Rugby Bar Review: Pig n Whistle

My husband found this bar through some online research, but I realized that I had seen this bar before when I visited NYC back in February because my rugby spidey senses went off the moment I saw it. I didn't even get to go inside, but I felt in my bones that it was a rugby bar.

You can't see my face but my jaw was dropped for at least a solid 5 minutes taking in this rugby beauty

As I stepped inside, the first thing that caught my eye was the ambiance of Pig n Whistle. It felt like walking into a shrine for rugby fans. The bar is adorned with an impressive collection of rugby memorabilia that celebrate the sport in all its glory. I particularly appreciated that this bar had a very wide range of rugby jerseys: USA rugby autographed jerseys, MLR, international, and even local club jerseys. It felt like an exquisite museum dedicated to the sport across all levels.

I can only hope that someday my club finds a place that will hang up our jersey 🥹

It was clear that the owners and everyone who works there take great pride in their establishment and in the sport of rugby. There was hidden rugby humor everywhere, and the bar itself it also was very cared for. It was a beautiful wooden bar that seemed like a great place to hang whether you're a dedicated rugby fan or not. I was also very surprised to hear that they had opened earlier the same day to show the live British and Irish Lions game at 6am. They apparently had a packed house for it, and you wouldn't have known without them saying because it was still immaculately clean!

RUGBY EVERYWHERE!

They effortlessly set up the replay of the rugby match, which is very rare if allowed at all at other bars. They also had no problem putting on the audio of the game as well. Every cheer, every insightful commentary, and the collective energy from fellow fans filled the room. I felt part of the larger community sharing in the excitement of rugby, even though we were the only ones in the bar at the time. I was very proud when others came in towards the end of the game and got to experience a little bit of the excitement for themselves.

Pig n Whistle truly lives up to its name as a rugby bar. The immersive rugby viewing experience paired with visual excitement created an electric atmosphere that is hard to beat.

As I had my pint of Guinness, I couldn’t help but admire how these items connected fans to the sport's history. Enjoying a match surrounded by such stories deepened my appreciation for rugby and this bar.

If you find yourself in New York City and looking for a place to immerse in rugby, look no further than Pig n Whistle. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the experience at Pig n Whistle will surely create lasting memories and leave you eager for the next match day. So, grab your friends, head to this incredible bar, and join the excitement of rugby in an unforgettable setting!

P.S. I didn't get a chance to try the food here, but the Irish Mac n Cheese bites were calling my name...I'll be back for you someday 🤣

I will always appreciate when rugby is thrown into a menu 🤣