Lowdown: J.C. Fogarty's in Bronxville

(Credit: James Hilger, Special to Metromix)

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In the posh village of Bronxville, J.C. Fogarty’s seemlessly blends old-world Irish pub charm within its aristocratic American surroundings. John Fogarty is the quintessential pub owner, warm and likable, moving through his place filled with stained glass. He shakes hands and offers a “Hello” with the attentiveness of a father.

No wonder people feel like family here.

Vibe: Fogarty’s is a local fixture with plans of expansion in the near future. It’s a go-to spot for Bronxvillians, Eastchesterites, and Yonkerians alike. Fogarty’s is housed in a handsome brick building with a slate roof that sits in the center of Bronxville, bringing everyone together for drink and song.

Mood: In line with Irish pub tradition, Fogarty’s feels very homey, local and friendly. There is lots of dark wood, stained glass and cream colored walls. The lighting is low and the pints are cold.

Fogarty’s is almost directly across from the Bronxville train station, so expect a good after-work crowd of young professionals, with loosened ties and skirt-and-sneaker combinations. The place is surprisingly large, but the pub section feels cloistered and is lined along one side with comfy booths. The bar itself is pretty standard. When Metromix visited, it was tended by a lovely dark haired lass who left the impression she knew everyone’s drink by heart.

Gear: Few are dressed to the nines to have a bowl of soup during the day, but the evening is usually a little more posh. Expect some expensive watches and Prada heels, but don’t be dissuaded — Fogarty’s is a charming local spot at heart with a “come one, come all” feel to it.

Have in hand: Fogarty’s has in the neighborhood of 10 beers on tap and a fully stocked bar. It features a traditional menu of comfort foods including shepherd’s pie, beer-battered shrimp, fish and chips, and a lamb stew all for around $12. There's a full menu for lunch and dinner, and bar food is served most nights until 10 p.m. Pricing is pretty reasonable for Bronxville and the hungry traveler will be happy to find the portions fairly large.

Entertainment: Entertainment is J.C. Fogarty’s strong suit. It features live music Thursday through Sunday that runs the gamut from soft acoustic to traditional Irish. And for your inner crooner, Fogarty’s has stuck with their long-running Wednesday night karaoke.

If sports are your game, Fogarty’s also has you covered. There’s no need to play defense for a spot at the bar. J.C. Fogarty’s has six pretty big TVs and three giant ones to watch the biggest games.

With the ability to accomodate 160 people for banquets, corporate meetings, birthdays and bar/bat mitzvahs, Fogarty's can host its share of large parties. But at heart, J.C. Fogarty’s is cozy, a good place to curl up in the corner with a whiskey and catch up with an old friend and hear some good acoustic music.

John Fogarty dreamed of opening a bar in New York while he was a little boy in Ireland. It’s obvious that this charming Irish-American pub was inspired by that dream.

Want a look inside? Check out All Access: J.C. Fogarty's in Bronxville

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