If you’re thinking about NYC, surely the five boroughs come to mind. But within those five boroughs, lies dozens of micro-neighborhoods, honoring sub-cultures and communities from all around the world. You may have heard of Manhattan’s Little Paris or Little Tokyo—what about Astoria’s Little Greece or Queens’ Little Thailand? Well, we’ll now be sharing all the secret spots to explore on a little area in Woodlawn Heights in the Bronx, best known as NYC’s ‘Little Ireland.’
Many Irish immigrants came to this area of the Bronx as far back as the 1800s. Numerous factors drew Irish immigrants here, from famine to labor demand for the construction of Woodlawn Cemetery and Westchester’s Old Croton Aqueduct.
Here are the best things to do in NYC’s Little Ireland
Little Ireland is primarily centered around two main avenues: Katonah and McLean Avenues (aka “Emerald Avenue”). The two streets are lined with endless Irish pubs, strong community centers and countless Irish flags swaying in the wind.
We explored both avenues to hand-pick our favorite things to do in Little Ireland, so you know where to go when you visit.
1. Irish Coffee Shop
We came to the Irish Coffee Shop that’s been serving New Yorkers all-day breakfast since 1993. This iconic neighborhood staple on McLean Avenue has such a delightful air to it as soon as you step inside. Families were gathered here for dinner, usuals were sat at the counter chatting to the staff and I for one, took a spot right at the bar top. I ordered a Full Irish (because there’s nothing better than breakfast at 6pm) and complimented my black pudding (blood sausage) with an Irish Coffee, because I couldn’t not.
The service was wonderful, as I was frequently checked in on to see if I needed anything. And though I was too full to order anything else after devouring my breakfast for dinner, it didn’t stop me from eyeing their mouthwatering pastries. Plus, I definitely plan to come back for their daily roast with all the trimmings.
📍 946 McLean Ave, Yonkers
🕰️ Daily, 6am – 9pm
2. Aisling Irish Community & Cultural Center
The Aisling Irish Community & Cultural Center is the heartbeat of the community. Self described as “an important first stop for newly arrived Irish immigrants, who may need help adjusting to away from home,” this center provides everything from accommodation aid, available job listings, and engaging programs to empower the community and celebrate Irish traditions.
Programs offered at Aisling Irish Community & Cultural Center are but not limited to:
- Karate
- Irish language lessons
- Art classes
- Celtic Summer Camp
- Chair yoga
- Book club meetings
- Movie screenings
- Counseling services
📍 990 McLean Avenue, Yonkers
3. Anna’s Attic
Anna’s Attic is an adorable Irish gift shop offering all things from Claddagh rings to Belleek and Galway Crystal.
Now I’m not one to pick favorites, but I could have chatted with owner, Martina Lavin, all day long. This wonderful woman took over the shop from her good friend nearly 20 years ago and has brought a smile to the face of every customer that has entered through her door. Whether you’re trying to get a head start on your holiday shopping or looking to treat yourself, this shop is the perfect place to peruse.
📍 952 McLean Avenue, Yonkers
4. Rambling House
With dozens of pubs to choose from in Little Ireland, I found my feet leading me through the doors of The Rambling House, where I entered to truly round out my experience with a heavenly rich Guinness. I bellied up to the bar and was greeted by both lovely bartenders. I quickly acquired what I was counting as my dessert for the night, while the Mets game brought cheers upon the usual customers sat beside me.
This pub draws in crowds with its interactive events from trivia nights to live Irish music. Of course, if you’re not looking to get full on a pint of Guinness, The Rambling House offers specialty cocktails, other drafts and so on. Feeling peckish? Be sure to order from the ‘Irish Roots’ section of the menu, offering Fish n’ Chips, Chicken Curry, Irish Breakfast, and Shepard’s Pie.
📍4292 Katonah Ave, The Bronx
5. Prime Cuts Irish Butchers
Look no further for where to pick up the freshest cuts of meat to take back home. Prime Cuts has been operating as local’s go-to butcher for decades, making all of their sausages, rashers (otherwise known as bacon), and black & white pudding in-house.
Not in the mood to cook? You can pop by for fresh take-away meals and sandwiches that will surely cure your cravings. While you’re there, don’t forget to roam their extensive inventory of Irish snacks!
📍 4338 Katonah Avenue, The Bronx
6. St. Barnabas Church
Admire Roman architecture in the middle of the Bronx at St. Barnabas Church. The Parish dates back to 1910, bringing together New York’s Irish community under one roof. The church offers numerous ways to get involved with a youth choir, a boys scout group, crafty ladies knitting club, etc. The parish also runs numerous schools in NYC’s Little Ireland.
If you’re looking for volunteer opportunities, the church offers roles as an usher, lector, CCD teacher and more.
📍409 E 241st St, The Bronx
7. Irish Mini Market
Across the way from Prime Cuts, you will find the Katonah Irish Mini Market. Welcoming you with even more Irish specialty items and products, this place is perfect for satiating a hungry stomach with a late night snack as it’s open until 1am on weekends.
📍 84345 Katonah Avenue, The Bronx