Seemor
Finnegan's WakeBWorth Trying
1361 1st Ave, New York, NY 10021
· Bar, American restaurant, Brunch restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (538 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Classic UES Irish pub with hearty comfort food, friendly regulars, and fair prices; service shines most days but occasional rude-bartender incidents and uneven dishes mean expectations should be set for a neighborhood spot, not fine dining.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Finnegan's Wake delivers dependable neighborhood pub dining with solid food quality anchored by praised burgers and fish and chips, though consistency shows occasional lapses that prevent higher grades. Service remains generally attentive with genuine owner engagement, and fair pricing for the Upper East Side appeals to regulars and families alike. The warm, bustling atmosphere and deep local loyalty reflect a true neighborhood institution, though the classic pub formula lacks the distinction needed to compete with the area's premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, the kind of UES pub where regulars swap stories and staff check in without fuss. One diner summed it up: "Classic neighborhood spot where the pint is cold and the welcome feels real." On busy days it hums, yet there is usually friendly neighborhood energy rather than chaos. The cooking leans classic pub comfort over trend-chasing: burgers, shepherd pie, fish and chips, turkey club, plus hearty brunch. Think straightforward execution that hits the spot, more satisfying than showy. When it is on, the plates are generous and dependable; a few reviews flag occasional misses like a bland pie or an undercooked burger, but most meals read as reliable and filling for the price. Families fit right in. Kids gravitate to burgers and fries, chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, and brunch staples. The menu has simple sides and salads for picky eaters, with a gluten-free bun sometimes available. No kids menu needed here; the classics are exactly what many children want.
At a Glance
- True neighborhood pub vibe with loyal regulars and kind ownership
- Fair prices and hearty portions for the Upper East Side
- Brunch and holiday meals stand out for comfort and generosity
- Intermittent reports of rude bartenders and rushed cut-offs
- A few food consistency issues (bland pie, undercooked burger)
What Sets It Apart
- holiday_feast_traditions
- deep_regulars_culture
- broad_pub_menu_with_brunch
What People Love
- Feeling like a regular even on first visit
- Burgers and club sandwich that satisfy
- Well-poured pints and whiskey selection
- Holiday spreads that feel homey
Points of Concern
- Occasional rude-bartender incidents including early cut-offs reported by several guests
- Isolated cleanliness complaints (dirty glass, hair) and one pest sighting claim
- A few dishes can be bland; burger doneness missed once
- Pricing is UES-normal but steaks and salmon carry higher tags
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$36-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair mozzarella sticks ($10.30) with a burger ($15-16) for a value combo
- Order Fish & Chips ($21) if you like thicker fries
- Choose salads ($10-16) with steak add-on ($10) for a lighter meal
Perfect For
- Casual dinner after work
- Watching a game with a pint
- Laid-back brunch with family
- Out-of-towners seeking a classic NYC pub
Location Insights
Area: Upper East Side corridor with neighborhood foot traffic, after-work drinks, and family diners; comfortable, everyday vibe.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit avenue with steady foot traffic into late evening.
Nearby: Near apartments, small shops, and other pubs; convenient to crosstown buses and residential blocks.
Upper East SideThe dining scene here is characterized by upscale restaurants, classic New York delis, and refined cafes catering to a sophisticated clientele. The atmosphere is generally calm and polished, with many establishments focusing on quality and tradition rather than trendiness.
Lenox HillLenox Hill is a quieter, more residential subsection of the Upper East Side with a mix of high-end dining options and casual eateries serving local residents and hospital visitors. It has a more neighborhood-focused feel compared to the busier parts of the Upper East Side.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–04:00
Tuesday11:00–04:00
Wednesday11:00–04:00
Thursday11:00–04:00
Friday11:00–04:00
Saturday11:00–04:00
Sunday11:00–04:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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