It's on 2 of my lists. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
- Address240 W 55th St, New York, NY 10019
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
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.
The famed McLaren’s Pub from How I Met Your Mother is based on McGee’s bar in midtown Manhattan. Quite a bit larger than the bar from the set, McGee’s is where the show’s creators stopped by for drinks while working for the Late Show with David Letterman.