Our memories of summer camp would have been much fonder if they included shag-covered ottomans, fog machines and mini arepas. Luckily, Camp David, a cozy bar and Venezuelan tapas joint on Avenue B that opens this evening, has all of those things. It also has cocktails prepared with fresh squeezed juices, a wall of flickering Edison lightbulbs and Iberico ham smothered in melted cheese served on a stick (they call it the lollipop). Sign us up, mom!
(Photo: Allyson Shiffman)
“But why does Camp David share a name with the presidential retreat?” you ask. Well, the David in question is owner David Lopez, the affable Venezuelan import who today gave us a sneak peek of the space in advance of tonight’s opening. “I want people to feel like it is home,” Lopez says.
Though this is his first foray into the bar and nightlife business, Lopez has had ample experience planning parties during his 17 years working for socialite Denise Rich (who, David tells is, will be stopping by this evening).
David, who always dreamed of owning his own space, designed the interior himself. “Those are our two pets,” he says, referring to the aforementioned furry ottomans. If Camp David is half as fun as David himself, we’re confident it will quickly become a new East Village favorite.
Camp David is located at 221 Avenue B, bet. East 13th and 14th Streets, and will be open from 4 p.m. Monday to Thursday and from 2 p.m. Friday to Sunday
Chic decor. Great cocktails and a very well picked wine selection from a delightful Super Tuscan Amarone to a velvety Argentinean Malbec. Yummy Arepas and a fantastic vibe.
I’m going back for sure…..
Lo digo en Venezolano….me siento feliz y orgullosa de tu exito amigo, del esfuerzo y apoyo de tu familia, q se que han sido todo para que llegaras alli. Esperame que algun dia estare contigo viendo y compartiendo tu logro. Esta espectacular tu CAMP, que sigan cosechando exitos. DTB.
Great vibe, music & staff. Cocktails & well drinks to perfection.
Tasty arepas and great selection of delicious bites.
Definitely creativity has not limits, Camp David is the place to prove it.
Thanks David Lopez for this amazing spot.
WAO David, me siento tan feliz por ti y te deseo de todo corazón todo el éxito del mundo, acompañado por supuesto de mi niña Kheyla. Besos y que el Señor bendiga tu negocio.
I went on opening night and the energy was great! Drink menu is quite interesting. Will definitely go back
Very beautiful decor & staff. Music was fun & the cocktails were on point. The right amount of sexy. Will definitely be back.
Chic decor. Great cocktails and a very well picked wine selection from a delightful Super Tuscan Amarone to a velvety Argentinean Malbec. Yummy Arepas and a fantastic vibe.
I’m going back for sure…..
Lo digo en Venezolano….me siento feliz y orgullosa de tu exito amigo, del esfuerzo y apoyo de tu familia, q se que han sido todo para que llegaras alli. Esperame que algun dia estare contigo viendo y compartiendo tu logro. Esta espectacular tu CAMP, que sigan cosechando exitos. DTB.
Great vibe, music & staff. Cocktails & well drinks to perfection.
Tasty arepas and great selection of delicious bites.
Definitely creativity has not limits, Camp David is the place to prove it.
Thanks David Lopez for this amazing spot.
WAO David, me siento tan feliz por ti y te deseo de todo corazón todo el éxito del mundo, acompañado por supuesto de mi niña Kheyla. Besos y que el Señor bendiga tu negocio.