By Shayna Jacobs
DNAinfo Reporter/Producer
UPPER EAST SIDE — Elaine's, the infamous Upper East Side saloon and popular literary hang out, was given to long-time manager Diane Becker in accordance with Elaine Kaufman's will, according to reports.
The legendary Second Avenue establishment was a second-home to celebrities, authors and other New York personalities during the 47 years it was operated by Kaufman until her passing on Dec. 3 at age 81.
After her death, Becker announced Elaine's would stay open for business but it was not immediately known who would take over.
"The staff is still here, and we’re going to try to run it as usual,” Becker told the Times. “The only missing link is Elaine.”
But Kaufman, who was a long-time divorcee, left Becker the restaurant, the building it's housed in and another building she owned in her last will and testament, the New York Times reported.
Becker, a manager at Elaine's for 26 years, will take over two buildings previously owned by Kaufman including 1703 Second Avenue, the first floor of which houses Elaine's. Kaufman bought the buildings in the late 1960s, the Times reported.
The restaurant, which serves Italian fare and cocktails, was frequented by Woody Allen, Norman Mailer, Gay Talese and other famous pop culture figures.
Celebrities and other regulars were on a first-name basis with Elaine herself, who often schmoozed with her loyal patrons.
