Grab a Guinness, sit back, and take in the Irish flavor of one of the oldest bars in Syracuse.? Nibsy’s Pub has green roots, a Gaelic soul, and holds enough stories and ghosts to make a drinker jump up and kick their heels.
For over a century, Nibsy’s has been the place “where your friends are,” and its bonny reputation has made it a staple of theTipperary Hill experience.? Having survived the days of Prohibition – Uncle Sam couldn’t stop the brew from flowing in Syracuse -? and seen the likes of Irish diplomats and political bosses walk through its doors, Nibsy’s stands today as a landmark to the Irish community.

Though it has all the usual features of modern bars – television, jukebox, arcade games – there’s no mistaking Nibsy’s for anything else but an authentic Irish-American pub.? From the rugged stools and the hand-carved bar, to the menu of fresh Haddock sandwichs (Fridays only), Irish potatoes, and Grilled Reubens, it all adds to an experience of the pub’s stout character.?

The Nibsy’s name has seen many incarnations since it orignally opened in 1890.? Its current owner Joe Mullen revived the title in 1990, with the promise to one of the original “Nibsys”, William “Nibsy’’ Ryan, that he wouldn’t disgrace Nibsy’s history by turning it into to a tawdry topless joint.
Mullen has wisely stood by that promise, not making any dramatic changes to the interior, or to the character of the pub. An addition of an outside patio, where patrons can bask in the beauty of spring weather, wisely improves the space, and the laughter and spirits of drinking friends attracts the casual passer-by.? The sight and sounds of? good times and good people are the best advertising an owner could ask for.
As are the pub’s honest prices, which stand as further proof that Nibsy’s hasn’t sold-out its faithful patrons. Whether you’re looking for drafts, bottles, mixed drinks, for a meal or finger food, the prices reflect the pub’s promise to serve the community that has kept its doors open. Nibsy’s knows the working class bond that unites Tipp Hill under the shared culture of a Gaelic past.

For the Danny Boy looking for some strong Irish brogue, look no further than every first Sunday of the month at Nibsy’s, when the Syracuse Irish Sessions musicians put on a show of bonny-blooded folk songs and dances.? Anyone not moved to take part in a jig should check their pulse, or grab another Guiness.
?There’s more Irish blood in Nibsy’s that connects it to the community.Above the bar, take notice of? the fire fighting helmets, which belong to Syracuse Fire Department.? As a member, Joe Mullen invites his fellow Syracuse fire fighters regularly to Nibsy’s for drinks and conversation. With the intimate space of the bar,? Nibsy’s stands as proof of the past when pubs reflected their name public houses, not unlike a town hall where people would come together to talk politics, sports, and whatever else was on their mind.

?In the spirit of serving the family of Tipp Hill and Syracuse at large, Nibsy’s also offers larger second floor banquet area with buffet style dining and open bar if desired. Nibsy’s can perfectly handle any upcoming event, and its low key interiors have a homely pleasure.? There’s comfort, joy, and wonderful food like wings, baked ziti,? chicken, or swedish meatballs, available in packages that perflectly blend these dishes with matching sides.? But remember, it’s hard to do a jig on a full stomach.

?Benjamin Franklin put it best when he wrote, ““Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to prosper.”? To this thought I might suggest that pubs like Nibsy’s are temples of the spirit.? With a cold draft, a good thought shared with a friend, and the rhythm of a favorite melody, we can commune in fellowship. Like those that came before, through the hundred years that Nibsy’s has welcomed the thirsty through its doors, we enjoy the ritual of drinking, eating, and being merry. Located at Ulster St @ W. Fayette with Plenty of free parking.