Tips for hearing authentic Irish music in New York from Steve Holloway, a New York musician who has traveled the world playing for Riverdance.
On St. Patrick’s Day (and often weeks before and after) New York City’s Irish pubs are filled with music and Guinness loving revelers. Some are upscale, some are dives, but all have a uniquely Irish flavor. Music schedules are often subject to change, so be sure to call first for the latest line-up.
THE DEAD RABBIT
The winner of several prestigious awards including “World’s Best Bar” (Tales of the cocktail “Spirited Awards”) The Dead Rabbit is home of the best ongoing Irish music sessions in New York, each Sunday evening from 6pm-10pm.
The Dead Rabbit 30 Water Street (646) 422-7906
PADDY REILLY’S MUSIC BAR
Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar (named after the famous Irish crooner who was once part- owner) has been a NYC mainstay for music and Guinness since 1986. Live music is offered 6 nights a week.
Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar 519 2nd Ave. (212) 686-1210
THE PIG ‘N WHISTLE
The Pig ‘n Whistle on 46th (near Times Square) as well as it’s sister pubs are known for good traditional Irish food and regular Irish music sessions.
Pig ‘n Whistle 144 West 46th Street (917) 639-3864
922 Third Ave. (212) 688-4646
951 2nd Ave. (212) 832-2021
WOODSIDE, QUEENS
Woodside Queens, once one of the largest Irish settlements in New York, has several Irish pubs along Roosevelt Avenue, many featuring live music. A few notable ones are:
Saints and Sinners
59-21 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY (718) 396-3268
Maguire’s Public House
54-20 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY (718) 429-9426
Donovan’s Pub
57-24 Roosevelt Avenue, Woodside, NY (718) 429-9339
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