McGee's Pub: How I Met Your Mother Inspiration & NYC Experience
Is it possible to experience a slice of television history while enjoying a pint and a plate of wings? McGee's Pub in New York City, the inspiration behind the iconic McLaren's Pub from the beloved sitcom "How I Met Your Mother," promises just that, but does it deliver?
Nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at 240 West 55th Street, between Broadway and 8th Avenue, McGee's Pub has become a destination for fans of the show and those seeking a classic Irish pub experience. The establishment's link to "How I Met Your Mother" is undeniable. The writers of the show, inspired by their own post-work pints at McGee's, allegedly crafted the sitcom's outline within its walls. This connection has solidified McGee's place in pop culture, transforming it from a simple pub into a pilgrimage site for fans of Ted, Barney, Robin, Marshall, and Lily. Tours even include McGee's as their final stop, arriving around 12:30 PM, providing a tangible link to the show's creative genesis.
But McGee's is more than just a themed bar; it's a long-standing establishment with its own history. Established in 1984, the pub initially resided near the Ed Sullivan Theater on Broadway between 53rd and 54th streets, where it operated for a decade before moving to its current location. This longevity speaks to its enduring appeal and its ability to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of New York City's bar scene. The pub boasts two levels, facilitating seating and reservation availability, even on busy weekends. Beyond its "How I Met Your Mother" connection, McGee's offers a traditional Irish pub atmosphere with a menu featuring burgers, chicken quesadillas, potato skins and classic pub fare, coupled with a wide selection of beverages, including, of course, a variety of beers.
However, the reality of a visit to McGee's, as some patrons have discovered, may not always align with the idealized image conjured by the show. While the pub's association with "How I Met Your Mother" attracts a large crowd, reviews on service quality are mixed. One recent visitor, on a trip to New York on March 26, 2023, described their experience as a "huge mistake," citing terrible service and an unfriendly staff. This paints a contrasting picture to the "warm and inviting" atmosphere promised by the pub's marketing. Despite the potential for a less-than-stellar experience, McGee's continues to attract visitors, driven by its unique connection to the show and its prominent location in the bustling heart of Manhattan.
The menu at McGee's, though featuring traditional pub fare, has also received varied feedback. While some patrons appreciate the familiar offerings, others find the quality of the food to be inconsistent. It's worth noting that the pub caters to a range of tastes and preferences, offering a kids' menu, dessert options, and, of course, "HIMYM" themed cocktails. This effort to provide diverse offerings shows McGee's attempts to meet the diverse demands of its clientele.
For those planning a visit, it's essential to manage expectations. While the promise of stepping into the world of "How I Met Your Mother" is undeniably appealing, it's important to be aware of the potential for service issues. The pub's location in the heart of Midtown Manhattan means it is accessible. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the show or simply looking for a classic Irish pub experience, McGee's offers a unique proposition. However, a little research can help ensure your visit lives up to your expectations. While the show may have romanticized the pub experience, McGee's remains a real-world establishment, complete with the complexities and potential inconsistencies that come with running a popular bar in a demanding city.
Overall, McGee's Pub presents a fascinating case study in the intersection of popular culture and real-world business. Its connection to "How I Met Your Mother" has undoubtedly elevated its status, transforming it from a regular pub into a destination. However, the experience for visitors is, at times, inconsistent. Ultimately, whether McGee's delivers on its promise of a "warm and inviting" experience, and one that does justice to the iconic inspiration behind the show, may vary depending on the patron.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Establishment Name | McGee's Pub and Restaurant |
| Address | 240 West 55th Street, New York, NY (between Broadway and 8th Avenue) |
| Known For | Being the inspiration for McLaren's Pub in the TV show "How I Met Your Mother" |
| Show Connection | Writers of "How I Met Your Mother" were inspired to write the sitcom after spending time at McGee's Pub. |
| Established | 1984 |
| Original Location | Near the Ed Sullivan Theater (Broadway between 53rd and 54th streets) for 10 years. |
| Current Location | 240 West 55th Street |
| Atmosphere | Irish pub atmosphere with a touch of Hollywood charm. |
| Menu | Offers burgers, chicken quesadillas, potato skins, and other pub fare. Also has a kids' menu and "HIMYM" themed cocktails. |
| Service Reviews | Mixed; some patrons report poor service and rude staff. |
| Perfect for: | Katherine Lewin & Hillary Reinsberg |
McGee's Pub, in essence, serves as a bridge between the fictional world of "How I Met Your Mother" and the reality of New York City. Its enduring presence and pop culture connection offer a unique appeal, but potential visitors should be prepared for a potentially uneven experience.
