NYCReview
photo credit: Britt Lam
Jimmy's Corner
Welcome to the best bar in NYC, and by extension, the greatest bar in the world. Behind a faded awning on 44th Street, Jimmy’s Corner is hidden in plain sight among the indistinguishable Irish pubs and chain restaurants of Times Square. This dive with $3.50 well drinks has been around since 1971, and though you’ll run into tourists here, they’ll be virtually indistinguishable from the regulars, all squashed together on barstools.
If the front bar is too crowded, head to the back room, where tables turn over quickly, and someone will come by to take your order. There’s plenty of city history around you. Jimmy’s founder was a boxing coach (his son owns the place now), and the walls are covered with match posters and signed photos of prizefighters. Pictures of bar regulars are laminated right into the tabletops. There's also a glorious old-school jukebox with a fine selection of soul, jazz, and R&B.
The drinks are nothing fancy, but they’re served with a smile and plenty of ice—and if you ask nicely, a candied cherry. A friendly landlord helps keep costs down, and there’s possibly nothing better than a cheap whiskey soda and a heartwarming landlord story before you head home from your Midtown job. Or come in late—Jimmy's is open until 2am most days, and 4am on weekends. And in here, it's perpetually Happy Hour.
photo credit: Britt Lam
photo credit: Britt Lam
photo credit: Britt Lam