Why The Playwright Irish Pub is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Playwright Irish Pub, located just half a block from Herald Square in Midtown Manhattan, offers a lively yet comfortable atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Known for its warm hospitality and friendly staff, the pub provides a traditional Irish pub experience enhanced by a broad menu including Irish classics and satisfying cocktails. Visitors appreciate the welcoming vibe that makes it easy to relax and enjoy both food and drinks. The pub features ample seating, including kerbside covered patio space with attentive service, making it a pleasant spot throughout the day. Besides hearty meals, their excellent pint of Guinness stands out as a highlight, satisfying those craving authentic Irish brews. The pub’s atmosphere combines conviviality with a casual charm, appealing to locals and visitors alike. Its midtown location makes it an accessible and inviting destination for casual gatherings, after-work drinks, or leisurely meals. Friendly bar staff and an easy-going environment make Playwright Irish Pub not just a place to eat and drink, but a welcoming community hub where friends can connect and unwind.

Here's what people think of The Playwright Irish Pub

As of recent, The Playwright Irish Pub holds a 4.6-star rating based on 585 reviews.

Reviews of Playwright Irish Pub are predominantly positive, reflected in its strong 4.6-star rating from over 585 reviewers. Many patrons highlight the welcoming and friendly nature of the staff, which contributes significantly to the enjoyable atmosphere. Positive reviews particularly praise the quality and taste of the food, describing it as tasty and well-prepared, with the cocktails and especially the Guinness pints receiving special mention. The ambience is noted as warm and relaxing, facilitating a pleasant social experience whether visiting for drinks or meals. Reviewers also appreciate the outdoor seating option and attentive service, which enhance their visits. On the other hand, a minority of reviews express dissatisfaction, primarily focusing on negative experiences such as rude staff encounters or issues with food quality, with some food described as burnt. These detractors suggest occasional inconsistency in service or kitchen standards. Despite these less favorable opinions, the overall consensus remains favorable, with many guests returning multiple times for the friendly vibe and good food. In conclusion, Playwright Irish Pub stands as a popular Midtown venue that generally meets or exceeds expectations for a casual Irish pub experience, though occasional service lapses are noted by a small subset of visitors.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Nick DeMarco

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Really cool spot—The Playwright nails that warm, cozy pub vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. Great selection of Irish beers on tap, and the food didn’t disappoint either. I had the Wexford chicken sandwich, and it was very tasty. The location is also a big plus—just a short walk from the Dallas art museums, so it’s a perfect place to grab a pint and a bite after exploring the area. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the neighborhood!

liz ojeda

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Oh wow! What a treat! My daughter and her friends introduced me to The Playwright Irish Pub in downtown Dallas. Loved the atmosphere. The chandeliers are beautiful as you will see in the pictures. We ate lunch there around 1 before we headed to the DMA. We did have to wait a few minutes before we were waited on, however was ok. She was so friendly. Thinking the menu was just barefood I was pleasantly surprised. I had a turkey bacon sandwich on wheat sourdough with a cup of potato soup. The hearty sandwich had real turkey slices and not turkey sandwich meat and was delicious. The cup of potato soup had cheese, was topped with bacon pcs and had LG pieces of potatoes. It was soooo good. Kelly ordered fish and chips and as you will see in the picture, we were all pleasantly surprised. We all had a taste and it was good! Unfortunately, I was having such a good time and forgot to get more detail on everyone else's meals. I will say that all of us raved about the food. It's definitely worth a visit. I want to go back to try other dishes. It is best to valet They do have a full bar They have an awesome patio

Avi Kathuria

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Nice place to hangout with friends but didn’t liked all drinks or foods. Staff were also not interested to serve as what we felt! The billing system looks smartly designed which gives selection option of tips as 25%, 22%, 20%, 18% and for custom tip and no tip. But strange thing is when you get printed invoice, its suggests 2%, 3%, 5% and 8%?based on bill amounts.

Dawn L. Evans

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Lively pub! Great for lunch or a hangout. 1 or 2 sections that would be great for groups. Food was hot and fresh. Good service. Outdoor seating patio seating available. Small tequila selection.

Charles Vickers

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

When you step into the Playwright it’s not hard to imagine you are no longer in downtown Dallas but have been transported across the pond. Wonderful dining experience! Great pub feel and the food and drink did not disappoint! For starters we shared the Scotch eggs and stuffed avocados, both of which were packed full of flavor!! I then had the bangers and mashed potatoes, my wife had the Shepherds Pie and both of our entrees were very tasty!! Can’t wait to go back. Don’t forget dessert! We split the brown bread ice-cream! Delicious!

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Why rally at The Playwright Irish Pub with your friends?

Gathering your friends or family at The Playwright Irish Pub is an excellent choice for many reasons, especially when you want to enjoy a lively, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. This pub boasts a solid reputation with a 4.6-star rating from over 585 reviews, reflecting a consistent track record of great food, friendly staff, and a vibrant environment. Whether you are a group looking for a classic Irish dining experience or a spot to relax with drinks and entertainment, The Playwright hits the mark. The staff make every visit inviting with their warm and attentive service, creating a sense of belonging and ease for groups large and small. Plus, the combination of delicious Irish staples and an impressive selection of beers — spanning Irish, American, and craft brews — ensures everyone in your group will find something to savor. Its lively events, including live music and trivia nights, further enhance the experience, making it a dynamic spot perfect for catching up and celebrating together. All these elements make The Playwright Irish Pub a top destination for any social gathering, blending comfort, quality, and entertainment under one roof.

What activities can you enjoy at The Playwright Irish Pub?

At The Playwright Irish Pub, there is no shortage of activities to engage your group and keep the atmosphere buzzing. Primarily, the pub is known for its live music events, which are a weekly staple. Traditional Irish music sessions occur on Sunday afternoons and Tuesday nights, providing an authentic cultural experience that is perfect for groups looking to immerse themselves in Irish heritage. On Saturdays, you can enjoy a lively band performance, ensuring that weekends are always filled with joyous tunes and dancing. For those who love a friendly mental challenge, the trivia nights offer a great way to bond with your friends over fun and competitive rounds of questions. These events foster a sense of community and excitement that makes gatherings memorable. Beyond entertainment, the pub’s menu is carefully crafted to complement the vibe, offering Irish favorites like Bangers and Mash alongside hearty chili, perfect for sharing over a pint. The range of craft and classic beers further encourages toasts and casual socializing, creating a full experience of dining, drinking, and entertainment that can accommodate any group’s preferences and energy level.

Why is The Playwright Irish Pub ideal for group meetups?

The Playwright Irish Pub is particularly suited for group meetups due to its spacious, comfortable setting and versatile offerings that cater to various tastes and preferences. Groups can settle comfortably around tables designed for socializing without feeling cramped, making it easy to converse and enjoy each other’s company. The staff’s attentiveness enhances the group experience, often remembering regulars and creating a personalized service feel, which makes everyone in your party feel valued. The menu’s diversity — from classic Irish fare to crowd-pleasing staples — appeals to different palates, reducing the stress of choosing a restaurant that suits everyone’s taste. Beer lovers find themselves at home with the pub’s excellent selection, including Guinness, a staple at any Irish pub, alongside local craft brews. Additionally, the pub’s regular events, such as live music and trivia nights, give groups shared activities that facilitate bonding and laughter. Also notable is that the venue hosts private and semi-private events, making it an excellent choice if your group prefers a more exclusive meetup. Overall, The Playwright combines a welcoming atmosphere, great food and drinks, and entertainment with expert service, making it an ideal location for memorable group gatherings.

What kind of food and drink experience can your group expect?

Dining at The Playwright Irish Pub offers your group a flavorful journey into traditional Irish cuisine combined with popular favorites that satisfy a variety of tastes. The menu has been praised for quality dishes like Bangers and Mash — four good-sized sausages served with mashed potatoes and Irish beans — which are both filling and authentically prepared. Other popular items include corn beef and cabbage, although some reviews mention variations in portion sizes, but overall, the food is well-regarded for both quality and reasonable price. The chili is another favorite, noted for its good size and taste, providing a warming, hearty option. On the drink side, The Playwright excels with its broad beer selection, offering Irish classics like Guinness which is served excellently, along with American and craft brews for variety. Cocktails are also thoughtfully crafted, giving your party a chance to enjoy something beyond beer. This robust food and drink selection ensures all members of your group can customize their experience, whether they seek a satisfying meal, a casual drinking session, or both. Friendly bartenders and servers round out the experience, often providing recommendations and engaging with guests to elevate the overall gathering.

How does the atmosphere contribute to a memorable meetup?

The atmosphere at The Playwright Irish Pub is central to why it’s such a beloved spot for meetups. It is renowned for a warm, welcoming vibe created not only by the décor but also, importantly, by the friendly and attentive staff who make patrons feel genuinely at home. This inclusive environment suits everyone — from couples and friends to larger groups — who appreciate a place where they can relax, chat, and enjoy themselves without distractions or pretensions. The live music sessions and band nights bring an energetic but comfortable feel, encouraging dancing or just soaking in the tunes with a pint in hand. On quieter days, the staff’s affable nature and willingness to chat further enhance the relaxed, easygoing experience. Many visitors comment on the welcoming smiles and the “good fun” atmosphere as standout traits, highlighting how the pub goes beyond just serving food and drinks to creating a community hub for socializing. The covered seating area designed for outdoor enjoyment further allows groups to soak up good vibes in the fresh air while still receiving attentive service, perfect for all seasons. These elements collectively foster an environment that adds value to every meetup, transforming simple gatherings into cherished memories.

What makes The Playwright Irish Pub a perfect venue for private events and celebrations?

For those looking to elevate their group event from a casual meetup to a special occasion, The Playwright Irish Pub offers exceptional facilities for private parties and celebrations. The venue provides banquet facilities that are highly praised for accommodating events with style, comfort, and excellent service. The pub’s staff is known to be incredibly friendly and professional, ensuring that any event feels seamless and enjoyable from start to finish. Whether you are planning a birthday, anniversary, or corporate gathering, the team works to tailor the food, drink, and seating arrangements to suit the size and style of your event. With the same atmosphere and menu that guests love, private events maintain the spirit of The Playwright while offering more exclusivity and space for your group to enjoy each other’s company. The venue also has audiovisual options for presentations or music playlists, elevating the experience for birthday toasts or speeches. This focus on versatility and attentive hosting makes The Playwright a top choice for groups seeking a dependable and lively venue that can transform an ordinary outing into an unforgettable celebration.

How does The Playwright’s location and accessibility enhance group meetings?

The Playwright Irish Pub enjoys a convenient location that makes it highly accessible to groups looking to meet without hassle. Situated in an area that welcomes both locals and visitors, it benefits from proximity to hotels and public transportation, facilitating easy arrival for guests coming from different parts of the city or nearby towns. The street-level entrance and kerbside covered seating area mean that guests can enjoy fresh air options with attentive service outdoors, an appealing feature especially on pleasant days or evenings. Accessibility is crucial for group meetups, where comfort and ease of gathering matter as much as the food and entertainment, and The Playwright delivers on this front with no reported obstacles for parking or transit. The neighborhood also offers a safe and walkable environment, encouraging pre- or post-meetup strolls or visits to nearby attractions, further enhancing the overall social experience. This strategic location ensures that arriving and departing your meetup is as smooth and stress-free as possible, allowing your group to focus on enjoying their time together.

What do past guests say about their experience meeting at The Playwright?

Reviews and testimonials from past guests consistently highlight The Playwright Irish Pub as a favored spot for socializing with friends and family. Many guests praise the friendly and easy-going atmosphere, often noting the excellent service and warm hospitality from the staff. Comments reflect how the quality of food and drinks meets or exceeds expectations, with particular appreciation for traditional Irish dishes and well-poured pints of Guinness. Several reviewers mention the effectiveness of the live music and trivia nights in making gatherings entertaining and engaging, an aspect that sets The Playwright apart. While a small number of critiques point out variations in service speed or portion sizes during busy periods, these are outweighed by the positive overall impression and frequent repeat visits by customers who appreciate the consistent charm and vibrancy of the venue. This pattern of positive feedback underscores The Playwright as a reliable, fun, and welcoming place to rally friends for everything from casual evenings to planned celebrations, making it a local favorite and trusted social hub.

In summary, The Playwright Irish Pub combines a strong sense of community, diverse entertainment options, quality food and drinks, and excellent service to create an inviting space perfectly suited for group meetups. Whether it’s a casual night out, a celebration, or a lively event, this pub has the offerings and atmosphere that turn a simple gathering into a memorable occasion.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the The Playwright Irish Pub

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60763-d1060891-Reviews-Playwright_Irish_Pub-New_York_City_New_York.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g33801-d600607-Reviews-Playwright-Hamden_Connecticut.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g55711-d15532345-Reviews-The_Playwright_Irish_Pub-Dallas_Texas.html