Seemor
TemperanceA-Worth Trying
40 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
· Wine bar, Bar
· 4.5/5 Google (173 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Destination West Village wine bar with an adventurous by-the-glass program, polished guidance, and elevated snacks; excellent for tastings and dates, but pricing, high default tip prompts, and occasional policy rigidity can irk.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Temperance delivers A-grade performance through exceptional wine expertise and attentive, proactive service that elevates the experience beyond typical wine bars. Solid food quality in elevated snacks and tartare supports the wine focus, while thoughtful design creates an inviting West Village destination. The grade reflects strong execution across core dimensions, though premium pricing and occasional service rigidity prevent the higher distinction needed for grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a retro-futuristic glow, the kind of spot where a server might say, "Let us pour you a taste first" and mean it. Guests praise attentive, knowledgeable staff who dial in preferences and uncover new favorites, though a few note policy rigidity around standing and other edge cases. The cooking supports the glass: elevated snacks, crisp fries, tartare, and occasional pastas, more grown-up comfort than showy. Expect a curated list that skews adventurous, with flights and tastes before committing—perfect for wine discovery nights. Pricing is West Village-premium, but many feel the curation justifies it. Families should know this is an adult-leaning wine bar. While kids could nibble on fries, bread, or a simple salad, there is no kids menu and the scene suits dates or friends more than family dinners. Consider nearby family-friendly spots if you need broader kid options.
At a Glance
- Expert wine guidance with tastes before ordering
- Elevated snacks and tartare that pair well with flights
- High default tip prompts (22-27%) feel pushy to some
- Pricey by-the-glass program and small portions
- Walk-in friendly for West Village standards
What Sets It Apart
- deep_by_the_glass_program
- guided_wine_flights_with_tastes
- retro_futuristic_design
- private_event_wine_tastings
What People Love
- Discovering a new favorite glass every visit
- Servers who translate preferences into perfect pours
- Fries and tartare that punch above wine-bar expectations
- Retro-futuristic vibe that sparks conversation
Points of Concern
- Default tip prompts reported at 22-27% create awkward checkout moments
- Policy rigidity on standing and certain requests frustrates some guests
- By-the-glass pricing and markups read steep to price-sensitive visitors
- Portions run small; sharing several plates is common
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$52-78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair Steak Tartare with a high-acid red or structured rosé
- Match Endive Salad with a mineral-driven white
- Carbonara aligns with richer whites or light, savory reds
Perfect For
- Exploring new wines with guidance
- Cozy date night in the West Village
- Small-group tastings and private events
- Solo bar snack and a thoughtful pour
Location Insights
Area: Chic, walkable West Village block drawing locals and visitors for date nights and pre/post-dinner drinks.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady evening foot traffic typical of the West Village.
Nearby: Near Bleecker/Carmine dining, boutiques, and bars; easy hopping between spots; outdoor seating reported by reviewers.
West VillageThe West Village is characterized by its charming tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and a strong sense of community. It offers a sophisticated yet relaxed dining environment with a mix of upscale restaurants, cozy cafes, and trendy eateries, attracting food enthusiasts and locals who appreciate quality and ambiance.
Carmine StreetCarmine Street is known for its intimate dining spots and a neighborhood feel, often frequented by residents and visitors seeking authentic and artisanal food experiences in a quieter, less touristy setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–23:00
Wednesday17:00–23:00
Thursday17:00–23:00
Friday17:00–00:00
Saturday14:00–00:00
Sunday16:00–23:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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