McSorley’s Old Ale House — Restaurant in New York

McSorley's Old Ale House is a must-visit destination in New York City for anyone seeking a unique blend of history, atmosphere, and fantastic beer. As soon as you step inside, you are instantly transported back in time to a bygone era, making it an absolute gem among the bustling streets of the Big Apple.

One of the most charming aspects of McSorley,s is its rich history. Established in 1854, it proudly holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously operating bars in the United States. The walls are adorned with historical artifacts, vintage photographs, and newspaper clippings, which provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. It's like stepping into a living museum of New York City's heritage.

The ambiance is truly one-of-a-kind. The dimly lit space, sawdust-covered floors, and wooden communal tables all contribute to the authentic and rustic pub atmosphere. Whether you're a local or a tourist, you'll feel right at home in this cozy establishment, surrounded by the buzz of animated conversations and laughter.

Of course, no review of McSorley's would be complete without mentioning their beer. The selection is refreshingly simple yet satisfying. There are only two choices: light or dark ale. Don't be fooled by the limited options, though, as both are expertly crafted and served in hefty mugs. The ales have a distinct flavor and smoothness that can only be achieved through years of perfecting their brewing techniques. They pair exceptionally well with their signature cheese and onion plates or liverwurst sandwiches.

What truly sets McSorley's apart from other bars is its unwavering commitment to tradition. Cash-only transactions, strict policies on cellphone usage, and the absence of television screens are just a few examples of their dedication to preserving the authentic pub experience. This commitment creates a unique environment where patrons are encouraged to engage in face-to-face conversations and enjoy the present moment, free from distractions.

The staff at McSorley's are friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to share a fascinating story or two about the bar's history. They add to the overall charm and make every visit feel like a personalized experience.

If you're a lover of history, a connoisseur of great beer, or simply in search of a genuine and unpretentious pub experience, McSorley's Old Ale House is an absolute must-visit. It's a living testament to the enduring spirit of New York City and a place where memories are made. Just remember, step inside with an open mind and a thirst for adventure.

Pro tip: Weekdays are usually less crowded, making it an ideal time for a more intimate experience. Also, be prepared for a wait during peak hours, as this hidden gem is popular among both locals and...

Last night I went to this place with my girlfriend and a friend of ours. It was a really terrible experience, which put me and the people I was with in a bad mood. This is what happened: We arrived and the bar was full of people and very noisy. My girlfriend and I, arrived before our friend, and an older waiter, maybe the owner, I don't know, directed us to a table shared with other people and we sat down. The large square table he had given us was at least 9 people, and when my girlfriend and I arrived it was only occupied by two guys, so 7 empty seats, which with us seated became 5 empty seats (at least) Our friend had warned us that she was a 5-minute walk away. After about 3 minutes that we were drinking the beer, three more guys, strangers, came and sat at our table, again accompanied by this elderly waiter. He pointed them to the table and I, since there were 5 free seats and they were only 3, asked them if they could leave the chair next to me and my girlfriend free since our friend was now a 2-minute walk from the place. When I said this to the guys, who of course told me there was no problem since there was a seat for everyone, the waiter had a violent reaction. He started yelling in my face in a very rude and violent way, getting very close to me and in a provocative way. His reaction was completely overreacted, without any reason and embarrassing for him especially because he appeared as ridiculous, and for all the people at the table who felt very embarrassed. I think this is absolutely no way to treat customers. I am convinced that with the confusion and noise in the bar, the waiter did not even understand what I had said to the three guys, but still he had this reaction that was completely unprofessional and unnecessary. Maybe this elderly man, should consider starting to stay home at night. This is not about politeness, this is about respect between human beings. It was really all outrageously ridiculous. Even the other people at the table, who didn't know me, apologized to me for him, in fact, they even added, "Don't take it personally, that's just the way he is."

I will NEVER go back...

Stepping into McSorley’s Old Ale House feels like crossing into a time machine, landing in the heart of 19th-century New York. The crunch of sawdust under your feet and the faint heat radiating from the pot-bellied stove set the tone. The walls are a hodgepodge of history, with police badges from all over the world and relics that whisper untold stories. It’s as if every corner of the bar could belong on the cover of a folk-rock album—you half expect Bob Dylan with the Band to be sitting at the counter, lost in the ambiance.

Then there’s the bartender. The one you see when you walk in isn’t just a person behind the bar—he is McSorley’s . His stern, almost grumpy expression seems like an unspoken test: are you worthy of being part of this place’s story? He stands behind a counter that looks like it’s absorbed the sweat and stories of countless generations, surrounded by an eclectic, chaotic museum of memorabilia. At first glance, he might seem like a caricature of the no-nonsense New York barkeep, but it’s all part of the act.

You order your beer—light or dark ale, nothing else—and as he pours, you realize the tough exterior hides a dry, razor-sharp humor. His one-liners are perfectly timed, his personality as textured as the aged wood of the bar itself. He isn’t just serving drinks; he’s continuing a tradition, playing his role as the gatekeeper of this time capsule. You half expect him to slide into a story about the bar’s history without missing a beat, the way he seems to embody it entirely.

Visiting McSorley’s isn’t just about the beer—it’s about the people who pour it. You feel like you’re part of living history - John Lennon and Abe Lincoln where regular here. And yes, th bartender straight out of a folk-rock album cover makes the place feel like an experience far...