I will be spending several days in Manhattan with four friends flying over from London. We're looking to explore the "spirited" side of NYC. I would appreciate suggestions for some bars that could serve as a starting point. We're interested in laid-back places full of interesting characters, such as one often finds in English pubs, not ultra-expensive, hip clubs. Thanks.

Shawn

P.J. Clarkes(aka Clarkes) Third Ave. and 55th St. Its the bar that they didnt tear down, they just put a building around it. enjoy

1. White Horse Tavern-11th and Hudson. Dylan Thomas' favorite haunt.

2. Cedar Tavern - 11th and University. Great mhogany bar.

3. Chumleys - Bedford and Barrow - old speakeasy and literary haunt.

4. Algonquin Hotel - 44th? off 6th. Sit on a couch and take it in

5. 18th and Irving place. Went blank on the name, but it's where O Henry wrote Gift of the Magi.

Have fun.

Shawn, that's Pete's Tavern on 18th St, it also has outdoor seating to watch the city go by.

I would also ad Fraunces Tavern, (a bit of history for your friends from over the pond), it was where Washington said goodbye to his troops after we "won" the war and he was off to Washington, DC. It is in the Wall St area and a close walk to South St. Seaport area for some siteseeing.

Hope you have a good time here.

tweedy

In NY on business recently, I was introduced by a friend to a piano bar called Mimi's. Not only does a professional sing, but later in the evening, talented folks in the crowd sing, and so does the great barmaid. I haven't had so much fun in a long time. I believe Mimi's is on 2nd Ave. at about 52nd St.

Hello, We were back there last year and hit McSorley's...Can't remember where it was located...great beer (maybe that's why we can't remember?) and cheap munchies, sawdust on the floors, waiters w/ "attitude" and all sorts of customers from diff. walks of life.

We had a blast.
Kal

Shawn,
When in NYC, check out a bar called DBA. It's downtown near Greenwich village. Great beers, even a few fresh hand-drawn ales. Great prices for NY bars also, about $4.50 for a pint of Guiness or similar. Not a fancy place, but great place to drink. My drinking friends from the UK love it!

DBA
41 1st Avenue
at 4th Street
New York, NY
212-475-5097

McSorleys is on 7th St., east of 3rd Ave. For all you legal eagles out there, in the early 1970's there was a case brought by women against McSorleys for being a men only establishment. Guess who won?

Go to DBA and ask them what DBA stands for. They will say Don't Bother Asking.

Thanks everyone for the great tips. I'm off to NYC in a few hours - let the drinking begin!

Shawn