Top Five Irish Pubs in New York

MarMon 2010 Filed in: Write-ups

According to Pamela Skillings at About.com, “It’s not easy to pick favorites among New York's many delightful Irish pubs.” But she’s done a ton of research to break it down on authentic New York Irish pubs with the best pints and the most welcoming atmospheres....

1. McSorley’s Old Ale House Established in 1854, McSorley's is New York City's oldest continuously operated saloon and offers a uniquely old-school pub experience. Take in the history, the sawdust-covered floors, and the legendary backroom where the ale flowed during Prohibition. Women have only been welcomed at McSorley's since 1970 (and the ladies'room was installed sixteen years later). There are just two kinds of beer available -- McSorley's Light and McSorley's Dark -- and you'll have to belly up to the bar to get a pint. There are no stools.
15 E 7th Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues, 212-473-9148
Take the 6 to Astor Place

2. Molly's Pub & Restaurant, Shebeen
Molly’s is a warm and welcoming traditional Irish pub with sawdust on the floor and a log-burning fireplace. The pub is famous for its Shepherd's Pie and well-poured pints of Guinness at reasonable prices.
287 3rd Avenue near 22nd Street, 212-889-3361
Take the 6 to 23rd Street

3. Swift Bar
Swift offers one of the city's best draft selections, a laid-back atmosphere, and a pleasingly diverse crowd. Named after author Jonathan Swift, the pub has church-pew booths and a mural that pays homage to its namesake. You can even enjoy traditional Irish music seisiuns on Tuesday nights. 34 East 4th Street between Lafayette Street and Bowery, 212-260-3600 Take the B,D,F,V to Broadway-Lafayette or the 6 to Bleecker Street

4. Paddy McGuire's Ale House
Paddy’s boasts that they offer the largest pint of Guinness below 20th Street. In addition, Paddy’s has 16 beers on tap and three TVs showing sporting events from football to beach volleyball. The original doors from Ireland give the pub an authentic touch.
237 3rd Avenue between 19th and 20th Streets, 212-473-8407
Take the 6 to 23rd Street

5. Doc Watson's
Doc Watson's is a great neighborhood Irish pub on the Upper East Side. There's a garden in the back where you can enjoy your pint al fresco in warm weather. You'll also find a pool table, darts, and great live traditional Irish music on Sunday nights.
1490 Second Avenue between 77th and 78th Streets
Take the 4,5,6 to 86th Street