New York City, a melting pot of cultures, has always been a city that thrives on its history and culinary diversity. As a celebration of this vibrant spirit, two iconic establishments, Carnegie Deli and Temple Bar, are joining forces to present an extraordinary event titled “Deli After Dark.” This pop-up experience aims to blend the traditional flavors of the famed delicatessen with the creative cocktail culture synonymous with Temple Bar. Running for a limited engagement from December 2nd to 5th, this collaboration showcases the essence of New York’s gastronomic evolution while honoring its rich heritage.
Opening its doors in 1937, Carnegie Deli quickly became a staple in the New York dining scene, famous for its oversized sandwiches and lively atmosphere. However, after its original location closed in December 2016, many longtime patrons were heartbroken. Despite this setback, the legacy of Carnegie Deli endures through a new franchise and wholesale initiative, serving as a reminder of the beloved institution’s significant impact on the culinary landscape of the city. The forthcoming “Deli After Dark” event not only revives the nostalgic flavors of the deli but also allows it to explore a modern interpretation that appeals to a new generation of food enthusiasts.
Temple Bar, located at 332 Lafayette Street, has roots deeply entrenched in the artistic scene of the late 20th century, boasting a spirited history that resonates throughout its ambiance. This venue was a go-to spot for many in the 1980s and 1990s, functioning as a hub for artists, musicians, and the creative elite. Bringing “Deli After Dark” to this iconic location serves to merge the storied pasts of both establishments, creating an enchanting setting for attendees to revel in the nostalgia while savoring innovative culinary delights.
The hallmark of “Deli After Dark” lies in its menu, which cleverly reinterprets Carnegie Deli classics through a modern lens, courtesy of the Temple Bar culinary team. Attendees can expect to embark on a unique tasting journey that transforms beloved deli staples into enticing bites and cocktails. Highlights include the “Knish n’ Caviar,” where the traditional potato knish is elevated with luxurious caviar crème fraîche and zesty Dusseldorf mustard. Other inventive offerings include a New York-inspired “Crudo,” featuring pastrami-spiced, cured gravlax complemented by a refreshing blend of herbs and spices.
In addition to these creations, guests will savor mouthwatering all-beef cocktail franks, pastrami grilled cheese, and corned beef Reuben sliders. Each dish echoes nostalgia while appealing to contemporary palates. To conclude the culinary adventure, the menu features a classic New York cheesecake, ensuring that the meal ends on a sweet note.
“Deli After Dark” also takes a playful approach to its drinks, with imaginative cocktails designed to reflect the culinary creations. The “Pickletini,” for instance, fuses vermouth with pickle brine and is garnished with a Carnegie Deli pickle, delivering a flavor profile that embodies the essence of a classic deli drink. Meanwhile, the “Pastrami Rye” cocktail offers a sophisticated twist with Cocchi Americano and Licor 43, presented on the rocks with a vibrant orange twist, echoing the city’s adaptability and flair.
Sam Ross, a partner at Temple Bar, beautifully sums up the essence of this collaboration: “This partnership is an exquisite fusion of iconic flavors and modern creativity.” The “Deli After Dark” experience offers a nostalgic taste of the past while enveloping guests in an atmosphere that pays homage to the glamour of a bygone era, enveloped under the shine of an Andy Warhol-designed disco ball.
For those intrigued by this culinary event, reservations for “Deli After Dark” can be made via the Resy platform, and a waitlist is available for those eager to join. This limited-time engagement is not merely a pop-up but a heartfelt tribute to New York City’s culinary journey, reaffirming the belief that even amidst change, tradition and innovation can coexist harmoniously, creating memorable experiences steeped in history and contemporary creativity.