Dublin House

- 225 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024

In a city where establishments come and go at a breathtaking pace, there is something truly special about a place that has stood the test of time, weathering decades of change and still retaining its original soul. Dublin House, located on the Upper West Side, is one of those rare and cherished places. More than just a pub, it is a living piece of New York City history. Originally opened as a speakeasy during the Prohibition era in 1921, it has been a continuous beacon for drinkers and locals ever since. The moment you see the pub's exterior, you are transported to a bygone era. Its most famous feature is the iconic neon sign, a 12-foot glowing harp that has been a neighborhood landmark since 1933, a visual relic from a time when neon was a new and vibrant form of advertising. This sign is so beloved that a community-driven campaign successfully funded its restoration, ensuring its signature green and pink glow will continue to light up 79th Street for years to come. This commitment to its past is what defines Dublin House, a place where a “no frills” ethos is a point of pride, not a shortcoming. It's a casual, cozy spot that feels like home from the moment you step through the door, with an atmosphere that is genuinely friendly and unpretentious.

The interior of Dublin House is an ode to its own history and to the tradition of authentic Irish pubs. The decor is minimal but purposeful, with a long, narrow bar, classic booths, and a scattering of posters and antiques from Ireland that add to its character. As one customer noted, it’s "straight out of central casting" for a classic Irish bar, a feel that has earned it a place in the coffee table book, "Great Bars of New York." This isn't the kind of place you come for a fancy, over-the-top cocktail. Instead, you come for the well-poured drinks and the conversation. The bartenders, some of whom have been there for years, are often described as "old school" and "friendly," creating a sense of camaraderie that makes every visitor feel like a regular. This commitment to a welcoming and unpretentious environment is what makes Dublin House a beloved neighborhood institution. While the focus is undeniably on the drinks, the pub does offer a selection of classic food, with some online menus highlighting options like sandwiches, fish and chips, and other Irish staples. However, as one review pointed out, the primary draw is the pub's atmosphere and its renowned drink selection, solidifying its reputation as a place to grab a great pint and not just a meal.

In addition to its historic charm, Dublin House is also celebrated for its remarkable beer selection and its reputation for a perfect pour. The Guinness here is often mentioned in reviews as "one of the best pours" on the Upper West Side, a detail that serious beer drinkers will appreciate. The pub also offers a range of other offerings, including a great selection of domestic and international beers, as well as cocktails and hard liquor. The provided menu info also highlights a variety of "Kicking Mules" and "Classic Cocktails," showing that while it holds on to its traditional roots, it is not afraid to offer modern choices as well. The fast service, mentioned as a key highlight, ensures that even when the place is bustling, you won't be left waiting. This is especially important as the pub is a popular spot for groups and for watching sports, which can draw a lively crowd. A reviewer mentioned watching a Mets game there, highlighting its role as a local gathering spot for sports fans. The pub's reputation for being "very reasonable" in its prices is another major draw, making it a budget-friendly option in a part of Manhattan that is often seen as expensive. This combination of a classic atmosphere, a great drink menu, and affordable prices makes Dublin House a true gem and a favorite among a diverse crowd of patrons.

Dublin House is located at 225 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024, USA. Its position on the Upper West Side makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. It is situated between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, just a short walk from Central Park. This proximity to one of the city's most famous landmarks makes it a perfect stop after a walk or bike ride through the park. The neighborhood is well-served by public transportation, with the 1 train at 79th Street and the B and C trains at 81st Street, placing the pub within easy reach for anyone traveling from other parts of the city. While the reviews and location information do not specifically mention dedicated parking, street parking is available, though it can be limited as is typical for Manhattan. The pub's authenticity and appeal as a neighborhood institution make it a place worth seeking out, and its wheelchair-accessible entrance ensures that it is a welcoming place for everyone. The pub is a cornerstone of the community, and its location and accessibility make it a frequent stop for those who live and work in the area, as well as for those looking for a truly authentic New York pub experience.

Dublin House provides a classic pub experience with a focus on drinks and atmosphere:

Services Offered:

• Dine-in: Enjoy a meal or drink at the bar or in the dining area.
• Happy Hour: Features special pricing on select drinks and beer Monday through Friday.
• Brunch: Provides a selection of brunch cocktails.
• Sports: A great place to watch sports games.

Features / Highlights:

• Historic Significance: Opened in 1921 as a speakeasy and is one of the oldest pubs in the city.
• Iconic Neon Sign: Features a famous, restored neon harp sign that is a local landmark.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Praised for its cozy, old-school feel and friendly, welcoming crowd.
• Great Beer Selection: Known for having a great selection of beers, with the Guinness pour being a particular highlight.
• Reasonable Prices: The pub is noted for its affordable prices, especially for Manhattan.
• Friendly Staff: Reviews often highlight the friendly and engaging bartenders.
• Fast Service: The service is noted as being quick and efficient.

Contact Information:

• Address: 225 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024, USA
• Phone: (212) 874-9528

What is worth choosing from Dublin House?

For any local or visitor to the Upper West Side, the most worthwhile choice at Dublin House is to immerse yourself in the authentic pub experience. This is a place where the atmosphere and the quality of the drinks are the main event. While they do offer food, the true star is the bar itself, and specifically, the Guinness. The pub has a well-earned reputation for pouring one of the best pints of Guinness in the city, and for a connoisseur of the black stuff, this alone is reason to visit. The authenticity of the experience, with its historic neon sign and old-school charm, makes it a unique find in a city that is constantly changing. For those seeking value, the Happy Hour is an excellent choice, as the drink specials are exceptionally reasonable for Manhattan. The friendly and engaging bartenders, along with the cozy atmosphere, make it a perfect spot to meet up with friends or to simply sit at the bar and chat. The pub’s commitment to sports also makes it a great spot to catch a game in a more intimate setting than a large sports bar. The conflicting reviews about food and service show that, as with any place, experiences can vary. However, the overarching theme from years of customer feedback is that Dublin House offers a unique, friendly, and historic slice of New York that is worth seeking out. It’s the perfect place to get a great drink, soak in the history, and feel like a true local.

Dublin House

225 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024, USA