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NYC Boroughs and Brews: A marathon pub crawl weekend
The NYC Marathon may be one of the most iconic marathons in the world. With over 50,000 participants, have you ever thought about it, but running is not the challenge you are looking for? Maybe something a little more fun, slower paced, and add a few refreshments along the way? Yes, now we are talking! The NYC Boroughs and Brews is a one-of-a-kind experience for bar and pub enthusiasts. We will kick off on the Friday of the race weekend. This pub crawl parallels the 26-mile
mrbriangillespie
3 days ago5 min read


Dive Bars: The Beating Heart of New York’s Nightlife
New York City has no shortage of dive bars—far from it. Manhattan alone holds roughly 1,200 on‑premises liquor licenses, and I’d wager at least half of those could qualify as a dive by my standards. But what exactly makes a bar a “dive”? For me, it’s any place with a charming flaw or two: outdated décor, bathrooms you enter at your own risk, zero curb appeal, or a crowd of everyday New Yorkers who want a solid drink without paying for the frills. Traditionally, these aren’t t
mrbriangillespie
Mar 77 min read


Top Speakeasy-Style Bars in Manhattan
I’ll admit it—I’m a whiskey guy, neat or with a splash of ginger ale. Outside of a proper Irish pub, nothing gets me going like a well-crafted cocktail. But add a hidden entrance, a secret door, or a clever façade, and I’m all in. That’s the magic of a speakeasy—it’s not just a drink, it’s an experience. New York City has no shortage of great cocktail bars, and of course, a special array of speakeasy-style spots. To appreciate them fully, it helps to understand the difference
mrbriangillespie
Nov 16, 202510 min read


Rooftop Bars in Manhattan
New York City pulses with energy—horns blaring, crowds weaving, and life unfolding at every corner. It’s a thrilling place to be, but sometimes, the best way to take it all in is from above. Rooftop bars offer a welcome escape from the street-level chaos, pairing skyline views with great drinks and even better vibes. While some spots sit just a few stories up and cater to the party crowd, others soar higher, offering panoramic vistas that make you feel like you’re floating ab
mrbriangillespie
Nov 8, 20253 min read


Best Irish Bars in Manhattan
Finding the best Irish bars in New York City is no easy feat. The city’s sheer size and diversity make it nearly impossible to compare boroughs side by side. That’s why this list focuses solely on Manhattan. So no “what about...” comments—yes, I’m looking at you, Bronx loyalists. NYC boasts a wide range of Irish bars, from authentic neighborhood gems to tourist traps with little more than an Irish-sounding name, a flag, and a Guinness that tastes like regret. Times Square are
mrbriangillespie
Sep 27, 20255 min read
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