New York City is an amazing place! And while there is much to see during the day, New York City nightlife is something else entirely. This is indeed the city that never sleeps. If you’re in the mood for a bar with character and one that features live music, New York offers many hotspots. There is something for every taste here, whether you’re in the mood for jazz, rock, country, or something more eclectic. Keep reading as we explore some of New York’s best bars with live music.
1. Pete’s Candy Store
709 Lorimer Street
Brooklyn, NY 11211
Pete’s Candy Store is a free-admission joint for those wishing to escape the glitz of the city. Make no mistake, Pete’s gets crowded, so get there early to grab a table. There is live music every night of the week, and Sunday is open mic night for budding musicians. However, open mic doesn’t mean amateur hour. This is a venue for talented singer-songwriters on their way up who just need a few gigs under their belt.
2. Blue Note
131 West 3rd Street
New York, NY 10012
The very name invokes images of the Golden Age of Jazz! Pop in to hear some great jazz from popular contemporary artists, such as Chick Corea and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Whether you’re a fan of straight-ahead jazz, Brazilian, fusion, or even Big Band music, you’ll find quality entertainment on any given night. Although the menu features an impressive wine list, make no mistake: this is a casual place. Seats at the bar go quickly, so your best bet is to make reservations. Anywhere in this venue is a coveted spot as you’re immersed in a quintessential New York jazz experience at Blue Note.
3. Café Wha?
115 MacDougal Street
New York, NY 10012
That question mark is not a typo! The name reflects the eclectic atmosphere of one of New York’s hottest bars with live music. Fans of a variety of musical styles can come every Wednesday through Sunday to hear the Café Wha? house band, or you can get your funk on every Tuesday for Classic Funk Night. The bar has a typical village ambiance: it’s located in a basement with dark mood lighting that complements the sounds.
4. Fat Baby
112 Rivington Street #1
New York, NY 10002
This downtown multi-level lounge is an LA-inspired venue. There’s a huge bar on the top floor and a bi-level mezzanine where you can sit at a booth and enjoy DJ-spun tunes Thursday through Saturday. Downstairs offers live music, almost every night of the week. It gets crowded, so come early. Overall, it’s a fun place for anyone looking to move all night to some great music.
5. Rockwood Music Hall
196 Allen Street
New York, NY 10002
Cozy, great sound, and a different band every hour – there’s nothing not to love about the Rockwood. From the three different stages to the best beer selection in the area, this is one of the “NYCest” bars with live music. The bar atmosphere is inviting, the bartenders friendly, and the drinks reasonably priced.
These are just some of your options when you’re in the mood to get your groove on. What are your go-to spots for live music in NYC? Leave a comment below to let us know.
Photo by Karen
Megan L.