When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Old Mates Pub
Why Old Mates Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Old Mates Pub stands out as a vibrant Australian pub nestled in Downtown Manhattan, New York City, offering a genuine taste of Australian hospitality and culture. With its welcoming atmosphere, it is a perfect spot for friends to gather and enjoy a relaxed yet lively experience. The three-story venue features distinct areas: the main level boasts a handsome wooden bar with TVs dedicated to live rugby viewing parties, a beloved pool table, and Sunday live music performances. The lower level transforms into a dynamic lounge with DJs from Thursday to Saturday nights, providing a lively party atmosphere. Upstairs offers a quieter, more intimate bistro setting suitable for meals and Tuesday trivia nights. Old Mates prides itself on no fuss walk-in service, ensuring an accessible and comfortable experience. Its menu is rich with traditional Australian pub favorites such as meat pies, sausage rolls, fish and chips, lamb chops, and desserts like pavlova, complemented by a selection of over 40 Australian wines and iconic Australian beers like Cooper's Pale Ale and Sydney Beer Co Lager. The pub embodies the spirit of Melbourne’s local bars and RSL clubs, making it feel like a true Australian clubhouse. The occasional surprise DJ sets and the cozy beer garden outside only enhance the memorable social atmosphere, making Old Mates the ultimate place to catch up with friends, cheer on sports, or simply enjoy a slice of Australia in New York.
Here's what people think of Old Mates Pub
As of recent, Old Mates Pub holds a 4.6-star rating based on 238 reviews.
User reviews for Old Mates Pub consistently praise its authentic Australian ambiance and warm hospitality, earning it an impressive 4.6 rating from over 230 reviewers. Many highlight the quality of the food, particularly the perfectly cooked Barramundi and tender lamb chops, which have left a lasting impression. Guests appreciate the attentiveness and friendliness of the servers who contribute to the welcoming, 'homey' atmosphere. The venue’s vibrant energy, especially during live sports broadcasts and DJ nights, is noted as a big draw, creating a fun social environment for locals, expats, and tourists alike. Positives frequently mentioned include the ample seating, engaging trivia nights, the popular pool table, and the wide variety of Australian beers and cocktails named after famous Aussie songs. On the downside, some reviews touch on occasional crowding and the busy nature of the pub during peak evenings, which can make finding space challenging. A few mention minor inconveniences typical of bustling venues, but these do not overshadow the overall positive experience. In conclusion, while it can get lively and packed, Old Mates Pub delivers a memorable and authentic Aussie experience in New York City that fans of good food, sport, and socializing will truly enjoy.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jonathan Batista
It’s great to see this space open after sitting vacant for what feels like over a decade. Very friendly service. Outdoor space indoor and an upstairs. I didn’t checkout upstairs but the first floor is huge and has lots of light on a nice spring day. The beers were some of the coldest on draft I have ever had which was great and gives me another reason to come back on hot days. The food was delicious. I only had the chicken Parma and it was very good. It tasted a little salty compared to what you get in Italian restaurants but I like salty foods so to me this was great. The Aussie burger looked amazing. Not going to lie the prices were a little high but you won’t be disappointed.
Kelly Landrigan
Awesome pub at the Seaport! Really chill vibe, multiple floors, and great outdoor seating. You MUST get the cheeseburger 🍔- might be one of the best I’ve had in NYC. Ask if they have the Milo sundae and treat yourself.
Mary Lemmer
Great food! Great service! Great vibe! I reckon this place will do well and it deserves to! The barramundi and tomato fennel salad were delightful - fresh, thoughtfully prepared, and very flavorful. I’d definitely return!
Erica Amatori
Started with the seafood linguine, which was so fresh I think one of the shrimp made eye contact. This was my boyfriends entree and I almost ate it all. The heirloom tomato salad with basil oil and harissa was a vibrant, juicy love letter to summer. And the steak tartare? Let’s just say if it proposed, I’d say yes. Love how it had little fried capers. He ordered this after I ate his pasta. Now, the Bloody Marys, what a star. Made with beet vodka which was so nice you felt like you were almost drinking a healthy drink, but no it's still vodka. They were delightfully thin (I hate thick bloody marys that are soups). I put down a couple. 10/10 would return and aggressively recommend to everyone I know. Old Mate’s is officially the best new Aussie restaurant in NYC
Steve Hartley
We came to Old Mate’s looking for a genuine Aussie pub experience after being away from home working in New York for a month, but left underwhelmed. The Coopers tap was there with the logo, but they’d run out (despite the hype). We settled for the “Aussie house lager” due to the lack of Coopers, only to find out it was just Brooklyn Lager, overpriced for what it was. After a few rounds of that, we ordered another only to be given something else random with no warning, as they’d run out. Only then did we learn they had Coopers in bottles, which were warm. When I pointed this out, the waitress claimed they were cold and even offered ice (who puts ice in their beer?). The manager eventually brought out some that were actually cold. Staff also admitted they didn’t know when more Coopers would be available. For a place that claims “the coldest beer in town,” this was poor. Food was average. The chicken parmigiana was nothing special, and our meals sat going cold while we waited for cutlery. Service felt indifferent. Asking to see the bill first was treated like an inconvenience. The total came to over $300 USD, with schooners at $10–11 each, poor value. Despite Hamish & Andy’s involvement, this isn’t a true Aussie bar. It’s basically a standard Irish pub with clever marketing. Not worth the hype.
How to reach Old Mates Pub
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Why Old Mates Pub may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying with friends at Old Mates Pub is an experience that combines authentic Australian charm with lively New York City energy, making it an unbeatable venue for group meetups. Why choose Old Mates? Because it offers a genuine ‘down under’ atmosphere where everyone feels like part of an Aussie family, even if they’re thousands of miles from home. The vibe is cozy yet vibrant, with a welcoming spirit that encourages laughter, sharing stories, and creating memorable moments. Whether your group is craving great food, cold beers, or a buzzing nightlife scene, Old Mates Pub delivers on all fronts, making it an ideal meeting spot. The combination of friendly staff, authentic Australian hospitality, and a space that caters to the needs of groups large and small ensures that every visit feels like a celebration with mates. It’s more than just a pub—it’s a community hub where friendships thrive and good times flow naturally.
What sets Old Mates Pub apart for group gatherings is its multi-level setup that caters precisely to different moods and activities. The main floor features a handsome wood bar with ample seating and multiple TVs perfectly positioned for watching live rugby games, catering to sports fans who want to cheer alongside friends. The lower level turns up the energy with DJs playing from Thursday through Saturday nights and has a lounge vibe perfect for dancing and partying. Meanwhile, the upstairs bistro area offers a quieter space with tables for those who prefer more intimate conversations or trivia nights on Tuesdays, making it great for groups that want a mixture of lively and relaxed atmospheres within one venue.
What activities can groups enjoy at Old Mates Pub? The options are impressively diverse, ensuring everyone in your party is entertained. First, sports enthusiasts can gather around to watch live rugby matches, with the pub’s multiple TVs making it easy for everyone to catch the action, even with the significant time difference from Australia. For those with a competitive streak, the pool table on the main floor is a popular fixture, often becoming the focal point of friendly games and banter. Music lovers will appreciate the live performances every Sunday on the main floor, and the pulsating DJ sets in the lounge downstairs on weekend nights transform the place into a lively dance floor. Trivia nights on Tuesdays provide a perfect mix of fun and brainpower for groups wanting a casual, interactive activity that can engage everyone. Coupled with a beer garden out front and spaces for relaxed socializing, the pub is a versatile space for any group occasion.
Why is Old Mates the perfect venue for food and drink lovers in a group? The menu is a celebration of Australian classics with a modern twist that is sure to please diverse palates. Signature pub meals such as meat pies, sausage rolls, chicken parmigiana, fish and chips, lamb chops, and indulgent desserts like pavlova offer hearty and flavorful options that work wonderfully for sharing. The drinks menu is rich with choices—from Australian lagers like Cooper’s Pale Ale and Sydney Beer Co Lager to a curated list of over 40 Australian wines, alongside unique cocktails named after iconic Australian songs. This range allows groups to sample a variety of beverages that complement the food and elevate the social experience. Plus, friendly service ensures that the food and drink flow smoothly, with staff known for their accommodating approach that makes your group feel genuinely taken care of.
How does the venue’s layout and atmosphere enhance group meetups? Old Mates Pub’s three-level design caters perfectly to the dynamics of different social groups. The main level serves as a social hub with its spacious bar and multiple screen views, ideal for mingling and sports viewing. Below, the basement channeling an Aussie dive bar vibe offers a more casual, lively scene perfect for those wanting to dance or party late into the night. Upstairs, the bistro-style dining area provides a quieter, more intimate setting that is perfect for groups focused on conversation or enjoying a sit-down meal. The presence of a front beer garden adds outdoor space for relaxed gatherings, expanding the venue’s versatility. This thoughtful diversity in spaces ensures that groups can customize their experience, whether they want to cheer loudly over a game, compete in trivia, or simply enjoy good food and conversation.
What do patrons say about their group experiences at Old Mates Pub? Reviewers consistently highlight the warm and inviting atmosphere as a major draw, praising the staff for their friendliness and attentiveness which contributes to a carefree and enjoyable outing. The pub’s authenticity resonates with both Australian expats and locals, creating a shared camaraderie that makes group meetups feel special. Many note how the venue handles large groups with ease, providing ample seating and a welcoming environment that accommodates different group sizes without losing the intimate feel of a neighborhood pub. Positive feedback often mentions the quality and taste of food, emphasizing the perfectly cooked fish and lamb chops, while drinkers appreciate the extensive and well-crafted beverage options. The mix of live music, sports, and social games keeps groups entertained, making each visit dynamic and engaging.
Why should you consider Old Mates Pub for your next family or friend gathering? Its reputation as a vibrant yet comfortable venue makes it suitable for a wide range of occasions, from casual catch-ups and birthday parties to more organized celebrations like trivia nights or sports viewing events. The pub’s blend of traditional Australian hospitality with New York’s fast-paced culture offers a unique setting that stands out from typical bars and restaurants. It delivers a sense of community and belonging, where everyone—from Aussies far from home to curious New Yorkers—can relax and enjoy shared experiences. The combination of excellent food, diverse drink options, entertainment, and multiple social spaces ensures that your group’s specific needs are met, making it a dependable choice for creating memorable moments together.
Where is Old Mates Pub located and what makes this location ideal for meetups? Situated at 170 John Street in Lower Manhattan, Old Mates sits within easy reach of the Financial District and South Street Seaport, making it an accessible and attractive destination for both locals and visitors. This prime location means that groups coming from work or enjoying a day out exploring the city can conveniently converge here without long travel. The neighborhood’s lively atmosphere blends well with the pub’s energetic vibe, and nearby transit options make group logistics simpler. Whether planning an after-work meetup, weekend celebration, or a pre- or post-event gathering, Old Mates offers a central, familiar, and inviting spot to rally your crew.
How does Old Mates Pub cater to different group sizes and preferences? The space is thoughtfully designed to accommodate everything from small intimate gatherings to larger parties. The upstairs bistro is perfect for groups seeking a quieter dining experience, while the main bar area can handle mingling and socializing for medium-sized crowds. The lively basement and lounge attract those wanting a party atmosphere complete with DJs and dance floors on busier nights. Additionally, the variety of food and drink choices means diverse tastes and dietary needs are easily served. Whether your group wants to focus on conversation over shared plates, enjoy high-energy dancing, or simply watch a game together, Old Mates can adjust to meet your preferred vibe and size.
What special events and unique touches make Old Mates Pub memorable? Beyond regular offerings, Old Mates frequently hosts exciting events that amplify group fun. Surprise DJ sets, like those from renowned Dom Dolla, turn the pub into a high-energy dance venue reminiscent of popular Australian clubs. Trivia nights attract groups looking for interactive entertainment with a competitive edge. Live Sunday music adds a relaxing, communal element to the weekly schedule. Themed cocktails named after Australian hits add playful local character to your drink choices. The décor itself, with its nods to Melbourne’s Richmond bars and the Australian sporting grounds, creates a welcoming and nostalgic environment for patrons, enhancing the overall experience. These unique aspects ensure that every visit feels fresh and connected to a wider cultural story.
In summary, Old Mates Pub is a premier choice for hosting meetups with friends or family thanks to its authentic Australian vibe, excellent food and drinks, varied entertainment options, and welcoming atmosphere. Its three distinct floors provide tailored environments for different social needs, whether watching sports, competing in trivia, enjoying live music, or dancing the night away. Friendly staff and a lively yet homey spirit make it easy to relax and celebrate together. Conveniently located in Lower Manhattan, it serves as a slice of Australia in NYC where groups of any size can gather, enjoy quality time, and create lasting memories. If your goal is a vibrant, fun, and comfortable gathering spot, Old Mates Pub stands out as an exceptional venue.