Kevin C.
Yelp
Johnny Foley's is the kind of place you come to for the drinks, the people, and the good energy. Right in the heart of Union Square, it's a beautiful and spacious Irish pub that immediately makes you feel like you've stepped into another world. The atmosphere is warm, lively, and full of character. Inside, the space is huge with tall ceilings, polished wood accents, and plenty of seating options. There are standing tables near the bar, traditional dining tables, private rooms, and even a second bar area that opens when the crowd picks up. It's well designed to handle everything from casual hangouts to busy nights out.
From the moment we walked in, the staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly. Our group felt comfortable right away, which really set the tone for a fun night. We ordered some drinks, and I went with a Guinness. It came out looking great with a smooth, creamy head. The pour was done well, although I do wish it had been served in a chilled glass to really complete the experience. Still, it tasted great and felt right at home in a place like this.
For food, we went straight for the pub classics. The fish and chips were easily the highlight of the night. The cod was fresh and flaky, served in large pieces with a light, crispy batter that was cooked perfectly. It came out piping hot and was paired with fries and mashed peas on the side, which made it feel even more traditional. This is definitely the dish to order if you're eating here.
We also tried the cottage pie and the bangers and mash. The cottage pie was very heavy on tomato sauce and mashed potatoes, with very little meat. If you enjoy that kind of dish, it might work for you, but it wasn't our favorite. The bangers and mash had a flavorful gravy, but the sausages were too fatty and lacked the texture we were hoping for.
Even though not every dish wowed us, the overall experience was still really enjoyable. The space itself, the friendly staff, the live music, and the energy of the crowd made it a memorable night. Whether you are stopping in for a pint, watching a game on one of the big screens, or just looking to enjoy some great company, Johnny Foley's is a fun and reliable spot. I would absolutely come back, especially for the atmosphere and that fantastic fish and chips.