McSorley's Ale House

Claims to be the oldest bar/saloon in Manhattan. Definitely worth a visit, because the decor hasn't changed much since the 1800's, it's just gathered more dust. Caution: on weekends, and even some weeknights this place is packed to the gills with frat-boy types. Definitely not goth-friendly, but worth a look-see for "Old New York" curiousity value. (They didn't admit women until the 1970's) Oh... and they only serve 2 things: McSorley's Light and McSorley's Dark. Beer, that is. (Less than $2 a glass) If you luck out and catch the place when it's empty, try the cheese plate with amazingly hot mustard.

Commentary by Mikaela Pearson, Wednesday, February 4, 1998.