer

Who He Is

Danny Meyer is one of the most influential restaurateurs in the United States, known for building a collection of acclaimed dining establishments in New York City, including Union Square Cafe, Gramercy Tavern, and the Shake Shack empire. He grew up in St. Louis and developed an early love of restaurants through family trips to Europe, where he was captivated by the way great hospitality made people feel. After studying political science in college, he opened Union Square Cafe in 1985 at just 27 years old with limited restaurant experience but an unwavering belief that genuine hospitality could be the foundation of a thriving business. His approach, which he calls "enlightened hospitality," puts the well-being of employees first on the theory that happy, supported teams create exceptional guest experiences. He later codified his philosophy in his bestselling book Setting the Table, which has become required reading in hospitality programs around the world.

Why He Matters

Danny Meyer's impact on the restaurant industry extends far beyond his own dining rooms. He demonstrated that a restaurant could be both critically acclaimed and genuinely warm, challenging the idea that fine dining had to feel intimidating or exclusive. His decision to eliminate tipping at his restaurants in 2015 sparked a national conversation about fair wages and sustainable business models in the industry. For young people drawn to restaurant management, Meyer's career is a powerful example of how a clear set of values, applied consistently over decades, can build something that changes an entire field. His story shows that the best restaurant managers are not just operators but culture builders.