Profile

When founding owners Peter Walsh and David Hunt opened Coogan's Restaurant in 1985, the surrounding area of Washington Heights was best known for having the city’s highest homicide rate. Undeterred, they created a safe haven, attracting politicians, ballplayers, police, firefighters, neighborhood denizens, and physicians and staff from nearby Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. The ambiance is that of an Irish saloon: Exposed brick, kelly green walls, polished wood floors, and countless autographed photos of athletes and politicos, like Bill and Hillary Clinton, who have eaten on premises. The menu is classic American comfort food like burgers, salads, sandwiches, steaks, and chops, with homey sides like mashed potatoes and creamed spinach. Heaps of tender, fried calamari are paired with a mild marinara dip, as well as a smoky chipotle mayonnaise that packs a subtly piquant punch. BBQ ribs, slathered in a tangy sauce, are moist and flavorful. Italian-American favorites like shrimp scampi, chicken piccata, and about a half-dozen pastas, add ethnic flair. In addition, month-long promotions throughout the year feature Irish, German, Mexican, Dominican, and Cajun specialties. The four-sided bar, which serves cocktails, wine and about 20 bottled and draft beers, attracts a friendly, multi-culti crowd, and is open until 3 a.m. (the kitchen closes at midnight). — Michael Anstendig

Rest up those vocal cords for English and Spanish language karaoke on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday nights.

Quarter rack of babyback ribs, $16.95