Wow, thanks for all the replies. I'll be telling hubby about the trip tonight, so I'm sure he'll have a lot of fun checking out all the recs. I've bookmarked all the pages you all have given me, so he's got a lot of reading to do!

I used to live right down the street from Molly's. Dohlice is right... It's a nice, cozy, warm place. Very friendly, and some "real" Irish employees :) It's not a place I'd seek out specifically, but if you're in the area, it's definitely a good for a pint.

Another vote for McSorley's Old Ale House. At more than 150 years at the same location, it is NYC's oldest continuously operating pub and a lot of history happened there. Although no longer a brew pub, it has loads of atmosphere. You can google it for some pictures and history. Be sure to order the cheese and crackers plate to go with your ale. Writing about it brings back great memories.

Question regarding the Brooklyn Brewery. Initially I thought we would be there over a Friday night and be able to go, but now there are some really cheap tix that we would be leaving Friday afternoon. Is it a great tour that should not be missed, or is the happy hour a good time and the only way to really enjoy the beer? Or can we get ourselves a Brooklyn beer at one of the other many places mentioned and skip the tour without missing much? I don't want to short-change my husband, but saving money is always nice.

Have you ever toured another brewery? I like to take the tours but have found they are all a lot alike. Maybe you can taste the beer and then decide if it's worth staying for - it's pretty easy to find. I've never taken the tour and I live in Brooklyn so obviously I wouldn't miss a flight for it! lol. Personally I don't like their beer.

We've done quite a few brewery tours, and generally I could care less but my husband enjoys them. But reading some reviews on the internet it looks like you don't get a lot with a tour. Other places they give free samples, sounds like even that is hit or miss here. Guess I'll give hubby the info and let him decide.

I can't imagine the tour is a must-do. Their beers are readily available at most bars in NYC. Not all of their beers are noteworthy, but some are good.

After your visit to Brooklyn Brewery, have dinner at Sea Thai in Williamsburg, a short walk from the brewery. Fantastic food, and a great value.

I also have to vote against Heartland Brewery. NYC does not have a brew scene like SF or the Northwest. I fear that your husband will be sorely disappointed in Heartland - it is very touristy.

love mollys! i kicked off st. patricks day there at 11am this year. lived 3 blocks away when we were living in the city. great burgers. and their bread is fantastic.

Maybe I should stop telling the tourists about it!!!! :)

ha, yeah, ;-)
it's a small place.