Business Details
31 Years
experience
Authentic Irish Restaurant & Bar in New York City
Since 1995, Playwright Tavern has been a cornerstone of New York's Theater District, offering an authentic Irish-American dining experience. Our establishment combines warm hospitality with a richly decorated second-floor dining room adorned with Irish playwright memorabilia and Broadway artifacts. We specialize in traditional Irish fare like Shepherd's Pie and Bangers & Mash, complemented by a diverse selection of craft cocktails and live music performances.Located steps from Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick's Cathedral, we cater to both theatergoers and locals seeking hearty meals in a vibrant atmosphere. Our team prides itself on exceptional service, as evidenced by consistent praise for our attentive staff and memorable event hosting capabilities.
Services
Irish Cuisine
Private Dining
Live Music
Weekend Brunch
Craft Cocktails
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer over 25 years of Irish hospitality in NYC's Theater District
- Private event space accommodates special occasions with custom menus
- Live music nightly enhances our traditional pub atmosphere
- Award-winning recipes using locally sourced ingredients since 1995
- Recognized by Restaurant Guru 2019 for exceptional service
What people say
Fabulous bartender
Delicious pot pie
Best bartenders
Charming atmosphere
Caught live music
Services
Irish Cuisine
Our kitchen crafts authentic Irish dishes using time-honored recipes. From slow-cooked Guinness stew to hand-battered fish and chips, each meal showcases the flavors of Ireland with modern culinary techniques. The menu features multiple gluten-free options and caters to diverse dietary preferences while maintaining traditional authenticity.
Private Dining
The second-floor dining room provides an elegant space for special occasions. Complete with wood paneling and Broadway memorabilia, it accommodates groups with customized menus and dedicated service. Ideal for rehearsal dinners, corporate events, or St. Patrick's Day celebrations with AV capabilities and flexible seating arrangements.
Live Music
Local musicians perform nightly in our main bar area. The schedule features traditional Irish folk music, contemporary covers, and jazz performances that complement the pub atmosphere. This entertainment option enhances dining experiences and attracts patrons seeking authentic New York nightlife.
Weekend Brunch
Weekend brunch service offers classic Irish breakfasts and modern brunch favorites from 10 AM to 4 PM. Highlights include bottomless drinks, traditional black pudding, and specialty dishes like the Irish Benedict. The menu balances traditional flavors with contemporary brunch expectations.
Craft Cocktails
Our bar program features expertly crafted cocktails using premium spirits and house-made ingredients. Signature drinks like the Jameson Irish Coffee and seasonal specialties showcase Irish whiskey traditions while offering modern mixology creations in a welcoming pub setting.
People
Kelly
Bartender
Award-winning bartender with 8 years of experience creating specialty cocktails and providing exceptional customer service in New York's hospitality industry.
Karen
Manager
Restaurant manager with extensive event planning experience, overseeing private functions and ensuring quality service standards across both dining areas.
Jackie
Bartender
Seasoned bartender known for attentive service and extensive knowledge of Irish spirits, consistently receiving positive customer feedback for personalized drink recommendations.
Bridgette
Staff Member
Experienced hospitality professional recognized for warm customer interactions and deep understanding of traditional Irish pub culture and service standards.
Danny
Staff Member
Dedicated team member with comprehensive knowledge of menu offerings and exceptional ability to create welcoming experiences for both regular patrons and first-time visitors.
Questions
What type of cuisine does Playwright Tavern serve?
We specialize in traditional Irish cuisine with American influences, featuring dishes like Shepherd's Pie, Corned Beef & Cabbage, and Bangers & Mash alongside pub classics.
Do you offer private event spaces?
Yes, our second-floor dining room accommodates private events with customized menus and AV capabilities for groups up to 50 people.
Are there vegetarian options available?
Our menu includes vegetarian dishes like Mushroom Ravioli, Greek Spanakopita, and multiple vegetable-based appetizers and entrees.
What are your live music hours?
Live music performances occur nightly from 10 PM to 1 AM in our main bar area featuring various musical genres.
Do you serve brunch on weekends?
Yes, weekend brunch is available from 10 AM to 4 PM with traditional Irish breakfast items and modern brunch specialties.
Is there a dress code for dinner service?
No formal dress code exists, but we recommend business casual attire for evening dining to match our upscale pub atmosphere.
