Best Jazz Clubs in NYC: The Definitive Guide

Table of Content

‣ Map of NYC Jazz Clubs
‣ Village Vanguard
‣ Blue Note Jazz Club
‣ Small’s Jazz Club
‣ Birdland Jazz Club
‣ Dizzy’s Jazz Club
‣ The Jazz Gallery
‣ Ornithology Jazz Club
‣ Cellar Dog
‣ Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

New York City is a mecca for jazz enthusiasts, boasting an impressive array of world-class jazz clubs. From historic venues that have hosted legends like John Coltrane and Miles Davis to cutting-edge clubs showcasing today’s most innovative young artists, NYC offers something for every jazz fan. In this list of Best Jazz Clubs in NYC, we’ll explore the top jazz clubs in the city, taking you on a tour of the rich history, vibrant present, and promising future of the New York City jazz scene.

Website: villagevanguard.com
Instagram: @vanguardjazz
Phone: (212) 255-4037
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Address: 178 7th Ave S, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 7 PM – 12 AM

Established in 1935 by Max Gordon, and now managed by his wife Lorraine Gordon, the Village Vanguard is the oldest operating jazz club in New York City and a cornerstone of the NYC jazz scene.

With a rich history, the historic venue has hosted a who's who of jazz legends, including Lester Young, Ben Webster, John Coltrane, Miles Davis, and Thelonious Monk.

The Vanguard's intimate setting, with its unique triangular layout and seating capacity of 123, creates an unparalleled atmosphere for experiencing live jazz music in NYC.

The club's resilience and commitment to preserving the legacy of jazz music makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable jazz experience in New York City.

So if you're in town, step through the Village Vanguard's iconic red awning, and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant sounds of this legendary jazz club.

Website: bluenotejazz.com/nyc
Instagram: @bluenotenyc
Phone: (212) 475-8592
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Address: 131 W 3rd St, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 6 PM – 12 AM
Sunday: 11 AM - 12 AM

The Blue Note Jazz Club is arguably one of the most celebrated jazz clubs in New York City.

Established in 1981, this legendary venue in Greenwich Village has played host to some of the biggest names in modern jazz, including Chick Corea, McCoy Tyner, and Joe Lovano.

With a stylish, intimate atmosphere and a full dinner menu, the Blue Note offers a truly memorable experience for jazz lovers and the club is renowned for showcasing the finest contemporary jazz artists, drawing a young and fashionable crowd.

The brand has also expanded globally, with locations in Tokyo, Nagoya, Milan, Waikiki, Napa, Beijing, and São Paulo, now making it synonymous with quality jazz performances worldwide.

In addition to its nightly shows, the Blue Note offers a popular Sunday brunch featuring live performances and a delicious menu that perfectly complements the music.

With its rich history, a stellar lineup of artists, and commitment to the jazz tradition, the Blue Note Jazz Club is undoubtedly one of the best jazz clubs in New York City and a must-visit for any jazz lover.

Website: smallslive.com
Instagram: @smallslive
Phone: (646) 476-4346
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Address: 183 W 10th St, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 7 PM – 3 AM

For those seeking an authentic NYC jazz club experience, Smalls Jazz Club is a must-visit destination.

Located in the West Village, this cozy basement venue and has nurtured the careers of many now-prominent jazz artists, including Omer Avital, Peter Bernstein, and Ari Hoenig, since first opening in 1994.

Smalls intimate setting, with its dimly lit atmosphere and close seating arrangements, allows for an up-close and personal experience with the musicians, and the club's programming features a diverse range of jazz styles, from bebop and hard bop to avant-garde and modern jazz.

With live music seven nights a week (until 3 AM!!), something new and exciting is always happening at Smalls.

The club also offers live streaming of its performances, allowing jazz lovers worldwide to enjoy the magic of Smalls from the comfort of their own homes.

In addition to its stellar music lineup, Smalls offers a welcoming and unpretentious vibe with an affordable cover charge and reasonably priced drinks

If you want to discover the NYC jazz scene, Smalls Jazz Club will surely provide an unforgettable and authentic experience.

Website: birdlandjazz.com
Instagram: @birdlandjazz
Phone: (212) 581-3080
Neighborhood: Theater District
Address: 315 West 44th Street
New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Sunday to Thursday: 4:30 PM – 12 AM
Friday & Saturday: 4:30 PM - 12:30 AM

Established in 1949, the Birdland Jazz Club has been showcasing NYC's top-tier jazz talent for over seven decade now, and habitually features a diverse spectrum of styles ranging from vocal jazz and contemporary swing to Latin music. 

Named in honor of the legendary jazz saxophonist Charlie "Bird" Parker, the venue also features a smaller theater within the club, the Birdland Theater, which presents diverse musical genres, including cabaret, singer-songwriter nights, and even comedy shows. 

This versatility makes the Birdland a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best jazz clubs in NYC, so be sure to add the club to your list of must-visit venues!

Website: 2023.jazz.org/dizzys-club
Instagram: @jazzdotorg
Phone: (212) 258-9595
Neighborhood: Columbus Circle
Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 6 PM - 11 PM

Dizzy's Jazz Club, nestled in the heart of New York City, is a unique jazz haven, beckoning music lovers to indulge in a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Perched within the illustrious Jazz at Lincoln Center complex, Dizzy's presents New York's finest jazz musicians to an enchanting backdrop of Central Park and the majestic Manhattan skyline.

The establishment, named after the legendary jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, has been an integral part of the vibrant NYC jazz scene since its launch in 2004. It welcomes guests to an intimate setting with a cutting-edge sound system to ensure that each note resonates with pristine clarity.

Dizzy's Jazz Club is a shining beacon in the New York City jazz scene, offering an unparalleled experience for music enthusiasts. Its prime location, breathtaking views, and dedication to showcasing the city's top jazz talent promise to deliver a memorable evening in New York City.

Website: jazzgallery.org
Instagram: @thejazzgallery
Neighborhood: NoMad
Address: 1158 Broadway 5th floor, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Wednesday to Saturday: 7 PM - 11 PM

Step into the vibrant world of The Jazz Gallery, a true gem in the heart of New York City.

Located at 1160 Broadway, this iconic venue has nurtured countless jazz artists' careers and delighted audiences since 1995 with its mission to showcase the future of jazz.

The Jazz Gallery is the perfect destination for those seeking the best in current and progressive jazz music and its intimate setting not only provides an unforgettable experience for music lovers, but it also serves as a vital hub for the jazz community.

As a non-profit cultural center, the space is dedicated to supporting and promoting the next generation of jazz musicians and nurturing emerging talent.

The Jazz Gallery has become a breeding ground for innovation and artistic growth, allowing young artists to explore their musical boundaries and take risks in a supportive environment.

Whether you're a jazz fan or a newcomer to the genre, The Jazz Gallery will welcome you with open arms, and its diverse programming is sure to please all.

From thrilling performances by established jazz legends to cutting-edge showcases by up-and-coming talents, the club's calendar is filled with a rich tapestry of musical styles.

So the next time you're in New York, visit The Jazz Gallery and witness the future of jazz unfolding before your very eyes.

Website: ornithologyjazzclub.com
Instagram: @ornithologyjazzclub
Phone: (917) 231-4766
Neighborhood: Bushwick
Address: 6 Suydam St, Brooklyn (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 6 PM - 2 AM
Sunday: 1 PM - 2 AM

Nestled in the vibrant neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn, the Ornithology Jazz Club has become a cherished addition to the thriving NYC jazz scene.

Drawing inspiration from iconic jazz saxophonist Charlie "Bird" Parker, this exceptional venue provides a welcoming space and a unique charm for music enthusiasts.

Showcasing top-notch talent from around the city, the Ornithology Jazz Club sets itself apart with its commitment to inclusivity, as it opens its doors to all without any cover charges.

Moreover, the club adds another layer of delight with its carefully crafted vegan menu, prepared with passion and care by a rotating cast of talented pop-up chefs.

Whether you're a jazz fan, a vegan food lover, or simply seeking a memorable night out, this venue promises an unforgettable experience that will keep you coming back!

Website: cellardog.net
Instagram: @cellardogny
Phone: (212) 675-6056
Neighborhood: Greenwich Village
Address: 75 Christopher St, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Monday - Tuesday: 4 PM - 1 AM
Wednesday: 4 PM - 3 AM
Thursday - Friday: 4 PM - 4 AM
Saturday: 2 PM - 4 AM
Sunday: 2 PM - 1 AM

The Cellar Dog, formerly the Fat Cat, is a revitalized nightlife destination offering an unforgettable experience in the Greenwich Village.

The iconic venue, transformed by hospitality industry veteran Danny McDonald, aims to continue the legacy of Fat Cat while introducing new and exciting elements to its offerings.

The venue's new name pays homage to its predecessor while also reflecting the underground, speakeasy-like atmosphere for which the space is known.

With a focus on a diverse range of live music, including jazz, blues, and rock, the space also features a variety of games, such as pool, ping pong, and shuffleboard, providing a fun and interactive environment for all.

So whether you're a jazz fan, a pool shark, or simply seeking a lively atmosphere to have fun, the Cellar Dog promises to deliver an unforgettable night on the town.

Website: smokejazz.com
Instagram: @smokejazzclub
Phone: (212) 864-6662
Neighborhood: Upper West Side
Address: 2751 Broadway, New York (Google Maps)
Opening Hours:
Wednesday, Thursday & Sunday: 5 PM - 11 PM
Friday - Saturday : 5 PM - 12 AM

Smoke Jazz & Supper Club is a premier destination for jazz enthusiasts seeking an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere.

Established in 1999, Smoke has earned a reputation for presenting world-class jazz performances and offering a refined dining experience in a venue reminiscent of classic jazz clubs, with plush velvet banquettes, dim lighting, and an elegant bar area.

In addition to its exceptional music offerings, Smoke is also known for its exquisite dining experience. The club's menu, crafted by executive chef Amanda Hallowell, features contemporary American cuisine with a touch of Southern flair.

Guests can indulge in dishes like Smoke's Fried Chicken, braised short ribs, or a grilled 24oz Creekstone Farm Black Angus Ribeye for two while enjoying some of NYC's best live jazz music.

With world-class jazz performances, a sophisticated atmosphere, and a mouthwatering menu, Smoke Jazz & Supper Club is definitely a must!