Seemor

Ernie O'Malley'sA-Worth Trying

Name: Ernie O'Malley's
Address: 140 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016, New York, United States
Rating: 4.8

140 E 27th St, New York, NY 10016 · Bar & grill · 4.8/5 Google (123 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Lively Irish-leaning neighborhood bar with genuinely friendly bartenders, strong pints, and better-than-expected pub fare; watch for a card surcharge.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

Ernie O'Malley's delivers exceptional service attentiveness and solid food quality that position it among the area's better neighborhood establishments. Strong repeat customer loyalty and consistent positive performance over years underscore reliable execution, though the pub lacks the culinary distinction or destination appeal needed for grade A territory. A warm, well-executed neighborhood gem that exceeds typical bar standards.

Restaurant Summary

The room feels warm and bustling, a true neighborhood pub where bartenders learn your team and adjust the TV without asking. Reviews gush about friendly service and a pint that travels well, with one diner saying, "They treated us like regulars within minutes." Expect darts, trivia, and the occasional trad session, all wrapped in a modern, cozy interior. In the kitchen, it is elevated pub cooking over flash: steak frites that earn repeat orders, wings many call best-in-area, a house-blend burger with bacon jam, and Irish staples like fish and chips and an Irish curry. Flavors lean comforting with thoughtful tweaks rather than chef theatrics, and happy hour is a solid value even by Midtown standards. Families can do well here during earlier hours: there are kid-friendly standbys like chicken tenders, burgers, fries, and fish and chips. While the vibe ramps up at trivia time, the food is familiar enough for selective eaters. There is no stated kids menu, but portions and pricing make sharing practical.

At a Glance

Exceptionally friendly bartenders who remember guests and preferences
Better-than-average pub food with reliable favorites
Strong event mix (trivia, darts, sessions) without deafening volume
4% credit card surcharge reported by a reviewer
One dissenting take on wings amid many positives

What Sets It Apart

standout_guinness_pour
darts_league_and_trivia
flexible_back_room_events

What People Love

Guinness poured with care and consistency
Bartenders who engage without hovering
Bar food that feels thoughtfully cooked
Events that add energy but keep conversation possible
A back room that works for parties

Points of Concern

Credit card surcharge of about 4% noted by one detailed review
Seating can feel less comfortable over long hangs per one guest
Wings quality had one negative report despite many positives
Review patterns show high five-star share but with specific details and photos supporting authenticity

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost$42-58 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For lighter eating: Brussels Sprouts ($12, veg, gluten-free) and Salmon ($18, gluten-free)
For classic comfort: Fish & Chips ($22) or Cheeseburger ($17)

Perfect For

After-work pints and casual bites
Watching a game with easygoing crowd
Trivia night with friends
Neighborhood date with conversation-friendly music

Location Insights

Area: East Midtown/Kips Bay edge with offices, residential towers, and after-work bar traffic; casual neighborhood energy.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady foot traffic; typical Midtown late-night activity.

Nearby: Near Lexington-Park corridors, close to Gramercy/Flatiron draw; offices, apartments, and hotel guests mix.

Kips BayKips Bay is a primarily residential neighborhood with a growing dining scene featuring casual eateries, trendy cafes, and some upscale restaurants. The area has a relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier parts of Midtown, attracting locals and workers from nearby hospitals and offices.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–02:00 Tuesday12:00–02:00 Wednesday12:00–02:00 Thursday12:00–02:00 Friday12:00–04:00 Saturday10:00–04:00 Sunday10:00–02:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

View full analysis on Seemor →