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In NYC, there are two kinds of Irish pubs: those that try too hard, and those that try really hard to look like they're not trying at all. The truly effortless Mr. Dennehy's earned a slot in a Guinness commercial without taking either approach. At this tidy restaurant and pub, owner Donal Dennehy (of Cork, Ireland) hasn't bothered with the usual Irish-bar distractions. There are no dart boards, no billiards, no shamrocked paeans to the joys of a pint. Instead, this relaxed spot strips it down to the basics—a pub-house façade, exposed brick walls, bartenders with the gift of gab and a brogue, and a broad array of whiskeys and beers. In between games, the bar's own soccer-league can be found catching up on world cup status on one of nine plasma-screen TVs. An outdoor café, overlooking Seventh Avenue and serving the pub's full menu, draws a mellow crowd in the warmer months. — Maria Lin