Irish Haven

- 5721 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220

Welcome to the Irish Haven, a true Brooklyn original and one of the most authentic, beloved Irish pubs in all of New York City. Tucked away on 4th Avenue in Sunset Park, this historic establishment offers a welcome escape from the hyper-trendy and overly-polished bars of Manhattan, providing a genuine, old-school experience that has kept locals coming back for over six decades.

More than just a bar, Irish Haven is a neighborhood institution and a genuine cultural haven, as its name suggests. Since first opening its doors in 1964, it has served as a communal gathering spot—a place where the traditional Irish pub spirit thrives, making everyone feel like a regular. Whether you're seeking a quiet pint after a long day, a lively night of music and community, or simply a perfectly poured Guinness, this historic venue delivers. Its enduring charm, commitment to tradition, and friendly, unpretentious atmosphere make it a standout destination in the NYC bar scene.

Stepping into the Irish Haven is like taking a step back in time. The interior boasts the kind of genuine, well-worn character that simply cannot be replicated. With early 20th-century wood decor and original tile floors, the pub has proudly maintained its classic aesthetic. This dedication to authenticity is a key factor in its widespread appeal, ensuring that new visitors are just as captivated as the long-time regulars. It’s a space that feels lived-in and loved, earning its reputation as "a home away from home" for many in the Sunset Park and Bay Ridge communities.

The atmosphere is consistently described as both cozy and casual. It's the kind of place where you can genuinely relax, have a good conversation, and enjoy a drink without any pretense. The staff are renowned for their friendly service, further contributing to the welcoming environment. For those looking to experience a real, no-frills slice of old Brooklyn bar culture mixed with authentic Irish hospitality, the Irish Haven is an absolute must-visit.

Beyond its local status, the Irish Haven has also earned a unique place in popular culture. The bar was famously used as a filming location for several scenes in Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winning 2006 film, The Departed. While the movie is set in Boston, the pub's authentic, timeless look made it the perfect backdrop, further cementing its legendary status. Memorabilia from the film, including an autographed shirt from Scorsese and the cast, can even be found among the pub’s classic decor, adding a touch of Hollywood history to your local Brooklyn evening.

The commitment to quality, especially when it comes to the iconic Irish stout, is a major highlight. Patrons consistently rave about the perfectly poured pints of Guinness, often considered some of the best in the city—a true measure of any authentic Irish pub. And in true dive bar spirit, the prices are incredibly reasonable, a refreshing find in New York City.

The Irish Haven is not just about a drink; it's about the entertainment and the community experience. The pub features an impressive, celebrated jukebox packed with old Irish ditties, classic rock, and punk standards, providing a lively soundtrack to the evening. For those who prefer live entertainment, the bar regularly hosts live music, karaoke, and competitive trivia nights, ensuring there's always something engaging happening. It's also a go-to spot for sports enthusiasts, frequently hosting gatherings to watch rugby, soccer, and other major sporting events.

The pub's welcoming nature extends to all members of the community. It is known to be an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, fostering an inclusive environment for groups and tourists alike. This all-encompassing hospitality reinforces its role as a true "haven" for everyone in Sunset Park.

For New Yorkers who appreciate history, community, a great pint, and a genuinely good time, the Irish Haven is a cornerstone of Brooklyn's nightlife that has stood the test of time.

Location and Accessibility

Irish Haven is conveniently situated in the vibrant Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors traveling from other boroughs.

The address is: 5721 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA.

The bar's location on 4th Avenue is well-connected to public transportation, allowing for easy travel. For patrons with specific needs, the establishment prioritizes accessibility.

• Wheelchair accessible entrance
• Wheelchair accessible seating
• Wheelchair accessible restroom
• Free street parking is available in the surrounding area for drivers.

Services Offered

The Irish Haven provides a wide range of services to accommodate all patron preferences, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience. The venue also features a spacious back room which is available for private rentals, making it an ideal choice for birthday parties, surprise celebrations, and other large group events. The staff, including the owner, are noted for being responsive and extremely accommodating when working with guests to plan their events, ensuring everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

• Dine-in service for a full bar experience
• Outdoor seating is available, perfect for enjoying a drink on a pleasant Brooklyn evening
• Delivery and Takeout options are provided for drinks and food offerings
• Private event hosting in the reservable back room for parties and gatherings
• Seating and bar space are available for walk-in patrons
• Happy Hour specials on both drinks and food for great value
• Accepts Debit Cards for convenient payment
• Free Wi-Fi access is provided

Features / Highlights

Irish Haven stands out in the New York bar scene due to its unique combination of historic charm, high-quality drinks, and engaging entertainment programming. These features are what make it a genuine neighborhood fixture and a top choice for a fun, authentic night out.

• Historic and Authentic Atmosphere: Established in 1964, it is a no-frills, old-school Irish pub with vintage decor, original wood, and floors, providing a "real" and unpolished character that is hard to find in modern NYC bars.
• The Perfect Guinness Pour: Widely celebrated by regulars and critics alike for serving some of the best and most perfectly poured pints of Guinness in New York City.
• Featured in Film: Gained notoriety as a filming location for Martin Scorsese's acclaimed movie, The Departed.
• Diverse Entertainment: Regularly hosts live music, live performances, popular karaoke nights, and engaging trivia night competitions.
• Great Jukebox: Boasts an excellent, well-stocked jukebox featuring a mix of traditional Irish music, classic rock, and punk, adding to the convivial atmosphere.
• Top-Tier Drinks: Offers a great selection of Beer, Cocktails, Wine, and Hard Liquor, including notable Irish beverages.
• Sports Hub: Known for showing live sports events, including major rugby and soccer matches.
• Inclusive Environment: A welcoming and explicitly safe space for the LGBTQ+ community, groups, and tourists, fostering a friendly and open crowd.
• Fast and Friendly Service: Patrons frequently commend the bar staff for their attentive service and friendly demeanor.
• Happy Hour: Features great specials on both drinks and a selection of food, providing excellent value for money.

Contact Information

To learn more about events, reserve the back room for a private party, or simply check the daily specials, you can reach Irish Haven using the information below:

Address: 5721 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA

Phone: (718) 439-9893

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Irish Haven means opting for an authentic, time-tested New York experience that transcends the typical bar outing. This Brooklyn gem offers a unique blend of history, community, and quality that few other establishments can match. For anyone in the New York region, here is why Irish Haven should be your next destination:

Firstly, you are choosing authenticity over artifice. In a city where many bars feel manufactured, Irish Haven’s 60+ year history and preserved original decor give it an undeniable sense of reality. You are stepping into a true neighborhood staple that has been a foundational part of the Sunset Park community for generations. This unpolished, genuine charm is precisely what makes it an unparalleled "haven" for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle.

Secondly, you are choosing quality and value. The bar’s reputation for pouring one of the best pints of Guinness in New York is a powerful draw in itself. Paired with reasonable prices for all of their offerings—from beer and spirits to great cocktails and happy hour specials—Irish Haven provides exceptional value that is increasingly rare in the city.

Finally, you are choosing an unforgettable social experience. The bar is a dynamic social center, offering a constant calendar of engaging activities like live music, karaoke, and trivia. This vibrant, friendly atmosphere—coupled with a welcoming, safe space for a diverse crowd—makes it the perfect location for both quiet drinks with a friend and large, successful celebrations, as evidenced by glowing testimonials from private party hosts. Whether you’re stopping by to appreciate its cinematic history, catch a sports game, or simply make new friends, the Irish Haven promises a memorable and genuinely good time.

It is truly a venue that maintains the soul of a classic Brooklyn dive bar while upholding the best traditions of a cozy Irish pub.

Irish Haven

5721 4th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11220, USA