In 2016, when Dempsey’s Pub at 61 2nd Ave., between Third and Fourth streets, was rebranded into The Gray Mare, it was seen as a pivot away from the Irish party pubs of the ‘90s and into a more elevated New American spot. Now, the same Ireland-born co-owners are preparing to reopen a new concept in the same East Village location that combines the Gray Mare’s sophistication with their Gaelic roots. According to an official Instagram post, the upcoming Bar Monto will offer “pints, martinis, food and plenty of entertainment.”
Co-owner Conor Myers recently told What Now New York that he and partners Tom O’Byrne and Archie Dolan are looking to join the ongoing evolution of New York-Irish pubs.
“I suppose there’s been a bit of a change in the guard of Irish pubs in New York where everything’s getting a lot more elevated,” he said. “You know, there are better food programs, better cocktail programs.”
The seasonal food menu will be inspired by classic Irish fare. For example, Myers said there will be an Irish Summer Plate with cured meats, pickles, and relishes that’s a part of just about every Irish childhood. There will also be a major seafood component, with dishes like steamed mussels and fried fish bites with a coriander-and-jalapeno aioli.
At the bar, Myers said there will be a major emphasis on Irish breweries and distilleries. In addition to classics like Guinness, there will also be Irish vodkas and even an Irish vermouth. Those spirits will be used to make a variety of signature cocktails, such as a highball called The Basque Connection.
“It’s made with Irish gin, Irish vermouth, and cherries,” Myers said. “It tastes sort of like a gin-and-tonic with the flavors of a cherry cobbler.”
While the drinks and food might be slightly elevated, Myers said Bar Monto will strive to maintain a neighborhood feel through friendly, welcoming service.
“We’re just trying to build a good local bar with nice, elevated drinks and food,” he mused. “We’re not reinventing the wheel, but we’re kind of making everything just a little bit better.”
