In a city that thrives on its rich tapestry of cultures and flavors, two renowned institutions are coming together to create an unforgettable experience—“Deli After Dark.” This special event, set to occur from December 2nd to 5th at the historic Temple Bar located at 332 Lafayette St, New York, promises to celebrate New York City’s storied culinary and cocktail scene. Carnegie Deli, a name synonymous with traditional Jewish delicatessen fare, is collaborating with Temple Bar, which played a significant role in the vibrant arts scene of the 1980s and 1990s.
Established in 1937, Carnegie Deli has held a special place in the hearts of many New Yorkers. Even after its closure in December 2016, the essence of this beloved institution lives on through a new franchise that preserves its nostalgia. “Deli After Dark” stands as a tribute to the ongoing evolution of New York City’s dining culture, culminating in a festive vibe on National Repeal Day—a day that marks the end of Prohibition.
The concept behind this pop-up is not merely to serve food but to present it with a creative twist that pays homage to tradition while embracing modern flavors. Carnegie Deli’s most cherished offerings will be transformed into sophisticated cocktails and inventive bites, curated by the talented team at Temple Bar. The collaboration highlights the significance of blending the historical with the contemporary, an effort to engage diners on both emotional and sensory levels.
Among the exciting menu items, the Knish n’ Caviar stands out—a delightful pairing of fluffy potato knishes served alongside Dusseldorf mustard and a luxurious caviar crème fraiche. This dish exemplifies how traditional recipes can be elevated to new heights, offering diners an experience that blends nostalgia with innovation. Another intriguing offering, the “New York Crudo,” reimagines a classic raw fish dish by employing pastrami-spiced and cured gravlax, adding creaminess with crème fraiche, and finishing with a sprinkle of everything seasoning and fresh dill.
Moreover, the menu boasts a variety of comfort food classics, including all-beef cocktail franks, pastrami grilled cheese sandwiches, and corned beef Reuben sliders. To conclude the culinary journey on a sweet note, cheesecake makes a grand appearance, evoking the flavors of a quintessential New York meal. The nostalgic essence continues with Disco Fries topped with melted cheese and pastrami, a nod to the famed doorman, “Disco,” from the Temple Bar’s past.
No pop-up event celebrating culture and history would be complete without a selection of thoughtfully-crafted cocktails. The drink menu features whimsical, food-focused cocktails designed to enhance the overall experience. The “Pickletini” blends vermouth with pickle brine, garnished with a classic Carnegie pickle. Similarly, the “Pastrami Rye,” a sophisticated mix of Cocchi Americano and Licor 43, is served on the rocks with an orange twist for a refreshing, aromatic experience.
As Sam Ross, Partner at Temple Bar, eloquently puts it, this partnership represents a “perfect pairing of two iconic New York establishments.” The goal is to evoke a sense of the past while inviting guests to enjoy the modern aesthetics and tastes of today, all in a setting that mirrors the glamour reminiscent of earlier eras.
The unique dining experience that is “Deli After Dark” can be reserved on the popular dining platform Resy, where a waitlist is also available for those eager to join in on the festivities. This event not only provides a delicious menu but also aims to create moments of joy and nostalgia for attendees, enshrining their memories in the flavorful offerings of New York City’s storied culinary landscape.
“Deli After Dark” is more than just a dining event; it represents a celebration of the intricate relationship between history and modernity. It showcases how food transcends mere sustenance, transforming into an art form that fosters connection, memory, and pleasure among those who relish the vibrancy of New York City.