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Photo Cred: Malcolm Brown via NYCGo and Flickr
McSorley’s is the oldest bar in Manhattan – or so they claim, but we’ll take it. Opened in 1854, it’s an institution to say the least. Earlier this year, the New York Times did an exposé on the first female patron allowed into the East Village saloon in 1970, 85-year old Barbara Shaum. During the interview, Ms. Shaum harshly reprimanded the Times reporter for referring to McSorley’s brew as ‘beer’ rather than ‘ale’. This is a bar with history, and history should not be messed with. Most of the bartenders and waitstaff have been working there since Ms. Shaum’s 1970 debut, or they’re the next generation that took over their parents’ duties. With all of it’s history, McSorely’s is a special place and everyone involved – rightfully so – knows it.
The crowd these days is a mix of regulars, tourists, frat boys, old-timers and everyone in between. The ale menu at McSorley’s lends only two options: light ale and dark ale. Don’t try anything fancy because your no-nonsense server will move on to the next table. Once you’ve made your light or dark decision, he’ll come back and plunk down round after round. If you can’t keep up, it’s time to make room for more patrons. Yes, sometimes they will actually kick you out if you’re not keeping adequate pace. This is their house.
Featured Image Photo Cred: The New York Times via Everettsville
