Troy Spotlight: Ryan’s Wake

Ryan’s Wake Public House is a beloved fixture in Troy, New York, known for its lively Irish pub atmosphere, riverfront location, and a deep commitment to its community.

Here is a comprehensive look at what makes Ryan’s Wake unique, its history, menu highlights, customer feedback, and essential information.

What Makes It Unique

Ryan’s Wake distinguishes itself through a few key features:

• Riverfront Location and Outdoor Space: Located on River Street, the pub offers a great view and has expanded to include an inviting outdoor deck and alfresco seating, making it a popular spot for patrons to enjoy drinks and food by the river.
• The “Night of the Walking Red” Event: Ryan’s Wake is the long-time host of the “Night of the Walking Red,” an annual gathering of natural redheads organized by the League of Extraordinary Red Heads. Troy was even proclaimed “Ginger City, USA” in 2014, and the event, which includes the “Toast of The Coppertops” with a seasonal pumpkin ale, has become a significant and well-known tradition for the pub and the city.
• Community Involvement: The pub, whose representative is Chris Ryan, is noted for its commitment to the local community, including its support for charitable causes through a donation request process.

History and Significant Events

While specific founding details are not immediately public, Ryan’s Wake has established itself as Troy’s “hometown pub.” It serves as a central social hub, often hosting community events and being a member of the local Chamber of Commerce.

Significant Events:

• “Night of the Walking Red” (Annual): This event is perhaps the pub’s most famous tradition. Hundreds of natural redheads from across the country gather annually in October for this festive meeting.
• “Wake Up Wednesdays” (Past Event Series): The pub has hosted free summer concert series, like “Wake Up Wednesdays,” featuring live local music.
• Specialty Club Host: It has served as a venue for unique local events, such as the “Ember & Elixir Club,” which features live music, hand-picked whiskeys, pub fare, and cigars.

Menu Highlights and Customer Feedback

Ryan’s Wake offers a menu of delicious pub fare with a nod to authentic Irish cuisine and American favorites.

• Menu Items: The menu includes classic Irish dishes like Shepherd’s Pie, alongside American staples like burgers and fries. One item that has received specific attention is the Reuben sandwich, which has been praised for its juicy, perfectly cooked corned beef.
• Extensive Beer Selection: The pub is well-known for its wide array of drinks, boasting an extensive selection of 15 beers on draft, including a mix of local and traditional Irish brews like Guinness Draught and Harp Lager.
• Customer Feedback: Patrons consistently praise the pub’s:
  • Ambiance: Described as a lively Irish Pub with a cozy, casual atmosphere.
  • Outdoor Seating: Reviewers highlight the fantastic view and the appeal of the spacious outdoor/alfresco seating.
  • Service and Staff: The staff, ambiance, and service are frequently mentioned for exceeding expectations.

Essential Information

Social Media Links:

You can follow Ryan’s Wake on:

• Twitter (Link available on their site)
• Facebook (Link available on their site)
• Instagram (Link available on their site)