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Johnny Foley’s Irish House
Master Critic Review
Johnny Foley’s Irish House
8.1
Downtown since 1998, this lively Irish pub is a go-to before Union Square shows, with meaty wings in Buffalo, Sweet Chili, or Salt-and-Pepper and a solid happy-hour scene. Friendly service and big pours make it an easy pick for game nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo wings, Salt-and-Pepper wings, Irish cheddar potato skins
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Long-running Irish pub with reliably meaty, sauce-tossed wings.
Who should go: Game-day crews and showgoers
When to visit: Late afternoon to early evening pre-show
What to order: Buffalo; Sweet Chili; a pint of Guinness
Insider tip: Bar seats turn faster than tables on event nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No on-site parking; nearby paid garages around Union Square. Street parking is scarce and metered until late evening.
Dress code: Casual pub attire—jeans and jerseys welcome, though many pre-show guests lean smart casual.
Noise level: High during games and happy hour; quieter earlier in the afternoon.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes around showtimes; less if arriving before 6pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; seating available at bar or tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—salads, pretzels, and some pub snacks available.
Vegan options: Very limited; fries and a few sides only.
Gluten-free options: Limited—wings can be prepared without breading; ask staff about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual hangs or game nights; the lively pub vibe can be too loud for intimate conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, though tables fill up quickly before theater shows. Bar seating turns over faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Daytime and early evening can work for families, but the late-night bar scene is adult-oriented. No dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Game-day energy, big pours, and lively group meetups near Union Square theaters.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, upscale dining, or broad vegan/health-conscious options.