Issues That Stunned Me About NYC’s Oldest Irish Tavern

• Forward of St. Patrick’s Day, I visited McSorley’s Outdated Ale Home, which was established in 1854.
• I used to be shocked by the cheap costs and the standard of the meals.
• I used to be additionally shocked by the way it made me really feel pleasure as an Irish American. 

I’ve lived in New York Metropolis for nearly six years, however I’ve by no means been to McSorley’s, the oldest Irish pub within the metropolis.

Not solely is McSorley’s probably the most historic Irish tavern in New York, however it’s additionally typically known as the oldest Irish tavern in America that is nonetheless in operation. Established in 1854, McSorley’s is celebrating its 171st anniversary this 12 months, and it’s definitely the place to go round St. Patrick’s Day. 

Although well-known, McSorley’s hasn’t at all times been on the precise aspect of historical past. The New York Occasions reported that girls have solely been allowed contained in the bar since 1970, when two members of the Nationwide Group for Ladies sued the bar for violating the equal-protection ordinance of the 14th Modification.

I needed to go to the bar given its wealthy historical past and connection to my heritage. My grandparents had been first-generation Irish immigrants who later moved to England. That reality, together with my very Irish identify, makes me pleased with the shut connection to my heritage.

I used to be shocked by how a lot I loved my go to to McSorley’s in 2023. Should you select to go to your self, listed here are some issues which may shock you in regards to the oldest Irish bar within the nation.