Neary's, the iconic Irish pub on 57th street, to close its doors after 57 years

On Friday, after 57 years, Neary's, the iconic Irish pub which sits on the corner of East 57th Street and First Avenue, will be permanently shutting its doors.

A letter was sent out this week by late owner Jimmy Neary's family, informing the pub's regulars, family and friends of its closure.

"After an incredible 57-year run, Neary's will bid farewell on Friday, July 19th. With heartfelt appreciation and love, we look back on Neary's remarkable journey on 57th Street (now Jimmy Neary Way!)," says the letter, which is published on the home page of nearys.com. "It all began on St. Patrick's Day, March 17th, 1967, when our beloved father, Jimmy Neary, and his partner, Brian Mulligan, first opened Neary's doors. From the outset, our father recognized Sutton Place as the perfect location and his instincts proved absolutely correct."

Since its opening, over five decades ago, Neary's has become an iconic New York City establishment. Its dedicated customers have ranged from locals to the famous including politicians, television personalities, sports icons and more.

The restaurant's closure comes nearly three years after Jimmy Neary's death in October of 2021.

Born in County Sligo, Ireland in 1930, Neary emigrated to the United States at age 24.

Described as a dapper man, he prided himself on maintaining an elegant environment at Neary's and he was known for treating everybody with respect and friendliness.

"Our father's infectious smile, captivating Irish charm, and heartfelt stories, coupled with his deep love of country, faith, and family defined his character," says the Neary family's letter. "He adored his restaurant and cherished every customer, making sure everyone felt like family, whether a longtime regular or a first-time visitor."

In 2021, Dave Miller of Miller's Bakery told NorthJersey.com, "Everybody was his friend. He had respect for people. He didn't care if you were Bill Clinton or anyone else. He always had a nice smile and would talk to you."

In their letter, the Neary family expressed how blessed they feel to have been able to welcome patrons from all walks of life and thanked their staff, both past and present, for all of their dedication and hard work.

"Neary's holds countless cherished memories for our family, memories that we will forever hold dear. We hope it has provided our customers with equally wonderful moments. From the depths of our hearts, thank you for making Neary's a truly magical place," says the letter. "Jimmy Neary Way' will forever honor our father's profound impact on this great city and 57th Street."

In the letter, the Neary family invites their customers to join them in raising a final toast to their father and to 57 successful years of Neary's.