Peter McManus Cafe, Classic for Reason
After much thought during a recent long drive so boring that counting deer carcasses became an actual game, I have made an important realization that I feel I must–must!–share with the world RIGHT NOW: Peter McManus Cafe is my favorite pub in New York City. If you haven’t been there yet, go there today. And then tomorrow, and the day after, and so on until you’ve made up for all the times you should have been there already.
If you’re a UCBhead, you probably already have your name etched in a booth somewhere since it’s the go-to before and after shows. But it’s also filled with normal people, at all times, there for a cheap pour and to catch a sports score (heh, that rhymed!). The bar has been around since the 30s and currently run by James McManus, grandson to its namesake. As such, it breathes with old-fashioned charm like Tiffany glass, phone booths and dark mahogany wood.
Also, the prices are unbelievable. Mugs of Bud or Bud Light are $2 or $3 for a pint, all day/any day. Pints of other Irish-leaning brews like Smithwick’s run the average $5. Burgers are straight-forward and delicious, served with a side of steak fries starting $8.25. STEAK FRIES, PEOPLE! Perhaps most importantly is that I’ve never once felt rushed out of their vinyl green booths, even when all I can afford is the $2 special. It’s just not that kind of place, which hopefully you’ll see for yourself soon.
Peter McManus Cafe
157 7th Avenue (btn 19th & 20th Streets)
[Chelsea]
Photo Credit: Greenwich Village NY Daily Photo
