Bar: O’Malleys in the Alley
Address: 25 W Ogden Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Score: 8.9/10
O’Malleys in the Alley, oh what a bar this is. Tucked away in an alley (hence the name). This bar is an authentic pub that has been in Cincinnati since 1892, making it the second oldest bar in the city. From the moment that you see the sign in the alley, you know this is going to be an incredible spot. This bar takes pride in being the second oldest in the city, as they should. Cincinnati is such an old city, so this is quite the status. The entry door when you walk in, reminds you once more on how old the bar is.
The best word to describe the bar once you enter is cozy. While I went in the springtime, I would love to be in this bar during the winter time. At O’Malleys you are looking at about 50 seats max and that is on the high side. Personally, I think this is how all pubs should be, close quarters and bumping elbows with fellow patrons. The old wood floors and ceilings at O’Malleys showed its age in the best way possible, behind the bar top featured your typical Guinness and Jameson signs with plenty of beers on tap. A great touch behind the bar was the famous lamp leg from a Christmas story, what a touch. I am shocked I have never seen this in a bar thus far.
For the rest of the bar, it was covered in neon and signage. Nothing that stood out besides this personalized high life sign that featured the bar’s name. My god this sign was awesome. Truly a gem. Touch tunes and Keno were in the bar as well. Two things you’d expect in a Midwest bar. Very comforting to see both of these.
Out of all of the things that O’Malleys had to offer, I for one was most impressed with the beer selection and prices. From having Guinness to summer shandy on draught, this is what we call range. You know I had to go with my tried and true though, so I enjoyed a fine ice cold Pilsner in Miller Lite. A 16oz ran me $5. Not bad at all for being in the heart of the city and super close to the stadiums. This same beer in other cities can be $8+ with ease. Rarely do I discuss urinals because well, they are urinals. But O’Malleys cracked the code by carrying the plethora of TVs inside of the bar into the bathroom. That way if you are watching a game you won’t miss a beat.
One last thing, you can get to the bar through its sister bar that is attached, but you need to go through the Alley. I will in fact think less of you if you do not go through the alley entrance. This entrance just has more grit and character.
Decor: Very on brand for a pub, I would have loved to see more personalized signage or that unique factor but it was still great.
Price: Killer prices. I was super happy with them.
Service: Great service, you can tell the bartender handles high volumes with all the games.
Atmosphere: Like I said, for a Thursday at 4pm it was more lively than expecting.
High Life Bottle?: I did not see one, someone correct me if they have it.
Bonus Points: None.