3. Pete’s Tavern (1864)

The building that houses Pete’s Tavern dates all the way back to 1829. At the time, it was known as the Portman Hotel, and the tavern’s second room served as a horse stable. It wasn’t until 1864 that the site officially became a drinking establishment. For a short period of time, however, it was known as Healey’s Cafe, after Tom and John Healy who purchased the building in 1899. Three years later, Peter D’Belles became its new owner, and the name “Pete’s Tavern” has stuck ever since.

Throughout its lengthy history, Pete’s has had some interesting claims to fame. Ludwig Bemelmans, who penned Madeline, ordered from there almost every night, accompanied by his wife (Madeline) and daughter. Similarly, William Sydney Porter, known by his pen name O. Henry, wrote Gift of the Magi while sitting in the tavern’s first booth. You many also recognize its familiar decor from other notable productions, including Seinfeld, Law and Order and Sex and the City, just to name a few.

Another fun fact worth mentioning revolves around Tammany Hall, the Democratic Party’s unofficial headquarters. Because it was located right around the corner from Pete’s, not-so-legal business deals and other meeting often took place inside the tavern, and people knew to stay clear. It no longer holds the same reputation, so next time you’re in the area, make sure to pay a visit. You might want to check out the entranceway of its second room, where  a set of hinges can be spotted. That’s where a fake refrigerator door once stood that separated the front room flower shop from the back room, which freely served alcohol during Prohibition.