Demo

- 34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014

Tucked into the charming streets of the West Village, Demo is a sophisticated yet unpretentious restaurant that has quickly become a local favorite. It offers a fresh take on dining with a focus on modern, Europe-inspired cuisine from Executive Chef Quang Nguyen and Sous Chef Dina Fan. The menu is designed to be shared, featuring a variety of small plates and a handful of larger, well-executed dishes that showcase the kitchen's creative flair and technical precision. The atmosphere is a perfect blend of cozy, romantic, and trendy, making it an ideal spot for a date night, a special occasion, or a simple, delicious dinner with friends. It's a place that feels both quintessentially New York and like a hidden European gem, offering a dining experience that is both familiar and exciting at the same time.

The culinary philosophy at Demo is quietly innovative, rooted in a deep respect for quality ingredients and a creative approach to flavor combinations. The menu changes seasonally, ensuring that every dish is made with the freshest components available. The kitchen's ability to take classic flavors and reinterpret them in new and unexpected ways is a highlight, creating a memorable dining experience with every visit. From the delicate Scallop Crudo to the rich and satisfying Lobster Au Poivre, each dish is a thoughtful composition. While some dining experiences can be inconsistent, Demo strives for a high standard of quality, with many patrons praising the creative menu and the perfect execution of the food. It’s a testament to the chef’s passion for creating dishes that are both comforting and surprising.

Demo is more than just a place to eat; it's a place to linger and enjoy. The intimate, warm setting is complemented by a fantastic wine program curated by beverage director Jacob Nass, an alum of the renowned restaurant Wildair. The wine list focuses on sustainable farming and low-intervention winemaking from small producers, offering a selection that is both thoughtful and unique. The staff, many of whom are seasoned industry professionals, are attentive and knowledgeable, ready to guide you through the menu and help you find the perfect wine pairing. This combination of a creative, well-executed menu, a curated wine list, and a cozy atmosphere makes Demo a standout destination for those who appreciate thoughtful and high-quality dining in a relaxed and inviting setting.

Demo is conveniently located at 34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, USA. This prime location places it in the heart of the West Village, a neighborhood celebrated for its historic charm, vibrant streets, and a truly diverse culinary scene. Carmine Street itself is a bustling and lively thoroughfare, offering a taste of classic New York life. The restaurant’s proximity to some of the area's most popular destinations, like Washington Square Park and the Lucille Lortel Theatre, makes it a perfect stop before or after an evening out.

The restaurant is easily accessible by public transportation, which is a major convenience in New York City. It is a short walk from the West 4th Street-Washington Square subway station, which serves the A, C, E, B, D, F, and M trains. The Christopher Street-Sheridan Square station on the 1 train is also nearby. This makes it a straightforward journey from virtually any part of the city. While the restaurant itself is cozy and intimate, its central location and convenient public transport options make it a go-to spot for both locals and those visiting from outside the neighborhood. Its accessibility, combined with the welcoming atmosphere, ensures that it’s a destination worth seeking out for any special occasion or a spontaneous night out.

Demo is focused on providing a high-quality, sit-down dining experience, and its services are tailored to that goal. The restaurant operates as a classic dine-in establishment, with an emphasis on creating an intimate and comfortable atmosphere for its guests. The staff is known for their professionalism and attentiveness, ensuring a seamless experience from the moment you arrive until the last bite of dessert.

• Dine-in: The primary service option at Demo is to dine in. The restaurant features a sleek and tastefully adorned interior with a front bar for walk-ins and a cozy dining room with booth seating, perfect for groups. The table service is professional and attentive, with a staff that is well-versed in both the menu and the extensive wine list, providing a curated experience for every diner.

• Reservations: As a small and popular restaurant, Demo recommends making reservations for dinner, especially on weekends. They do accept reservations, which is the best way to ensure you get a table at your preferred time. This planning option is a major convenience for those who want to ensure a smooth and stress-free dining experience.

• Bar Service: The bar at the front of the restaurant is a great option for walk-ins who may not have a reservation or for those who simply want to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail and a few small plates. It’s a great way to experience the menu in a more casual setting and is a popular choice for solo diners.

These services highlight Demo's commitment to providing a focused and high-quality dining experience. They have chosen to perfect their dine-in service rather than offering takeout or delivery, which ensures that every dish is enjoyed in the manner it was intended—fresh, perfectly plated, and in the restaurant’s unique and charming atmosphere.

Demo’s unique blend of inventive cuisine, a curated wine list, and a cozy atmosphere sets it apart from other restaurants in the West Village. The highlights are all centered around creating a special and memorable experience for every guest, whether they are new or a regular. The restaurant's reputation is built on its thoughtful execution and its ability to consistently deliver a high-quality product.

• Inventive Menu: The menu is a major highlight, offering a mix of creative small plates and elevated larger entrees. Dishes like the Octopus, Mole Sauce, Cabbage and the Butter Fish, Potato Pave, Trout Roe are examples of the kitchen's innovative approach. The seasonal changes keep the menu fresh and exciting, providing a reason for customers to return again and again to see what’s new.

• Exceptional Wine List: The beverage program is a key feature, with a great wine list that focuses on sustainable, low-intervention wines from small producers. This curated selection is perfect for pairing with the inventive cuisine and offers something for every palate, from the adventurous wine drinker to someone looking for a classic glass.

• Cozy and Romantic Atmosphere: The ambiance at Demo is a major draw. It is described as cozy, romantic, and trendy, with intimate booth seating and a warm, inviting feel. The sleek interior with tasteful red marble and dark wood creates a perfect backdrop for a special occasion or a relaxed evening out. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel comfortable and special at the same time.

• Fast and Attentive Service: The service is known for being fast and attentive, with a staff that is passionate and knowledgeable about the food and wine. This level of professionalism and care enhances the overall dining experience and makes guests feel well taken care of.

• Desserts Not to be Missed: While the savory dishes are the stars, the desserts are also a highlight. The Banana Pudding is a must-have, with one reviewer calling it "easily the best I've had." The desserts are creatively designed and provide a perfect, sweet ending to the meal.

These features, from the inventive food to the curated wine list and welcoming atmosphere, all combine to create a dining experience that is both unique and deeply satisfying. Demo is a place for food lovers who appreciate thoughtful execution and a warm, genuine approach to hospitality.

For reservations or any inquiries about Demo, you can reach out directly. Given that they recommend reservations for dinner, it is best to contact them in advance to ensure a table. The staff is professional and ready to assist you with any questions about their menu or to help you plan your visit. There is no publicly available phone number, so the best way to contact them is through their website or a reservation platform like OpenTable, which they partner with.

• Address: 34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, USA

While a phone number is not available, their online presence and reservation system are designed to be seamless and user-friendly, ensuring a smooth planning process. This modern approach to communication is a reflection of the restaurant's overall contemporary and efficient ethos.

The menu at Demo is a testament to the kitchen's creativity and skill. While some dishes may vary with the seasons, there are a number of standouts that have received consistent praise from diners. When visiting, it is recommended to order a variety of small plates to share, as this will allow you to experience the full range of flavors and textures the menu has to offer. The balance of classic dishes with inventive, modern twists is what makes the food here so special.

Among the starters and small plates, the Scallop Crudo is a highly-praised choice, noted for being "bright and clean." The Lengua Tonnata is another popular item, described as "tender and delicately dressed." The Marinated Squid is also a great option, celebrated for its perfect balance of texture and acidity. For a richer, more savory bite, the Crab Casino is a must-try. The Beef Tartare, Black Garlic, Daikon is another well-executed dish that is a favorite among meat lovers. For something simple but perfectly executed, the Focaccia is a great choice, with a generous slab of doughy bread served with olive oil.

For larger dishes, the Half Chicken is a standout entrée, praised for being juicy and well-seasoned. The Arroz A La Plancha is a unique and delicious choice, a seared, saffron-scented rice dish with a crisp bottom layer, offering depth and comfort. The Lobster Au Poivre is a decadent and popular dish, often served with thick-cut homemade steak fries, making it a rich and satisfying meal. For a classic steak, the menu features a high-quality option that, while it may vary, is a go-to for many diners.

Finally, you absolutely must save room for dessert. The Banana Pudding is a unanimous favorite, described as "silky, layered, and not overly sweet," and is considered a must-have. Other dessert options like the Semifreddo and Chocolate Custard are also excellent choices, showcasing the same care and creativity as the savory menu. In conclusion, every dish at Demo is a chance to experience something special. The combination of inventive small plates, expertly prepared entrees, and delicious desserts makes for a meal that is both memorable and satisfying, reinforcing why it has become such a beloved spot in the West Village.

Demo

34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014, USA