Throughout the 90’s, I parked myself on many barstools across the plethora of Upper East Side (UES) pubs. One of my favorite, and cherished, was this neighborhood joint tucked away on East 85th Street called Ryan’s Daughter. It was more than just an Irish pub—it was, and still is, an Upper East Side institution. It has long been a gathering place where community and history blend seamlessly with the clink of pint glasses, shots and the hum of laughter. I recently had a chance to speak with one of the current owners, Jim Gerding, about one of my favorite haunts, why it’s still so popular and what he likes to do outside of work.
According to Jim, Ryan’s Daughter is built on something more enduring: tradition. The exposed brick walls, vintage photographs, and polished wooden bar tell stories of old New York. Regulars swap tales with newcomers. In other words, Ryan’s Daughter is about the people. It has hosted countless celebrations, farewells, first dates, and friendships forged over late-night conversations. During blackouts and snowstorms, it has been a refuge, its doors always open to those in need of warmth and a strong drink.
While many classic pubs have disappeared, replaced by high-end lounges and luxury condos, this bar remains—a testament to the city’s deep Irish roots and the power of a true neighborhood gathering place.
In the spirit of Jim’s conversation with me, there is one immutable fact that I found: Like many of our cherished and beloved pubs, in a city that never stops moving, Ryan’s Daughter isn’t just a place to drink—it’s a place to belong. And that’s worth more than gold.
Jim: I became an owner in 2010, after bartending for my predecessor, Stoney, since 1999. When we took over, I also had a partner, Mick Mellamphy. Mick and I worked together, and Stoney came to us to take over the business. Mick was the best behind the stick and made my job pretty easy. He just understood the essential role that bartending served.
Something more than just getting the drink out. It was the personality and dedication. But to us, RD was such a very special place, especially for me. I met my now wife of 20 years here, made many friendships that have withstood the test of time; and have some of the most incredible memories.
NYLM: As RD and the many institutions like it have kept the UES going for generations, you are an essential part of that neighborhood. What is your favorite thing to do on the UES outside of RD?
Jim: It has always been the pub culture for me. Of course, our proximity to Central Park and the river is a great boon for UES residents. I really enjoy that there are so many laid back pubs, bars and taverns around the neighborhood. I don’t know if it was because of some imagined vision I had of New York before moving here, but I always liked that we meet up in these places. Many of us live in small walk-up apartments, but we come out together to watch the big events or simply catch up on the latest events in each other’s lives. And then something always happens, you meet someone new. In a space and time where we are constantly being pulled to and from so many different things, doing nothing while comfortably sipping a pint with friends - still the best way I know.
NYLM: So, we know how much you love RD, and the overall pub scene on the UES, but what’s your favorite activity outside of that? How do you find release?
Jim: Right now, my activities outside of work are mostly dictated by those of my family, particularly my son, Henry. Right now, he loves the New York Rangers and has taken a deep dive into professional hockey in general. It’s been a bit of a rough year for the Rangers, but we’ve still managed to have a good time. New York is full of ups and downs.
Spoken like a true Upper East Sider! To learn more about Ryan’s Daughter, please visit RyansDaughter.nyc