Three Outstanding Irish Pubs Near Gramercy Park

New York offers a wide collection of friendly pubs that provide locals and guests of the Big Apple with many places to meet new friends, raise a pint (or twelve), and occasionally sing karaoke at two in the morning on a Wednesday (not that I know from personal experience).

These three watering holes, all located in the Gramercy Park/Flatiron District of the city, will definitely wet your whistle and leaving you with foggy memories and a major headache the next morning.

Pete’s Tavern: Located on the corner of picturesque East 18th street and Irving Place, Pete’s Tavern claims to be the oldest continuously running bar in New York. Open in 1864, this popular pub even served up cold ones during prohibition by disguising itself as a flower shop. Do not even think about coming into Pete’s and ordering an apple martini. When you visit be sure to try a few pints of the signature drink aptly named 1864 Ale. A cool fact about Pete’s Tavern is that O. Henry supposedly “The Gift of the Magi“ while enjoying a few drinks in the city. 129 E. 18th St., New York, NY 10003. Stay nearby at the W New York — Union Square.

Molly’s: While not as old as the previously mentioned pub, Molly’s is without a doubt the closest thing to experiencing a pub in Ireland without having to book a flight to the Emerald Isle. The exterior alone reminded me of my days bar hopping in Tipperary. Inside you will find Irish tunes blasting on the jukebox, a cozy fireplace lit during the colder months, wooden floors covered in sawdust, and Irish born bartenders complete with a brogue and many stories to share. I highly recommend ordering up a Guinness on tap and Molly’s famous cheeseburger. 287 Third Ave., New York, NY 10010. Stay nearby at the Gramercy Park Hotel.

Paddy Maguire’s Ale House: With 15 beers on tap, a great jukebox, white Christmas lights for décor, and two pool tables located in the back, it is hard NOT to have a good time at Paddy Maguire‘s. Nothing fancy about this watering hole. Just all the basic elements you need in a good Irish pub. Plenty of beers flowing, good size crowd, and 12 flat screen televisions covering both American sports and European sports. 237 Third Ave., New York, NY 10003. Stay nearby at the Gramercy Park Hotel.