Rosie O’Grady’s, a restaurant located on Seventh Avenue and West 52nd Street in New York City, is set to close its doors on July 1st. The eatery, which has been a fixture in the city for more than four decades, has earned a reputation for its welcoming atmosphere and tasty steaks and seafood offerings. Among the restaurant’s regulars was legendary singer Neil Diamond, who expressed his heartbreak at the impending closure.
Owner Mike Carty attributed the closure to the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his business, as well as the costly rent of $3 million per year. Rosie O’Grady’s was a popular spot for locals, tourists, Broadway actors, celebrities, and musicians alike. Carty said that many people from all over the world would come to Rosie O’Grady’s because it made them feel like they were at home.
SL Green, the property owner of the Rosie O’Grady’s location, claimed that the restaurant owed millions in unpaid rent and would be seeking a new tenant for the space. However, Carty said that a proposed agreement with the landlord to do partial rent payments fell through, exacerbating the situation.
The restaurant announced its upcoming closure on its website and invited patrons, old and new, to come in for “one last pint at Rosie’s Bar.” The announcement expressed gratitude to supporters of Rosie O’Grady’s, stating that the establishment would be relocating to another nearby location. However, it remains unclear where that new location will be.
The closure of Rosie O’Grady’s is a significant loss for New York City as another iconic establishment succumbs to the economic struggles brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The city’s restaurant industry has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including high rent costs, labor shortages, and the devastating impact of closures and restrictions imposed to curb the spread of the virus.
Many New York City restaurants have had to adapt to survive, including shifting to outdoor dining and takeout options. However, some have been forced to close their doors permanently, leaving lifelong customers and employees with deep feelings of loss and nostalgia.
Rosie O’Grady’s is among the many establishments that have become a symbol of the city’s vibrant food scene and cultural legacy over the years. The restaurant’s closure marks the end of an era but also underscores the resilience and determination of the city’s restaurant industry as it strives to overcome the challenges and continue to serve its loyal customers.
In the end, Rosie O’Grady’s legacy will live on in the memories of those who dined there and experienced its unique charm and hospitality. The establishment’s closure serves as a reminder of the fragility of the restaurant industry and the need for ongoing support and investment to ensure its survival. Despite the challenges, restaurateurs like Carty remain committed to their craft, driven by a passion for food and a dedication to serving their communities.
