“I was sitting in mcsorley's. outside it was New York and beautifully snowing….” -E. E. Cummings, written around 1917
An East Village establishment since 1854, McSorley’s is the oldest continuously operating saloon in New York City. Nestled in the heart of the historic East Village, this NYC monument has collected memorabilia through prohibition and two world wars. 150 years worth of history rests under blankets of dust and laughter in the two rooms that comprise this Manhattan cornerstone.
On a typical Saturday night, a line forms outside of eager patrons. With no stools and a few tables, the modestly-sized bar is always packed with wall-to-wall revelers. Loud and lively, the foot traffic is tight while the employees run from behind the bar to tables carrying two fists full of either light ale or dark lager. For a brief time in 1905, the bar experimented with serving hard liquor, but they quickly returned to their roots, serving their renowned two types of ale and a few sodas. The glasses are half pint only, and one order of ale will get you two half pint glasses.
The walls are completely covered in sketches, photographs, and original posters highlighting the past century’s artists, musicians, and writers. News clippings cover the moment in 1970 when women were finally allowed in the old saloon for the first time. To this day the only major structural change to the building has been the addition of a ladies restroom.
With countless rusty relics to discover in each corner, McSorley’s promises an exciting encounter with every visit. From the vibrant atmosphere to the rich, creamy ale, this timeless saloon is one of New York’s most robustly historic treasures.
For more information, see www.mcsorleysnewyork.com
15 East 7th Street New York, NY 10003
Established 1854
East Village
