Danny Meyer opens restaurant on hospital roof

GreenRiver opened in September as a partnership between Meyer’s Union Square Events and The Best Bar in the World, a hospitality-consulting firm run by Jack McGarry and Sean Muldoon, the forces behind award-winning New York City bar The Dead Rabbit. Aaron Lirette is executive chef.

Drawing inspiration from famed Chicago architect Mies van der Rohe and Japanese style, the restaurant’s vibe somewhat belies its location. Warm woods, a copper-paneled bar and an open kitchen define the space. GreenRiver’s goal is to draw Northwestern’s staff and local residents, as well as tourists.

An adjacent event space, the Gallery at GreenRiver, and a large outdoor terrace can be booked for private parties; catering is operated exclusively by Union Square Events.

Local sourcing contributes to the “modern Midwestern” menu of small and large plates ($10 to $23). “We are excited to bring USE’s signature hospitality and service to the city and contribute to its advanced culinary and beverage scene,” says Ron Parker, managing partner at Union Square Events.