Our Story

Built in 1828, 30 Water Street was a run-down five-story townhouse located on a historic block notable for one thing - every business that opened on it had failed. And yet it was perfect. Or, could be. A ground floor for the Taproom, first floor for the Cocktail Parlor, and a third floor for events and private functions. It was all there.

Of course, we weren’t the first Irish immigrants to see potential in lower Manhattan. Fiercely territorial, The Dead Rabbit gang fought long and hard to defend their poverty-stricken slum back in the mid 1800s. Or at least, to own it.

Ostensibly formed to protect the immigrant Irish underclass against the nativist Bowery Boys, The Dead Rabbits were also a criminal organization with extensive connections in New York politics. Their leader, John Morrissey, lived 100 lives in one.

Known for his skills as a bare-knuckle boxer, he was a successful thug for hire. He climbed the ranks from gang boss and gambler to casino owner and world champion prize-fighter. By the time of his death in 1878, he was an acclaimed businessman, congressman and senator. It’s said the entire New York senate turned out for his funeral, just to be sure he was really dead.

With the determination and tenacity of our namesakes, we opened the doors to The Dead Rabbit in 2013. Since then we’ve seen a hurricane, a fire and an expansion. One thing we’re sure of? The best is yet to come. In us, Morrissey’s fighting spirit lives on.

When we opened The Dead Rabbit, we did so with little more than a dream and a determination to succeed. At the helm were Sean Muldoon and Jack McGarry, who had already created a cocktail bar named the world’s best back in their home city of Belfast, Ireland. And they wanted to do it all again, here in New York. But differently.

Inspired by the history of The Dead Rabbit gang, the duo built a bar that’s fiercely Irish with an American accent. Since opening, we’ve won eight Tales of The Cocktail Spirited Awards including World’s Best Bar, twice, and Best International Bartender for Jack, who remains the youngest ever recipient.

As of 2022, Jack holds the reins at 30 Water Street. A keen runner and avid reader, he is passionate about the personal development and the growth of the Dead Rabbit team. He is the co-author of all five Dead Rabbit books. He is currently studying for his Bachelor’s degree in the Science of Business whilst readying The Dead Rabbit for national expansion.

One thing we’re sure of - the best is yet to come.

Having recently celebrated our tenth anniversary, we’re looking ahead to a new era of celebrating Irish heritage, bringing our signature modern Irish hospitality to new locations across the USA with The Dead Rabbit, and a brand new concept.

Based at Moynihan Train Hall, The Irish Exit combines modern Irish hospitality with world-class cocktails, exceptional service, and over 100 spirits, elevating transit experiences with a local Irish pub, no matter where you’re traveling. 

And that’s not all. Opening in 2024, The Dead Rabbit Austin sits on the iconic Sixth Street in the Downtown Historic District. Predominantly pedestrianized, the area is known for its bars, clubs, live music, and comedy venues housed in 19th-century Victorian buildings, earning the street a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. So, is everything really bigger in the Lone Star State?

We can't wait to find out.

Next - The Dead Rabbit is coming to Washington D.C. Our 6,200 square-foot, two-floor space stands proudly in the center of the entertainment district at 910 F St. NW. Jack, Aidan, and Laura will be leading the charge, bringing our motto of Tradition meet Tomorrow to the Penn Quarter.

So, stay tuned for incoming updates, and get ready for perfect pints, Irish Coffees, plenty of live music and, of course - Irish Whiskey.