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| YOU'RE FIRED!: Will staffers have to meet the boss in the boardroom at Trump on the Beach? |
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| WAY RETRO: The proposed building for Donald Trump's Long Island restaurant. |
Get ready. A high-profile restaurateur with deep pockets is about to expand his empire with a freestanding restaurant venture. And "empire" is certainly the word to use when describing the far-flung holdings of Donald Trump, real estate mogul, casino owner, reality TV star and, most recently, verbal sparring partner of Rosie O'Donnell.
Previously, Trump's involvement with restaurants was limited to operations located within the many residential and hotel buildings he controls. For example, his signature Trump Tower on Fifth Ave. in New York City is home to Trump Grill, Trump Buffet, Trump's Ice Cream Parlor, even a Trump Store where visitors can choose between "Apprentice ‘You're Fired'Gear and Unique Trump Souvenirs."
But now he's set to open Trump on the Ocean, a 36,000-sq. ft. restaurant/catering center that will be located on the boardwalk in Jones Beach State Park on Long Island. Unlike Trump's other ventures, this one isn't part of a larger real estate play. In fact, he had to strike a deal with the State of New York to open the place.
The agreement grants Trump and partner Steve Carl a 40-year lease, with the State of New York retaining the right to review food prices at the restaurant. Trump will build a $40-million, three-story facility to house the operation. When completed, ownership will be held by the State of New York, and Trump and his partner will lease it back. Trump on the Ocean will have a capacity of 1,400 guests when the restaurant, catering facility and attached nightclub are going full bore.