If a jam-packed parade on St. Patty’s Day isn’t your thing, why not breeze into a crowded pub! There are plenty of watering holes worth visiting but only a few with legitimate old world charm. Celebrate all things Irish as these fine bars the weekend of March 15th.

McSorley’s Old Ale House (15 East 7th Street) It doesn’t get more authentic than McSorley’s Old Ale House. Established in 1854, McSorley’s can boast of being New York City’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Everyone from Abe Lincoln to John Lennon have passed thru McSorley’s swinging doors. Enter the sawdust strewn floors and history patched walls for a trip back through time. If you’re looking for fancy craft beers filled with fruit and herbs, move on to another bar. Perhaps the single greatest novelty of McSorley’s is that it has served one beverage in its 164 year history-ale. You’ll be asked if you want light, dark or mixed beers and how many people are in your party. That’s it. The mixed is definitely the way to go in my book. Remember abiding by McSorley’s golden rule “Be Good or Be Gone”. There is always a line to get in so plan accordingly on that weekend.

Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar (519 Second Avenue) Now in their third decade, Paddy Reilly’s Music Bar features live music seven nights a week, in a traditional pub setting that feels straight out of Dublin. They offer an assortment of affordable spirits and hops that compliment a relaxed and enjoyable night of music and craic (fun). Regularly scheduled music includes Bluegrass Jams Sundays and Mondays, Irish Ballads on Tuesdays, Irish Culture Night on Thursdays, The Prodigals Fridays, New York Brogue Saturdays and All Genres Open Mic and Singer Songwriter Open Mics Wednesdays and Saturdays.  Visit from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily and save $2 on all beers including a perfectly poured Guinness. Eat before you go, bring in your own snacks or order out from one of their many menus.

Molly’s Shebeen Pub and Restaurant (287 Third Avenue) Established in 1960, Molly’s is a traditional Irish bar, complete with sawdust on the floor and a log burning fireplace. Renowned for its Shepherd’s Pie and steaks, all for reasonable prices, Molly’s is a long time favorite with locals and a destination for newcomers. You must get the homemade cheese sticks at Molly’s. I get them for dessert sometimes:) The menu includes everything a pub should offer, mouth watering burgers, plus all the classics like Corned Beef and Cabbage, Chicken Curry and Fish and Chips. Yes, they too pour a perfect Guinness.

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