Reservation instructions say to show up 15 min before reservation time so we did that. They made us wait outside for 40 min before letting us in. Then they pack you into this place like sardines and make you put your phone in a sealed envelope. The bathroom is also tiny and uncomfortable. They say last call 30 min before our show ended but didn't give us our check until the show was over. So then you have to wait some more before you can leave and it's already 2:30 am. The comics were hilarious but from a customer service standpoint this business is really lacking and the worst comedy club I've been to. read more

My husband and I went to watch some comedy last night at 7pm. What a class act. From the doorman, to the host, to the waitress, to the supporting staff, chef and the amazing comedians we had a first class night. I wasn't sure if they were serving dinner so we had pizza first - but they had a full menu. We ordered the kebabs ans shared - it was delicious. No phones during the show so I could not take a photo but it was juicy and served with blanched green beans and fries. The drinks were delicious and we laughed so hard that my mascara came running down my face. Make sure to empty your bladder before they start their acts..... What an amazing evening and a wonderful place! read more

Comedy Cellar - Their menu - yum yum. - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

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What a treat! We were surprised with Dave Chapelle, Chris Rock, Amy Schumer, and Louis CK. Honestly the non-celeb comedians were even better (non-celebs are probably the norm). My friends and I felt like we were on 5 different drugs at the same time- laughing and crying!!! This was such a fun experience, and I highly recommend it! Here's how it works: You should reserve your spot online first in advance. Then, you show up maybe 15 minutes early to the show and check in with the front with your name and # in your party. You're given a card with your table number and the # of ppl in your party. Then, you get in line and they give you these fabric cases to temporarily lock/put your phones and smart watches. You keep these fabric cases with your electronics on your person the whole time. The reason they lock it is so you don't take pictures/film inside. Then, you are shown to your table, and everyone needs to order 2 items minimum (could be a water bottle, cocktail, mozzarella sticks, etc). (The food/drinks aren't too shabby, btw!) Then, at the end of the show, you get your receipt for the food/drinks, and your comedy show tickets for the # in your party. And once you've paid, you get your receipt back with a stamp on it. This stamped receipt is your ticket out of the venue :) read more

Comedy Cellar is a MUST if you are visiting NYC or into comedy in general. Lineups rotate regularly and you never know who will pop up! The cellar is only open to vaccinated people and proof of vaccine is required to enter, so bring your vax card! read more

Comedy Cellar - Lineup of the night - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

Hilarious lineup and great service! Came for a Thursday evening show and the bouncer was fast and efficient so we were seated quickly. Show up 15 minutes before showtime to make sure you can get a seat or table closer to the stage! The show was for fully vaccinated people only (proof required) and no masks were worn inside. If you are uncomfortable being seated very close to others without a mask, you may want to hold off on attending a show for now. Our server was very nice the entire evening and made sure we were well taken care of. The food prices are very reasonable for the portion size. One nacho or hummus appetizer could definitely fill two people. There is a two item per person minimum that can apply to drinks or food, and cover is added to the food bill and paid together at the end. The MC and 7 comedians were all awesome and kept the audience laughing for all of the ~1.5hr show. Coupled with great food and service, the evening served as a great dinner and comedy night out. Must go! read more

Comedy Cellar - Entry to the comedy show downstairs - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

I really can't believe I haven't already reviewed this place. I used to go at least 3 times a month when I lived in NYC. I go every time I can on my trips back to visit. Laugh until you cry. Great comedians, cozy atmosphere, really takes you out of the drudgery of day to day life while you sit in a dark basement and get laughter therapy. Service is always good and the food is better than you'd expect. read more

So much fun and great stuff. Love this place. Liz and Tony kick ass. Very affordable tickets too.

Came here two nights ago thinking I could just get in but no! You must make reservations because it's very popular! I was able to book for two for thursday (two nights away) and didnt have to pay anything up front. Finally on the day, we got to the area around 7:45pm (15mins away) and the line was long. It went by fast and we got seated right away! We had about 5 comedians had a gig and it was hilarious! So glad we came!!! Ambiance is chill so dont need to dress up! The night I went, we had to purchase two items minimum! And by the time the show ended we paid the drinks and admission. Great, quick system. read more

Surprised that this place isn't 5 stars here. Personally we had a terrific night, there were multiple comedians and they were all really good. The atmosphere was great and they were very clear about the 2 drink minimum requirement before we paid. (No problem with this on my end!!). The entry fee is very reasonable and the night was a blast! read more

Went here multiple times while visiting New York. The security guard is professional and operations are smooth. The comedy is random but always spot on and hilarious. Loved it. Definitely a must see when you're in town. It's chilly inside so bring a sweater. One of my favorite things about New York. read more

Good stage, great talent, abusive and rude staff. I imagine they get their fair share of knuckleheads being a comedy club in New York but that doesn't excuse all the stupid sh*t they do for no reason. Two item minimum? In current year? Bad enough by itself but they'll also just throw it away instead of packing it or offering a bag at the end of the show. There's homeless people all over the place right outside the venue, tossing food that could go to people in need that no one even wanted to buy in the first place is unconscionable. They also need to get over themselves with their stupid phone policy. I'm not going there to tape Mark Normand read off the nuclear launch codes. All in all, it beats staying home and staring at a wall but the comedy scene in the city would be better off without it Edit: The door guys are usually cool but I guess I caught a bad rotation tonight. gonna start taking down stars every time they give my seat away to randoms. read more

Clean intimate comedy spot. We saw Collin Quinn. Staff was pleasant, respectful and ready to serve with a smile. Manager was awesome fixing our little issue. Wish we had more time in New York! Will come back! read more

Oh my goodness this place was amazing! I wanted to give my husband a good comedy experience and this place absolutely delivered! The line up of comedians kept coming and bringing a new twist and spin with their comedy. The ambiance was intimate and comfortable. Hold your breath in the bathroom lol and hurry. There is a two item minimum and I wasn't impressed with the cheesecake but my husband enjoyed the mud cake. Be mindful of the candles on the table they are real and will scorch your hair if you're not careful lol. You will have to put your phone in a sealed pouch until you are about to leave...you get to keep it in your possession but it must remain sealed until the show is over. Outside of the club the by standers are a bit sketchy so have your Uber ready before leaving the building...other than that get ready to laugh and and be entertained this place was exactly what we needed on a Monday. read more

Comedy Cellar - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

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The comedy was pretty good but the food and drinks were mid. The chocolate cake was not good but the chocolate shavings on it were.

Great comedians - TERRIBLE staff and experience. We know how to act at a comedy show. We have been to multiple comedy shows in LA and Chicago. This was one of the worst experiences of a show we have ever had. Went w my fiancee and sisters. Long time fan of comedy and looked forward to this for months. After being seated and the show started, the staff continually came up to us saying we were too loud and talking while performers were speaking. We ABSOLUTELY were not and just confused by the staff approaching us at all. We asked to get a further explanation from the staff and they only told us they didn't have anything to say other than we were loud. Multiple tables around us looked confused as we were. I asked other tables and even one of the comedians walking by if we were loud and a nuance - and they all told us explicitly we were fine and did NOTHING wrong. My sisters left crying. My fiancee and I were befuddled. Outside we ran into one of the comedians who performed while we were there - explained the whole situation and asked if we had been loud as they perfrormed - he was just as shocked as we were. Said he had no issue or problem while we were there. Was supposed to be a highlight of the NY experience and instead turned into one of the worst we've ever had. Could not have had a worse experience at this place. Will never recommend to others and never go back. Could not have had a worse experience at this place. Not a regular commenter on Yelp but this was so bad I had to. If I could give it a zero or less than I would. read more

If you're like me, you roll your eyes at popular tourist spots. I usually hate tourist spots because they tend to be overrated and I hate crowds. After getting recommendations to go here by other people (over a course of a few years), I finally decided to give it a chance. I went for a late night show during the week- to my surprise it was packed! Make sure you reserve in advance by the way, there aren't dates readily available if you decide to book day of. I came in with no expectation and ended up having a great time. The late night crowd and the late night acts were hilarious. There was a nice variety of acts that come from different backgrounds so I felt there was something for everyone. Overall, I highly recommend going, it's underrated if anything imo! Some tips for you: make sure you use the restroom before you sit down for the show. It's likely you'll be seated in an awkwardly tight spot that'll be hard to get up and out of. read more

Super fun spot with great comics and good service! We visited on a Friday night and enjoyed the four comics.

Yes, it's a tight squeeze as most of these comedy clubs are. But my big ole, eight month pregnant belly was comfortable throughout the show. They made sure to see me at the end of a table so I could have some belly space in the aisle they also didn't give me a hard time for not ordering alcohol with the two drink minimum. Can't wait to come back! read more

Comedy Cellar - No mask requirements, but I thought it was wise since I'm pregnant - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

Everyone was SO funny! Even the host. Great and fun night. If you want try to try to walk in because the show is sold out I would go there about an hour to and hour and a half before your desired show time. Shoutout to the security guards, they were so nice and recognized me and my friends from the previous night!! Food was surprisingly good as well, but I would eat before just because it is more of appetizer menu. read more

Comedy Cellar - Outside - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

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This place is one of if not the most prolific comedy club on earth. It's important to note that there are three rooms. MacDougal Street: the original room that you are probably familiar with and the best one in my opinion Village Underground: Solid venue that is a little bit larger I think and rivals MacDougal Fat Black Pussycat Lounge: haven't been but usually last to sell out. The comics are always solid and entertaining. Do they bomb sometimes, sure. Do they blow you away sometimes, definitely. The real allure is (especially at MacDougal Street) you can get top level comedians just walking in to do a set and try out material. It happens time to time but not something to expect. Overall the experience is great and it's a good hiatus from the hustle and bustle of NYC. The place is very well run and operates efficiently Five things you should know before you go: 1. They put your phone in a pouch for the show, if that is a problem for you don't go. Also if you can't stay quiet don't go. If you sit in the front row expect the comedians to interact with you. 2. They have a two item minimum that can include decent food and good drinks. For budget friendly folks you can get fries for $5 and other small items for cheap. Cover varies from $14-$25 in addition to that per person. 3. Make a reservation well ahead of time. I check all the time and sometimes stuff pops up. If you want to go on a weekend book weeks in advance. You can also standby in a line outside but be prepared to get there very early and potentially leave without a seat. 4. There are a lot of cheap eats nearby. I've done a mini food tour with Chickenhawk hot chicken, Doner Kebab, Pizza, Belgian Fries etc before and was cheap/fun. 5. Remember servers have a hard job here. They have to not only serve a big room crammed with people but also have to verify item min are met and stamp all checks before you leave. read more

I literally am the person who somehow internally laughs at like TV shows and comedy stuff. I never really found comedy shows funny in the past, even skits online or the TV. i don't know why, if I did think it was funny I would just laugh in my head. When my friends wanted to go here, I was hesitant to go because I felt like I wouldn't even laugh, or think it was funny. But I went because I knew regardless I would be with them and it could be fun:) but I was proven wrong: the show was over the top hilarious. I was laughing out of my seat, everyone was so funny so funny and I want to go again. I'll buy tickets to go this week actually read more

Comedy Cellar - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

I had a great time at the Comedy Cellar! There are some quirks to it that are helpful to know if it's your first time. When you first go there you'll get your id checked and also need to put your phones and Smart watches into a sealed off bag. It is a phone free show which I thought was nice but I didn't expect that they would literally seal a bag to make sure you weren't online. The charge to get in is $17 and each person needs to get two items. This can range from drinks to full dinner options. I personally went with two other people and we split some nachos, crispy cauliflower, fries, and cheesecake. They also each got a drink. Next time I would pass on the cauliflower, it personally wasn't for me. I thought the fries and nachos were a really good deal and they definitely give you a lot. The space itself is small! We originally had four of us total but a friend couldn't make it and even still the space we were in was really cramped and depending on where you get seated the angle can be difficult to really get a good view of the comedians. The bathrooms are also really small but pretty clean. The staff were really friendly and the MC of the night was hilarious. I have heard famous comedians sometimes make a special appearance but we didn't have extra people stop by that time. Overall, it was a fun time and would go again and maybe also just have dinner there while I'm at the show. read more

We had the best time here! We had reservations for the 10pm show. We got in quickly once the line started moving. The staff was friendly and all of the comedians were great. Clean bathrooms. They do bag and seal up your phones and watches but you keep the bag with you at your table. Only thing I could complain on was how cold it was inside. read more

Tight ass space. Limited number of bathroom stalls (2 stalls). No intermission. Few weeks before I made a reservation for 7 people on Friday, November 24 after Thanksgiving day. Make sure you make a reservation online. Better to be safe than sorry. We saw about 5 comedians. Each comedian performed about 10-12 mins. We were sitting next to the stage on the left. A beer pitcher counts for 4 drinks. A sangria counts for 6. If you come in a group this is the best way to keep track of your order. Btw if you come with a big party know that you can split the payment among 2 credit cards max. I would strongly advise you to bring cash. You also pay for the cover charge along with food/drinks at the end which we didn't know. Unless you guys decide to venmo each other. I was a bit startled because online info stated that it was supposed to be $21 per person for cover charge. However, on our table it said $24 for a cover charge and we were charged with that. Overall it was funny. If you have leftover drinks they direct you to the bar upstairs. The only problem was that they didn't have seats for 7 people. We had to stand by the bar. I would advise you to come here with a smaller party. Maximum 4 people. read more

I gave this place a try despite the bad reviews. What a mistake. The bouncer is aggressive and rude, shouting at customers for "not knowing the rules". What? Nothing is ever good enough for me to be paying and getting yelled at for no good reason. I heard the host and the comedians are good here but I never got to see them because of this nightmare of a guy at the door. Many reviewers had mentioned this bouncer in the past and there was a question who this person is. Please see attached pictures. read more

Comedy Cellar - This is the bouncer who is extremely rube to customers. - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

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Yamaneika Saunders is thoroughly unfunny and ruined the entire night. Made SA jokes that were distasteful and I saw Daniel Tosh (who I enjoyed and was funny) so imagine comparing it to that. Would never go back solely based on her. read more

Phase 1: walk down MacDougal Street and maybe buy a ticket from a rando, maybe you have tickets already. Phase 2: "line" up near a bouncer. Phase 3: show your ID to the bouncer no matter how freaking old you are. Phase 4: the bouncer will tell you to put all of your phones in an envelope that will be provided. Phase 5: you walk down the stairs past a distracted-looking guy who DOES NOT give you an envelope. Phase 6: the bouncer blames you. Phase 7: go inside and seal your phones in the envelope. Phase 8: get a table. Phase 9: hit your knees against other people's' knees for the next two (2) hours. Phase 10: order actually good food and drinks for semi-reasonable prices and enjoy hilarious comedy. Phase 11: write a Yelp review without pictures because your phone was in an envelope the whole time. read more

The Comedy Cellar is the dream destination for rabid comedy fans, and for good reason. Many of the biggest comedians in the world have performed here, and have a tendency to drop by unexpectedly, so you never know quite what you're going to get or who you're going to see. A word to the wise - make a reservation if at all possible. They book far in advance, and this is the best hassle-free way to get to a show. Getting into the Cellar is nearly impossible without one. I was one of the lucky few that were selected to get in, but it took some careful planning. I arrived to the Cellar an hour and a half before the first show of the night, and immediately added my name to the waitlist. I was fifth up, and they may have only taken ten waitlisters total for the first show. However, once you get in, it was everything I thought it would be and more. It's an incredibly intimate venue, and very tight from wall to wall. It binds the whole experience together. Our show was about 90 minutes total, with six different acts and different personalities taking the stage. Everyone on stage was there for the perfect amount of time, and no one wore out their welcome. It was the perfect evening - and everyone was very funny. There is a two item minimum that is always annoying at comedy clubs, and the staff were pretty firm about it. Still, The Comedy Cellar is a phenomenal time for any comedy fan. You never know who might show up. read more

Reservations is the key. If you don't have one - be prepared to wait in line forever to snag a coveted spot on the "list" and then comeback before the show to wait yet again to see if you are chosen off the coveted "list." Once you're in - you'll be show to your particular table. There's a minimum so drink and/or eat up. Neither the fare or the drinks are particularly noteworthy - but that's really not why you came. The venue is smallish, so depending on where you are seated, you'll either have a great seat or one which provides awkward viewing. It's cramped so the servers will be brushing by to do their jobs. The talent is for the most part pretty good although the "headliner" for the night we went (while on tv a lot) fell flat with his act. I'm pretty sure it might have been new material that was being developed - but it wasn't really funny. To note on that - since a comedian's intellectual property is his/her jokes - you're required to stuff your cell phones in a sealed envelope to be placed on your table the entire evening. So - don't plan on taking photos, recording video or audio. read more

Cool venue. World renown comedy club with a top notch show. It's right quarters lead to a more intimate comedy experience that can have you just feet away from some awesome and gifted comics. You never know who could spring up and drop a quick 10-15 minute set. Amy Schumer showed up unannounced and killed it. They are some up and comers that frequent this place as well. Definitely get your tickets in advance. There is a stand by line that you can put your name down for but it can be a crapshoot. No phones or cameras or smart watches! read more

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I've always wanted to attend a comedy show so I figured when in New York- why not?! This place looked like it was straight out of a movie. Underground, dark, no phones, and a cute little stage so you felt very close to the comedians. I didn't like how they chose to seat our group. Each person pays a cover of $25 and has a two drink minimum. Our group had four people, so the waiter gave us one small coffee table and made us SQUISH next to another couple. It was disappointing because if we had said two groups of two, we would have had enough leg room. My best friend had to practically sit half on my lap, making it very uncomfortable. On a more positive note, the host was incredibly and it was very funny. I enjoyed the variety of comedians they chose and it flew by so quickly! Sorry for my lack of photos but as I mentioned, they don't allow the use of phones. read more

I've been going to the Cellar since about 1985. I've seen everyone from Dave Attell to Dave Chappelle. Ray Romano, Wanda Sykes (Hall), Louie CK and so many more great comics. But the place keeps going downhill. I feel like they often just rest on their laurels. They are expensive and really cramped. We're used to that. But the show needs to be really good to make that all worthwhile. On the weekend, they crank out 4 shows a night plus several others that they put on at other locations. Much more quantity than quality. Was there this weekend... Gregg Rogell was funny enough in the 90s. But is well past his sell-by date. The host was someone named Jonathan. I'd sum up his time as "I's not real funny. But I do has strong folitical mopinions". People go to comedy clubs to laugh and relax. I'm beyond fed up with performers using their stage time just to express their politics. If it's funny, great! But it had better be especially funny if it's neither current nor historic. Like if a DJ was only playing music from 13 years ago. It's not current and it's not classic. So, if you're talking about people who have been out of office for years and are not historic figures, then you're just doing it to express your personal feelings and not even being funny in the process. Enough! We were there during prime time on Saturday night. I should be their best show of the week. If that's their best, stick with other clubs. read more

I've never laughed so hard at a comedy show!! I highly recommend seeing a show if you're in the area.

I wanted to see some comedy with my lady, but ended up leaving because the 2 dudes at the door made our experience sour. Mimun I believe is his name, is the person who really busted our balls and needs a reality check on how to communicate with a patron. He had the audacity to shit my girlfriend up for simply asking a question nicely. If you see this, I hope you understand that you lost 2 customers and thr management needs to screen their employees better. read more

I'll pay good money to make me laugh! Comedy cellar always delivers and for a fair price.

The worst experience ever. The audience made a comment or two and they were kicked out. Stole my money if you ask me. My show was cut short.

I recently visited the comedy cellar for a date night out with my boyfriend when I experienced the blatant antisemitism directed towards me from both the wait staff and the general manager. I would highly suggest not wasting your money on this hate filled establishment. overall they ruined my night and I still had to pay for the check for coming. I'm honestly astounded at how poorly they treat thier patrons. they should be ashamed of themselves. read more

Probably the best comedy club in America! There is always quality talent that will make it a great night. We have been here over a dozen times and we have always had a great experience. The lineup usually changes from day to day, so you will usually not hear the same jokes from visit to visit, but it does happen occasionally if you go multiple times in the same month. Absolutely recommend it! I would suggest checking out the Village Underground if you have a choice. It is a bigger space, so you're not crammed into the space. It's not the original one, but you get the same talent and experience. read more

Comedy Cellar - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

This is a must-see place! So much history! We were at a table/booth along the back wall. It was super crowded with not much room to move around. There were 3 separate parties of 2 at our table. It's an intimate venue for sure. Much smaller than I would have expected. There is a drink minimum on top of the ticket price which is pretty standard for comedy shows I'm still not a fan of this. Best part: Aziz Ansari dropped in by surprise to test new material! read more

Comedy Cellar - Comedy Clubs Near Me - New York, New York

The best nights I've had in New York have always been at the cellar. The drinks are strong and the laughs are plentiful. I've seen Louis CK, tod Barry, Jerry Seinfeld, and more. Part of the fun is never knowing who is going to show up. I will continue to come back here. If anyone is visiting the city, this is the #1 place i would recommend you go. read more