VIBE

Old school will always be cool. At least, that’s how we feel about Fanelli, a one-time speakeasy and the ultimate old school New York pub (it’s been on the scene since 1847, though only officially named Fanelli since 1922). Sure, it’s loud and difficult to score a table, and the original bar is worn down from generations of sliding beer mugs, but therein lies the charm. We’ll even look past the gruff wait staff and ridiculous crowds because nothing beats the cheap grub, flowing beer, and laidback locals who flock here for a friendly happy hour.

CROWD

A vibrant and diverse group of SoHo locals (from artists to corporate lawyers) looking for a good brew and respite from the ritzy neighborhood. It also attracts busloads of tourists on a break from SoHo shopping.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It gets crowded at lunchtime, especially on weekends (seriously, we mean can’t-even-squeeze-into-a-corner-to-nurse-your-beverage crowded).

GO HERE WITH

A friend; a small group; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

The history is delicious, and we get a thrill from finding an economical meal in SoHo.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

It gets crowded at lunchtime, especially on weekends (seriously, we mean can’t-even-squeeze-into-a-corner-to-nurse-your-beverage crowded).

GOOD TO KNOW

Since there’s been a pub here since 1847, that makes Fanelli the second oldest continuously operating food and drink establishment in Manhattan. It began as a workingman’s bar before it became a haunt for neighborhood artists in the ‘60s. The menu offers a lot of vegetarian choices. Keep in mind that the credit card minimum here is USD 15.

CLOSEST COMPS

Pete’s Tavern (New York); McSorley’s Old Ale House (New York); Corner Bistro (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.