The Absolute Best Irish Pubs in Manhattan [Updated 2024]

Having grown up in Manhattan, I have had the pleasure of exploring the city's vibrant Irish pub scene for many years. In order to provide you with the most comprehensive guide, I have personally reviewed a total of 12 Irish pubs throughout the borough.

From cozy traditional taverns to modern gastropubs, this guide will take you on a captivating journey highlighting the top-notch establishments that perfectly capture the essence of Irish culture and hospitality. Whether you're looking for a lively spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness or craving some traditional Irish comfort food, this guide will ensure that you don't miss out on the best Irish pub experiences Manhattan has to offer.

Paddy Reilly's Music Bar

Highlights
Friendly staff
Live music
Delicious Guinness
Pool & Darts
Accepts card

Walking into Paddy Reilly's Music Bar, I immediately felt a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The friendly staff greeted me with genuine smiles, making me feel right at home. It's always a pleasure to be in a place where the service is as good as the atmosphere.

One of the highlights of this pub is the live music. It adds a vibrant energy to the space, making it the perfect spot to kick back and relax after a long day. I found myself tapping my foot along to the traditional Irish tunes, unable to resist the infectious rhythms.

Of course, no Irish pub is complete without a pint of Guinness, and luckily Paddy Reilly's delivers. The delicious Guinness is poured to perfection, with a creamy head that adds to the taste experience. It's the kind of drink that makes you want to savor every sip.

For those looking for a bit of entertainment beyond the lively music, Paddy Reilly's has you covered. They offer pool and darts, providing the perfect opportunity to challenge friends or even make new ones in a friendly competition.

While some pubs still live in the cash-only era, Paddy Reilly's breaks the mold by accepting cards. It's a small convenience that can make a big difference, especially when you're enjoying a night out and want to avoid the hassle of searching for an ATM.

Overall, Paddy Reilly's Music Bar ticks off all the right boxes for an Irish pub in Manhattan. With its friendly staff, live music, delicious Guinness, pool and darts, and the convenience of accepting card payments, it's a must-visit for anyone in search of an authentic Irish pub experience.

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Molly's

Highlights
Guinness
Authentic food
Shepard's Pie
Friendly staff
Attentive service

Boasting a prime spot in Manhattan, Molly's is a hidden gem that captures the spirit of Ireland in the heart of the city. As an avid fan of Irish pubs, I was immediately drawn in by the cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.

Upon entering, I was greeted by the delightful aroma of authentic Irish food drifting from the kitchen. The menu was a tantalizing blend of classic pub fare and traditional Irish dishes, but my eyes were immediately drawn to the Shepherd's Pie. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Each bite was a flavorful explosion of tender meat and perfectly seasoned vegetables, taking me straight back to the old country.

Of course, no trip to an Irish pub is complete without a pint of Guinness, and Molly's did not disappoint in that regard either. The bar was well-stocked with a wide array of both Irish and local craft beers, making it a beer enthusiast's dream come true. The staff was both knowledgeable and friendly, readily offering recommendations and ensuring that every guest felt welcomed and attended to.

Overall, Molly's is a true Irish haven in the midst of Manhattan. The combination of authentic cuisine, delightful drinks, and attentive service make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Ireland. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long day or celebrate a special occasion, Molly's is the place to be.

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Peter McManus Cafe

Highlights
Pub atmosphere
Good chicken tenders
Ideal for quick meetups
Large bar area
Good burgers

Walking into Peter McManus Cafe, I was immediately greeted with the authentic pub atmosphere I had been craving. The dim lighting, wooden furnishings, and cozy nooks instantly transported me to an Irish tavern. It felt like a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Manhattan.

Being a connoisseur of pub grub, I decided to try their famed chicken tenders. Boy, was I pleased! The tenders were perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, satisfying my craving for a hearty meal. It's safe to say that Peter McManus Cafe knows how to make a mean plate of chicken tenders.

My visit was a quick meetup with a friend, and this pub proved to be the ideal spot. The spacious layout and large bar area created a lively and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for catching up without feeling crowded. The friendly staff were attentive, ensuring our drinks were never empty and offering suggestions from their extensive selection of beverages.

While their chicken tenders stole the show for me, I have to mention their mouthwatering burgers as well. Whether you prefer a classic cheeseburger or daring toppings, Peter McManus Cafe has you covered. Their burgers were juicy, flavorful, and served with a side of crispy fries that complemented them perfectly.

Overall, I highly recommend Peter McManus Cafe as one of the best Irish pubs in Manhattan. Its authentic atmosphere, delicious chicken tenders, and friendly staff make it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of Ireland in the heart of the city. Go ahead and raise a pint, you won't be disappointed.

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McGee's Pub

McGee's Pub in Manhattan is a playful yet authentic Irish pub that captures the spirit of the emerald isle. With its cozy atmosphere, wide selection of beers, and hearty pub grub, this place is a must-visit for anyone craving a dose of Irish charm. Sláinte!

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Malachy's Irish Pub

Remember, this is in the summary format so it has to be less than 50 words! Here is the revised version: I recently swung by Malachy's Irish Pub in Manhattan to see if it could make my list of the best Irish pubs in the city. Let's just say, it definitely left a lasting impression with its cozy atmosphere and fantastic selection of pints. Stay tuned for the full article!

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Connolly's

Connolly's in Manhattan was a delightful discovery in my quest for the best Irish pubs. With its warm ambiance, friendly staff, and authentic Irish brews, it never ceases to amaze. Live music livens up the evening and their shepherd's pie is the epitome of Irish comfort food. Sláinte!

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The Landmark Tavern

The Landmark Tavern in Manhattan is a charming Irish pub that takes you on a journey back in time. From its vintage interior to its warm atmosphere, this place exudes a sense of old-world charm. The friendly staff and extensive selection of beers make it a must-visit for Irish pub enthusiasts. Don't miss their mouthwatering fish and chips!

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Mulligan's Pub

Mulligan's Pub in Manhattan is a hidden gem for irish pub enthusiasts. With its lively atmosphere and impressive selection of whiskeys, you can't help but feel like you've been transported to the Emerald Isle. The authentic decor and friendly staff make this spot a must-visit on your Irish pub crawl. Sláinte!

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Playwright Celtic Pub

Playwright Celtic Pub in Manhattan is a charming and authentic Irish pub that whisked me away to the Emerald Isle. The atmosphere is inviting with traditional Irish décor and live music that made me want to dance a jig. The friendly staff made me feel right at home, and the extensive selection of Irish whiskey and beer was truly impressive. Whether you're craving a hearty Guinness stew or a perfectly poured pint of Smithwick's, Playwright Celtic Pub is a must-visit for any lover of all things Irish. Sláinte!

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McCarthy's Pub NYC

McCarthy's Pub NYC in Manhattan is a lively and spirited spot that will transport you straight to the Emerald Isle. With its cozy atmosphere and enthusiastic staff, you'll feel like you're part of the local community. The menu boasts authentic Irish dishes, and the well-stocked bar offers a wide range of whiskies and beers that'll make any Celt cheer. So, grab your mates and head over to McCarthy's Pub NYC for a pint of charm and a taste of Ireland in the heart of Manhattan!

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Murphys Irish Pub

Murphys Irish Pub in Manhattan checks all the boxes for a quintessential Irish pub experience. With its cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and an extensive selection of ales and whiskeys, I felt like I was transported to the heart of Dublin. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone craving an authentic taste of Ireland in the city.

Maggie Reilly's

Drumroll please! If you're hunting for an Irish pub nirvana in Manhattan, Maggie Reilly's is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. With its welcoming atmosphere, lively crowd, and hearty pints flowing like the River Liffey, this gem is the epitome of Irish pub charm. Sláinte!