VIBE

As one of the oldest continually operating bars in New York, this place is something of legend. Its floors are swimming in sawdust, its wooden tables stained with centuries of sloshed pints, and its walls decked in layers of musty historic bric-a-brac, including, allegedly, Houdini’s handcuffs. Many are wary of the gruff barkeeps and limited drink options (take your pick of light or dark beer), which are served two at a time. The sign above the fireplace instructs “Be Good Or Be Gone,” and patrons make good to drink their share.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

You’ll most likely be surrounded by a laidback neighborhood crowd, so we’d go with a fun top, jeans, classy boots, and chic accessories. Or just go super casual. As you wish.

GO HERE WITH

Friends; NYC first-timers

CROWD

This spot is a favorite watering hole for locals and their pals, though it also attracts a fair number of tourists and college kids (and recent grads) looking for a neighborhood-style haunt.

WHY WE LIKE IT

Both beers (light and dark) go down easy, and the atmosphere is upbeat. The mingling couldn’t be easier, given regulars welcome out-of-towners like old friends. This is a great place to take visiting first-timers and friends looking to knock back a couple of cheap ones in a cool saloon-style ambiance.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

Unless you go early, you will likely have to do your time in line to get in, no matter what day of the week. (After 10:00pm on weekends is the busiest time.) And the bartenders are quite merciless when it comes to ordering: remember that the only options are light and dark, and always keep a half-full bottle in hand (or else you’ll be encouraged to take your non-paying-business elsewhere).

GOOD TO KNOW

As is the case with most Irish pubs, drinking here on St. Patrick’s Day is a mission for many. Some history: this was the last bar in New York City to admit women, and it only did so after being taken to court in 1970. When alcohol was banned during Prohibition, business continued per usual as brewing operations were run from the backroom and basement. Look out for the wishbones hanging above the bar–as the story goes, soldiers leaving for WWI hung them with the hope of coming back to collect them when they got back safely; the wishbones that remain are a quiet memorial to those who never returned. The bar is cash only.

CLOSEST COMPS

Pete’s Tavern (New York); White Horse Tavern (New York)

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