The Late Late Bar on the famous Houston Street in the Lower East Side NYC is Irish-inspired, but it does not resemble the traditional “Irish Pub,” which commonly exists in the USA today. Instead, it is modeled on a 1960s period Irish residence, incorporating some of the key quality ingredients of Irish hospitality, and customizing them to appeal to contemporary society so synonymous with New York. We had a chance to talk to the owner, James Morrissey, who shared with us a few tidbits about the restaurant, their food, concept, and business philosophy. Here’s what we learned:
James Morrissey, Owner of The Late Late Bar in New York City
FriendsEAT: Tell us a little something about The Late Late bar.
James Morrissey: The Late Late is designed to disrupt the traditional thought process around Irish owned establishments in New York. With no shamrocks, green flags or pints of Guinness, this is not your stereotypical Irish pub. I designed the space to feel like that of an authentic 1960s period residence which showcases the taste preferences of the contemporary New York young professional. With creative cocktails, Irish sourced comfort food and a music offering curated by my partner Rob Ackroyd, of Florence and the Machine, we have created something which is different to what already exists. With Guinness sales in deep decline in North America, we have created a range of Guinness cocktails to satisfy the thirst of our customers.
FE: What is your restaurant philosophy? Is there something that everyone strives for with each action taken at your restaurant?
James Morrissey: The Late Late aims to create a quality environment for guests, which showcases innovation, but stays humble. For the team behind The Late Late Bar, humility is key to their success in America.
Gourmet Tayto Crisp Sandwich
FE: What is your most popular dish? Why do people love it?
James Morrissey: People love the Gourmet Tayto Crisp Sandwich. It’s an upmarket presentation of a traditional Irish dish. Using the famous Irish Tayto potato chip, it’s included in an onion brioche bun, with picked, cheese my mayo and some Ballymaloe Stout Relish. It is a great food item for drinking.
Pimm’s Cup Cocktail
FE: And what is the one cocktail your bartender loves to make?
James Morrissey: Their Pimm’s Cup is a phenomenal cocktail. Made well, it’s an old classic but a bestseller, especially in summer months. Customers have requested to-go cups for this drink in the past!
FE: What makes you stand out above the rest?
James Morrissey: The fact that everyone on The Late Late team really cares about the customers’ experience.
FE: Do you offer any deals such as happy hour specials, brunches, etc?
James Morrissey: Happy Hour: $6 on all well liquor, draft beer, wines + one specialty cocktail created weekly by head mixologist Seth Allen and $5 canned beer & shot
Brunch: $15 bottomless mimosas and Barrys spiked tea pots (90 minutes)
For groups of 8 or more: $25 pre selected family style sharing with a $15 add on for $15 bottomless mimosas and Barrys spiked tea pots (90 minutes)
The Late Late Bar is located at 159 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
[mappress mapid=”266″]Nearby Landmarks: Hotel East Houston, Rockwood Music Hall, and Russ & Daughters
Phone Number: (646) 861-3342
Hours of Operation:
- Sun ” Tue: 04:00PM ” 02:00AM
- Wed ” Sat: 04:00PM ” 04:00AM
Dining Style: Casual
Cuisine Type: Irish Inspired Comfort Food
Dress Code: Casual
Price Range: $8 – $16
Payment Options: All major credit cards accepted