VIBE

It is only fitting that a bar named after Lillie Langtry, a legendary Irish beauty who inspired Oscar Wilde and was mistress to the future King of England, would exemplify elegance and beauty. This 19th century-style Victorian-Irish pub has been decked out from ceiling to floor in marble fireplaces, gold-framed mirrors, and delicately carved wooden furniture, and there’s even an antique bar that was extracted from a Victorian mansion in Belfast. A mix of corporate crowds and soccer fans join heavy drinkers for fantastic brews and wines, including bottles from California’s Langtry Winery where Lillie once lived (and which she once owned). And just as Lillie made a name for herself a captivating beauty, Lillie’s continues to woo New York with some of the finest collections of whiskey in town.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

Despite the lush décor, this place tends to be pretty casual (what with happy-hourers and sports fans packing in). We’d go with a chic blouse, denims, and metallic flats.

GO HERE WITH

A few friends - for the quality brews and great pub grub; clients or colleagues - for a happy hour with ambiance; a date - for the attractive yet unpretentious atmosphere

CROWD

An eclectic collection of late 20-/30-something professionals mixed with sports fans, couples, and Union Square passersby.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Apart from the authentic and ornate detailing (the surrounds are pretty gorgeous for a pub), the drinks are moderately priced and the brunch is a great deal. It remains one of the better spots to meet up near Union Square (and for this notoriously crowded neighborhood, that means something). Also, the servers are very genial.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

On weekends it can get a bit too crowded.

GOOD TO KNOW

For those unfamiliar with her story, Lillie Langtry was born in the mid-1800s on the island of Jersey as Emilie Charlotte Le Breton, and established herself as an A-list actress, model, socialite, and mistress to Edward VII (among other lovers) before immigrating to America in 1882. She bought a winery in California the following year, some of whose wine offerings can be found at this bar. The kitchen serves food ‘til 2:00am for late-night cravers. Traditional Irish music plays on Saturdays at 4:00pm and Irish breakfast is served all day every day.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Times Square (New York)

CLOSEST COMPS

The Ginger Man (New York); The Westbourne (London)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.