New York City is renowned for its diverse culinary landscape and rich cultural history. Two iconic institutions from this vibrant metropolis, Carnegie Deli and Temple Bar, are coming together for an event that promises to be a delightful homage to the city’s beloved food scene. From December 2nd to 5th, Temple Bar, a venue celebrated for its artistic atmosphere that flourished in the late 20th century, will host a pop-up event titled “Deli After Dark.” This collaboration aims to evoke nostalgia while blending traditional Jewish deli fare with contemporary cocktail culture, culminating on National Repeal Day.
The Legacy of Carnegie Deli
Established in 1937, Carnegie Deli has long been synonymous with New York’s identity, particularly known for its exceptional deli sandwiches and classic New York fare. However, the beloved establishment closed its doors in 2016, leaving a void in the hearts of countless patrons who cherished its legacy. Despite the original location’s closure, the brand has been kept alive through a franchise and wholesale model, maintaining its traditional essence while simultaneously evolving with the times.
Sarri Harper, co-owner of Carnegie Deli, expresses excitement over this partnership with Temple Bar, emphasizing the significance of both venues in the local history. “This pop-up is a celebration of that shared heritage,” Harper notes, highlighting the collective importance of both establishments in shaping the gastronomic and social scene of New York City.
A Culinary Journey through Time
“Deli After Dark” seeks to offer diners not just a meal, but an immersive experience that intertwines culinary innovation with the nostalgic flavors of a classic deli. The menu—crafted by the expert hands at Temple Bar—features inventive twists on traditional Carnegie Deli offerings. Guests can anticipate dishes like Knish n’ Caviar, where the humble potato knish is elevated with a luxurious accompaniment of caviar crème fraiche and a zesty mustard dip, introducing an elegant flair to homey comfort food.
Among the featured items is the “New York ‘Crudo’,” a refreshing reimagining of the Italian classic, which incorporates pastrami spiced gravlax, a nod to New York’s penchant for cured meats. Other intriguing offerings include all-beef cocktail franks, pastrami grilled cheese sandwiches, and corned beef Reuben sliders, providing a culinary trip back in time that remains accessible to contemporary taste buds.
Perhaps one of the most exciting aspects of “Deli After Dark” is its carefully curated selection of cocktails, handcrafted to complement the reimagined deli bites. The event will showcase drinks like the “Pickletini”, an invigorating concoction that blends classic vermouth with pickle brine, garnished with an iconic Carnegie pickle. Another standout drink, the “Pastrami Rye,” intriguingly marries Cocchi Americano with Licor 43, served chilled with an orange twist, reflecting the creative spirit that both venues embody.
The setting also plays a crucial role in this event. Temple Bar’s ambiance, enriched by its historical past and characterized by an iconic Andy Warhol-designed disco ball, offers an inviting backdrop for reminiscing over bygone culinary and social eras. Partner at Temple Bar, Sam Ross, articulates the essence of this collaboration by describing it as a seamless fusion of two distinctly New York establishments—an opportunity for patrons to savor the flavors of history in a stylish modern context.
Considering the allure of this unique dining experience, guests are encouraged to book their reservations via Resy, with a waitlist available for those eager to participate in this limited-time event. As anticipation builds, “Deli After Dark” stands poised to be more than just a meal; it is destined to be a nostalgic journey through New York City’s culinary heritage, inviting both long-time residents and newcomers to celebrate the art of food and memory in a setting that captures the city’s creative essence. The partnership of Carnegie Deli and Temple Bar serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of New York—the city where every bite tells a story.