Had to stop in for a dark! I've been going here since I was uhh very young lol. My wife loves hearing my war stories from back in the day too. Still the same old comfortable and chill place to get a light or dark brew! Just feels like you're sitting in history when you pull up a stool at McSorleys! 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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Half full beer - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

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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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

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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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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. read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

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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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Two types of beer only and cash only. Such a cool and unique spot. Would definitely recommend for an authentic experience. read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

A NYC landmark that I had to visit to have a couple of beers. Service was good and the atmosphere was great. Your options are light and dark beer so it's super easy to order read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Light beer - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

A trip through time in the heart of Manhattan. I've almost never been to any other bar quite like this. Sawdust on the floor, absolute zero nonsense barstaff and waiters. Want a beer? Your choices are (a) light or (b) dark. That's it. Order and drink. Want a seat? Find one. At the bar, at a table with 3-4 strangers, whatever. Want food? Get some cheese or a hotdog. Fun spot, fun vibes. Decor that hasn't been dusted in decades. Dark beer's good. Apparently Lincoln and/or some other presidents have had a beer here - so there's that. Amidst the dizzying number of bars and pubs in NYC, this is a place that is as simple and basic as it gets - and I love it for it. read more

You've GOT to visit and take in old NY bar scene. They were there before your Grandfather was born! Don't expect fancy. Take it the decor, the camaraderie and the beers. Light or Dark, 2 per order. Spend an afternoon, and see the way it was. I was there for the Women's Liberation in 1970! No women were allowed. The sky didn't fall in and restroom facilities were shared. I go every time I'm in the City. Highly recommend! read more

Loved this place! Go there just to read the walls and meet new friends. Lots of history here. They have two kinds of beer - light and dark - both good. Cash only. Ordering "one beer" gets you two small mugs about 1/2 filled. They do have food which was tasty bar food. Very prompt service and you will have to share your table with your new friends, whoever they might be :) read more

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

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My first (and definitely last) visit! It was unbelievably unpleasant. It was our first time there and we honestly weren't even sure if we were at the right place. When we arrived, two men were sitting directly in front of the door, so it wasn't clear whether that was the entrance or not. Instead of being welcoming or simply pointing us in the right direction, one of them sarcastically asked, "Don't you have doors where you come from?" Not exactly a great start. Unfortunately, it only got worse once we went inside. One of the bartenders started harassing a woman nearby, pestering her about why she wouldn't go to dinner with him. Then he escalated into asking about her "snatch" and whether it was itchy. It was crude, uncomfortable, and completely inappropriate. The whole situation was gross and made the environment feel hostile rather than the historic pub experience we expected. I understand this place prides itself on being "old school," but there's a big difference between old-fashioned charm and outright rude, sexist behavior. Sometimes the old belongs in the past. Needless to say, I will never be going back. read more

This is an old school gem. There is sand all over the floor to catch the beer and fill the gaps in the old hardwood floor. You have two options for beer, light and dark. We had the light beers and they serve you with two at a time and they are half beer and half foam. It's all cash and the Irish workers are hilarious. We sat at a round table as a group of 2 and were joined by two other groups. It was great to mingle and enjoy the beers. Highly recommend for happy hour or evening beers. read more

Came in with a large crew and had the greatest time! The owner even hung out at our table and made us feel so special celebrating a 50th birthday. Food and drinks were very tasty and super fast! Will definitely be back. read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Menu - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

What a spot... I can't believe I never came here before... Anywho, you choose from 2 beers and it's a funny experience to say the least. The bartender is a character and a half. Lovely to talk to and joke with. One of the patrons sitting next to me shared his snack with me, which was sweet. Crowd was eclectic. Much enjoyed. read more

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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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

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Not usually one to dock points for service but the servers here are abysmally bad. There are a million rules like they're some Michelin-starred restaurant or exclusive members-only club- like "if you order at the bar, you can't sit at a table." Can you chill, I just want a beer... You're not quirky for being rude. I guess if you're into being scolded by your mommy, you might enjoy this spot. Only two drink options- light and dark ale, both of which are mid. I might've put up with it for the low prices but after the head fizzles on your two beers, you're basically left with a single beer for $8 that you got harassed over. Not worth it in my opinion but to each his own. Only redeeming factor is the doorman- what a kind and friendly guy. read more

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

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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

McSorleys Old Ale House - Inside - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Yes, they rip you off with their half pours (half foam/half beer), and service isn't the best (the old guys who wait on the tables always look mad) but the price is very affordable and beers are refreshing! Another added bonus? The place is a living piece of history! From the sawdusted floor to antique beer tabs to the pictures and memorabilia on the walls, it feels like you stepped back in time. Come here for the beer and ambiance, but stay away from the food. There are many others you can choose from in the neighborhood. Also, unless you come with a group, prepare to sit in the bar or share a table with strangers. read more

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

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It was like seeing an old friend after a long time. It has been 10 years since my last visit to McSorleys but honestly nothing has changed. With the exception of permitting women I don't think much has changed in the last 70 years. Beers are currently 2 for $8.00 now. With the foam it is a little less than a pint. Great crowd, great service, cash only, but tradition at its finest. You will make a new friend here but this is truly a must visit. Keep the tradition alive. Be good or be gone. read more

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Man bun waiter screamed and taunted women patrons in a disturbingly aggressive way I'll start off by noting I never leave these types of reviews after a night out. I realize friction can happen and can be very subjective. However I cannot in my right mind walk away from this incident and not say anything. One of the waiters operating on Saturday night (March 28) was disturbingly aggressive towards me and my friend. Our first introduction to this character was him screaming at us that we couldn't sit at a table without ordering. We told him no problem that we would order. This seemed to trigger him in some way because he immediately replied: are you going to speak to me like this the entire night? My friend and I looked at each other, not understanding the issue. We asked him what was wrong and then ensued more screams and him basically throwing us out of the way to give our table to 2 men instead. When we got up, he repeatedly screamed at me that I was in his way although I was standing near the bar like every other person in the space. He repeatedly refused to give us his name so I'll describe him: short, with a man bun and a nasty attitude. This man taunted me for about 20 minutes nonstop. He was screaming at me and made some extremely aggressive and personal remarks. He also said that he "couldn't touch me or I would make a big deal out of it" (absolutely yes I would have?). His behavior was uncalled for and completely shocking. My friend and I genuinely didn't understand what warranted such behavior towards us. He completely ruined the nice experience we were having at the bar, where we ordered several rounds of drinks. The owner tried to make it up to us by offering us more drinks but at this point we were so disturbed by the man's behavior that we just left. To any woman considering this place, I would genuinely watch out for this man. There are all kinds of -ssholes in this world but he was another level of aggressive. His taunting us felt unsafe and straight up discriminatory. read more

This place was standing room only. It was so busy that it took awhile to even get to the bar for drinks. We ordered to each just so we didn't have to go back up. The Guinness was good and the people were nice. Very fast paced bartenders in an old bar with cool decor. Cheers! read more

Ahead of St Patrick's Day we did an outing to McSorley's and were welcomed with open arms and mugs of light and dark beer. If you haven't been, it's a MUST! Place has been open forever (170 years) and between the ambience and the service there is no question as to why. read more

Part of a self driven historic tour of historic bars in lower Manhattan McSorley is a must stop. Built in the lady 1800s. This establish was male only until the 1970s when the feminist movement encouraged (?) them to open the doors for everybody. The original bar hasn't changed and the front doors are worn from centuries of use. The women's Braziers that once decorated the ceilings are long gone. The men's room only has been modified to provide separate bathrooms for men and women. The historic postings on the wall are worthy of a read, and you must have a one of their cold ales, light or dark, served the same as they've always offered since the day the doors opened for only a few dollars each. It's not fancy, it's just a slice of history and it's awesome. This is a cash only business so make sure you have enough to tip your bartender! I just love this place and you will too. Check out McSorley's. read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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A New York Institution and the oldest Irish bar in New York City. You can't say you've been to NY if you haven't walked on the sawdust in McSorleys. Located in the East Village. They make their own beer and you only have a choice of light or dark. Each order comes with two cold mugs and its a tradition to pile up the glasses on the table. Rumor has it, if you see a cat in the window, the ghost of Houdini has returned for a beer in his favorite place. Historic, fun and always a good time. read more

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Cool dive bar. Cash only. Super busy on Saturday and they cram everyone in but a good way to make new friends. You have to Oder 2 light or dark beers for $8 total read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

Really horrible service. Some of the rudest employees. Treated me like crap just because I was younger than the rest of the mostly millennial, tourist clientele. This place is so busy and overly monitored that it's hard to enjoy yourself. There are far better Irish bars in the city. Highly suggest going somewhere else. read more

I came here just as a casual, quick stop as my friend mentioned how it was the oldest bar in the US. The interior of the bar is definitely a bit older, rustic, and very casual. It was pretty packed when I went on a casual Sunday afternoon, and staff was fairly busy. They have two choices of ales here: a light and dark beer--both $3 each. We got a couple to enjoy, and it was a cool spot to check out! read more

McSorleys Old Ale House - Beer - Dive Bars Near Me - New York, New York

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Amazing place to drink a beer. Terrific service, great crowd and vibe. Make the effort to hang here!

Dropped in with my gal and it's just the same as last time we.wre here months ago which is a good thing. Never change the old items, memorabilia on the walls, sawdust on the floor, choice of light or dark beers in small mugs. A classic. read more

McSorleys is a NYC gem. They still have the old original everything from 1854 really! It feels like you're going back in time. Many of the photos on the wall are so faded you can't even tell what they were supposed to be. They have a framed newspaper article of the owner stubbornly not allowing women in for a very long time. It shows with the bathroom situation that women were clearly an afterthought. The women's bathroom is very very small! I recommend getting a drink next door for this instead. Bartender has been working here for 51 years. Very animated character. Doorman is super nice. Light ale and dark ale are your only options here. Try the smooth dark ale it might surprise you. The drinks are $8 cash only and when you buy one beer you get two small steins worth. Super fun! Highly recommend for an awesome nyc sight that's not the normal tourist vibe. read more

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