McSorley's Old Ale House

Touting a long and storied history is the supposed oldest Irish saloon in NYC, McSorley’s. First opened in 1854 by John McSorley, the bar initially operated as a hang-out spot for working class men (women weren’t permitted until 1970) serving up house ales and simple bites. With a long-standing motto of “Be Good or Be Gone,” throughout the years, McSorley’s became a hub and source of inspiration for loads of legendary patrons like Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and E. E. Cummings. These days, the spot still flaunts decades-old memorabilia on the walls and bar like a pair of Harry Houdini’s handcuffs and wishbones circa World War I. On the menu, expect a choice between two specialty beers, light ale or dark porter, served in pairs along with a concise food menu consisting of a Raw Onion and Cheese Platter; Feltman’s of Coney Island hot dogs; and sandwiches.