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New York City Nightlife - Pubs

Scratcher

Everyone's favorite somewhat-Irish bar--crowded, but worth it.

Service

(7)

Atmosphere

(10)

Food and Drinks

(8)

Value

(9)

The Scene

Three stone steps lead down into a den where the weather-worn "Guinness is Good for You" sign is held as sacred truth. Popular on weekdays and packed on weekends, the bar has wooden plank floors and workbench-like tables that are well suited to its puzzling name. The Scratcher's logo is an old Irish hobo symbol, carved (or "scratched") into trees as a safe-haven sign of protection--a place where hard-luck wanderers could duck the law's grabbing hand.

The Draw

Fans swear by the Irish-breakfast brunch, complete with eggs, Irish bacon, beans, toast and those exotic black and white "puddings." Hearty options for vegetarians include heaven-sent cinnamon banana pancakes. Daytime here feels truly like a refuge, before the mad scene descends. While the brick walls, bare-bulb sconces and warm-hearted staff may be too well-loved for comfort at times, few can stay away.

209 E 5th St
New York, NY 10003-8521
Phone: (212) 477-0030