The Oldest Bars in New York City

Get a History Lesson While Enjoying Your Favorite Drink

New York City is rich in history. It seems that something historic has happened on just about every corner in the Manhattan. New York also has a lot of bars, some of which add a great deal of history to the city. Here is a list of the oldest bars in New York City.

McSorley’s Old Ale House located at 15 East 7th Street. Established in 1854 it is New York City’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Over the years everyone from Abe Lincoln to John Lennon have knocked back a few at McSorley’s. But the first women were not allowed to walk through the doors until 1970. The walls are full of pictures that trace the history of the place. They serve only their own brew, light or dark, and you have to order two at a time. Just makes sure not to get any sawdust in your shoes.
For more information visit www.mcsorleynewyork.com.

P.J. Clarke’s located at 915 Third Avenue and 55th Street. Established in 1884, P.J. Clarke’s has recently gone through a restoration, but it still maintains it sense of history. No matter where Frank Sinatra started the night, he always ended it at P.J. Clarke’s Johnny Murphy wrote the song “One For My Baby” on a napkin at the bar. The crowd is very diverse drawing everyone from CEO’s to construction workers. The kitchen stays open till 3:00 AM. For more information visit www.pjclarkes.com.

Ear Inn located at 326 Spring Street. This bar dates back to the 1870’s when it catered mostly to fisherman and longshoreman. Now it draws a more diverse crowd. The place is small but the atmosphere is very friendly and it has good food at reasonable prices. They also pour a great pint of Guinness. On Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesdays they have live music, mainly a country, Irish flavor. On Saturday afternoons they have poetry readings.