The ultimate bar crawl of Old New York continues through a survey of classic bars and taverns that trace their origins from the 1850s through the 1880s.
And this time we’re recording within two of America’s most famous establishments, joined by the people who know that history the best.
In Part One, we introduced you to the origin story of New York City tavern life in the Dutch and colonial periods, and we ventured into Fraunces Tavern to witness the creation of the United States itself.
Then we headed out to Queens and to Neir’s Tavern, which quenched the thirsts of horse-racing fans in the early 19th century — and reinvented itself in the 20th century thanks to Mae West and Martin Scorsese’s Goodfellas.
For part two, we fill out our list of the most historic bars and taverns still serving customers in the 21st century — from SoHo to Williamsburg, from Midtown Manhattan to Red Hook, Brooklyn.
But we center our adventure within two classic Manhattan bars, which wear their histories proudly upon the walls:
— McSorley’s Old Ale House is the most famous Irish saloon in New York City (and dare we even say, the whole country?), and its stacked, cluttered walls — every strange piece tells a story — welcome you inside to become a part of its history.
Historian Will Wander and long-time bartender Shane Buggy provide a most intoxicating tour of the joint.
— Pete’s Tavern has become famous as one of America’s most enduring literary bars thanks to its long-time association with O. Henry. But there are so many more secrets awaiting you — from its association with Tammany Hall to its curious transformation into a “flower shop” during Prohibition.
General manager Gary Egan and owner Steve Troy reveal many surprising twists in Pete’s own history.
LISTEN NOW: THE OLDEST BARS IN NEW YORK CITY PART TWO
The Bowery Boys Podcast is proud to be sponsored by Founded By NYC, celebrating New York City’s 400th anniversary in 2025 and the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
Read about all the exciting events and world class institutions commemorating the five boroughs legacy of groundbreaking achievements, and find ways to celebrate the city that’s always making history at Founded by NYC.
McSorley’s Old Ale House
Pete’s Tavern
