McSorley’s Old Ale House, the legendary bar on East 7th Street claims to be the city’s oldest. (credit: Mario Tama/Getty Images)

There may not be a bar in New York City with more history. Established in 1854, McSorley’s has served the likes of presidents (Abraham Lincoln), rock stars (John Lennon), and athletes (Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig). If you want to drink like a legend, enjoy a beer at McSorley’s and know that you’re in good company. The 1994 New York Rangers even celebrated on the same sawdust filled floors after winning the Stanley Cup Championship.

Nets owner Mikhail Prokhorov parties with Jay-Z at the 40/40 Club (credit: Larry Busacca/Getty Images for New Jersey Nets)

Any sports bar and lounge that’s owned by Jay-Z is going to attract big names. That’s exactly the case at the 40/40 Club, which on any given night hosts movie stars, musicians, and athletes. Alex Rodriguez, one of the four members of Major League Baseball’s 40/40 club for hitting 40 home runs and stealing 40 bases in a season, has been seen hanging out here and there’s even a signed jersey of him on the wall to prove it. Check it out for yourself when the 40/40 Club re-opens to the public on December 29, 2011.

Sean Avery of the New York Rangers (credit: Christopher Pasatieri/Getty Images)

New York Rangers forward Sean Avery certainly has a flair for the dramatic. The NHL had to create a new rule after he waved his stick in front of Devils goalie Martin Brodeur’s face, he has gotten suspended for some unflattering comments about his ex-girlfriends, and he even had an internship at Vogue. Now Avery can add bar owner to his resume, as well. Depending on the night, you may see Avery and some of his Rangers teammates at Warren 77. Superstar goalie Henrik Lundqvist even played an acoustic guitar set at Avery’s place when it first opened.

Photos of Yankees legends adorn the walls at Mickey Mantle’s. (credit: Mickey Mantle’s)

Mickey Mantle was one of the most popular baseball players to ever play the game. It’s no surprise, then, that ESPN named his restaurant the country’s No. 1 sports bar. During its existence, Mickey Mantle’s was the place to go when looking for a place to teach your children about one of the greatest players to ever wear a New York Yankees uniform – and enjoy a burger. The establishment closed its doors in June.

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