An Irish bar in New York which "symbolized the American Dream" has closed its doors after nearly 60 years in operation. Neary's was a staple of Manhattan's East Side, offering an unrivalled charm and old-school atmosphere.
The iconic bar opened its doors on St Patrick's Day , March 17, 1967, by Jimmy Neary, from Co Sligo , who emigrated from Ireland to the US with his wife, Eileen, from Dublin , and was "welcomed with open arms" by New York City .
In return, Jimmy and his partner Brian Mulligan gave residents Neary's, which "will always a hold special place" in the hearts of New Yorkers . The corner of 57th Street, where the bar sat, was even renamed Jimmy Neary Way in 2022.
"The success of Neary’s symbolizes the American Dream achieved by our parents," Jimmy's children wrote in a joint statement online. "Jimmy Neary Way will forever honor our father’s profound impact on this great city .
"Over the years, Neary’s has been blessed to welcome patrons from all walks of life - esteemed politicians , religious leaders, TV personalities, renowned authors and photographers, sports legends, and business leaders.
"Our father’s infectious smile, captivating Irish charm, and heartfelt stories, coupled with his deep love of country, faith, and family defined his character. He adored his restaurant and cherished every customer ."
Jimmy was born in Tubbercurry and moved to the US aged 24. He served in the US Army before opening Neary's. He and Eileen, who died in 2007, brought up their four children in New Jersey and were well-regarded in New York.
Timothy Mara, co-owner of the NY Giants, gave Neary his two Superbowl rings and famed fiction-writer, Mary Higgins Clark, included Neary in many of her novels. Maureen O'Hara even described the place as "home from home".
Bill Clinton and both Presidents Bush frequented the spot, as did former Mayor Mike Bloomberg who held New Year's celebrations at the restaurant and invited Jimmy to Ireland with him to dedicate a monument to General Michael Corcoran, who led the Fighting 69th Regiment during the American Civil War and also hailed from Co Sligo .
Neary's signature dishes included corned beef and cabbage, calf's liver with bacon or onions, and broiled chicken, washed down with delicious Irish coffee . Jimmy sadly passed away in October 2021, aged 91. His daughter, Una, who worked alongside her father for more than 40 years, carried on his legacy and ran the restaurant thereafter.
Una and her siblings put the building on the market several months ago to “see what was out there,” according to the New York Times. The property has since been sold to two brothers who are restaurateurs .
Una now hopes to open “a more modern Irish-themed restaurant ” in the next six months. The family added: "Neary’s holds memories we will forever hold dear. We look forward with great excitement to the next chapter of our lives."
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