New York City (Fodor's, 2012) - Fodor's [120]
Cabaret and Piano Bars
Comedy Cellar.
Laughter fills this space beneath the writer-friendly Olive Tree Café. The bill sometimes features truly hilarious television personalities like Godfrey. | 117 MacDougal St., between W. 3rd St. and Minetta La., Greenwich Village | 10012 | 212/254–3480 | www.comedycellar.com | Subway: A, B, C, D, E, F, M to W. 4th St.
The Duplex.
No matter who’s performing, the largely gay audience hoots and hollers in support of the often kitschy performers at this music-scene staple on busy Sheridan Square since 1951. Singers and comedians hold court in the cabaret theater, while those itching to take a shot at open mike head downstairs to the lively piano bar. | 61 Christopher St., at 7th Ave. S, Greenwich Village | 10014 | 212/255–5438 | www.theduplex.com | Subway: 1 to Christopher St.
Gay Nightlife
The Cubby Hole.
Early in the evening the crowd is mixed at this neighborhood institution, where the DJs, the unpretentious decor, and the inexpensive margaritas are popular. Later on, the women take charge—and how. | 281 W. 12th St., at W. 4th St., Greenwich Village | 10014 | 212/243–9041 | www.cubbyholebar.com | Subway: A, C, E to 14th St.; L to 8th Ave.
Henrietta Hudson.
The nightly parties at this laid-back West Village HQ for the Sapphic set attract young professional women, out-of-towners, and longtime regulars. Because the DJ and the pool table quickly create a crowd, though, stake your claim to a spot early, especially on—yup, you guessed it—weekends. | 438 Hudson St., at Morton St., Greenwich Village | 10014 | 212/924–3347 | www.henriettahudson.com | Subway: 1 to Christopher St./Sheridan Sq.
Marie’s Crisis.
Whatever “Marie’s crisis” is (all the employees seem to have a different story), all the customers here know all the words to show tunes you’ve never even heard of. Down enough drinks at this ultra-fun West Village joint and you’ll be singing along, even if you don’t know the lyrics. | 59 Grove St., at 7th Ave., Greenwich Village | 10014 | 212/243–9323 | Subway: 1 to Christopher St./Sheridan Sq.
The Monster.
Perfect for what the French call “le start” (of an evening out, that is), the Monster has a piano bar upstairs, a disco downstairs, and men. Lots of them. Not that women will feel too out of place—this “Monster” is a friendly one. | 80 Grove St., between W. 4th St. and 7th Ave. S, Greenwich Village | 10014 | 212/924–3558 | www.manhattan-monster.com | Subway: 1 to Christopher St./Sheridan Sq.
Jazz Venues
Bar Next Door.
It doesn’t get more intimate than this dark, inviting music den downstairs from the Italian café La Lanterna. On Wednesday night the stage is dedicated to the Jonathan Kreisberg Trio, and Thursday attracts an ever-changing roster of musicians. Get there early to grab a seat and tuck into a good thin-crust pizza. In summer, hang out in the lovely garden for a prelude. | 129 MacDougal St., between W. 3rd and W. 4th Sts., Greenwich Village | 10012 | 212/529–5945 | www.lalanternacaffe.com | Subway: A, B, C, D, E, F, M to W. 4th St.
Bitter End.
On a fabled street of West Village bohemia, this Greenwich Village standby has served up its share of talent since 1961, with Billy Joel, David Crosby, and Dr. John among the stars who’ve played here. These days you’re more likely to find (much) lesser-known musicians playing blues, rock, funk, and jazz. If you don’t like what you hear, there’s always the similar Kenny’s Castaways just down the block—and (Le) Poisson Rouge nearby. | 147 Bleecker St., between Thompson St. and LaGuardia Pl., Greenwich Village | 10012 | 212/673–7030 | www.bitterend.com| Subway: A, B, C, D, E, F, M to W. 4th St.
Blue Note.
Considered by many (not least its current owners) to be “the jazz capital of the world,” the Blue Note was once the stomping ground for such legends as Dizzy Gillespie, and still hosts a varied repertoire from Chris Botti to the Count Basie Orchestra to Boz Scaggs. Expect a steep cover charge except for