McSorley's Old Ale House is a legendary watering hole nestled in the East Village, New York. Established in 1854, it's one of the oldest bars in New York City, and it has a history as frothy as its ales.
Founded by Irish immigrant John McSorley, the bar has seen its fair share of history. During the Prohibition era, McSorley's was a "speakeasy" where the ale kept flowing under the radar. The bar’s motto, "Be Good or Be Gone," still resonates with patrons today.
McSorley's operated as a men-only establishment until 1970, when a lawsuit forced it to open its doors to women. The first female patron famously said, "I'm glad they let us in, but I’m not so sure I want to use the restroom!"
The bar's decor is a time capsule. Sawdust on the floor, antique memorabilia, and old newspaper clippings cover the walls. The wishbones hanging above the bar were placed there by soldiers heading off to World War I, intending to reclaim them upon their return. Many never did.
McSorley's boasts two house ales: light and dark. Patrons don’t get a menu; they get a choice. The ales have been described as hearty and straightforward, much like the bar itself.
The bar has had its share of famous patrons. Literary giants like E.E. Cummings and Jack Kerouac frequented McSorley's, often finding inspiration in its unique atmosphere. Cummings even wrote a poem about it, titled "i was sitting in mcsorley's."
Among the quirky aspects of McSorley's is the fact that it doesn’t serve hard liquor; it’s strictly an ale house. This hasn't deterred a steady stream of locals and tourists alike, all eager to take a step back in time.
McSorley's has a few ghost stories to its name. Rumor has it that the spirit of John McSorley himself still keeps watch over the place. Employees and patrons have reported eerie occurrences, like glasses moving on their own.
The bar is also known for its simple and hearty pub fare. The cheese platter, served with raw onions and saltine crackers, is a crowd favorite, despite—or perhaps because of—its simplicity.
For a taste of history with your ale, McSorley's Old Ale House is hard to beat. It offers an authentic slice of New York's past, served with a side of sawdust and a dash of legend.
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