Quick Answer: Elaine's was a bar and restaurant in New York City that operated from 1963 to 2011. It was frequented by many celebrities, particularly actors and authors. The restaurant was established, owned and named after Elaine Kaufman, who was closely associated with the establishment, which closed shortly after Kaufman's death. Elaine's was located on the Upper East Side, at 1703 Second Avenue, near East 88th Street in Manhattan.