McSorley's Old Ale House
McSorley's opened in 1854 and has remained an Irish staple in New York's Greenwich Village neighborhood. Owner John McSorley wanted to create a place for Irish men to get together and feel at home. Women were not allowed in the bar until 1970, although it was owned by a woman, Dorothy O'Connell Kirwan, in 1939. McSorley's Ale House is the subject of the e.e. cummings poem, "I Was Sitting in McSorley's." McSorley's, which now wholeheartedly welcomes its female patrons, serves a limited food menu, but pair a pint with a burger or the onion and cheese plate, and you've got yourself a full belly. If you prefer the taste of wine or cocktails, beware--McSorley's serves only beer, no other alcoholic drinks.
McSorley's Old Ale House
15 East 7th St.
New York, NY 10003
(212) 473-9148
mcsorleysnewyork.com
The Landmark Tavern
The Landmark Tavern is a located in Hell's Kitchen, just off the beaten path from Times Square. For a more relaxing meal than the bustling restaurants in the heart of midtown, check out this tavern that opened its doors in 1868. If you're looking for a more complete meal than the limited menu at McSorley's but don't want to miss out on the historic charm, the Landmark Tavern is a happy medium. Enjoy innovations such as Hazelnut Crusted Scotch Eggs and old Irish favorites such as lamb shanks. If you'd like a drink with your dinner, the Landmark Tavern boasts a large selection of single malt whiskeys.
The Landmark Tavern
626 11th Ave.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 247-2562
thelandmarktavern.org
Channel 4 Irish Pub and Restaurant
The Channel 4 Irish Pub and Restaurant is located in midtown Manhattan, between Times Square and the famous Fifth Avenue shopping district. The Channel 4 Pub is not as historically impressive as McSorley's or the Landmark Tavern--it provides a more modern atmosphere. The Pub is located across the street from Rockefeller Center, however, which is home to dozens of television shows, including "Saturday Night Live." Because Channel 4 is so close to these television studios, it is not uncommon to see celebrities and television personalities getting a bite to eat. Channel 4 features portraits of television personalities on the wall, so even if you don't see them eating, you can still get a taste of the celebrity atmosphere. Signature dishes include the shepherd's pie and Irish lamb stew.
Channel 4 Irish Pub and Restaurant
58 W 48th St.
New York , NY 10036
(212) 819-0095
channel4nyc.com