Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Marie's Crisis Cafe

    3.6 (480 reviews)
    InexpensivePiano Bars
    Closed 4:00 pm - 4:00 am (Next day)

    Marie's Crisis Cafe Photos

    Business Info

    You might also consider

    More like Marie's Crisis Cafe

    Recommended Reviews - Marie's Crisis Cafe

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Haley Z.

    Many show-tune filled memories here! I think if you're a past or present theater kid you should experience this place at least once. Years ago this type of place was all we had. There were no musical raves or dj sets like there are today and there's nothing like singing along to a piano compared to a track. It can get fairly packed here on the weekends, but I usually have more fun those nights. The best times are when the pianist flows with the crowd and mixes up the music or shows being played. The vibe and experience has A Lot to do with who is playing or singing for the night. Is this the most upkept or stylish or clean place absolutely not but it's part of the charm. I've had great service here and I've had abysmal service here, really depends on the night. The only real downfall is the quality and size of the drinks. Everything is watered down, lack in any flavor, and are given in the smallest glasses I've ever seen at a dive-esc bar. So disappointing considering the drink minimum. I'd recommend drinking somewhere else and then coming here and ordering your minimum because at that point you may not mind but don't start your drinking here. *This is a cash only place*

    Always a fun stop on our yearly trips.
    Hillari S.

    This is more of a 4 star place, but I'm giving it a 5 because EVERYONE who loves show tunes or broadway musicals should go here. In all my travels, I've never seen another bar like it. There are plenty of musical themed bars or piano bars, but none where actual performers from the shows may show up or where so many people know sich obscure songs. This bar has been around for at least 20+ years because I used to go when I lived in NYC when I was young. Anyways, someone plays the piano and everyone sings. They are rather militant at the bar, so that brings the rating down from a five. But, everyone should go here, if even only once. I am not surprised if many in the city are regulars.

    Montage of images from Marie's Crisis Cafe
    Ed U.

    "I got 36 expressions! Sweet as pie to tough as leather, and that's six expressions more than all them Barrymores put together..." OK, I didn't make a request for "I'm the Greatest Star" - but I was ready to be a bagel on a plateful of onion rolls if called upon. And frankly, if you didn't know this song was from "Funny Girl", you're in the wrong bar. However, if you know Sondheim's songbook by heart, you need to come to this subterranean watering hole at 5:30PM when the piano bar sing-along starts with show tunes performed by request. There was a bachelorette party of baritone-voiced Jersey girls who left when they realized what the bar was about. They were quickly followed out the door by a trio of horny dudes who were looking to get lucky but realized they didn't want to be mistaken for gay. The rest of the growing crowd was here for the long run as we lit into "Cabaret" and "Do Re Mi" with spirit if not talent. It helped that Jamie W. and I had a couple of $10 Makers Mark & Gingers and Dirty Martinis. It's a small space, and lots of Broadway queens bring their own lyric sheets as they gather around the garrulous woman playing the piano and leading the verses. Don't let that intimidate you as everyone is welcome. Just remember... "Who is the pip with pizzazz? Who is all ginger and jazz? Who is as glamourous as?Who's an American beauty rose? With an American beauty nose and ten American beauty toes?" It's YOU...after a couple of stiff drinks. DRINKS - 4 stars...full throttle, inhibitions gone AMBIANCE - 3.5 stars ...it's a "Boys in the Band"-era type of dive SERVICE - 4 stars...the bartender has seen it all TOTAL - 4 stars...practice your showstopper so you can bask in the applause RELATED - Thirsty in Manhattan? Here's a collection of places I've tried and reviewed: http://bit.ly/2YS9ELs

    Lindsay S.

    Ok... I fell in love with this place! I wish we had something like it in MN! For those of you who haven't seen it.. it's a community karaoke piano bar and it's amazing and divey. The songs they play are all musicals, so study up if you plan to go. You can request the ones you want with a tip to the talented piano player. Make sure to not video in there unless you get the persons consent. This is a big no no. I don't believe they have food, just drinks. The bartender was quick and attentive despite running the ship solo. Oh yeah and it's cash only! Bring your paper money here! **Do Not go here to talk louder than the piano and the singers... there are other bars! Yes, I had two gals in front of me doing this. #rude Overall, I'm excited to go back on my next trip to NYC.

    Us-ies at the bar
    Sadaf T.

    Came here with family from out of town over Thanksgiving weekend and it was such a blast. Grabbed seats at the bar and enjoyed singing along (or trying to) some fun numbers. There were some truly amazing voices in the crowd and the overall vibe was welcoming and warm. Never have I ever sang "These are a few of my favorite things in public before." Hopefully this won't be the last.

    Inside

    See all

    24 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    21 days ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Tim S.
    390
    1271
    6934

    1 year ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 3
    Love this 5
    Oh no 3
    Photo of James K.
    477
    75
    1

    8 months ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    9 months ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 4

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 15
    Thanks 0
    Love this 17
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3

    2 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 2
    Love this 1
    Oh no 10

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Jess L.
    3520
    5586
    5956

    3 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 0
    Love this 5
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Kate M.
    11
    659
    0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 4
    Love this 1
    Oh no 4

    2 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 4
    Love this 2
    Oh no 4

    2 years ago

    Helpful 8
    Thanks 6
    Love this 1
    Oh no 4

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Albert K.
    663
    1735
    32222

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    This is the Theater Kid bar. Love show tunes, fun MCs, they take requests... This is the place to be

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 3
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 11
    Thanks 2
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 6
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Adam L.
    1
    22
    16

    4 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 1
    Love this 5
    Oh no 1
    Photo of M K.
    2
    78
    0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Darya S.
    1459
    3383
    3271

    8 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    It is my must go place when I'm in NYC! Such a fun way to spend a few hoursJust go early enough so you don't have to wait in line.. 7-8 pm

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 12

    Marie's Crisis Cafe Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Marie's Crisis Cafe

    What time does the music start?

    5:30 ish

    Can people under 21 get in? Is it 18+?

    21 and up. They are very strict (as well they should).

    Open on Thanksgiving?

    Yes.

    Must check your purse...do they still have this policy?

    Coats and bags are checked during the colder months; I've never heard of anyone being asked to check their purse, unless it was huge.

    How late is this place open on week nights?

    Depends on the week night; some nights closer to the end of the week are open later, sometimes as late as 4am; if there is a smaller crowd, they may call it earlier.

    View All 8 Questions

    Review Highlights - Marie's Crisis Cafe

    We loved meeting Tyler and listening to great singers rattling off all the best of Broadway hits around the piano.

    Mentioned in 72 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Piano Bars 3,947 times last month within 10 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Brass

    Brass

    4.1
    (46 reviews)
    1.1 mi
    Romantic vibe
    Full bar

    I came to Brass on a weekday to celebrate my birthday, and I honestly couldn't have been happier…read morewith the atmosphere, food, and service. The restaurant had a wonderfully lively yet intimate energy, with most tables filled by patrons celebrating and catching up. A live pianist filled the room with a soft, beautiful soundtrack that really tied the whole evening together. We shared several items from the menu. Here is how they stacked up: House Rolls and Butter: Crab & Maitake Croustade: Half Dozen Oysters: Moules Frites: Brown Butter Scallops Chicken Breast w/ Mushroom Puree: Branzino: I would recommend the House Rolls, Brown Butter Scallops, Crab & Mai take Croustade, and Moules Frites. The Hors d'oeuvres were especially unique and delicious, but the Brown Butter Scallops were by far my favorite.

    We went to Brass for an early dinner...5:15 p.m. early. The restaurant was practically empty, so I…read morecouldn't understand why we were seated at the smallest table in the room. I noticed another party of two sitting in one of the rounded corner booths. Later, another couple was seated in the other rounded booth, but they eventually asked to be moved to a regular table when a third person joined them. Meanwhile, we stayed at our tiny table despite having a reservation. It was a little annoying, but I wasn't in the mood to make an issue of it. I had been really looking forward to this meal, but unfortunately I was disappointed course after course. We started with the Moules Frites, which ended up being the best thing I ate all night, and ironically, it wasn't even my order. My husband ordered it. I was most excited for the crab & Maitake Croustade, but if you had served it to me without telling me what it was, I would have guessed it was tuna salad. The crab didn't taste particularly fresh, and I couldn't find any trace of the maitake mushrooms. I couldn't see them, and I certainly couldn't taste them. We also ordered the steak tartare. The quality of the beef was good, but it was overwhelmed by acidity. If I had closed my eyes, I wouldn't have known I was eating steak tartare. And that's saying something because I actually love acidic food and tend to prefer more lemon and vinegar than most people. Next came the entrée-sized gnocchi. It was just okay. The gnocchi had a decent texture, though they weren't the light, pillowy bites I was hoping for. Unfortunately, the dish was buried under so much pesto that I couldn't taste much else. The portion was also surprisingly small, too small to feel like an entrée, in my opinion. For our mains, we ordered the Steelhead trout and the Hudson Valley duck. The trout was cooked beautifully with perfectly crisp skin, but again, it didn't taste as fresh as I expected. That's something I'd be more willing to overlook at an average neighborhood restaurant, not at one with Brass's reputation and price point. The sauce with the roe was delicious, but I didn't understand the braised cabbage alongside it. It didn't seem to complement the fish. The duck was another disappointment. The skin was floppy instead of crisp, and part of the sauce had already dried onto the plate by the time it reached the table. The sauce itself, however, was excellent and ended up being the highlight of the dish. I also didn't understand the grilled romaine. It tasted fine, I like romaine, but it felt like an oddly inexpensive vegetable to pair with such an expensive entrée. By the time we finished our mains, there was no point in asking for the dessert menu. We were ready to leave and get dessert somewhere else. Overall, it was a disappointing meal. The one bright spot was our server, who was friendly, attentive, and exactly what you'd hope for at an upscale restaurant. Great service, unfortunately, wasn't enough to make up for the food.

    Photos
    Brass
    Brass
    Plum Room - Private Dining

    See all

    Plum Room - Private Dining
    Don't Tell Mama

    Don't Tell Mama

    3.5
    (509 reviews)
    2.0 mi
    $$

    A fun bar to sing along, be yourself, enjoy the company of friends/family and strangers, and sip to…read moreyour hearts content. They do not have a fee to enter, but they do require you to have two drinks minimum. There are nonalcoholic beverages available, so you can have a break or enjoy without requiring to drink alcohol. This piano bar is definitely different from the one back home. Everyone who works here sings. They deserve a tip for the entertainment they provide. You request via QR code/via Venmo. The higher the request, the more likely they will play the song. You can also pay for you to sing. People have tried to request without tipping, but they will get called out. Most of the songs requested are broadway hits. Some good oldies songs are sung though. We liked our drinks. Not too bad, not too ecstatic. Just enough to be satisfied. If you get a spot in the back, they do have a TV for you to watch whats going on in the front. They will also offer you a spot in the front if a spot opens up. There are more 2 people spots open vs 4 people spots, meaning you are more likely to sit separated up front than together. Overall, highly recommend for a good time!

    This is a nice little cabaret spot in the heart of the theater district. In the front they have a…read morenice bar and there's usually a performer there. It's always a treat to hear live music. We came to support our friends who were doing a show. They really pack people in and I'm good with paying to support the arts. For our friends' show, the cover was $35 each plus a two drink minimum with at least $20 required. We got drinks and two appetizers which were just okay but we weren't expecting gourmet fare. We got out of there for about $200 so a little pricey but it's nice to support artists. It's cash only so make sure you go before or else they send you to the sketchy ATM in the parking lot a couple of doors down and that charges a $4.75 fee. They are very good about notifying you that it's cash only, but bring more than you think you'll need.

    Photos
    Our friends have a show
    Our friends have a show
    Cheese Plate $25 05/9/23
    Cheese Plate $25 05/9/23
    The Latte Boy Jameson, Bailey's Irish Cream, Ruby Red Slipper Cold Brew Coffee, Whipped Cream

    See all

    The Latte Boy Jameson, Bailey's Irish Cream, Ruby Red Slipper Cold Brew Coffee, Whipped Cream
    The Flatiron Room Murray Hill

    The Flatiron Room Murray Hill

    4.3
    (612 reviews)
    1.6 mi
    $$$

    We celebrated my friend's 82nd birthday and the food, service and ambiance were great! The jazz…read moresinger was awesome too! Thanks for a great night and we will be back! Escargot and bones is a must have! I also had the grilled octopus which was delicious!

    usually I wouldn't credit an ambiance too much but I get it here…read more - the two story liquor shelves accessible only by ladders, the rich colored abstract murals and the open stage with live music that doesn't pierce your eardrops....mwah - sitting at a large table in cushioned seats we enjoyed a variety of cocktails. their version of a pornstar martini which they maturely call a rockstar martini, came with not only a sidecar of Prosecco, but also of popping Boba. - espresso martini was very savory and espresso dominant, tasted fine but i could make better - the Parker house roll is singular for a reason....It is one roll you can cut apart. however, it was so light yet also incredibly buttery that we all were happy with our singular bite. - the burger was larger than expected for a restaurant with high price tags and small plates. melt in your mouth double patties with crispy outter flakes stacked with a pungent cheese, pickles and cut of Romain for crispness. the shoestring fries were good but no aioli was disappointing - the steak was shockingly bland even in the sauce. the chicken combined truffle with poultry well but the sauce was what carried the dish. It

    Photos
    The Flatiron Room Murray Hill
    The Sphere after the melt...
    The Sphere after the melt...
    The Flatiron Room Murray Hill

    See all

    Smalls Jazz Club

    Smalls Jazz Club

    4.3
    (447 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    Kinda wild that I didn't write a review the last time I was in this jazz joint…read more Last time I popped into the 2am show and it blew my sox off. I saw Miki Yamanaka randomly for the 1st time. But apparently i missed writing a review. Maybe because there are many glowing reviews already. But may I put my 5 star review on the pile. This time we caught the 2pm Sunday open jam. We were smartly near the front of the line so we got my favorite spot, right on the bar rail near the stage. The drinks were good and strong, the service was quick and succinct. The jam was incredible. I didn't know all the guys but the guy on drums is a legend named muppet. He held back on his solos on the first 2 songs. On the third, when the baton was passed to him, he ripped off an impressive solo that would be amazing for anyone, and he is 93. We had to dip out to catch our flight, but cant wait to stop in again next time.

    This was our last stop during our must recent NYC trip. Were only able to stay for a an hour or…read moreso, because we had to run to the airport. Still, this was enough to get a good feel of what the club is all about. Just standing in line we got to talk to a musician, who had just played at another location, but told us the people playing there that day were amazing, including the 91-year-old drummer "Muppet". We went during the day so no cover charge, but think they do at later hours. We got some spots at the bar, knowing we would not be able to stay long. From any seat you are able to enjoy the whole atmosphere and set. They had one server and one bartender, and I honestly thought at first they would be scrambling with all the drink orders but the way they worked, quickly and still being personable with each guest was impressive. The band playing was great, we stayed a bit more than we should have because of how good they were. Very intimate, chill way to spend time enjoying live music. The only reason I took one star off is the restroom situation. I went down hoping I could use the facilities but the mold smell and other strong smell made me sick and I had to run out. Just make sure you go before you are inside or hold it. Apart from that, very intimate, chill way to spend time enjoying live music.

    Photos
    Smalls Jazz Club
    11.19.22 7:30pm show
    11.19.22 7:30pm show
    Smalls Jazz Club

    See all

    So & So’s Piano Bar

    So & So’s Piano Bar

    4.0
    (40 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    I've been wanting to visit this hidden piano bar in NYC for the longest time, and I'm so happy I…read morefinally did. Between the live pianist, dimly lit space, and cozy atmosphere, it's a nice little escape from the busy streets of NYC. We started with their Tiny TINI Hour, ordering the Espresso Martini and the Keys & Blossoms cocktail alongside the K-POP Fries. The Espresso Martini easily made its way into my Top 5 Fav Espresso Martinis, while the Keys & Blossoms was light, slightly sweet, and incredibly refreshing. The K-pop Fries were truly an experience with the fresh cut kimchi, chili mayo, cheese, cilantro, and scallions, every bite making you crave more. For dinner, we both ordered the Bar Steak served with crispy potatoes and an incredible Argentinian chimichurri that tied the whole dish together. I love any form of potatoes but there's just something about whole potatoes and steak that hit differently for me. Of course, I couldn't leave without trying the Bodega Cat cocktail, served in an iconic New York blue coffee cup. It reminded me of a coconut espresso drink and was such a fun touch for the night. We also had the Whole 'Nother Sonata, which was just as delicious. We were way too full for dessert, but I love a perfect excuse to come back. Whether it's date night, girls' night, or you're just looking for a cozy cocktail spot with live music, So & So's deserves a spot on your list.

    I had such a magical experience here at So and So's. There's a band that plays here consistently on…read moreSaturdays and they're incredible. Beautiful jazz! They play a mix of classics and personal works and throw in some latino compositions. For food, we got the prix fix menu of a starter, main and dessert for $60. Beyond worth it! They also have a robust cocktail and mocktail menu. Something for everyone. I ordered mini lobster rolls, sesame tuna and boozy bread pudding. Lobster rolls were petite but mighty good, shiso leaf in the cucumber salad was a nice touch and the bread pudding was to die for. I could barely finish the food altogether the portions were very generous. My friend had steak and I definitely took a few pieces as well. Overall it's super modern inside, comfy and with great food to accompany beautiful music. Top of the list for piano bars!

    Photos
    As we entered.
    As we entered.
    Wagyu in a blanket
    Wagyu in a blanket
    Lounge area.

    See all

    Lounge area.

    Marie's Crisis Cafe - pianobars - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...