Post Overview: Best Jazz clubs in NYC
Although jazz was born in New Orleans in the late 1800’s, it wasn’t until the genre hit the streets of New York that it received worldwide acclaim. The music can be both soothing and electric, sometimes in the same song! So it’s not hard to understand why the genre has become so beloved by folks of all different walks of life.
Having said that, jazz clubs in NYC are hallowed grounds. There are historic venues that have been graced by some of the world’s all time greats as well as newcomers to the scene that helps keep the genre on its toes. New York City doesn’t half-ass anything and jazz clubs are not about to be the exception.
However I won’t sit here and tell you that all the jazz clubs in NYC are equally special. Some stand head and shoulders above the rest, whether it’s due to their history, performers or atmosphere.
And if you’re looking for the best of the best, you need look no further than this article. I was raised in a musically-leaning family and my parents played jazz from sunup to sundown from the time I was in diapers.
Although I never was much of a talent myself, I’m able to appreciate the best jazz clubs in NYC and have spent the last decade of my life frequenting them. In this article I’ll describe the clubs you don’t want to miss, if this sounds like something you have an interest in then let’s dive in!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +2 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s our favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Jazz Clubs NYC
#15. Zinc Bar
From the moment you enter Zinc Bar you feel as though you’ve been transported to France in the 1930s. Located in the Greenwich Village the joint swells with folks of all ages who are looking to be swooned for the night.
The talent is brilliant and entertaining. Even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of the genre, as one of the best jazz clubs in NYC Zinc Bar will convert you into a believer. The laid-back atmosphere is decorated with velvet and gold accents. Combine that with the low lighting and you’re in for a romantic night.
Expect fantastic music, a cozy patio dining area and outstanding cocktails at this beloved NYC jazz club. Just know that there is a two-drink minimum on weekends and a one-drink minimum during the week.
And don’t even get me going about the staff at Zinc Bar. Full of friendly faces and skilled bartenders, this is one of the best jazz clubs in NYC for anyone a little timid looking to dip their toes into the world of Jazz.
Tickets pricing and talent vary so make sure to check the official website to purchase tickets ahead of time.
Address: 82 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012, United States
#14. The Jazz Gallery
If going to jazz clubs in NYC is part of your routine, one of the best ways to save money is by finding a club with a membership. Lucky for you, the Jazz Gallery just so happens to be the place!
The snug jazz club in New York City can be found in the Flatiron District and consistently features amazing music. Their calendar is chock-full of talented performers that you’re not going to want to miss, so check it often online!
Furthermore, the club is currently selling a summer pass that costs $60 and provides unlimited admission to all upcoming performances for the months of July and August (2023).
In a pricey city like New York this is a steal of a deal. The pass is a great way to expose yourself to the jazz world full of up-and-coming artists as well as more seasoned performers.
I will mention that securing a table feels like winning the lotto considering the space is on the smaller size. The Jazz Gallery prioritizes great music which is why it’s among the most in-demand jazz clubs in NYC.
I encourage everyone to take advantage of the intimacy and enjoy some top-tier performances at one of the best jazz clubs in NYC. And don’t forget, if you like what you see consider picking up a summer pass to keep enjoying it!
Address: 1158 Broadway 5th floor, New York, NY 10001, United States
#13. Cellar Dog
Cellar Dog is one of the best jazz clubs in NYC for folks who don’t take life too serious. It’s a laid-back, spacious underground venue that houses over a dozen different nostalgic games that will take you back to your childhood.
You can enjoy everything from billiards and ping-pong to sit down games like chess and connect four. All this to say you should bring some friends, but odds are if you don’t you’ll leave having made new ones.
You’d never guess that this spot would be among the top jazz clubs in New York City given the atmosphere. But it is true! Every night, Cellar Dog hosts a live jazz band as guests continue playing their games and drinking beers (and they do only serve beers).
The jazz tunes alone are worth a visit and provide pleasant entertainment while you wait for a game to open up. During the week the joint has a $5 cover charge and it goes up to $10 on weekends. However, with that said, regardless of when you visit you can expect this NYC jazz club to be filled to the brim.
Schedule: Live Jazz Sunday-Wednesday 7pm -11pm and Thursday-Saturday 7pm-2am.
Address: 75 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014, United States
#12. Winnie’s Jazz Bar
It was only a matter of time before one of the best jazz clubs in NYC doubled as one of the most romantic things to do. Winnie’s Jazz Bar is a dream-destination when you’re trying to impress.
Located in the Refinery Hotel in Midtown, this NYC jazz club offers a cozy atmosphere that’ll have your date scooting closer in no time. Unfortunately with the limited seating, snagging a table here isn’t always an easy task but if you do you’re in for a treat.
It’s impossible not to have a good time at this NYC jazz club with the music, the cocktails, and the friendly staff. The performers change often so it’s a space you can keep coming back to time and time again (just check the calendar online).
And in an act of magic, the music never gets too loud despite the venue’s tiny size. This is one of the best jazz clubs in NYC if you’re meeting up with pals or going on a date since you can still carry on the conversation without the fear of noise getting in the way.
Address: 63 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018, United States |
#11. Swing 46
It’s comforting knowing that dancing in front of a live band isn’t a lost art form. At Swing 46 the electrifying energy is instantly felt the minute you walk through the door. Everyone visiting this NYC jazz club is looking to let their hair down and have a good time.
Regardless of your skills (or lack thereof), dancing at Swing 46 is not only accepted but it’s strongly encouraged. The skillfully prepared cocktails help loosen you up and the ambiance is welcoming and delightful.
Excluding Mondays, the club features two live jazz performances daily from 5:30 to 8:30 PM and from 9 PM to 12 AM.
Additionally, there is a professional instructor-led swing dance class every night at 8:30 PM at no cost to you. You can come and enjoy the retro ambiance at one of the best NYC jazz clubs (even if you have two left feet).
Something to note: There is a $15 – $20 cover charge (weekdays/weekends, respectively) for the live music and $35 food/beverage minimum for all performance sets.
Address: 349 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States
#10. Mezzrow
Inspired by the famed piano rooms that helped romanticize New York City for decades, Mezzrow’s is one of the best jazz clubs NYC has to offer. The club is named after Mezz Mezzrow, one of the greatest musicians of the 20th century and honors his legacy by continuing to perform spellbinding tunes.
The club is exactly the type of joint you visit to feel like you’re taking a trip into the past. The brick walls and dim lighting give the feeling of a smokey 1930’s lounge (but without the smell or smoke-stains).
It’s swanky enough to serve as an impressive date-night destination while retaining a sense of simplicity. The best jazz clubs in NYC foster an unpretentious atmosphere and Mezzrow is no different.
Like most jazz clubs in NYC Mezzrow requires a one drink minimum per set, and they have a full bar to keep you satisfied. Also – tickets are less expensive as walk-in guests than if you book online, but you’ll be gambling whether or not you’ll be able to snag a table.
Something to note: Mezzrow is sister clubs with Smalls Jazz Club (which we’ll talk about in a second). While purchasing tickets online be sure to double check which club you’re booking at.
Address: 163 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014, United States
#9. The Iridium
Opened in 1994 The Iridium has enjoyed nearly 30 years as one of the premier jazz clubs in NYC. Although it’s famous for providing a stage for up-and-coming musicians, don’t allow yourself to think it’s purely amateur hour.
The Iridium has also hosted plenty of living-legends on its stage, notably Les Paul. Paul, who helped invent one of the most popular electric-guitars in the world, performed once a week beginning in 1995 until his death in 2009.
He would invite other famous musicians too, increasing the NYC jazz club’s fame. Slash from Guns N Roses, Chet Atkins, Paul McCartney, and ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons all joined Les Paul on the Iridium’s stage.
Present day the music genres vary from night to night but the Iridium still has a firm grasp as one of the best jazz clubs in NYC. And as a bonus in 2015 the club went through a major, $150,000 renovation so you can enjoy a world-class performance in the intimate 180-seat venue.
It’s become a one-stop shop for dinner, drinks a show. Depending on who’s performing you’ll find it’s one of the best jazz clubs in NYC for families too, not to mention it’s conveniently located in the heart of Manhattan near Times Square.
Address: 1650 Broadway, New York, NY 10019, United States
#8. The Django
Believe me when I tell you that of all the best things to do in Tribeca checking out the Django, one of the best jazz clubs in NYC, should be at the top of your list.
Located on the lower level of the Roxy Hotel, the dimly lit joint is modeled to resemble a swanky Parisian club. The exposed brick, leather booths and fascinating architecture make you feel like you’ve transported to France for the night.
The entertainment changes nightly so this is one of the best jazz clubs in NYC to add to your rotation. Just remember to hydrate beforehand because there will be live music, dancing and good drinks flowing.
If there’s one thing I can complain about it’d be that the food selection is pretty limited and it isn’t memorable. But hey, at the end of the day this is a one of the best jazz clubs in NYC, not a restaurant. So as long as you go into the club having grabbed dinner beforehand you’ll leave little room for disappointment.
Something to note: The Django has a $25 cover charge + 2 drink minimum.
Address: 2 6th Avenue The Roxy Hotel, Cellar Level, New York, NY 10013, United States
#7. Dizzy’s Club
If you’re looking for one of the most memorable jazz clubs in NYC set your sights on Dizzy’s Club on the Upper West Side. The club is located on the fifth floor of a building in Columbus Circle so the views of Manhattan and Central Park are unrivaled.
You’ll also be greeted with excellent food and world-class music, which isn’t hyperbole. Dizzy’s Club is one of the venues for Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Lincoln Center’s jazz program. The same quality you expect from plays and orchestras at the center can be found at Dizzy’s Club.
Like most jazz clubs in NYC there will be a cover charge and a $10 minimum spend per person. Having said that – if you can provide student ID the minimum spend doesn’t apply to you.
For a full calendar of performers you can visit the official website. While you’re there you can also see more of Jazz at Lincoln Center’s concerts, just know that they won’t all be hosted at one of the best jazz clubs in NYC.
Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019, United States
#6. Tomi Jazz
Getting a table at the most popular jazz clubs in NYC can seem like the impossible, and Tomi Jazz takes it a step further. The fact that they don’t take reservations mean you should come prepared to wait in a line. And I’m talking like a two–hour long line.
But the line quickly becomes worth it once you get inside. In true New York fashion, the space is tight and cramped and feels like a speakeasy, but that adds to the feeling of exclusivity. You know you’ve struck gold when you and fellow jazz fans are rubbing elbows trying to catch the latest performance.
As far as food goes, Tomi Jazz serves a plethora of Japanese bites. Clear standouts are the cod roe spaghetti and omurice. Expect to pay typical New York prices, which is a nice way of saying it’ll add up quickly. There is also a $10 cover charge on weekend (Friday – Sunday) along with a two-hour maximum stay per table (Thursday- Sunday).
My best piece of advice? Show up (really) early before doors open to try and grab a spot at one of the best jazz clubs in NYC. Doors open at 5:00 PM daily, but chances are there will already be a small line forming. Your patience pays off when the club opens and you’re one of the first to grab a seat.
Address: 239 E 53rd St, New York, NY 10022, United States | More information on upcoming shows
#5. Smoke Jazz & Supper Club
How could a club located on Duke Ellington Boulevard not be among the best jazz clubs in NYC? By sharing a home with one of the most renowned jazz artists of all time you have to bring your A-game and lucky for us Smoke Jazz & Supper Club does exactly that.
The intimate jazz club hosts a slew of talented musicians every night beginning at 7PM. The first set is a dinner show, hence the supper club addition to the club’s name. This means that everyone visiting for the 7PM show has to purchase at least one entree. With that said, you’re in luck because the food is super tasty (but fair warning, the menu isn’t cheap).
Also – if you book a 7PM dinner show you MUST arrive no later than 6:15PM. This is in order to get your food going and not have servers scurrying around during the performance.
If you’d rather pick up dinner elsewhere, Smoke Jazz & Supper Club hosts two additional sets (at 9PM and 10:30PM). These shows have no requirement to purchase an entree but like most other jazz clubs in NYC there is a spend minimum ($20 per person).
As far as the tunes are concerned Smoke Jazz & Supper Club consistently hosts some of the best musicians in the city. You’ll find a full calendar and have the opportunity to buy tickets online. Just remember this is one of the best jazz clubs in NYC so if there’s someone you want to see I suggest booking sooner rather than later.
Address: 2751 Broadway, New York, NY 10025, United States
#4. Blue Note Jazz Club
Blue Note Jazz Club is a cultural institution that’s not only considered one of the best jazz clubs in NYC, but of the whole world. It was founded in 1981 in the Greenwich Village and has expanded and boasts location in Japan, Brazil, China and Italy (but nothing tops the original).
Part of the club’s fame comes by way of the star-studded lineup of quality performers who have performed upon its stage. Dizzy Gillespie, Chick Corea and Kenny Garrett are a few of said celebrities, and even Ray Charles made it an annual occurrence to perform at the club.
I’ll admit that its fame as one of the premier jazz clubs in NYC means you’ll pay a premium to enjoy a show. It only makes sense, the demand is high and therefore so are the prices.
There is a $20 minimum spend per person and ticket prices vary per performer. Having said that, checking off Blue Note Jazz Club is a must for any jazz-enthusiast.
Something to note: Starting in 2011 the Blue Note Jazz Club has held an annual festival every June across NYC. More than a dozen venues participate and musicians from across the globe come to town. For more info click here.
Address: 131 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012, United States
#3. Birdland Jazz Club
One of the most historic jazz clubs in NYC, Birdland has come a long way since first opening its doors in 1949. The club enjoyed years of initial success before shuttering its doors in 1965. It remained dormant for 20 years! Fortunately the club breathed new life once more in 1985, and although it’s moved venues it hasn’t closed since.
Of its three locations, its most recent move brought it to the Theater District in 1996. Here the club has enjoyed a steady stream of crowds attracted by its fame as well as its convenient location in Midtown.
Due to its long history Birdland has had many of jazz’s all time greats grace its stage. The list is a long one, but notable names include John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald and more recently Ariana Grande and Charlie Puth.
Since 2018 Birdland has boasted two floors each running their own performances. They’re equipped with full bars and as one of the best jazz clubs in NYC you’ll also have the option of dinner service (which makes reaching the $20 spend-minimum easier).
Although Birdland’s website is currently under construction you can still view upcoming shows and purchase tickets online.
Address: 315 W 44th St #5402, New York, NY 10036, United States
#2. Smalls Jazz Club
I’m convinced that somewhere in heaven you can walk down a set of old stairs and arrive at Smalls Jazz Club. The joint is pure magic! If you asked me to describe what makes it one of the best jazz clubs in NYC I’d have a hard time naming just one thing.
The club was opened in 1994 by a former Navy submariner and registered nurse with an ear for talented musicians. It didn’t take long for Smalls to become a crown-jewel among the bustling scene of jazz clubs in NYC.
Far from flashy and trendy, Smalls is able to focus on what really matters: good vibes and better music. The small room could easily feel like a dungeon if not for the melodic bands and brimming crowd full of smiles.
With a capacity of only 74 people you’d expect ridiculous prices (we all took supply and demand classes in high school, right?) but somehow the club manages to keep a modest price tag. My biggest tip for visiting is to not lose sight of the fact that Smalls is one of the most popular jazz clubs in NYC so show up early (especially on weekends).
The club hosts musicians at varying points in their careers. Hot newcomers find common ground with experienced performers on Smalls’ stage and helps make it one of the best jazz clubs in New York City.
Something to note: Smalls Jazz Club is sister clubs with Mezzrow Jazz Club (which we talked about earlier). While purchasing tickets online be sure to double check which location you’re booking at.
Address: 183 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014, United States
#1. Village Vanguard
Village Vanguard is an intimate West Village jazz club that has been serenading New Yorkers since 1935. Thanks to plenty of time to establish itself as one of the best jazz clubs in NYC it’s no surprise generations of jazz-enthusiasts have chosen the venue as their home base for all things jazz.
With legendary performers like Miles Davis gracing its stage over its nearly 100 year history it’s safe to say the talent at Village Vanguard is top notch. Even in the present day the venue attracts elite performers who are renowned within the genre.
Per the standard, Village Vanguard charges both a cover charge and has a one-drink minimum per person. The benefit is that this is one of the handful of jazz clubs in NYC that serves more than just booze so you have the options of juice or even bottled water.
Address: 178 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014, United States
NYC Jazz Clubs (Post Summary)
Here’s a quick summary of the best jazz clubs in NYC:
- Village Vanguard
- Smalls Jazz Club
- Birdland Jazz Club
- Blue Note Jazz Club
- Smoke Jazz & Supper Club
- Tomi Jazz
- Dizzy’s Club
- The Django
- The Iridium
- Mezzrow
- Swing 46
- Winnie’s Jazz Bar
- Cellar Dog
- The Jazz Gallery
- Zinc Bar
Best Jazz Clubs New York City (Map)
And there you have it friends, the best jazz clubs in NYC according to yours truly. Let me know if you think I missed a spot.
Cheers!
Leave a Reply