The Best Places in Astoria for a Guinness or Harp

St. Patrick’s Day is tomorrow, which means its time for a glass of Guinness and/or Harp. Well, of course any day of the year is a fine one for those magnificent brews, but St. Patty’s Day is particularly apropos.  Astoria is home to a number of Irish bars, so here are our picks for the best places to find a well poured Guinness and Harp.

The Irish Rover. This place is one of my favorite bars in Astoria, period, but it’s also a great place for an Irish stout or lager.  I do love Guinness (“a meal in a beer”) but I think the Irish Rover pours a particularly magnificent Harp – I think it’s the best in the neighborhood. I also love the dark wood bar and the friendly bartenders.  Apart from that, it’s a fun place to catch a game (baseball season is almost upon us!). 37-18 28th Avenue, Astoria. 718.278.9372 -Meg

Sweet Afton. Nicknamed the Astoria Local, Sweet Afton is a fabulous option for consuming a stiff drink and due to their staunch Irish heritage, beer is very much a part of their offering.  They serve Guinness of course for a modest price of $6 per glass, which is quite good when you consider Manhattan prices.  Their atmosphere is lively and welcoming, and you’ll never find it empty.  Stop by on the early side to score a front-of-the-house table and feast on their famous fried pickles and one of the best burgers in town (don’t forget to top it with bacon).  30-09 34th Street, Astoria.  718.777.2570 -Judith

Cronin & Phelan’s. Known for their creamy Guinness and old school pub atmosphere, Cronin & Phelan’s is a great spot for a pint and some traditional Irish food.  The bangers and mash have lots of fans, as does the shepherd’s pie. I am of the opinion that they serve the best BLT in Astoria (yes, this is not traditional Irish food, but it’s very tasty).  Food and drink are affordable, and there’s darts to boot.  38-14 Broadway, Astoria. 718.545.8999 -Meg

Honorable mentions: Shillelagh Tavern (47-80 30th Ave), Gleasons (33-08 Broadway), McCann’s Pub (36-15 Ditmars Boulevard), The Quays (45-02 30th Ave).