Tucked away in a “forgotten” nook in Midtown, 13 Celsius is a quaint wine bar and open-air courtyard that offers a subtle Mediterranean oasis reminiscent of European terraces.
Opened in December 2006, founders Ian Rosenburg and Michael Sammons sought to imbue their space with their love of architecture and European travels. The space itself is housed in an aging ’20s-era Mediterranean building formerly occupied by a cleaners.
After a portion of the rooftop caved, the two decided against reconstruction but rather preserve its inherent beauty:
“[W]e chose to harness the underlying beauty of its original character by preserving key components to the space such as an entirely intact pressed tin ceiling and an open-air courtyard,” the website reads.
As for the renovations, the runners added a 40-foot, antique white Carrera marble bar in addition to furnishing the space with salvaged finds from the historic Warwick Hotel.
While its aesthetic beauty alone is worth a visit, 13 Celsius strives equally to put forward a wine and culinary program that surpasses their European inspirations:
“We complement our wines with a dynamic cheese and charcuterie program, fill empty bellies with impressive panini and satisfy a sweet tooth with handmade truffles,” the website reads.
“We also cultivate an aggressive hops and water program with over 30 bottled beers highlighting seasonal and small production brews.”
Wine wise, 13 Celsius offers red, white, orange, and rosé. Furthermore, its selection of aromatized and fortified wines include vermouth, sherry, port, madeira, and sweet and sticky options. Wines are available by the glass as well as retail purchase; the bar also curates wine flights for the curious.
In addition to wine, the bar serves a variety of light, dark, Belgium, medium, hoppy, and sour beers, as well as cider.
Their culinary menu is inspired by the owner’s Polish grandfather, who was Kosher butcher in NYC. Selections range from snacks and small plates to panino sandwiches, as well as a delightful curation of cheese, meat, and charcuterie plates.
For the sweet teeth, 13 Celsius serves Coco Ginger Truffles, S’mores, espresso over gelato, Marsala-infused Cannolis, and Warm Blueberry Almond Tarts.
13 Celsius is located at 3000 Caroline and is open from 4 pm to midnight Mondays through Wednesdays, to 2 am Thursdays through Saturdays and from 1 pm to midnight on Sundays.