Tim T.
Yelp
Over a decade on, every word, each syllable still has a sonorous ring of absolute truth.
To Sue, Eddie, Orla, Helen, Joe and all the other members of the band past and present, and in no particular order of magnificence...
It was a cold, brisk, astringent mid-winter evening in New York City. As the unforgiving wind took hold and the frigid temperature crept ever lower, a British gentleman in need of solace, sustenance and stay strolled down 44th St.
Though he had frequented and patronised many bars in Manhattan over the years, warming many a bar stool along the way, a new light caught his eye this particular evening. 'O'Donoghue's Pub' is where we lay our scene.
Having escaped the chill of the night, the warmth of this establishment was most welcoming.
Pulling up a bar stool, it soon became evident that the true warmth, however, lay in the welcome afforded by the staff.
After a convivial, cordial greeting, a swiftly presented beer and some endearing banter, this Brit knew , without hesitation or cause for amendment, that this was to be his home for the duration of his stay and indeed, a regular haunt on each subsequent visit.
(As it turns out, dear reader, I later met my future wife at this very establishment, spent several years living in the city, and was able to make this the most venerated and prized place I have ever had the fortune to call my local)
From the charming mahogany bar to the plethora of beers on offer; from the genial bar conversations to the piquant nourishment of the menu; from the unquestionably authentic welcome to the courtesy afforded by all who worked there...this was hospitality of the highest order.
For the next six evenings, and oft a quick sojourn for luncheon, O' Donoghue's was his unrivaled establishment of choice.
I urge those who may be trawling the unrelenting, invigorating, inspiring yet oft exhausting streets and avenues of this fair city, take pause.
When that time comes, traverse to O'Donoghue's. May their earnest welcome sooth your weary soul, their appetizing food refuel your body and the intelligent, charming conversation of the staff be your company.
Enjoy and remember, many will imitate but none will replicate.
See you next time...