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"Same as it ever was." No other words sum up McSorley's better. It is a constant in a city where change is one of the few things that can be assumed. From the musty wishbones to the old gas lamps, everything is exactly where it ought to be. And the ale: smooth, slightly sweet, and sublime. It comes in pairs. Why? Because that is what they have always done. OK, so there are a few updates: there is now a ladies room, and the prices have increased. But otherwise it remains more than an old standby: it is a consistent temple of tradition, in its finest form.
One of the oldest ale house in NYC and full of rich history. This is a must visit for anyone including tourists. Cash only with two limited choices of light or dark ale. Very limited food menu but really, who's there to eat aside from knocking back a few and sharing laughter. Within McSorley's walls is 150+ years of history and they wouldn't change any of it. Tables, Chairs, walls and counter is so beaten up but that's what make it special. This is the NY version of Cheers where everyone is your friend.
If you're visiting NYC from out of town, this is a must stop to soak in the history! We went in around lunchtime on a Friday to snatch a table before it got crowded. The walls are filled with a menagerie of photos, newspaper clippings and old object. We were promptly served 4 mugs of the ale for the two of us, with some banter with the server who looked like he might be one of the family members. Fish & Chips were good with the fried flounder piping hot and fries crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. And $14 for the fish n chips??? Best deal of the entire trip! It was such a fun experience, and to know that Abe Lincoln AND John Lennon were here? 10 out of 10!!
No messing around here. Dark or light beer, wood shavings on the floor. Beer drinkers Mcsorleys is definitely worth a visit
Ah, McSorley's. No trip to Manhattan is complete without visiting this east East Village institution. I'm a huge history nerd so I love places like McSorely's for the feeling of stepping back in time. As one of the servers mentioned during my most recent visit, it's like a museum you can drink in. My girlfriend and I most recently stopped in around noon on a Thursday in April so it wasn't crowded at all. The aforementioned server was so chill and friendly, chatting with the few patrons there and peppering in historical anecdotes about the place. He seemed to be just as much of a history nerd as I am. I've never had the food there. Of the two available beers, I definitely prefer the light. I could have happily stayed all day because man those beers go down easily, but we had other places to be. I love that when it gets crowded you're encouraged to share the table with strangers. Everyone becomes friends after a few rounds. I love that there is no music and I wish there was no tv. All in all, never had a bad experience here, and look forward to coming back, hopefully soon.
Gosh this is one of the best places I've ever been to, what a place so much history and the service was top notch, even the men's restroom was historic and amazing, I had one of their meals and it was superb and very tasty, loved the beer, loved the atmosphere, I will definitely be back!
Total tourist trap that rips you off if you're not paying attention. I live in the city but wanted to check this place out since it's an establishment. The idea is cool, they squeeze you in at a table around strangers and just have a good time and drink beer. We knew it was $8 for two half pints, not sure why they serve it that way but that's not my business. We knew we were only having a beer each, two of us, four minis so we were expecting to pay $16 for our four minis. As soon as the beer came we asked how much and the guy said $32, but don't worry, we'll be around for another round so he didn't take our money yet. We were served 4 half full mini beers, the other half was foam. We were pissed. After a bit the server came back and sat with us asking where we were from. We told him here in the city and things changed a bit. He offered us food and more beer, made small chat and left. We pulled a $20 out knowing that was more than enough and he immediately gave us $4 back without questioning the $16 versus $32.
17 years straight walking into McSorley's Old Ale House on Saint Patrick's Day... at this point I should have my own stool and a retirement plan here Every year it hits the same--walk in and boom, time machine. Walls covered in history, packed shoulder-to-shoulder, guys yelling like they've known each other since 1902. No fancy menus, no nonsense--just "light or dark?" and next thing you know you've got two mugs in each hand like a professional. Ran it back properly: cheese platter (that horseradish cleared my sinuses for the next decade), Feltman's hot dog loaded up, bar burger done right, and a fried chicken sandwich that didn't miss. Absolute damage. Cash only, no frills, all vibes. 17 years in and still the greatest tradition in NYC. If you know, you know.
It is one of the oldest places around and was recommended by my in-laws from New Jersey. It ended up being one of the most fun and old-fashioned experiences I have ever had, and it was my first time visiting a place like this. They serve only two kinds of beer, and they accept both cash and cards. The place is small, dimly lit, and very simple, with no outdoor lighting inside, but it has restrooms and everything you need. You order your beer and sit wherever there's space. You will share a table with strangers. Since you're sitting together, conversation naturally happens. My partner and I enjoyed this experience. We met so many interesting people and heard some great stories. The service is friendly as well, but if you're paying in cash, make sure to ask for your change from the server at your table. We realized it a bit too late and felt too awkward to ask, so we just laughed it off and left.
A total classic - no review is truly needed, but I'll tell you the details. The beer is light or dark only, food is simple (we did not get food here), and service is fun. Cash only - and they haven't cleaned since they opened in the 1800s, but that all part of the fun.
Be prepared! We went on a Thursday night and it was raucous and filled with energy. When we made our way toward the back, we were shuffled to a table and told to sit on back side. Soon we knew why as another few people were brought to our table along with plenty of 8 oz mugs of beer. The gentleman doing all this seating and serving was an Irishman in the truest form, The ambience was pure Irish local pub. We met a few great folks and then they were gone and some new people from Spain sat down. If you are shy or don't like meeting new people McSorleys is not for you. For the rest of us, what a hoot!
Cash only, light or dark beer only, but such quick service and a great deal! A fun place to bring friends who are visiting for a fast beer.
Can't get cooler than this. History on 7th Street. A must see that's all I can say. Sawdust on the floor and a cool mug of beer.
28 days ago
Gotta be 5 stars right? It starts with ambience. Literally having a beer in a museum us and New York City history. I was curious about every single piece of nostalgia on the walls. You can't help but feel the history all around you. Service is great. You might feel like this place could be intimidating because it definitely is a little quirky. Put the staff at the door and inside put you and everyone around you at ease. Very communal vibe. There are two beer options. Both are decent, but it's not really the point. He had the burger, which was pretty good... But again not the point. It's pretty rare that a five star rating of a bar wouldn't have much to do with the beer or the food. But here we are. read more
"Same as it ever was." No other words sum up McSorley's better. It is a constant in a city where change is one of the few things that can be assumed. From the musty wishbones to the old gas lamps, everything is exactly where it ought to be. And the ale: smooth, slightly sweet, and sublime. It comes in pairs. Why? Because that is what they have always done. OK, so there are a few updates: there is now a ladies room, and the prices have increased. But otherwise it remains more than an old standby: it is a consistent temple of tradition, in its finest form. read more
One of the oldest ale house in NYC and full of rich history. This is a must visit for anyone including tourists. Cash only with two limited choices of light or dark ale. Very limited food menu but really, who's there to eat aside from knocking back a few and sharing laughter. Within McSorley's walls is 150+ years of history and they wouldn't change any of it. Tables, Chairs, walls and counter is so beaten up but that's what make it special. This is the NY version of Cheers where everyone is your friend. read more
If you're visiting NYC from out of town, this is a must stop to soak in the history! We went in around lunchtime on a Friday to snatch a table before it got crowded. The walls are filled with a menagerie of photos, newspaper clippings and old object. We were promptly served 4 mugs of the ale for the two of us, with some banter with the server who looked like he might be one of the family members. Fish & Chips were good with the fried flounder piping hot and fries crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. And $14 for the fish n chips??? Best deal of the entire trip! It was such a fun experience, and to know that Abe Lincoln AND John Lennon were here? 10 out of 10!! read more
Ah, McSorley's. No trip to Manhattan is complete without visiting this east East Village institution. I'm a huge history nerd so I love places like McSorely's for the feeling of stepping back in time. As one of the servers mentioned during my most recent visit, it's like a museum you can drink in. My girlfriend and I most recently stopped in around noon on a Thursday in April so it wasn't crowded at all. The aforementioned server was so chill and friendly, chatting with the few patrons there and peppering in historical anecdotes about the place. He seemed to be just as much of a history nerd as I am. I've never had the food there. Of the two available beers, I definitely prefer the light. I could have happily stayed all day because man those beers go down easily, but we had other places to be. I love that when it gets crowded you're encouraged to share the table with strangers. Everyone becomes friends after a few rounds. I love that there is no music and I wish there was no tv. All in all, never had a bad experience here, and look forward to coming back, hopefully soon. read more
4 months ago
Gosh this is one of the best places I've ever been to, what a place so much history and the service was top notch, even the men's restroom was historic and amazing, I had one of their meals and it was superb and very tasty, loved the beer, loved the atmosphere, I will definitely be back! read more
Total tourist trap that rips you off if you're not paying attention. I live in the city but wanted to check this place out since it's an establishment. The idea is cool, they squeeze you in at a table around strangers and just have a good time and drink beer. We knew it was $8 for two half pints, not sure why they serve it that way but that's not my business. We knew we were only having a beer each, two of us, four minis so we were expecting to pay $16 for our four minis. As soon as the beer came we asked how much and the guy said $32, but don't worry, we'll be around for another round so he didn't take our money yet. We were served 4 half full mini beers, the other half was foam. We were pissed. After a bit the server came back and sat with us asking where we were from. We told him here in the city and things changed a bit. He offered us food and more beer, made small chat and left. We pulled a $20 out knowing that was more than enough and he immediately gave us $4 back without questioning the $16 versus $32. read more
17 years straight walking into McSorley's Old Ale House on Saint Patrick's Day... at this point I should have my own stool and a retirement plan here Every year it hits the same--walk in and boom, time machine. Walls covered in history, packed shoulder-to-shoulder, guys yelling like they've known each other since 1902. No fancy menus, no nonsense--just "light or dark?" and next thing you know you've got two mugs in each hand like a professional. Ran it back properly: cheese platter (that horseradish cleared my sinuses for the next decade), Feltman's hot dog loaded up, bar burger done right, and a fried chicken sandwich that didn't miss. Absolute damage. Cash only, no frills, all vibes. 17 years in and still the greatest tradition in NYC. If you know, you know. read more
It is one of the oldest places around and was recommended by my in-laws from New Jersey. It ended up being one of the most fun and old-fashioned experiences I have ever had, and it was my first time visiting a place like this. They serve only two kinds of beer, and they accept both cash and cards. The place is small, dimly lit, and very simple, with no outdoor lighting inside, but it has restrooms and everything you need. You order your beer and sit wherever there's space. You will share a table with strangers. Since you're sitting together, conversation naturally happens. My partner and I enjoyed this experience. We met so many interesting people and heard some great stories. The service is friendly as well, but if you're paying in cash, make sure to ask for your change from the server at your table. We realized it a bit too late and felt too awkward to ask, so we just laughed it off and left. read more
A total classic - no review is truly needed, but I'll tell you the details. The beer is light or dark only, food is simple (we did not get food here), and service is fun. Cash only - and they haven't cleaned since they opened in the 1800s, but that all part of the fun. read more
Be prepared! We went on a Thursday night and it was raucous and filled with energy. When we made our way toward the back, we were shuffled to a table and told to sit on back side. Soon we knew why as another few people were brought to our table along with plenty of 8 oz mugs of beer. The gentleman doing all this seating and serving was an Irishman in the truest form, The ambience was pure Irish local pub. We met a few great folks and then they were gone and some new people from Spain sat down. If you are shy or don't like meeting new people McSorleys is not for you. For the rest of us, what a hoot! read more
7 months ago
Can't get cooler than this. History on 7th Street. A must see that's all I can say. Sawdust on the floor and a cool mug of beer. read more
This place takes you back to historical NY. Only two options of beer, light or dark. Sawdust on the floors and the tables and chairs may be from the original 1854 decor. Come with cash as it's the only way to pay. We ordered some French fries and paired with the beers made an excellent afternoon pick me up. They have attentive staff which is helpful when the place starts to get busy. read more
29 days ago
11 months ago
McSorley's Old Ale House is not just a bar, it is living history. Tucked away on a side street, you cannot miss it. Just follow the line stretching down the block. Standing in the queue, the anticipation builds as you watch people pour out smiling while the scally, derby-hatted doorman expertly manages the human traffic jam. When we finally got the green light, he smiled and said, "good luck." He meant it. Inside is pure, glorious chaos. Standing room only, shoulder to shoulder, wall to wall. The sawdust floors crunch underfoot. Irish servers muscle through the masses wearing beer-stained shirts, five mugs in each hand, hauling full beers in and empty mugs out, yelling "hot soup" as a warning. From one room you hear Christmas carols being sung at full volume, from another, sudden eruptions of cheers as a group counts down a buddy chugging his beers. The menu is legendary in its simplicity. Two choices, light or dark, and when you order, you get two. Cash only. Priced right. Food is clearly an afterthought, the charcuterie plate we spotted was saltine crackers, a block of cheese, and pickled onions. LOL. This is an Irish pub that knows exactly what it is about, the beer. Once I finally found a place to plant my feet and drink, the history revealed itself. It is everywhere, on the walls, behind the bar, hanging from the ceiling, worn into the floors. Abraham Lincoln was known to stop in for a pint. We were even told the old cupboard behind the front bar holds urns of longtime regulars who wanted to stay here forever. Honestly, I get it. My only regret, it was so packed I could not absorb all of the history. Pro tip, come mid-week and early if you want to explore and take it all in. Recommended by our bartender at Sip and Guzzle, and man was he right. This is New York in a glass, and I will absolutely be back. read more
2 months ago
3 months ago
1 year ago
Step through the door and you're instantly transported into the past. Wood-paneled walls, the warm smell of old beer, and sawdust crunching underfoot. It's like walking into a time capsule from another era. They keep it simple here: light beer, dark beer, and zero pretension. Grab a seat with your friends and settle in--this is the kind of place where the waiters serve your drink with a side of history. They're cool, they're sharp, and they've got stories for days. Now, let's talk about the hotdog. Feltman's hot dog. The moment I spotted it on the menu, I knew I was in for something different. This isn't your average ballpark frank. We're talking next-level juicy, bursting with flavor, and topped with sauerkraut and their home-made mustard on the side. But here's the move: skip the ketchup, ditch the mustard for now. Just pile on the sauerkraut and take a bite. Trust me, you'll get it. These dogs don't just hit the spot--they dropkick it. Taste the mustard before you put it on the dog. That mustard has a bite. read more
1 month ago
This bar is the most no frills bar I've ever seen. They seat you at communal style tables so get ready to make some friends! The waiter asked us "what do you want to drink?" And I said "oh do you have a menu" and he said "yeah, we have dark ale or light ale. End of menu." So if you're wanting a liquor drink or glass of wine, this is not the spot for you. read more
8 months ago
What's not to like? Simple, dark or light? Two? Four? Six? How many??? My husband and daughter have been here a few times, this was a first for me. Brandon made our experience even more fun, since we were able to get a table in the back room along with a frat party from Columbia. The "kids" 21+ were having a great time, and I felt young again, listening to them sing. At my table, we offered a seat to a young man "stranger" and chatted with him. Very interesting. We returned the following day for lunch and few more beers. I will definitely come back in the future since we live in the city. read more
1 year ago
Very cool spot! I'm a big history nerd so this was right up my alley. A friend recommended this place and it was unique and fun like stepping back in time. They serve only light or dark ale so of course we had to try both! All in it was $18 with cash $4 a beer. Loved the whole vibe and the bartenders were super nice the shared tables is a cool thing too. We went on a Monday afternoon and were able to sit and chat undisturbed. I definitely could see myself coming here with a good book on an afternoon if I lived in the city and they certainly didn't mind tourists either. The bar tenders were happy to give good suggestions to a group of tourists that came in with us Personally this is a must see for any history lover or beer lovers we in my opinion. read more
1 year ago
McSorley's... wow. I could use many words to describe McSorley's, but the one word that comes to mind is: Authentic. I've been to many Irish Pubs and dive bars in my life, and most of them have been good. But none of them were on the level of McSorley's. First and foremost, my waiter was legitimately Irish, not a random person who decided to work at an Irish pub. I also met two (2) patrons who were Irish, and went to McSorley's to get an authentic taste of home. The whole time I was there, the experience was very "authentic", as I said earlier. There were no gimmicks or cheap tricks that they used to appear Irish, as everything was the real deal. The lighting was dim, the beer and food was served in a straight-forward and gruff manner, and there were so many pieces of legitimate historical memorabilia highlighting the close relationship between the Irish and Americans. My hot dog and fries were pretty good, but nothing spectacular. I'm not going to let this detract from my review, as the experience is what I came for, and it did not leave me disappointed in any way, shape, or form. Overall, I can't recommend McSorley's enough, just be sure to bring cash, as they don't accept credit or debit cards. McSorley's is a must-see! read more
Great historic bar! Loved learning about how Abe Lincoln patronized this bar and how it survived through the prohibition period. The interior is interesting with all the knick knacks and decor. The only serve 2 ales: light or dark. Dark was delicious. Servers are legit Irish. read more
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More info about McSorleys Old Ale House
15 E 7th St
New York, NY 10003
East Village
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(212) 473-9148
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http://mcsorleysoldalehouse.nyc
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Ask the Community - McSorleys Old Ale House
Is this bar haunted?
It looks like it has the potential to be. No one there mentioned they were there for that reason.…
What are the beers they have there? I know they have a light and dark ale, but what are they?
McSorleys Irish Pale Ale and McSorleys Irish Black Lager. I believe they are brewed by Pabst.
Anyone know how to get ahold of the bar? The number online doesn't work
I'm visiting NYC with my teen daughter soon and would really like to show her the culture of this place; is it okay to bring kids during day hours?
Yes Shouldn't be a problem
Cuánto cuesta una pinta allí? qué se puede comer y qué rango de precios tiene?
En realidad, no sé la respuesta, pero sé que recibes dos medias pintas y solo tienes la opción de claro o oscuro. Recuerdo que no eran demasiado caros. No comimos pero tienen una cocina. Esto puede no ser muy útil.
Review Highlights - McSorleys Old Ale House
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