Best Irish pubs in New York

McSorley’s Old Ale House, established between 1854 and 1862 (the exact date debated), stands as the oldest Irish pub in New York City. It’s steeped in history and was frequented by luminaries like Abraham Lincoln, John F. Kennedy, and John Lennon. Nestled in the East Village, its timeless charm resonates thanks to the unchanged decor that’s been around since 1910.

The bar’s intriguing mottos, “We were here before you were born” and “Be Good or Be Gone,” reflect its enduring spirit. Formerly exclusive, McSorley’s began welcoming women in the 1970s, shifting from the original motto of “Good Ale, Raw Onions. And No Ladies.” With a minimalist menu featuring only dark and light ale, McSorley’s captures the essence of a bygone era that still captivates today.

Located in the Financial District and named after an Irish gang that ran rampant in lower Manhattan, the Dead Rabbit opened in 2013. The founders hail from Belfast and had a simple goal. They wanted to create one of the best upscale cocktail bars in New York City with the atmosphere of Irish pubs, and they delivered.

With four bars inside the pub, each room is cozier than the last and the staff makes you feel like old friends. The Financial District hot-spot has also earned several awards, most notably #1 bar in the world in 2016. With a resume like that The Dead Rabbit is a heavyweight among Irish pubs in New York City.

Peter McManus Cafe, among the best and oldest Irish pubs in New York City, holds the distinction of being the longest-running family-owned bar in the city (opening in 1936). A classic Irish establishment, it exudes a laid-back, dive bar atmosphere despite its 80-year legacy. The house brew, McManus Ale, stands out for its refreshing and crisp taste.

Bartenders contribute to the friendly neighborhood pub vibe, engaging patrons with casual chats. An annual highlight is Stickball Sunday, a summer tradition where the street outside the pub transforms into a stickball arena with free beer and snacks. This event, showcasing the pub’s community spirit, is eagerly anticipated and announced on Peter McManus Cafe’s Facebook page.

You can visit Connolly’s Pub for just about any occasion, it’s one of the most versatile Irish pubs in New York City. Date night? Connolly’s. Shots with friends? Connolly’s. Live music ? Connolly’s. The pub has two locations (only a 10 minute walk from each other) and each have their merits.

The 45th St. location has a rooftop patio that’s perfect on a sunny day, and the 47th St. location has large open space perfect for groups. Regardless of which location you visit you’ll be able to enjoy warm service and a fulfilling meal. The can’t miss dish is the bangers & mash.

Made with Irish sausage, mashed potatoes, mushy peas and onion gravy the dish has quickly become one of my favorite comfort meals. I’m not even Irish, but I feel at home every time I visit Connolly’s.

For an unparalleled live music experience in one of the finest Irish pubs in New York City, head to Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar. With daily live performances featuring traditional Irish, Irish rock, and bluegrass music, the atmosphere is electric, fostering connections with bartenders and fellow patrons.

The pub offers additional entertainment with a pool table and darts in the back, creating the perfect setting for mingling with newfound friends.

Paddy Reilly’s simple yet effective beer selection includes Guinness, Heineken, and a light beer on draft, along with canned and bottled options. With the enchanting music and vibrant ambiance, it’s easy to lose track of time at Paddy Reilly’s, making it a memorable spot to revel in late-night camaraderie.

The Playwright Irish Pub, a top choice for sports enthusiasts in New York City, hosts the NYC Washington State Cougars Alumni Association, Real Madrid, and Dallas Cowboys Supporters Clubs. The pub buzzes with excitement during games, ensuring a lively atmosphere. Even on non-game days, sports grace the screens, and the bar remains vibrant with patrons casually enjoying drinks.

The pub offers a modest cocktail menu and draft beer selection. Renowned for its generous happy hour from 4-8 PM, Monday through Friday, patrons can relish $8 beers and $9 cocktails and wine. Despite the city’s typical pricing, The Playwright stands out with one of the more affordable Irish pub in NYC.

Any soccer fans reading this? Specifically, any Liverpool fans? Because if so the 11th Street Bar is one of the best Irish pubs in New York City for you. As the longtime home of the Liverpool Supporters Club you’ll find that on game days the pub swells with folks in the iconic red jerseys.

And if you’re not a sports loving fellow and prefer music the beloved East Village pub has you covered, too. Every Sunday 11th Street Bar organizes one of the longest running traditional Irish Seisiúns, or music sessions, starting at 9:30PM.

The high-spirited melodies bring the pub to life and before you know it you’re tapping your foot along to the beat. 11th Street Bar is one of the best Irish pubs in New York City thanks to the fun-loving, electric atmosphere.

Founded by former English teacher Drew Dvorkin, The Dead Poet is a literary-themed Irish pub in New York City, embodying a laid-back and inviting atmosphere. Adorned with framed portraits of famous authors and literary quotes, it exudes a sociable charm.

Although there’s only limited snacks like popcorn and hot dogs, patrons are welcome to bring food from nearby restaurants. The pub’s appeal as one of the best Irish pubs in New York City lies in its extensive beer selection, both on draft and canned. Notably, cocktails are cleverly named after classic books, creating a really good dilemma for patrons torn between choosing based on name or ingredients.

Finnegan’s Wake, a cherished fixture on the Upper East Side for over 50 years, maintains a timeless, cozy atmosphere. Catering to a mature crowd, the pub exudes a welcoming, hidden-gem feel, providing a perfect setting for a casual drink.

The impeccable service creates a feeling akin to hanging out at a friend’s house. Serving hearty meals, Finnegan’s Wake stands out for classic dishes like fish & chips, shepherd’s pie, and bangers and mash, ensuring a satisfying dining experience at this iconic Irish pub in NYC.

Stepping foot into Molly’s you might notice some unique decor – sawdust on the floor. The sawdust was common back in. It also made it easy to slide a keg (or a passed out drunk) across the floor. But tradition alone doesn’t make Molly’s one of the best Irish pubs in New York City.

You’ll find a simple but sensational menu with hearty classics (try the shepherd’s pie) and cold beer on tap. Plus, Molly’s is one of the coziest Irish pubs in New York City, and I’m not talking about the warm fuzzy feeling you’ll get from the whiskey or beer. The pub has a wood-burning fireplace which makes it hard to leave, so I guess I’ll have another round. ;

If you watched the show How I Met Your Mother then you’re familiar with McLaren’s, the bar the main cast of characters frequent. What you may not know is that McGee’s, one of the best Irish pubs in New York City, is the inspiration for the fictional TV bar.

The creators of the show modeled McLaren’s after McGee’s because it was one of their favorite Irish pubs in New York City. In the pub you’ll find pictures. Even though McGee’s is a popular tourist attraction, the pub still manages to have an easygoing atmosphere.

The three floors give ample space to spread out guests and you never really feel overwhelmed or like it’s crowded. The menu is full of classic. Plus, there are How I Met Your Mother inspired cocktails which are a fun touch for any fans of the show.