From the iconic Blue Note New York to the historic Village Vanguard, New York City is home to some of the most renowned jazz clubs in the world. Whether you're looking for a lively nightclub with live music any night of the week, a unique listening experience, or a romantic evening with your partner, there's something for everyone. Let's explore the 10 best historic jazz clubs that deserve a spot on your next must-see list of New York's rich and historic jazz history. Established in 1981, Blue Note is one of the most iconic and legendary “brands” in jazz.
In addition to its flagship location in New York, there are clubs in Milan, Tokyo, Beijing, Shanghai, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Napa and Nagoya & Hawaii. From its origins during the “jazz era” in the 1920s to the rise of major nightclubs in the late 40s that are still operating today, jazz music in New York City offers an eclectic mix of soft harmonies and syncopated rhythms so you don't miss out on the dance floor. The Village Vanguard is an iconic pillar that you should include in your itinerary the next time you visit New York City. A unique feature of this basement club is its wedge or triangle shape, a happy accident that bypasses the nature of acoustics and makes it a unique listening experience. This 123-person room still houses legendary artists and allows customers to see some of the most promising artists. Showman's was initially opened in 1942 in its original location, next to the Apollo Theater.
After a fire in 1985 and again in 1999 due to construction of a shopping center, it was forced to abandon its second place. Despite these two relocations, Showman's spirit has endured and it is still the oldest jazz club in Harlem. Minton's Playhouse is one of the most famous jazz bars in Harlem (and in all of New York). It originally opened in the late 1930s and is where bebop was first invented. They have a huge, elegant space, and shows take place almost every day.
In addition, this place shares a kitchen with The Cecil, so you can enjoy a steak or clams at the casino while listening to live music. Ginny's Supper Club is located in the basement of Harlem's soul food restaurant Red Rooster. At Ginny's, you can savor Red Rooster's famous fried chicken and have peach-nut bourbon cocktails in a room where the jazz is so smooth that you won't mind seeing some felt hats lying around. They do live shows several nights a week, with lounge hours until late at night on Fridays and Saturdays. Smoke on Broadway and 106 on the Upper West Side is a sure-fire way to justify all your turtlenecks. This small jazz club brings together outstanding musicians from all over the world to play on an intimate stage with red curtains.
If you want to have dinner while watching a show, we recommend that you make a reservation to secure a table. Arthur's is a small, nondescript bar located between Via Carota and Marie's Crisis. If you like jazz or blues, make sure that doesn't happen. This small bar has existed since the 1930s and offers two shows a night. While you normally won't have a problem ordering a beer or a very strong Long Island iced tea at the bar during the first set, it gets as full as its neighbors when the second show starts around 10 p.m.Mazie is where you take someone when you're not sure if it's a date.
The place isn't overwhelmingly romantic but it's dark and intimate enough that chemistry will soon be revealed. There's live music most nights (they like jazz), and that only increases the chances that you'll fall in love with the person you're drinking whiskey with. Canary Club is a multi-story Cajun venue in the LES with red booths, large-format cocktails, and live jazz that make it look like a speakeasy in New Orleans. It's a great place to hang out with a first date or partner. There are two seats every night at 8:00 p.m.
and 10:00 p.m., so make sure to book ahead if you want one. The Special Club is an intimate jazz venue located below Niche Niche (owned by the same owners). With its white tablecloths and red velvet decor, it feels festive and old fashioned - perfect for someone you're already in a romantic relationship with. and 10:00 p.m., so make sure to book ahead if you want one.
