Saint Patrick’s Day is to drinking as Easter is to puking Peeps in church. But even the most dissipated sots need nourishment too, and it’s a shame to leave your Irish pub of choice to get it. Great food and great Irish bars rarely mix. Somehow, we know a few of the exceptions.
An Beal Bocht Café It doesn’t get any more Irish than this small bar in the, yes, Irish enclave of the Bronx’s Riverdale. Try the totally authentic, totally satisfying Irish bacon — it’s much leaner and less smoky than what we’re used to, and it comes, conveniently enough, with cabbage and potatoes. 445 W. 238th St., nr Waldo Ave., the Bronx; 212-884-7127.
Molly’s Shebeen This Third Avenue standby is a dream, especially in winter, when the roaring fireplace completes the nineteenth-century vibe. The draw for diners? The ten-ounce hamburger, a bomb of fresh sirloin served with an optional pile of earthy sautéed mushrooms. 287 Third Ave., nr. 22nd St.; 212-889-3361.
St. Dymphna’s Pretty much all the food served in this East Village tavern is good, but first try the Irish breakfast, a platter of bright-yellow fried eggs, baked beans, blood sausage and breakfast sausage, crispy Irish bacon, and sliced home fries. 118 St. Marks Pl., nr. Ave. A; 212-254-6636.
McSorley’s Old Ale House You wouldn’t think this ancient tavern has any surprises left, but shockingly enough, the crisp homemade corned-beef hash actually justifies eating inside of such a crusty, crowded place. 15 E. 7th St., nr. Second Ave.; 212-473-9148.
Big Green Apple: Where to drink, eat, dance, and drink on Saint Patrick’s Day.
