Elaine Kaufman

Legendary Restaurateur Elaine Kaufman Dies

Filed under: Dining

Elaine Kaufman, the legendary restaurateur and owner of her namesake restaurant on the Upper East Side of Manhattan died today. Kaufman, 81, died from complications due to emphysema.

Elaine's was a gathering place popular among journalists, writers, and other artistic types, and where you would regularly spot such luminaries as Woody Allen. I had dinner there only a few weeks ago with two artist friends. Elaine was sitting in one of her usual spots, not far from the front door. She was firmly planted in a seat, surrounded by half a dozen admirers. I noticed how each patron would stop by her table to pay tribute as they came in to the restaurant or on their way out. She really seemed to be in her element.

Tags: Elaine Kaufman, Elaines, restaurant, Woody Allen