O'Flaherty's Ale Hosue   

334 W 46th St
New York, NY 10036
212-581-9366

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O'Flaherty's has a Joe Franklin Room. Inspired. That's one of the giveaways, as is the Shakespeare lamp and multitude of subtly placed mirrors, that actors make up the bulk of the crowd. Everybody looks good, or at least specifically styled and well-groomed. This is the place to meet the New York archetypal struggling actor when he or she isn't on the other side of the bar. Every level and corner of the place is richly decorated in a hybrid style between pub and mansion library, with numerous bookshelves and ornate, rustic fixtures. The owners are also very proud of their Irish cream selection. "Bailey's tastes like coffee-flavored glue!" says the jet-propelled bartender as he explains the difference between that and Carolans, a delicate liqueur with a more discernible whiskey base. With the dearth of relaxed or atmospheric nightspots in the theater district, this place is reliable for a good time even after visiting relatives drag you through your fourth viewing of The Producers. -- Dan Glass