[EPISODE] Gramercy

Episode 12, a journey to Gramercy, and its famed Park.

My guests will be Tim Miller, The Daytonian in Manhattan, and restaurateurs Carrie and Terry Morabito, who founded and operate Friend of a Farmer, a family business.

Segment 1

Jeff welcomes Tom Miller to the show to discuss Gramercy Park. They trace Tom’s career and why he decided to write about New York City’s architectural history. Tom describes Gramercy’s origins as farm and describes the neighborhoods early urban development in the 1800's. Tom and Jeff list significant events such as the 1837 financial panic, building of the Croton Reservoir, and the Civil War Draft Riots  in the 1800's to demonstrate their effects on the area.

Segment 2

Jeff and Tom discuss various notable buildings in Gramercy Park including the Players Club and the National Arts Club. They touch on Gramercy Square, the Gramercy Park Hotel, and Pete's Tavern. Tom and Jeff describe the history of Baruch College in the area. They briefly mention  the effect of the L train on Gramercy Park.

Segment 3

Jeff is joined by the Morabito family, owners of Friend of A Farmer in Gramercy Park. Terry and Carrie discuss their early careers when their business was a bakery and how they grew Friend of A Farmer. The Morabitos describe why they decided to open in Gramercy Park. Terry and Carrie express their love for the charm and beauty in Gramercy Park. They weigh in on the demographic changes they've seen in their 32 years working in the neighborhood.

Segment 4

Jeff and his guests describe how social media has influenced how they operate their business. Terry and Carrie offer advice for anyone looking to open a business in Gramercy Park. Terrie touches on the sense of community in Gramercy and how the businesses work together to improve the area. They conclude with a notable character from the neighborhood and what the future holds for Friend of A Farmer.