From gangland to World's Best Bar
Every business on this block had failed
Built in 1828, 30 Water Street was a five-story townhouse on a historic block known for one thing — every business that opened there had failed. And yet, it was perfect: a ground floor for a Taproom, a first floor for a Cocktail Parlor, a top floor for events and private gatherings. We weren't the first Irish immigrants to see potential in Lower Manhattan. In the mid-1800s, The Dead Rabbit gang fought fiercely to defend their slum — their leader, John Morrissey, lived several lives in one: bare-knuckle boxer, gang boss, casino owner, world champion prizefighter, congressman, senator. It's said the entire New York Senate attended his funeral, just to be sure he was really dead.
A decade and counting
2013
The Dead Rabbit opens
Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry bring the World's Best Bar ambition from Belfast to the city that never sleeps.
2016
World's Best Bar
Named World's Best Bar by World's 50 Best Bars — and featured on the front cover of Forbes.
2018
Doubling down
The Dead Rabbit doubles in size with the opening of 32 Water Street.
2023
Ten years in
The Dead Rabbit celebrates its tenth anniversary and opens The Irish Exit at Moynihan Train Hall.
2024
Austin and Paris
The Dead Rabbit opens in Austin and takes over the bar at Harry's New York Bar, Paris.
2025
San Patricios
The Mexican Irish Cantina & Pub opens in Jersey City.