Seemor
Phil Hughes BarCWorth Trying
1682 1st Ave, New York, NY 10128
· Irish pub, Night club
· 4.4/5 Google (229 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Classic UES Irish pub with strong Guinness, TVs, pool and darts; cash only and no kitchen, but bring-your-own food is welcome.
Why it gets a C for overall quality
Phil Hughes Bar excels at what it is: a no-frills neighborhood pub where properly poured Guinness and solid drinks anchor the experience. Friendly, attentive bartenders and appealing outdoor seating create genuine neighborhood charm, while reliable execution on games, TVs, and trivia nights builds loyal regulars. The grade reflects modest ambiance and no kitchen—strengths for a pub, limitations for broader dining appeal.
Restaurant Summary
A classic UES Irish pub where the TVs glow, darts clack, and the Guinness flows properly poured. It feels neighborly and unpretentious, with guests noting, "Walk up to the bar, grab your drinks, then settle in." Expect lively sports nights and a modest room that favors function over flash. The cooking is not the point—there is no kitchen—so the vibe centers on cold pints and simple pours. That suits regulars who come for games, a good stout, and a seat outdoors when the weather is right. Bring food from across the street and let the bar handle what it does best: straightforward drinks, friendly bartenders, and a low-frills setting that gets the job done. Families do stop by, especially for the outdoor seating, but remember there is no kids menu and it is a pub first. If your crew is content with soda, crisps, and a slice from nearby spots, it can work. For full meals or picky eaters, plan on BYO food or choose a restaurant instead.
At a Glance
- Proper Guinness and solid drink value for the UES
- BYO food allowed; pizza across the street is a go-to
- TVs, pool, darts, and trivia nights build community feel
- Cash only with ATM fee; bring cash
- Occasional service or reservation mishaps reported on busy nights
What Sets It Apart
- bring_your_own_food_policy
- proper_guinness_pour
- outdoor_game_viewing_setup
- longstanding_since_1957
What People Love
- That familiar neighborhood pub comfort
- Consistently well-poured Guinness
- Outdoor seats for game days
- Bring-your-own food flexibility
- Friendly bartenders who remember regulars
Points of Concern
- Cash only can be inconvenient; ATM fee mentioned
- Isolated reports of rude or inattentive service during busy periods
- One report of reservation conflict during a private event
- Some cleanliness nitpicks like sticky tables on crowded nights
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$18-$34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Based on review mentions, pair a Guinness with pizza from across the street and plan for cash-only payment.
Perfect For
- Watching a game with friends
- Casual neighborhood drinks after a park walk
- Low-key group hang with BYO pizza
- Solo pint at the bar
Location Insights
Area: Residential Upper East Side strip with steady foot traffic; locals gather for games and casual drinks.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit avenue with regular evening activity.
Nearby: Near Carl Schurz Park and local eateries; easy to grab pizza and bring to the bar.
YorkvilleYorkville offers a more relaxed and residential atmosphere compared to the rest of the Upper East Side, with a growing number of casual and mid-range dining options alongside traditional eateries. The area is known for its community feel, accessibility, and a blend of old-school charm with modern conveniences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday14:00–04:00
Tuesday14:00–04:00
Wednesday14:00–04:00
Thursday14:00–04:00
Friday14:00–04:00
Saturday12:00–04:00
Sunday12:00–04:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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