McSorley's Old Ale House

New York's oldest saloon (1854): sawdust floors, coal stove, and exactly two drinks — light ale or dark ale, served two mugs at a time for about $8 a pair, cash only. A friend sends you for the time-warp atmosphere, not the beer itself. Weekend nights get packed with a rowdy, touristy crowd; go on a weekday afternoon.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is McSorley's really the oldest bar in New York?

It claims 1854 and 'oldest continuously operated saloon,' and while bar historians quibble over the exact founding year, nobody disputes it's the real thing. Lincoln-era memorabilia on the walls hasn't moved in a century — literally, the dust on the wishbones above the bar was left in place for decades.

Is McSorley's cash only?

Yes, cash only, and there's no ATM culture to save you — bring bills. A pair of ales runs about $8, so $40 covers a solid session for two including tip.

Is McSorley's worth it or a tourist trap?

It's touristy and utterly authentic at the same time — the place hasn't changed for anyone. If crowded, cash-only, two-choices-of-beer drinking sounds annoying, skip it; if you want to drink inside a functioning museum, there's nothing else like it.

What do you order at McSorley's?

There's no decision to make: it's light ale or dark ale, that's the whole menu. They arrive two small mugs at a time, so 'one round' means two mugs. Most people get one of each on the first round.

What are McSorley's hours?

Monday through Saturday 11am to 1am, Sunday noon to 1am. Afternoons are the sweet spot; by 8pm on weekends it's shoulder to shoulder.

When did McSorley's start admitting women?

Not until 1970, and only after a court order — the old motto was 'Good ale, raw onions, and no ladies.' A women's restroom didn't arrive until 1986. It's a genuinely strange piece of history the bar doesn't hide.

Does McSorley's serve food?

Yes, a short menu of simple pub grub — the cheese plate with raw onions and hot mustard is the traditional order, plus burgers and sandwiches. It's cheap, filling, and beside the point; you're there for the room.

Do I need a reservation at McSorley's?

No reservations, ever — it's first come, first served, and you may share a table with strangers, which is part of the charm. On busy nights a line forms outside and the doorman meters people in.

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