McSorley’s Old Ale House
4.7(8.8K)google
Youth-FriendlyNight-FriendlyIndoorLocal LifeQuirkyHistoric BuildingFolk Culture
Overview
McSorley’s Old Ale House, located in the East Village, is one of New York City’s oldest continuously operated bars, establishing a legendary reputation since opening its doors around 1854. Stepping inside feels like entering a living history museum, with sawdust-covered floors, ancient memorabilia, historical artwork, and a bar counter that once served icons like Abraham Lincoln and John Lennon. True to its historic roots, the establishment only serves two types of drinks—McSorley’s Light Ale and Dark Ale—ordered in pairs, offering patrons an unpretentious, incredibly atmospheric journey back in time.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 1-2 hours
Best TimeA legendary indoor tavern best visited on weekday afternoons (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM) to beat the massive weekend crowds. As NYC's oldest continuously operated Irish saloon, the early hours let you appreciate the sawdust-covered floors and historical relics.
Getting ThereLocated in the East Village at 15 E 7th St. Take the 6 subway train to the Astor Place station and walk east for 3 minutes, or take the N/R/W train to the 8 St-NYU station and walk east for 5 minutes. Note that this historic bar is strictly cash-only.
Travel Tips
- This legendary tavern serves exactly two house beers: McSorley's Dark or McSorley's Light. Do not ask for custom cocktails, IPAs, wine, or sodas; simply shout your tally of 'Light' or 'Dark' mugs directly to the bartenders.
- Mugs are strictly served in matching pairs per order; a request for one drink automatically yields two foaming glasses on your table for a double charge. Cash is the sole currency accepted; no card tech or internal ATMs exist.
- The venue enforces packed communal seating; tables are shared shoulder-to-shoulder with complete strangers. The historic floors are heavily strewn with raw sawdust to soak up spilled brews, so avoid pristine luxury footwear.
Reviews
Positive
- NYC's oldest continuously operating legendary pub; the nostalgic sawdust on the floors, century-old artifacts, and historic photos carry an intense era vibe.
- They genuinely serve only two house ales (Light or Dark), ordered pairs at a very reasonable price; this pure, historic tradition is incredibly satisfying.
- Long wooden tables enforce a traditional communal seating model, encouraging global travelers and warm locals to chat happily in a vibrant social setting.
Heads up
- During peak weekend happy hours, the interior gets fully packed and suffocating; the deafening noise demands shouting, totally unfit for tourists seeking quiet space.
- The shop strictly enforces a Cash Only policy, and it lacks modern soft drinks or an extensive dinner menu; facilities and dining choices are incredibly basic.
- The old-school bartenders maintain a blunt, no-nonsense, and slightly gruff attitude focused on speed, which might feel intimidating for uninitiated foreign tourists.