1. McSorley’s Old Ale House
McSorley’s Old Ale House is known to be the oldest Irish saloon in New York City, serving since the mid-19th century. One notable feature of McSorley’s is its limited selection of alcoholic beverages. Customers are presented with just two options: light or dark beer, and they are typically served two at a time per person.
Over the years, McSorley’s has attracted a range of visitors, including well-known figures such as John Lennon, Teddy Roosevelt, Woody Guthrie, Babe Ruth, Hunter S. Thompson, and Harry Houdini. It is even rumored that President Abraham Lincoln once paid a visit. Additionally, poet E.E. Cummings wrote a poem about drinking beer at the bar, saying “i was sitting in mcsorley’s”, adding to its cultural significance.
McSorley’s is recognized for its preservation of its original appearance, with decorations remaining unchanged since 1910. This commitment to maintaining its historic ambiance contributes to its appeal. As the oldest Irish saloon in NYC, McSorley’s Old Ale House provides visitors with an opportunity to step back in time and experience a piece of the city’s history.
Address
McSorley’s Old Ale House
15 East 7th Street
New York, NY 10003
2. Clinton Hall
Clinton Hall draws inspiration from the historic Castle Clinton, originally a fort defending New York City, which later became America’s first beer garden in 1824. Situated near its namesake in Battery Park, Clinton Hall is a 4,000-square-foot beer hall that pays homage to the neighborhood’s rich history.
The marble bar at Clinton Hall showcases a rotating selection of 20 taps, featuring a variety of hard-to-find German and domestic brews. Guests can enjoy these beers in pints, half pints, or third pints, allowing for a customizable tasting experience.
As a restaurant and bar, Clinton Hall offers a unique twist on classic American cuisine. Their menu reimagines traditional dishes and pairs them with a carefully curated selection of rare beers. This combination aims to surprise even the most knowledgeable beer lovers, offering a fresh experience.
Address
*Financial District
90 Washington Street
New York, NY 10006
Clinton Hall 36
16 West 36th Street
New York, NY 10018
Clinton Hall Bronx
601 East 189th Street
Bronx, NY 10458
3. Threes Brewing
Threes Brewing, located in the Gowanus neighborhood of Brooklyn, offers a diverse bar menu that goes beyond the traditional brewpub offerings. The carefully curated beer list showcases a variety of fresh lagers, IPAs, and mixed culture offerings, alongside selections from other respected craft breweries.
As you explore the venue, the presence of the fifteen-barrel brite tanks discreetly reminds you that you are indeed in a brewery. Founded in 2014 by Joshua Stylman, Andrew Unterberg, and Justin Israelson, Threes Brewing became a local gathering spot, renowned for their award-winning beers such as the Vliet Pilsner. Over the years, Threes Brewing expanded with additional locations, including a bar and event space in Greenpoint and a seasonal beer garden on Governors Island. With the onset of the pandemic, Threes Brewing adapted by providing shipping and delivery services within the New York metro area.
Address
333 Douglass Street
Brooklyn, NY
4. The Dead Rabbit Pub
Situated in the vibrant Financial District of New York City, The Dead Rabbit Pub stands as a testament to the art of mixology and the fusion of Irish and American cultures. Notably, it earned the prestigious title of World’s Best Bar in 2016, cementing its reputation as a premier destination for beer lovers from around the globe. Inspired by the legendary Dead Rabbit gang of the 19th century, this establishment captures the essence of Irish heritage while incorporating a contemporary aura.
Address
30 Water Street, New York, NY, 10004
5. As Is NYC
Located in Hell’s Kitchen, As Is NYC was opened by two former bartenders from the renowned Atera restaurant. With 20 draught lines, the bar offers a selection of hard-to-find brews, cocktails on tap, and natural wines. The industrial-themed space features dark woods and metals, complemented by a neon-green sign that reads “fresh beer” on a brick wall. The menu includes elevated bar food, such as pressed sandwiches, tacos, and homemade pretzels with beer cheese and mustard. The rotating taps showcase local favorites, regional pours, West Coast selections, and a variety of traditional and rare European beers. In addition, the bar offers cocktails on draft and provides two pour sizes, catering to both beer lovers and those looking to explore new flavors.
Address
734 10th Avenue, New York, Ny 10019
