Manhattan Jazz Clubs
 

FEATURED VENUE
Big Apple Jazz / EZ's Woodshed
(212) 283-JAZZ (5299)
2236 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd.  (7th Ave)
(131st / 132nd)
Jazz from 2PM - no cover and no minimum. Up to 3 bands and 8 sets daily. EZ's Woodshed is our own establishment in the back of the Big Apple Jazz Boutique and Cafe, located down the street from the legendary "Corner," where Harlem's mystical Tree of Hope once stood.  EZ's is a "Day Club," that offers you an opportunity to hear great local jazz during the daytime.  Musicians show up to sit in or promote their night gigs and cd's.  You may come by when a living legend stops by to play or hang out.  Consider this your jazz home away from home.  The store carries all the essential cd's that were recorded live in local New York clubs, and the largest selections of independent cd's by currently gigging NY musicians.  If you're looking for the next Miles, Mingus and Monk, or Billie, Betty, and Ella, all roads lead to EZ's Woodshed.  We also carry a wonderful selection of local jazz-themed art in our gallery and less expensive framed or rolled posters of vintage concerts from NY's legendary clubs and performers.  And you have to try our Bebop Coffee, Swing Potato Pie and other pastry delights.  No cover charge. Great hand-crafted wood design by master woodworkers: Michael T. Stevens and Matthew Erickson.  Open daily from 12:00 - 8:30.  Friday and Saturday nights we have EZ's Evenings, with sets from 8:30PM - 11:00PM for a small cover charge and no minimum.  While you're here, don't forget to check out Chris Wallace's remarkable hand-carved EZ's Woodshed sign, and Nina and Dizzy portraits in wood. EZ's Woodshed on YouTube.

55 Bar
(212) 929-9883
55 Christopher St. (Seventh Ave. So. / Waverly Place)
Leni and Mike Stern hold court, also Sweet Georgia Brown, Billy Bang and Wayne Krantz. $3 cover and 2 drink min. Weeknight shows begin at 9:30 pm.  Early show Friday and Saturday are from 6:00 - 9:30 pm.  Friday and Saturday late shows begin at 10:00 pm.  Get there early because the club is small and Mike Stern et al packs them in.  Expect a $15 cover on Mike Stern nights, but that includes 2 drinks.  THE "NEW SET" SERIES AT THE 55: They will be presenting new artists and groups with a venue for their music. All shows will begin at 8:00PM for one set and will there will be no music charge.
For more information see: Big Apple Jazz 55 Bar Club Profile by Gordon Polatnick

5C Jazz Café
(212) 477-5993
68 Ave. C   (southeast corner of 5th St.)
A living example of Bruce Morris' vision was the creation, with Trudy Silver, of the 5C Cultural Center. A performance venue for poetry, music and theater, 5C features emerging artists as well as great masters. 5C also features a display of exquisite photographs of musicians, out of print books, rare records, independent labeled CD's, cassette tapes and other cultural artifacts. The 5C Cultural Center features accomplished piano jazz soloists among their offerings: 5 - 7 PM in their smoke and alcohol free environment. Artists include: Charles Gayle, Andrew Bemkey, Arthur Sterling and Charles Eubanks. Call ahead for schedule. A modest cafe with reasonable prices completes the picture. 5C is a dream come true for die hard fans of East Village jazz history and jazz lovers alike. $5.00 cover charge during performances.

The Allen Room
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Columbus Circle
60th Street at Broadway
212 258-9800 (general information)
212 721-6500 (City Charge tickets)

This wonderful new amphitheater, boasts a soaring 50-foot glass wall overlooking Columbus Circle and Central Park.  Check their website for updated schedule information.

American Legion Post #398
(212) 283-9701
248 W. 132nd St.
(7th / 8th)
The free Sunday evening jam session begins 7:00 P.M. until the hall closes at midnight. The kitchen serves up a heaping plateful of reasonably priced and delicious soul food.   And the warm weather months are enjoyed on a beautiful back patio.  Seleno Clarke keeps the spirit of defunct jazz club, La Famille, alive with his tasteful licks on Hammond B-3 organ and an international trio of sidemen help anchor the weekly jam session.  The drink prices are by far the best in town, and the familial atmosphere is even better than that.  Jazz music has been added on Thursday nights with a midweek jam session hosted by Conga player, Kenny Cherry Williams from 8-midnight.  Note:  You are required to sign a guest book as you enter, but there is never a cover charge or minimum.  Seating is very limited so early arrivals are rewarded - if you do take a table please do support the venue by ordering something from the bar or kitchen.  If you're a musician be prepared to sit in.

American Museum of Natural History
(212) 769-5100
On 81st St. off Central Park West (Hayden Planetarium)
Jazz is now offered only the first Friday of the month under the Sphere at the Rose Center for Earth and Space (some will know it as the Hayden Planetarium).  There are two sets monthly (5:45 / 7:15 PM) by highly regarded musicians such as Jimmy Heath, Lou Donaldson, Steve Turre, and David "Fathead" Newman and their quartets and quintets.  The show admission is included with museum price (suggested donation), and drinks and tapas are available.  This is the early Friday show to make, especially if you haven't been to the complex before -- it will surely impress even the most jaded New Yorker.

Andalucia Café Tapas Bar and Gallery
(212) 736-9411
533 Ninth Avenue
(39th / 40th)
Great jazz 7 nights a week and currently, No Cover Charge. Sets from 9pm-1am. You'll come for the jazz and come back for the whole enchilada.
 

Anyway Cafe
(212) 533-3412
34 East 2nd Street (Corner of 2nd Ave)
This little bistro (seats about 35) is my favorite new find -- even though it's been open since the late 90's. The Russian/French menu is filled with surprises that tasted like heaven at half the price.  And they squeeze in live music that is intimate and engaging: Sunday: Experimental Jazz and poetry by wonderful Paeng and her cello fellow.  Monday: The night of an open microphone: all kinds of music are welcomed. Tuesday: Jazz guitar virtuoso, Andrey Ryabov. Wednesday: Bossa Nova and good old rock'n'roll by Eric Nicholas. Thursday: Outstanding and unforgettable Grace Garland. The night of jazz madness. Friday: Mellow jazz tones by beautiful Susan Tobocman. Saturday: Extraordinary Grace Garland. Every other Saturday: Japanese beauty Naoko Honda.  Every other Sunday: Some country music by songwriter Amanda and her friends.

Arthur's Tavern
(212) 675-6879
57 Grove Street (NW corner of Grove and 7th Ave. So.)
Since 1937.  Longest continually run jazz club in NYC.  No cover charge.  Jazz: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Pay close attention to Eri Yamamoto's trio burning up the cozy stage on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.  Dixieland jazz: 8 p.m. - 11 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays. Blues and R&B from 9 p.m. - 3 a.m. from Tuesday through Saturday; and 11 p.m. - 3 a.m. on Sunday and Monday.   The Creole Cooking Jazz Band, Grove Street Stompers and Sweet Georgia Brown have been playing here weekly forever, and for good reason: they rock the house.

Arturo's
(212) 677-3820
106 West Houston St. (Corner of Thompson St.)
Live jazz hits seven days a week in this hectic and aromatic coal oven pizza shrine.  Here for over 40 years on the borderline between the Village and SoHo.   Jimmy Young is enshrined behind his piano on weekends for as long as anyone can remember anchoring his loosely swinging quartet.  Jazz sets are Fri - Sat: 9-2. Sun - Thurs: 7-12.  No cover.  Great food.

Bacchus Room @ Bona Fides Restaurant
(212) 777-2840
60 2nd Ave (3rd / 4th Sts.)
Inexpensive Italian restaurant with quality NYC jazz nightly. No reason not to check it out and see for yourself. Sets at 8, 9:30, and 11 pm. No cover charge, two drink minimum.

Bar Next Door
(La Lanterna Caffe)
(212) 529-5945
129 MacDougal St.  (W3rd / W4th)
Jazz 7 nights a week where it belongs on old school, funky MacDougal Street, Greenwich Village, USA: I can't get over how great this club is, and how well it fits that fading niche of romantic, intimate, subterranean, beautiful, reasonable, friendly, and above all, a place to hear great jazz.  The Bar Next Door is too good to be true.
Sundays - Peter Mazza Duo
Mondays - Vocalist featured
Tuesdays - Joel Frahm Trio
Wednesdays - Jonathan Kreisberg Trio
Thursdays - Wil Vinson Trio
Sun.-Thurs.: $8 + one drink min. Set times: 8-11:30pm
Fri. & Sat.: $8 per set + one drink min. Set times: 9 & 11:15
Full Premium Bar, Dining Until 2AM. Check Calendar for current schedule. For that fading Village vibe, make sure that stop in for an espresso next door at the La Lanterna Caffe while tooling around the city.

Big Apple Jazz / EZ's Woodshed
(212) 283-JAZZ (5299)
2236 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd.  (7th Ave)
(131st / 132nd)
Open 7 days a week -  Jazz from 2PM - no cover and no minimum. Up to 3 bands and 8 sets daily. EZ's Woodshed is our own establishment in the back of the Big Apple Jazz Boutique and Cafe, located down the street from the legendary "Corner," where Harlem's mystical Tree of Hope once stood.  EZ's is a "Day Club," that offers you an opportunity to hear great local jazz during the daytime.  Musicians show up to sit in or promote their night gigs and cd's.  You may come by when a living legend stops by to play or hang out.  Consider this your jazz home away from home.  The store carries all the essential cd's that were recorded live in local New York clubs, and the largest selections of independent cd's by currently gigging NY musicians.  If you're looking for the next Miles, Mingus and Monk, or Billie, Betty, and Bobbi, all roads lead to EZ's Woodshed.  We also carry a wonderful selection of local jazz-themed art in our gallery and less expensive framed or rolled posters of vintage concerts from NY's legendary clubs and performers.  And you have to try our Bebop Coffee, Swing Potato Pie and other pastry delights.  No cover charge. Great hand-crafted wood design by master woodworkers: Michael T. Stevens and Matthew Erickson.  Open daily from 10:30 - 8:30.  Friday and Saturday nights we have EZ's Evenings, with sets from 8:30PM - 11:00PM for a small cover charge and no minimum.  While you're here, don't forget to check out Chris Wallace's remarkable hand-carved EZ's Woodshed sign, and Nina and Dizzy portraits in wood.

Birdland
(212) 581-3080
315 W. 44th St. (8th / 9th Aves.)
All show times: 9:00 and 11:00 P.M. (with early 5:30 tribute sets added to the Tues. and Fri. schedules, and duets and trios on Wed., Thurs., and Sat.).  Music charge varies, $20-35.  There is a $10 food/drink minimum per person at the tables.  At the bar, the music charge includes one drink.  Sundays belong to Arturo O'Farrill’s Afro-Cuban Jazz Big Band, Mondays have been reserved for the Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra featuring Lew Tabackin for the later sets.  Tuesdays typically go to The Famous Duke Ellington Orchestra directed by Paul Mercer Ellington & Jack Jeffers with early sets at 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. showcasing David Ostwald's Louis Armstrong Centennial Band.  From Wednesday - Saturday expect the best in local and internationally touring artists.  Every Friday from 5:30 - 7:30pm - Lew Anderson's All American Big Band swings the pre-theater crowd.  All will enjoy the excellent sightlines to the stage.  NOTE: Birdland is located just west of the theater district.  If patrons show their Broadway ticket stubs to Birdland after the theater they are welcome to the 11:00 PM set with no cover,  just a $10 minimum from Sunday thru Thursday.  Thursday happy hour see the wonderful Emiko Hayashi Trio -- no cover charge!

Blue Fin
at W Hotel
(212) 918-1400
1567 Broadway (46th / 47th Streets)
"To create this two-story, 400-seat dining spectacle in the epicenter of the most exciting city in the world, design firm Yabu Pushelberg provided such original features as an expansive sparkling wall of highly polished mirror, glowing resin tables, and a floating staircase that leads to a live jazz club upstairs." ~from their website. It's as slick as it sounds. ~GP

Blue Note
(212) 475-8592
131 W. Third St. (6th Ave./ MacDougal Street)
Opened in 1981, the Blue Note is arguably the world's most popular jazz club.  World renown talent take the stage for six day runs. Monday nights feature a half price bargain to see a one off show by younger upstarts or near legends.  Recent Mondays featured Hilton Ruiz, Dewey Redman, and Claudio Roditi and their quartets.  Sets generally start at 8:00 and 10:30.  Prices are $25-$40 for table reservations + minimum, or $10-$30 cover at the bar. There is $5.00 cover charge for the Friday and Saturday late night jam sessions with Charles Blenzig & Friends.

Blue Water Grill
(212) 675-9500
31 Union Square West  (Corner West 16th St.)
Fine restaurant with live jazz booked for downstairs dining area.  Call for reservations.   No cover, but meals are high end.  Sunday Jazz Brunch begins at 10:30am, dinner is served thru 12:30am midnight.  Go to website and choose music calendar -- then select Blue Water Grill.

(Brooklyn Clubs: bottom of page)

Cachaça
(212) 388-9099
35 West 8th Street
(at MacDougal)
The latest and greatest addition to 8th Street since Jimi Hendrix opened his studio across the street. Great live jazz in a great location. Watch out for the parking regulations on 8th street late at night. Cover charge $10 - $20.
 

Cafe Creole RIP 2004 --- Moved uptown to Perks
(212) 475-4132
99 MacDougal St.   (W. 3rd / Bleecker)
A new addition to the subterranean MacDougal Street music scene with Cajun and Caribbean cuisine and jazz served up Tuesday thru Sunday from 6:00-2:00 and Mondays from 9-2.  No cover.  No website, so call for schedule.

 

The Cajun -- RIP as of July 30, 2006 - after 28 years in business
(212) 691-6174
129 Eighth Ave. (16th / 17th Streets)
Dixieland and swing nightly 8 - 11 as a backdrop to a New Orleans dining experience. 
Monday: Kevin Dorn's Traditional Jazz Collective
New to the Cajun - 8:00 - ll:00 pm
Tuesday: Stanley's Washboard Kings
Dixieland Music - 8:00 - ll:00 pm
Wednesday: Canal Street Dixieland Jazz & Blues Band
Featuring Authentic New Orleans Jazz - 8:00 - ll:00 pm
Thursday: The Manhattan Ragtime Orchestra
Conducted by Orange Kellin - Radical Pop Music from the Ragtime Era - 8:00 - ll:00 pm
Friday: Johnny Tupelo & The Sidekicks
1950's Pop, Rock & Country - 8:00 - 11:30 pm
Saturday: The Red Onion Jazz Band
Featuring New Atlantic Jazz - 8:30 pm - Midnight
Sunday: Kevin Blancq's Crescent City Trio
New to The Cajun - 7:30 - 10:30 pm
The Cajun is a wonderful "change of pace" jazz location in Manhattan, which consistently tips its hat to the cradle of jazz.  If you are a Trad. Jazz fan or are deciding on a night of affordable dinner and jazz with guests who are timid about jazz in general, then The Cajun is the no-brainer choice.  No cover, good Cajun food, and a bar far from the music where conversations are not overwhelmed or intrusive, makes this a great New York City locale.

Chez Suzette
RIP
Closed but may reopen elsewhere.
Stay tuned for updates.
(212) 581-9717
675 Ninth Avenue (46th /47th Streets)
Chez Suzette maintains an especially inclusive policy by featuring a different singer every night. In addition to the ever-rotating schedule of singers, Chez features Trudi Mann's open mic on Wednesday evening - 8:30pm - 12 am (sign in starts at 8pm) and Sunday brunch: 1pm - 5pm (sign in starts at Noon).  Please bring two copies of your music for piano and bass. On most Fridays at 9:00 Chez's Musical Director/Vocalist, Melody Breyer-Grell, hosts a singer's Salon with the Ellen Starr trio.  NO COVER - $11 minimum will get you great French meals and/or drinks.   "Chez Suzette is a serious little bistro; a remnant of what was once a neighborhood of little French places." Bryan Miller, New York Times

Cleopatra’s Needle
(212) 769-6969
2485 Broadway     (92nd / 93rd)
(W. 92nd / W. 93rd)
Music from 8 pm to 4 am.  No cover.  $10. min. per set.  Eclectic Mediterranean menu, big screen sports and weekly showcases, featuring Eric Lewis Trio on Mondays and Julius Tolentino on Tuesdays from 8pm - 1. And nightly jams Wednesday thru Saturday 1am - 3:30am. Jazz vocalists open mic every Sunday 2 to 6pm. Chances are you will see top shelf national and international jazz giants find their way to a late night jam session here.  Cleo's is recommended as a great neighborhood jazz club with late hours, a great menu, a place to hang out and pay close attention to great jazz or hang back by the bar, and enjoy the company of your friends.  Please call ahead as set times fluctuate throughout the year.

Creole
(212) 876-8838
2167 3rd Ave.  (118th Street)
Great Creole cuisine by way of New Orleans and music nightly from around 8PM - 12AM.  Check their website to find out the cover charges and minimums and the music policy for the night in question.  Expect to find a lively scene with good food, live music in a fine looking Spanish Harlem club.

Detour
(212) 533-6212
349 E. 13th St.     (1st / 2nd Aves.)
RIP Oct. 28, 2006
Detour is the place to go in the East Village to catch Matt Wilson, John Funkhouser, and Adam Klipple for free on their way up.  They are among the talented new breed gigging at this inconspicuous diamond in the rough.  Talk loudly or listen closely, all are welcome.  This is also the only place in the city where we've found the triple threat of Rheingold beer, Zapps potato chips and free jazz.  Sun. - Thurs.: Music starts at 9:00.  Fri. - Sat: Music starts at 9:30.  No cover charge, but 2 drink minimum is informally enforced.    For more information see: Big Apple Jazz Detour Club Profile by Gordon Polatnick
 

Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola
Jazz at Lincoln Center
(212) 258-9595
Columbus Circle
60th Street at Broadway, 5th floor
This is the latest and most ambitious venue to open in NYC in a while.  Your friends at Jazz @ Lincoln Center moved their stages to the new Time Warner Building at Columbus Circle and have added 2 other world class venues (Frederick P. Rose Hall and the Allen Room) to enjoy jazz for all tastes.  Days/Times: 7:30pm, 9:30pm every day of the week, plus 11:30pm Friday and Saturday. There's an 11pm late-night set featuring the best local artists Tuesday through Thursday and after last artist set Friday and Saturday for $10 cover.  Monday nights feature Jazz Stars of Tomorrow.  Reservations are key: $30 cover charge ($10 minimum at tables, $5 minimum at bar),
Mondays: Upstarts!, 7:30 & 9:30pm
Tuesdays-Thursdays: Artist Sets, 7:30 & 9:30pm, After Hours Set 11:00pm
Fridays & Saturdays: Artist Sets, 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30pm, After Hours Set follows last Artist Set
Sundays: Artist Sets, 7:30 & 9:30pm

EZ's Woodshed/Big Apple Jazz
(212) 283-JAZZ (5299)
2236 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd.  (7th Ave)
(131st / 132nd)
Jazz from 2PM - no cover and no minimum. Up to 3 bands and 8 sets daily. EZ's Woodshed is our own establishment in the back of the Big Apple Jazz Boutique and Cafe, located down the street from the legendary "Corner," where Harlem's mystical Tree of Hope once stood.  EZ's is a "Day Club," that offers you an opportunity to hear great local jazz during the daytime.  Musicians show up to sit in or promote their night gigs and cd's.  You may come by when a living legend stops by to play or hang out.  Consider this your jazz home away from home.  The store carries all the essential cd's that were recorded live in local New York clubs, and the largest selections of independent cd's by currently gigging NY musicians.  If you're looking for the next Miles, Mingus and Monk, or Billie, Betty, and Ella, all roads lead to EZ's Woodshed.  We also carry a wonderful selection of local jazz-themed art in our gallery and less expensive framed or rolled posters of vintage concerts from NY's legendary clubs and performers.  And you have to try our Bebop Coffee, Swing Potato Pie and other pastry delights.  No cover charge. Great hand-crafted wood design by master woodworkers: Michael T. Stevens and Matthew Erickson.  Open daily from Noon - 8:30.  Friday and Saturday nights we have EZ's Evenings, with sets from 8:30PM - 11:00PM for a small cover charge and no minimum.  While you're here, don't forget to check out Chris Wallace's remarkable hand-carved EZ's Woodshed sign, and Nina and Dizzy portraits in wood. EZ's Woodshed on YouTube.

Fat Cat
(212) 675-6056
75 Christopher Street    (at 7th Ave. South)
(note: reopened in summer 2007)
Fat Cat is back.  2 or 3 shows 7 nights a week,  jam sessions run until closing (4 AM) nightly.  This club is "around the corner pocket" from its once defunct now reopened big brother, Smalls, and features billiards and jazz (sold separately).  Keep track of their schedule by checking their website and calling their voicemail.  The jazz is great, the vibe is college clubroom cool or Village bohemian, and nobody is pushing you to keep drinking if you just want to hang out all night.

Fez under Time Café
RIP March 2005
(212) 533-2680
380 Lafayette St.     (at Great Jones Street)
Every Thursday Night: Mingus Big Band.  Doors Open at 8:30 & 11 pm with sets at 9:30 & 11:30.  Cover: $18. Late show is $10 for students with valid ID.  Mingus Big Band features the bad boys of New York's big band players.

Garage
(212) 645-0600
99 7th Ave. So    (Just South of W 4th St.)
A funky and spacious two-tiered restaurant with a gregarious and expansive oyster bar / drinks bar and live jazz nightly.  Starting as early as 8:00 PM weeknights and 5:45 Fridays and Saturdays, Garage features aspiring jazz groups and living legends, often fronted by a vocalist.  No cover.  Plenty of outdoor seating.  Jazz brunch on Saturdays and Sundays for $12.00 at 12:00 noon.  Check schedule for artists such as Yardena, Joel Forrester's People Like Us, Sam Ulano, David Coss Trio, and don't miss the Howard Williams Jazz Orchestra on Mondays.

The Greenroom  RIP
(646) 345-2229
765 Sixth Avenue  (25th / 26th Streets)
This could be the most charming and unexpected jazz room in NY. Tucked in the midst of Chelsea's floral district (thus the name), The Greenroom is part cafe and part plant shop. Call ahead for current jazz schedule. No cover. Nice Bar. Food Served. Weekend jazz brunch as well as evening jazz.  Great neighborhood/non-touristy vibe.

Guggenheim Museum
(212) 423-3500
1071 Fifth Avenue (at 89th Street)
Ed. note: Check website to see if live music program is still on...
Fridays and Saturdays  5 - 8 PM.  Worldbeat jazz program. After viewing the exhibits and collections, relax with a cocktail in the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed rotunda and enjoy music that reflects both classic jazz and international musical influences. Museum tickets: Adults $12; Students and Seniors (with valid ID) $8; Children under 12 Free; Members Free.

Il Valentino
at the Sutton Hotel
(212) 355-0001
330 E. 56th St.   (1st / 2nd Aves)
Northern Italian cuisine is served in this restaurant within a hotel that features 82 year old clarinetist Sol Yaged and his band: Performing every week, Tuesday through Sunday night, 7 pm to 11 pm. "Since 2001 he has been playing at Il Valentino, which is in the Hotel Sutton and was once a club run by the bandleader Eddie Condon. For a handful of diners each night Mr. Yaged turns back time, playing the same songs the same way he did a half-century ago. This is the Sol Yaged who hired the saxophonist Coleman Hawkins and the drummer Cozy Cole as sidemen and who wrote music for the film "The Benny Goodman Story," teaching Steve Allen to play the clarinet for the title role. Even now Mr. Yaged routinely plays into the wee hours...His usual group is Rick Stone on the guitar and Bob Arkin (the younger brother of the actor Alan Arkin) on bass, but he often invites friends to sit in." ~By COREY KILGANNON (NYT)

Iridium
(212) 582-2121
1650 Broadway (at 51st St)

Top internationally known artists often play six day runs, and Les Paul Trio every Monday.  Keep in touch with Iridium for their proactive booking policy which adds many tributes and unusually compelling pairings throughout the year.   Set Times at 8:00 pm, 10:00 pm and an added third set on Friday and Saturday at 11:30. Minimum cover charge: $22.50 up to $35, with a $10 drink minimum.  The Sunday gospel jazz brunch is an all inclusive, all you can eat buffet for $21.95 hosted by BISHOP NATHANIEL TOWNSLEY, JR. AND THE GOSPEL JUBILEE.   Just Added: THE CLASSIC NIGHTCLUB HOUR -- Thurs-Fri-Sun $25 Music Charge,  $10 Minimum.  Doors open 6:00 PM Showtime 7:00-8:00 PM.  The Mingus Big Band on Tuesdays is a new midweek draw. And every Wednesday Scott Barbarino & The Cosmopolitans Variety Hour  7PM. $15 cover and a $15 food/drink minimum ($10 - MAC members).

Jazz Gallery
(212) 242-1063
290 Hudson St.     (Corner of Spring)
A second floor jazz art and artist showcase.  Call ahead for events.  Most nights sets begin at 9:00 and 10:30 for a $10 cover charge.  Monday's feature Frank Lacy's 14 Piece "Vibe Tribe." A recent series of concerts features duo performances of four hands on one piano.  This and other Jazz Gallery performance series are funded in part by a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts, Presenting Program.   Also featured is a Sunday series of concerts on the river aboard the historic ferry "Yankee" moored at Pier 25 directly at the foot of North Moore Street.

Jazz Mobile
(212) 866-3616
A moveable fiesta
Call the above number to see who's on...for now the web page is gone.  Jazz Mobile offers free summer concerts in NYC neighborhoods Monday through Friday and around historic landmarks (such as Grant's Tomb every Wednesday). The quality and renown of the players is invariably high.  This is Jazz Mobile's 4th decade and it's still New York's best kept secret.  It doesn't get more real than this.  Even with this notice, you will see 99% New Yorkers at these gigs, although visitors are more than welcome.

Jazz Standard
Blue Smoke
(212) 576-2232
116 E 27th St.     (Park / Lexington)
Blue Smoke is the barbecue restaurant on the ground level, and the Jazz Standard is below featuring live jazz music. JS is a nicely appointed basement club with 130 seats and improved sightlines and more room since their recent renovation. Live jazz 7 days, and sometimes a blues act like Lucky Peterson is tossed into the mix. Show times are 7:30 & 9:30 pm, plus additional set from 11:30 till 1AM on weekends. Cover charge varies from $15-$30. There is no barbecue and beverage minimum, and the kitchen stays open until 1am. If the second set is not sold out, patrons may stay for half price.

Jesse's Place
(212) 795-4168
812 W. 181st Street (Corner of Pinehurst)
Check for current music schedule.
Jesse's is a bar/restaurant/lounge with live jazz Tuesday's 10pm-2am No Cover.  The Funktet:  David Gibson, Rick Germanson, Adam Small, Al Street, and Willard Dyson. One block from the A train, menu items from the Mediterranean stay below $15.00; good neighborhood vibe.  Keep it alive by feeding the tip bucket, or the musicians.

Jules Bistro
(212) 477-5560
65 St. Marks Pl. (8th St.)    (1st / 2nd Aves.)
A friendly, and casual French bistro with some outdoor seating, great food and abundant wine selection, and a  deep love of jazz.   Jazz nightly starting at 9:00 on weekdays and 11:00 PM on weekends.  Wednesday jam with a Brazilian vibe.  No cover.  Jean Michel Pilc and other noteworthy artists have performed here. Sunday jazz brunch starts at 12:00 and goes till 3:00.  If you're a fan of good wine and jazz or mussels and french fries with jazz, you'll love the vibe.

K’av’eh’az   RIP
MOVED to CHELSEA
(212) 343-0612
37 West 26th   (Broadway / 6th Aves.)
NOTE: K'av'eh'az has closed its SoHo location for good this June 30th and has moved to a new and improved location in Chelsea: 37 West 26th Street between Broadway and 6th Aves.
A Euro-styled coffee house and art gallery in Chelsea that has jazz nightly and starting in the afternoon on weekends. They feature straight ahead and vocal artists as well as Latin jazz. Weekly features: flamenco guitar (Sundays from 4pm-7pm). An open blues jam takes place Mondays 9pm-12am. Tuesdays, 8pm-12am "Lullabies of Birdland" - Female Jazz Vocalists. $8 minimum on food or drink. If you are in Chelsea and need to relax in a wide open space with an extensive coffee and tea selection, and great live music, I can think of no better place than K'av'eh'az.

Knickerbocker Bar and Grill
(212) 228-8490
33 University Place (at 9th St.)
Opened in 1978.  A restaurant/bar -- specializing in gigantic steaks -- and as comfortable as a well lit, neighborhood watering hole.  Jazz music is presented Wed. through Sat., beginning 9:45 PM for only a $4 - $5.00 cover charge. Knickerbockers often features legends with stars as bright as Ron Carter, Sir Roland Hanna, Junior Mance, Mulgrew Miller, Billy Drummond, Earl May, Judy Carmichael, Christian McBride, and Hilton Ruiz. This is the last hold out in an area that was once a Golden Triangle of informal jazz haunts including the venues: The Village Gate, Bradley's and The Cookery.  To its credit, this is not a hip place, and it does not offer anything in the way of show biz presentation.  The only way a visitor off the street would know that they are witnessing jazz legends performing at arm's length, is to listen closely to the unerringly high quality of music.

Knitting Factory
(212) 219-3006
74 Leonard St. (Broadway / Church St.)
This is the granddaddy long legs of "downtown jazz" venues -- featuring a genre bending blend of envelope pushing and utterly deserving acts on several intimate stages throughout the deceptively vast complex. There are too many shows to mention so just go to their web site calendar or call them directly to attain schedule and ticket information.

Le Jazz Au Bar: RIP
(212) 308-9455
41 E.58th   (Park / Madison)
This is one of the big players on the upscale (read: expensive but usually well worth it) NYC scene. Recent vocalists include Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kevin Mahogany Ruth Brown, and Marlena Shaw. Expect cover charges to hover around $35.
 

The Lenox Lounge
(212) 427-0253
288 Lenox Ave.   (124th  -125th St.)
Recently renovated to its 1930's art deco splendor. The Zebra Room in back with its baby grand piano, tiled floors and leather banqueted booths is one of the finest looking jazz spaces in town. Local jazz legends booked on weekends with a $20 cover charge and 1 drink minimum per set. The 3 Sets are 9:00, 10:30 and 12:00.  $10 cover and 2 drink minimum for Monday night jam session with Patience Higgins and the Sugar Hill Jazz Quartet who start the first set at 9:30, with the jam following and heating up till 2:30 AM.   Call ahead for Tuesday bookings. Wednesday features the remarkable Nathan and Max Lucas quartet (2 drink minimum/no cover) from 6:30-11:00. There is no cover for Thursday Blues and R & B sets, but there is a 2 drink minimum – music from 8:00-12:00.  Sundays vocal jam session gets cooking at 7:00 PM and and goes till 11:00 PM, carrying a $10.00 cover charge and 2 drink minimum.  Southern style cooking from Tuesday thru Sunday -- restaurant serving from 5:00 PM.

Louis 649
(212) 673-1190
649 E. 9th St.   (Ave B / Ave C)
An East Village cafe/wine bar paying homage to Armstrong with live jazz solo piano on Tuesdays, piano trios featured every Wednesday and Thursday, and a Trombone/bass duo on Sundays. Performances are 9 -11:30.  Pre-recorded jazz playing all other times. 

Marie's Jazz Bar And Performance Center For The Arts
(212) 944-7005
51 West 46th Street
(5th / 6th)
Expect live jazz bands 5 nights a week, but not Wednesdays nor Sundays. Internationally recognized jazz musicians find their way to Maries including Bob Cranshaw, John Colianni, Dave Hopkins, Harvie S., Kenny Werner, Billy Drewes, Tony Marino, Jamey Haddad, and Dave Schnitter.  About $10 cover for bands. Call for updated information. Check out Monday night jam session with Art Lillard .

Metronome: Jazz Lounge
(212) 505-7400
915 Broadway (Corner of 21st St.)
No longer a jazz venue.

Mo'Bay
(212) 876-9300
17 W. 125th Street
( 5th / Lenox)
Jazz from 8:30 - 12:00 on Tuesdays through Sundays, in the lounge of this fine Jamaican restaurant newly opened in Harlem.   Gospel brunches from 11 - 5 on Sundays and dinner music after that till 10PM.  Please check their website for menus and entertainment updates.  The food is so good and the atmosphere is so lively, you'll have a great time every time.

Minton’s Playhouse:  Uptown Lounge
(212) 864-8346
210 W 118th Street
(7th / St. Nicholas Ave.)

RE-OPENING DAY HAS COME - May 19, 2006.  There will be jazz 7 nights a week in the style of the proprietor's last foray into uptown jazz: St. Nick's Pub.  St. Nick's Pub is still going strong up on 149th Street (see listing below), but patrons wishing to revisit the heyday can try finding it at Minton's Playhouse, where they will see weekly performances by Bill Saxton, Eli Fontaine, Gerald Hayes, Wayne Escoferey, Patience Higgins and tap dancer, Omar Edwards, along with their groups.  Sunday though Tuesday will have no cover charge. Wednesday – Saturday: $10 Cover/ 2 Drink minimum.  Show times: Sunday Starting at 9PM.  Monday-Friday starting at 10PM.  Seating First Come First Served -- Bar opens at 3PM.  NOTE: Big Apple Jazz is running a Harlem tour including Minton's Playhouse and other hidden jazz haunts that continue to excite audiences in ways that downtown clubs have been trying to emulate for the past 80 years.  Call Gordon for tour reservations and details: 212 283-JAZZ. and visit our Tour Page.

Orbit Restaurant and Bar
(212) 348-7818
2257 1st Avenue (E. 116th Street)

"A Different Planet Lands in East Harlem."  Call ahead for current jazz policy.  The room is great with a warm vibe and great food. 

Parlor Entertainment
(212) 781-6595
555 Edgecombe Ave, #3F (Corner of 160th St.)
This is the essence of Harlem jazz -- a rite of passage for all jazz fans and musicians alike.  Get buzzed up to Apt. #3F,  Marjorie and Rudel welcome you into their home every! Saturday and Sunday afternoon at 4:00 sharp to enjoy two sets of standards and original music provided by a rotating roster of jazz legends and local talent.  Marjorie's living room is absolutely the warmest, most spirited 200 square feet in all New York.  No cover; tip jar; free salad and punch.  Saturdays show has an emphasis on singers, and is less crowded. - Read an online article. 

Porters
(212) 229-2878
216 Seventh Avenue (22nd / 23rd St.)
Porters is the latest neighborhood jazz club/restaurant to open in Chelsea in Manhattan's vibrant Westside community.  Here you can enjoy a great meal and great jazz in an intimate setting which features sidewalk seating in warm weather, and a great wine selection.  The musicians are chosen from the top of the talent heap including Harold Mabern, Dave Liebman, and Eric Lewis.  Cover charges vary.  There is the 216 Lounge downstairs  they feature happy hour stand-up comedy on Thursdays, DJ parties and private functions other nights.  Check their current schedule for jazz nights.

Go to Queens Jazz Clubs 
please submit names of other Queens jazz venues (Email Bigapplejazz)

Red Blazer
RIP - Closed
(212) 947-8940
32 W 37th St.  (5th / 6th)
M-Th four sets starting at 7 pm. Fri-Sat 9 pm - 12:30.  Mondays they have trios, and the bands get larger through Saturday.  The focus is swing music for your dancing pleasure, and vocalists accompany each night.

Redeye Grill
(212) 541-9000
890 Seventh Avenue (Corner of 56th Street)
Jazz nightly Tuesday - Saturday: 8-11:30, Sunday jazz brunch 12 - 3.  Here is a link to their monthly jazz calendar.  Redeye Grill is conveniently located near many midtown Manhattan and Times Square hotels.  It's interesting to watch the band perform in a tight balcony space above the bar and do their best among the crowd of diners and imbibers below.  The jazz is good, and the food is fine, and there's no cover charge, and if you want to talk during the performance you will not be made to shush.

Robin’s Nest Restaurant & Bar RIP
(212) 316-6170
457 W. 125th St.
(Amsterdam / Morningside)
This is the most recent of Harlem's modest restaurants where you can catch classic R&B mixed with pounding Hammond B-3 based jazz.  There is no cover charge, just a two drink minimum.  The week is starting to fill up with jazz players and other entertainments: Sunday -- Jam Session with superior drummer Eli Fontaine;  Rotating weekend talent makes good use of the Hammond B3 organ.  Please call them for scheduling updates.  Delicious Harlem style soul food dinner and lunch are also available at reasonable rates. 

Rose Theater
Jazz at Lincoln Center
Columbus Circle
60th Street at Broadway
212 258-9800 (general information)
212 721-6500 (City Charge tickets 212 721-6500)

Designed for jazz, but boasting a flexibility to also showcase opera, dance, theater, film and orchestral performances.  Expect Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra to perform here for now on as opposed to their previous home up the street.  Other jazz educational events and two other Jazz at Lincoln Center venues are worth looking into at the same address.

Roth's Westside Steakhouse
(212) 280-4103
680 Columbus Avenue  (93rd / 94th)
(93rd / 94th)
Great neighborhood steakhouse is now a jazz haven on weekends from 10PM - 1AM.   Jazz piano also accompanies dinner hours from 6 or 7 every night.  This is the place to enjoy jazz on the Upper Westside without the sports bar intrusions of another local favorite.   Keep a look out for vocalist Annette St. John and Frank Senior.  Jazz Brunch at noon on Sundays.

Rue B   --
(212) 358-1700
188 Ave. B     (11th / 12th)
The East Village is coming alive again with jazz.  On the same street that hosts Charlie Parker Place, and a few  blocks from C5 Cultural Center, and Louis bar (see above).  No Cover charge at Rue B, jazz nightly usually starting at 9:00. See pianist Brooks Hartell Sundays from 8:30 -11PM. They have a Steinway piano, and a great looking menu.

Satalla: RIP
(212) 576-1155
The Temple of World Music
37 W. 26th Street (Broadway / 6th Ave)
To see the show you must be groovy with day-glo and black lights.  This is a chance to take a trip around the world without a plane and around your brain without drugs.  World music means music from the rest of the world.  This is a new club from the people who brought you K'av'eh'az (which is right next door -- when you want to chill out and sit back).  Call ahead for admission prices and student discounts.  Music presented in two sets nightly starting around 7:30 or 8:00.

St. Nick's Pub
photo of club
(212) 283-9728
773 St. Nicholas Blvd.  (Corner of 149th St.)
This club had an amazing run for the last decade and is now under new management. The owners are giving St. Nick's Pub a second chance at greatness.  They've added free food with no cover charge and stage lights to entice fans back uptown to see the latest roster of players who are filling up the schedule with weekly gigs, 7 nights a week from 10pm - 2am.  Mondays jam with Melvin Vines - trumpet, Chip Crawford -keys, Mike Grey - trombone  and Tuesdays join them again with featured vocalist, Kay Mori and the Kortet.  Wednesdays has Rahn Burton on keys and Vicky Kelly's old school vocals, and on Thursdays different bands rotate through.  Friday night is the standing room only event of the week, as Donald Smith leads the best weekly session you're likely to see.  West African music every Saturday.  And Sundays belongs to TC III's singers' workshop. St. Nick’s Pub, club review with additional photos.

Shelly's New York
(212) 245-2422
104 West 57th Street
(6th / 7th Aves.)
Live jazz Monday through Saturday. Catch NY sax legend, the nonagenarian Max Lucas and other great performers including crooners and divas throughout the week. No cover and music starts at 7:30 weekdays and 8:30 weekends and goes for 4 hours in the Blue Lady Lounge. Call in advance for exact set times. They also have a Monday jam session with Steve Wirtz and friends. Shelly's is a large and roomy restaurant with a men worth checking out. Here is the direct link to their music schedule for the month.

Showman's
(212) 864-8941
375 West 125th Street
(East of Morningside Ave., next door to the down-home, soul food mecca: M & G Diner)
Monday - Thurs. sets: 8:30, 10, 11:30.   Friday and Saturday sets:  10:30, 12:30, & 2:30.  A beautiful blending of the genteel and the earthy soul histories of Harlem can be found in this well-appointed jazz showcase, which has been home to the greats (e.g. Sara Vaughan, Lionel Hampton, Duke Ellington, Eartha Kitt, Pearl Bailey) since 1942.  (In its current location since August of 1998).  A Hammond B-3 organ graces the stage, and is put to good use by Danny Mixon, Seleno Clarke, Nathan Lucas and Preacher Robins among others -- call to check their schedule.  Jazz Sisters perform Mondays.  Blues great, Ray Schinnery, performs on Tuesdays. Wednesday is all jazz . Tap dancers are added to the line up on Thursdays for the weekly tap jam. Soul food appetizers are always available -- free for the asking.  Two drink minimum per set strictly enforced.

Smalls 

(212) 675-7369
183 W. 10th St.
(West of  7th Ave. South)
Word is out, Smalls has come back to life in the newly refurbished Brazilian bar it had briefly become, and now it's under new management as well.  Jams till late once again!  The new hours are 7:30 PM to 4:00 AM with 2 bands nightly. Sets at 8:30, 10:30, 12:00 and 1:30 AM.  The cover is $20 which includes a drink of your choice from the bar.  Pay one price, and hang out as long as you want.
Big Apple Jazz "Old" Smalls Review.  RIP May 31, 2003  Read All About It
Resurrected in March 2005

Smith's Bar & Restaurant           NO MO' JAZZ
(212) 246-3268
701 8th Ave
(Corner of W44th Street)
Smith's is perfectly placed in midtown next to hotels, subways and easily found around the corner from the more popular Birdland. Jazz is brand new in this decades old Irish pub with a strong neighborhood vibe.  Reedman, Dave Hopkins, plays twice weekly with the stunning John Colianni on piano and renown bass hero Bob Cranshaw as the main trio every Wednesday and Friday.  No Cover.  No Minimum.  Call in advance to confirm and keep up with their jazz programming for 2005 which has added jazz nights Mondays through Fridays.   Easily, the most laid back yet spirited jazz evening in Midtown for free (most nights).  Always a great chance to sit in or watch the stars come out with The Hopkins Trio.  Music from 9:00PM - 1:00AM.  Some nights feature the likes of Harold Mabern, Kenny Werner, Dave Liebman, Rachel Z., or Harvie S.  Check in advance if a cover charge applies for special engagements.

Smoke
(212) 864-6662
2751 Broadway (105th / 106th)
Picking up where Augie's (its forerunner) left off, Smoke has developed into a hip and casually swank jazz joint with the chops and personalities to recommend it to serious fans of NY jazz.  Sets at 8, 10, 11:30.  Bar closes at 4:00.  A food/drink minimum often serves as the cover charge during the week. Big name acts on Friday and Saturday costs more (around $30), and reservations are a must on weekends and special shows. 
Mondays:  "Afterwork" jazz dinner series
Mondays:  Jam session & special guest artist
Tuesdays:  B3 organ grooves & soul jazz
Wednesdays:  World jazz
Thursdays:  Sideman in the spotlight
Sundays:  "Evening" vocal jazz
Sundays:  Afro-Cuban / Latin jazz
  Now with a great new menu and outdoor seating in good weather.  For more information see: Big Apple Jazz Smoke Club Profile by Gordon Polatnick

S.O.B.'s (Sounds of Brazil)
(212) 243-4940
204 Varick Street (Corner of West Houston St.)
This long standing dance hall claims Brazil in its name, but its music policy opens the stage to bands from any country that can fill the place with a groove and a butt shaking beat that keeps you sweating all night long.  A tropical party ensues most nights of the week, but check their website for schedule. You can always count on La Tropica Mondays, with 6:30 salsa lessons followed by a live Latin Band.  And of course, Samba Saturdays, when the real sounds of Brasil start spilling out onto Varick Street starting at 8:00 PM with rotating groups followed by the 2:00 AM Manhattan Samba weekly gig.  Prices are from $10 to $20, with an incentive to buy tickets in advance.

Sofia's
(212) 719-5799
221 W. 46th St. (Eighth Ave. / Broadway)
This is the Italian restaurant at the 1931 Edison Hotel which features jazz music in its bar Tuesdays - Saturdays 7:00 P.M. to 12:00. Call ahead for schedule.  No Cover.

The Stone
is located at
the corner of
Avenue C and 2nd street.
This is John Zorn's baby; a not-for-profit performance space dedicated to the EXPERIMENTAL and AVANT-GARDE.  MUSIC: Tuesday thru Sunday - 8 and 10pm. closed on Mondays. ADMISSION: $10 per set (unless otherwise noted). Students 13 to 19 admitted half price. Children 12 and under free.  There are no advance ticket sales.  All admissions are at the door prior to each performance.  Recently opened in 2005, it will most likely become the venue that the Knitting Factory started out to be 20 years prior. 

Subway Station at Columbus Circle
Below W.59th Street and Broadway

Take the A Train
Chances are that you will see one of the many jazz artists or other performers who play for tips on the city's many subway platforms.

Sugar Hill Bistro   -- NOW: BATON ROUGE
(aka Renaissance Jazz Lounge)
(212) 491-5505
458 W 145th St  (Amsterdam / Convent Avenues)
Opened July 31, 2001
A new addition to Harlem's historic Sugar Hill neighborhood, this finely appointed restaurant/lounge features Jazz Friday and Saturday starting at 9:30 pm.  Look for Dennis Jeter to evoke Nat King Cole as he sings and swings on trumpet every Saturday and see Tenor sax titan Bill Saxton recently added on Friday nights.  A Gospel Brunch has been added for Sundays starting at noon. Jazz fans from around the world should stop in and support the Harlem jazz scene while in NYC.  The Sugar Hill Bistro also offers the best opportunity to see Wynton Marsalis sitting in unannounced, among other jazz luminaries.   Call ahead for schedule updates.  No cover charge.  Excellent menu features the best crab cake in Harlem.

Sweet Rhythm
Sweet Basil RIP -- closed April 30, 2001
(212) 255-3626
88 7th Ave. South   (Bleecker/Grove Sts.)
Sweet Rhythm is now open for business 7 days a week.  Taking up where Sweet Basil left off, the club is again up and running after a year and a half restructuring.   Their sound leans more on world rhythms but straight ahead fans will be satisfied with their bookings as well.  Housed in the heart of Greenwich Village, Sweet Rhythm features both live and recorded, traditional, contemporary and hybrid music from all over the planet including jazz, blues, salsa, rai, reggae, merengue, samba, high life, flamenco and many other styles. Sweet Rhythm has been outfitted with a state of the art sound system. The sounds and the environment are complimented by a menu featuring meat, fish, and fowl dishes, as well as vegetarian items. The club also features a modern yet comfortable decor and an emphasis on a friendly relaxed ambience. Sweet Rhythm has featured several jazz greats such as Kenny Barron, Steve Lacy, Jon Lucien, Victor Lewis, Rasheid Ali, Sonny Fortune, John Hicks, Kenny Garrett and many others including:  Los Hobres Calientes, salsa from Manny Oquendo y Libre, the Senegalese drum choir known as Sing Sing Rhythms; the funk of Craig Harris and the Nation of Imagination, the Brazilian samba and bossa nova of Vinicius Cantuaria and Soli, the blues of Chicago-born guitarist Marvin Sewell and the soulful folk music of the multi-linguistic Marta Topferova.  Musicians, poets, djs and other artists take the stage at 8pm and 10pm with midnight shows on Friday and Saturday. Cover charges range from $10 to $25, dress is your option.

Swing 46
(212) 262-9554
349 W. 46th Street  (8th / 9th Aves.)
Swing 46 is a restaurant/bar offering swinging dance bands 7 Nights a week. $10 - $12 cover at the door.  Sundays feature an afternoon tap class and showcase which honors the late, legendary hoofer: Buster Brown now from 1pm to 4pm.  Followed by Sarah Hayes & the Sophisticats starting at 6:30.  Every Monday Ron Allan and the The Harlem Renaissance Orchestra performs from 8:30pm to 11:30pm. Tuesdays feature the The Bensen-Scott Big Band.  Suggested dress code - no jeans or sneakers but jackets are not required.  Weekend dance bands from 9:30 - 1AM.  Dance lessons are also a welcomed feature prior to the show.

Times Square Brewery
(212) 398-1234
210 West 42nd Street
(7th / 8th)
A real brewery making beer and serving food with a lively bar scene right next to the Lion King at the crossroads of the world.  And jazz playing nightly.  From 8-12:30 Tues - Sat. and on  Sunday and Monday from 6 - 10:30.  Wednesday pre-matinee at noon till 4:00. Old school jazz from the 20's and 30's is featured.  Check out John Booker's Big Apple Jazz Band,  Sol Yaged, Red Blazer Too Jazz band led by Bob Cantwell.

Tonic
LAST WEEK
April 13, 2007 - RIP Continued performances in cooperation with Abron's Arts Center

(212) 358-7501
107 Norfolk St. (Delancey / Rivington Sts.)
Sets vary beginning either 8:00 or 10:00 for $10.  A midnight show might cost $5.  Happily, no pretensions past those usually associated with the avant-garde.  Down below there can be found a dj spinning in the Subtonic Lounge Thursdays- Saturdays.  Sunday brunch features the klezmer band of the week. This is the one club to visit if you want to mix an earthy community vibe with a good night of esoteric sounds.
"After more than 9 years as a home for avant-garde, creative, and experimental music, Tonic will reluctantly close its doors on Friday, April 13th, 2007. We simply can no longer afford the rent and all of the other costs associated with doing business on the Lower East Side.
The neighborhood around us has been increasingly consumed by "luxury condominiums", boutique hotels and glass towers, all making the value of our salvaged space worth more then our business could ever realistically support. We have also been repeatedly harassed by the city's Quality of Life Task Force which resulted in the debilitating closing of the ))sub((tonic lounge in January. Coincidentally, this campaign began as our immediate neighbor, the Blue Condominium building - a symbol of the new Lower East Side - prepared to open its doors.
As a business, we take responsibility for mistakes made along the way. If profit had been our chief motivation we could have changed our programming to something more mainstream and financially lucrative. Instead we were more committed to a certain type of music and loyal to the community that supported us. As a result, we've always just survived but never really prospered. It is, however, unfortunate that it is so difficult for small businesses to operate in this city and that a chain store that can afford a high rent is more desirable than a place like Tonic that has a different kind of value.
While this is certainly the end of Tonic at 107 Norfolk Street, we remain committed to what Tonic represents and plan to try again in some form as soon as possible. In the interim, Tonic will make efforts to present new music in existing venues such as the Abron's Arts Center located just a few blocks away.
We invite you to join us as often as you can over our remaining days to help us celebrate Tonic and more importantly the amazing artists, our unwavering staff, and the nurturing community that made Tonic possible. It’s because of you that we’ve stayed open as long as we have. Thank you!  Sincerely, Melissa and John
Contact: tonic@tonicnyc.com"
HELP SAVE TONIC!  Posted January 31, 2005... SAVED -- you did it.
"Since 1998 Tonic has been a haven for creative music. We have helped nurture the vital community of musicians and audiences who keep this music alive. Now we are in danger of closing and ask you to help us keep Tonic alive. Over the past few years we have suffered a series of blows: our rent has doubled since 1998, our insurance costs have tripled, we've been robbed, and we've been plagued by the expense of maintaining a building in ill repair “  including the collapse of our main sewer line. Any of these things would be challenging on their own but together they've taken a more serious toll and we are now facing the threat of eviction. A number of outstanding musicians have come forward to help save Tonic and throughout February we will be holding a series of fundraising concerts. If Tonic has been an important venue to you, we ask that you please attend as many of these concerts as possible. Those who cannot attend but would like to help, please consider making a contribution. For Tonic to survive we will need to raise a upwards of $100,000 in the next few weeks. Only with your support can Tonic continue playing its role in presenting this important music to its fans. Our deepest thanks."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
 

Torch
(212) 228-5151
137 Ludlow St. (Stanton / Rivington Sts.)
Closed due to fire but also due to reopen--stay tuned.
Come for dinner or drinks.  No cover.  Stylish dress is encouraged by this trendy hideaway with a penchant for charismatic vocalists who hope to put you in mind of a time long ago and far away.  Open Sun - Thurs. from 6:00 P.M. - 2:00 A.M.; and on the weekend till 4:00 A.M. 

Village Vanguard
(212) 255-4037
178 Seventh Ave. (At 11th St. and Max Gordon Corner)
Sets: Sunday - Thursday 9:00 and 11:00, Friday and Saturday 9:00, 11:00, and 12:30.  Monday nights, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, established by Thad Jones and Mel Lewis over 33 years ago continues their big band tradition.  Sunday - Thursday: $30.00 at the door (includes $20.00 admission plus a $10.00 drink minimum). On Friday and Saturday: $35.00 at the door (includes $25.00 admission plus a $10.00 drink minimum).  The Vanguard opened its doors in 1935 and is the archetypal Greenwich Village jazz club which has the right vibes and an excellent booking policy, and a history of breaking new artistes that soon took over the world.  Every jazz fan should visit the Village Vanguard at least once in their lives, no exceptions.

Zinc Bar

(212) 477-8337
90 W. Houston St. (Thompson St. / LaGuardia Pl.)
Open 7 days   6 P.M. - 3:30 A.M.  on  weeknights, and till  4 A.M. on weekends.  Weekly theme nights dominate the schedule.  Monday showcases the guitar trio of Ron Affif with featured vocalist at 9:00 and 11:00, 12:30.  Featured bands play 3 sets Tues. - Thurs. at 9:00, 11, and 12:30.  Tuesdays and Wednesdays are jazz nights, while Thursdays are Latin, Fridays are African and Saturdays are Brazilian Bossa Nova. Fri. and Sat. the first set starts at 11.   Sundays starting at 9:30 welcomes Cidinho Tiexeira and Brazilian samba into the night.  A lounge exists in back for your smoky comfort.  There's a $5 cover and a one drink minimum, and the service charge for drinks is included on the check to safeguard the wait staff.

Brooklyn Jazz Clubs

Barbes
(718) 965-9177
376 9th St. (corner of 6th Ave.)
Park Slope, Brooklyn
"Barbès is a new bar and performance space located in the South Slope part of Brooklyn. Barbès is also a neighborhood in northern Paris famous for its discount stores, its large North African population as well as the record stores which helped launch the Rai music explosion of the mid 80's. Owned and operated by two French musicians and long-time Brooklyn residents, Barbès hopes to function as a neighborhood community center of sorts. Its intimate back room will be host to regular events - music, readings and more - and should fill a gap in a neighborhood which is home to a large population of artists, musicians, and writers but still offers very little in terms of performing outlets. Much like the neighborhood it is named after, Barbès will put the stress on cultural variety, neighborhood conviviality - and bargain hunting, with $5 Ricard and an ecclectic music collection which ranges from the Algerian diva Asmahan to Mexican bandas, Venezuelan joropos and Romanian brass bands."

The Brazen Head
(718) 488-0430
228 Atlantic Avenue  (Court Street / Boerum Place) Brooklyn Heights
Jazz every Wednesday (AKA Ladies Night) 9:00PM-12:00 Dan Adler - Guitar, Jeff Russian - Piano, Ian Brandt - Bass, Josh Arenberg/Al Ashley - Drums.

Brooklyn Academy of Music
(718) 636-4100
30 Lafayette Ave. (At Ashland Place)
BAM Cafe
The weekly performance series BAMcafé Live has featured great artists from jazz, spoken word, blues, afro-pop, Latin, r&b, rock, and experimental backgrounds such as Billy Martin, Survival Soundz, Tracie Morris, Carl Hancock Rux, Duncan Sheik, Chocolate Genius, Bilal, Antibalas, Tanguardia, and much more.  Sounds of Praise Sunday Gospel Brunch occurs on select Sundays throughout the year. Enjoy a delicious soul food buffet brunch with live contemporary and traditional gospel music, focusing on Brooklyn artists. 2–4pm; $20 inclusive (free for children 5 and under; reduced price for children 6–12).

The Brooklyn Jazz Consortium
(917) 535-9781
23 Pulaski Street,
Brooklyn

Brooklyn Public Library
Second Floor Auditorium
Grand Army Plaza / Eastern Parkway
"Brooklyn Sings, Brooklyn Swings" at the Brooklyn Public Library:
A series of free concerts featuring jazz vocalists:
Christiana Drapkin on Wednesday, 11/17/04;
Renee Manning on Wednesday, 12/15/04
Michelle Walker on Thursday, 2/3/05
Giacomo Gates on Thursday, 3/3/05
Barbara Sfraga on Thursday, 3/31/05
All concerts are free and open to the public.  7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Grand Army Plaza, Central Branch of the Brooklyn Public Library.  In the Second Floor Auditorium.

The Burger Bar
(718) 832-5500
499 9thStreet( at 7th Ave.)
Park Slope,  Brooklyn
No Cover. No Minimum.  
Every Thursday and Saturday from 9pm-1am.

Café 111 -
(718) 858-2806
111 Court Street
Downtown Brooklyn (between State and Schermerhorn)
Not only jazz performed here but Electro-Acoustic Original Music, 7 nights a week.  They have a nice and inexpensive menu that tips it's hat toward New Orleans a little, and a wide variety of local music booked which can be checked out online.  Jazz fans should focus on Wednesdays.

East End Ensemble
(718) 624-8878
273 Smith Street (Degraw / Sackett Sts., Carroll Gardens)
Sunday open jazz jam starting at 7:30-10:00 (Spring and Summer hours are 9:30 till 12:00 starting in April).  Call ahead for updates to schedule.  E.E.E. describes itself like this: "Our wish is to bring the works of the artistic community to our neighborhood and its surrounding community, recognizing the deep wealth of artistic energy in Brooklyn.  We strive to provide an outlet and supportive network where children and adults can come to express themselves.

Europa Club
(718) 383-5723
98-104 Meserole Ave.
Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Hip and diverse Polish nightclub with a variety of cutting edge entertainment worth checking out.  Check their website or call to find out what's going down.  (Their homepage has an option to view the schedule in html as opposed to flash version).

Five Spot Supper Club
(718) 852-0202
459 Myrtle Ave. (at Washington Avenue)
Clinton Hill, Brooklyn
--Not related to the original 5 Spot of Monk, Coltrane and Coleman fame--  But a great local success story: A soul food take out joint that was transformed into a jazzy neighborhood supper club with jazz brunch on Sundays.  Live music (R&B Funk and Soul) performances are Tuesday thru Saturday and start 'round about 9 or 10 -- there is a $5.00 cover charge.  The music policy changes, so call after 4:00 PM to get the latest updates on their jazz bookings, or visit their website.

Freddy's Bar and Backroom
(718) 622-7035
485 Dean Street, Brooklyn
Freddy's is becoming a Brooklyn institution for it's open minded eclectic music policy and neighborhood friendly "Never a cover charge" door policy. Saxophonist and composer, Will Vinson performs every second & fourth Tuesday. Check their music schedule or call ahead to see where else jazz pops up during the week.  According to Time Out:  "Brooklyn is muscling in on Manhattan's music scene with some of the best rock and jazz clubs in the city...(Freddy's) Hosting proudly.. jazz and bluegrass jams, tribute nights and open mics, Freddy's is the most versatile of the Park Slope-Prospect Heights music bars. It's also the most spacious: While the thrift store vibe upfront is welcoming enough, the shows take place in the comfy rec-room-like space in the back."    Directions: By Subway take the 1/2 to Bergen Street; Freddy's is right around the corner. Or take practically any train in the city to Atlantic Avenue/Pacific Street Stations; Walk East on Flatbush and take a left on Dean.

Galapagos
(718) 782-5188
70 N 6th St., Williamsburg, Brooklyn
This is not a jazz club, but they dabble in jazz and are worth a look see.  Check their calendar for upcoming events.  Galapagos presents a nightly array of film, music, dance, theater, performance art & gallery shows. Galapagos is open nightly.  Performances Monday - Saturday.  Film Screenings every Sunday.  Hours: Sun-Thur 6-2am, Fri/Sat 6-4am.

IO
119 Kent Ave  (corner of North 7th and Kent)
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
(718) 388-3320
Give them a call to see if jazz is being presented these days at this great Williamsburg restaurant/lounge.

Jalopy
(718) 395-3214
315 Columbia Street
Redhook, Brooklyn
(Hamilton Ave / Woodhull St)
Closest subway is the F and G Train/ Carroll Street
The room is huge and combines a great sounding stage with a coffee shop and a vintage guitar store.  There's a weekly jam session is on Wednesday nights, from 9:30pm- 1am, starting with a short concert set of the house band and a different featured guest every week.
The house band are:
Dan Tepfer (piano)
Chris Benham (drums)
Anne Lieberwirth (bass)
 

Jazz 966
(Friday Nights at JAZZ 966)
966 Fulton Street, Brooklyn
(718) 638-6910 Ext #25
The Fort Greene Senior Citizens Council, Inc. has sponsored Jazz 966 for the Past ten years. During this time it has been building its reputation as a place where one can enjoy Friday nights of great jazz. From the beginning the objective of Jazz 966 was to bring quality jazz entertainment into the neighborhood at an affordable price. For community residents, it is a place where they can rest assured of not only being treated to great talent, great music, and a warm atmosphere, but will walk away with more knowledge of jazz and its development throughout history as well. Doors open @ 7pm.  Admission: $10.00 (Dinner included).  www.illbrew.com .  First Show at 8pm. Take the C Train To Clinton & Washington.

Jazz at Four
(718) 797-0635
1907 Ditmas Avenue, Brooklyn
Jazz at Four is held the 3rd Sunday of each month. They are limited to 40 attendees, so reservations are a must.  Located in a beautiful and historic Brooklyn home with fine architecture. Donation: $25.00.  Refreshments will be served.  For reservations and directions please call 718-797-0635 or email them at jazzatfour@nyc.rr.com.

The Jazz Spot
(718) 453-7825
375 Kosciuszko Street (on Marcus Garvey Boulevard, Brooklyn)
"Listen to the stimulating, sultry sounds of jazz while basking in the delights of intimacy. Our fireplace, exposed brick walls and home-like atmosphere add to  the coziness of our environment. Your epicurean spirit will be awakened in our smoke-free, alcohol-free environment by our light fare, including organic coffees and teas."  They have great live jazz every Friday and Saturday: $15 from 9pm-1am; and every Monday night a Jam Session: $5 from  8pm -12midnight.  Thursday Night Poetry/Open Mic: $7 from 7pm -11pm.

Koze Lounge
(718) 832-8282
676 Fifth Avenue
@ 20th Street
Park Slope, B'klyn  (R train to Prospect Avenue)
konceptions@koze: jazz & improvised music series...Tuesday, sets @ 9:00 & 10:30 p.m. $7 cover charge for one or both sets  See bands such as Ted Poor's Third Wheel: Ralph Alessi - trumpet, Ben Monder - guitar, Ted Poor - drums.

Laila Lounge
(718) 486-6791
113 N 7th St
(b/w Wythe and Berry) Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Sunday: Live Jazz 9PM. Hosted by Jesse Selengut. $5 Cover Charge.

Marriott
THE ARCHIVES RESTAURANT & BAR
(718) 222-6543
AFTER WORK COCKTAIL JAZZ SERIES
NY MARRIOTT AT THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE
DOWNTOWN BROOKLYN (BOROUGH HALL)
333 ADAMS STREET
Bob Myers from Up Over Jazz Club is presenting his jazz every Friday here while he prepares to open a new space for his legendary Brooklyn jazz club.   ONE SET ONLY 6:30 ~ 8:00 PM.  RESTAURANT OPENS 5:00 PM.  NO COVER CHARGE.

Night and Day
(718) 399-2161
230 5th Ave. (at President Street)
Park Slope
From the creators of two venerated Greenwich Village bohemian melting pots: Judy Joice of the Lion's Head and Robin Hirsch of Cornelia Street Cafe comes Night and Day.   Fine food, good vibe, and a performance space which hopes to offer Brooklyn's brightest and best an opportunity to shine in their own hood.  Jazz will only be one of the genres of entertainment offered.  More to come.  Opening in the summer of 2005.

Night of the Cookers
(718) 797-1197
767 Fulton Street, Brooklyn (South Oxford / South Portland)
Named for the Freddie Hubbard record. They feature weekend jazz, with the restaurant serving all week. No cover. Live Jazz Thursdays 8:00 p.m. to 11:30, Fridays and Saturdays 10:00 p.m. to 1:30 a.m., Sunday jazz brunch from noon to 4:00 p.m. Subway: C to Lafayette.

North Six
(718) 599-5103
66 North 6th Street  Brooklyn
Lots of music, not all of it live jazz.  Check schedule.

ParlorJazz!
(718) 855-1981
119 Vanderbilt Ave., Lower Duplex,
Fort Greene, Brooklyn
Inspired by the "Jazz Hostess of Harlem," Marge Eliot's Sunday jazz open house, we are hosting semi-monthly jazz sessions (first and third Saturdays) in the double parlor of our 1850's Gothic Revival brick row house in Brooklyn's historic Clinton Hill/Ft. Greene district.   This is a unique venue for jazz musicians to play, sing and swing while surrounded by contemporary and African art.   This is a not-for-profit event.  $20 suggested donation (except for "special events" which run between $25 - $30 (all inclusive: open wine bar, beverages, snacks & dessert).  Our roster of interested and wonderfully gifted jazz musicians and fine artists continues to grow. ~Jim Morehand

Pod -- RIP
(718) 302-3754
141 N. 7th   (Bedford/Berry)
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Call Pod for other possible jazz events during the week.

Po'k Knockers
(718) 638-0727
956 Atlantic Avenue (Washington & Grand Avenues)
We think this club doesn't have jazz anymore.  If you have different information please get in touch. Email
A recently discovered place in Brooklyn named Po'k Knockers features a 16 piece jazz orchestra named Brooklyn Big Band every Tuesday from 9:30 pm to 12 midnight. Brooklyn Big Band, Co-led by Tim Armacost and Craig Bailey, Robert Landham - saxophone, Keith Loftis - saxophone, Craig Bailey - saxophone, Mark Gross - saxophone, Tim Armacost - saxophone, Jason Jackson - trombone, Dion Tucker - trombone, Mike Fahn - trombone, Alan Ferber - trombone, Larry Gillespie - trumpet, Riley Mullins - trumpet, Duane Eubanks - trumpet, Kenyatta Beasley - trumpet, Rick Germanson - piano, Phil Palombi - bass, Gene Jackson - drums. Po'k Knockers offers Caribbean food and an eclectic roster of live performances ranging from soca and calypso, to reggae and comedy, to karaoke and R&B. Located on neighborhoods of Bedford Stuyvesant, Fort Green and Park Slope, the four-year-old dining and entertainment oasis is open seven days per week. The club is beautiful and located right in the middle of the block. Po'k Knockers is open from 5:00pm until 1:00am Monday through Sunday nights. Friday and Saturday hours are from