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    Village Vanguard

    4.1 (236 reviews)
    ModerateJazz & Blues
    Closed 7:00 pm - 12:00 am (Next day)

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    Renee Rosnes Quartet tonight - 6/9/2019
    Cam E.

    The Village Vanguard is a landmark jazz venue encapsulating many famous jazz musician's careers from the 1940s to the present. Best known for the legendary performances and recordings of Jazz icons such as, Miles Davis, Thelonius Monk, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, Sonny Rollins to name a few. Established in 1935, the basement level triangular shaped tiny room remains the same today. People from all over the world still line up for the many gifted artists performing nightly. It's a tight squeeze once you're inside, but a good place for jazz enthusiasts and being historic landmark venue. We were there to see the multi-talented Renee Rosnes Artemis Quintet. Well worth it! **$40.00 cover, plus one drink minimum charge. No food or snacks are served, "not even a peanut!" "No outside food allowed" so eat before you go. **Sets are 8:00pm, 10:00pm. Doors are open at 7:00pm** ** First come, first served - no reservations** Thank you!

    Alisa J.

    Super cool jazz club. Vibes were ok compared to others I've been to and just felt musty. Musician were super talented but I didn't find the concert to be particularly energetic until the very last set.

    Alan R.

    We had tickets to the 10 PM Monday show and were able to get inside around 9:30-9:45. You are required to buy one drink per ticket. Overall, the show was enjoyable but very crammed inside. For true lovers of jazz, this is a great place to come. If you are looking for a less formal/sociable atmosphere, this may not be the place to come. The musicians were phenomenal and we are glad we came but I likely wouldn't go back.

    Ian M.

    I write as a public service. People may wonder about lining up for a good seat. I will try to do this for other venues I frequent. My friend I listen to jazz with is determined to get good seats. He is, more than I am, willing to line up early (I never have enough conversation to fill the time standing around, and it sometimes is too hot or too cold). We have been to Village Vanguard many times. Here is a description of last night. We heard Fred Hirsch and his trio. They were fantastic. We had the best seats in the house. We were directly under front of the stage, the two top dead center. I could put my foot on the stage, which I did and then my friend scolded me for intruding into the performers' sacrosanct space. There also are excellent seats on the banquette along the far side. We have been there more than once. After dinner nearby, we arrived approximately 6:30. Doors customarily open 7:30. Show was scheduled for 8:00. There was already a guy in line. That first customer said he'd been there since 5. A group of four was there too, but not lined up properly -- they discourage folks from blocking the sidewalk. So the guy got us to all arrange ourselves in a proper queue. My friend and I thus were the third party. I believe if you were to experiment, showing up 6:30 would ensure you were if not first then close to the front. You would have your pick of tables. The sightlines and acoustics here are good all around. But I enjoyed the evening all that much more being right there. You could be no closer without getting up onto the stage. I will add it filled up. So others had the same idea. By the time the doors opened, a lengthy, steady stream was ready to come in.

    Najwa G.

    Village Vanguard unfortunately did not live up to its hype for me. Without mentioning the name of the act, it was quite lackluster. Maybe I've been spoiled as Ronnie Scott's in London is my favorite jazz spot, but it was quite underwhelming. On top of that, the drinks were very lackluster. It honestly tasted like rubbing alcohol and I couldn't finish it. All in all, I'll be checking out other jazz clubs in NYC.

    Inside
    Marina M.

    This was a very interesting jazz club. I've never been to one that doesn't serve food. They only serve drinks. The ambiance is very cozy. It's a smaller, intimate venue. The band the perform when I went was definitely something I've never heard before. The venue was really cute w old pictures of who performed all over it. The service was okay. Our waiter came in the beginning and then I didn't see them again. I think it was a cool place to go :)

    Wall decorated with famous jazz artists
    Fawn G.

    You always remember your firsts in anything you do... well last night was my FIRST time visiting the Village Vanguard. But FIRST a little history.. founded in 1935 by Max Gordon, he truly paved the way for jazz greats.. We are talking about Miles Davis, Bill Evans, Thelonius Monk, Horace Silver and many more. This very intimate, 132 tables, club is a West Village landmark. It is the stalwart of Seventh Avenue South. Thus last night, a friend and I decided to hear Bill Charlap and Trio for my inauguration. Entering by way of small staircase, you can feel the history. Portraits of the jazz greats decorate the famous walls. We were checked in promptly and escorted to our tiny table, but great view, near the stage. The venue was packed with jazz enthusiasts. VV does not serve food and there is a one drink minimum. Cocktails start at $16, there is a nice wine list and aperitifs. I wanted the Aperol Soritz and was told drink was sold out.. I then asked for a French Martini but was told they only make regular Martinus...thus I ordered a Margarita which was delicious. The VV is also known for it's acoustics and now I know why.. listening to Bill Charlap's piano playing, was as clear as a bell. Spot on! Every instrument sounded just perfect! This was a great night filled with jazz enthusiasts like myself, really into the music. If you love jazz and prefer an intimate setting then Village Vanguard is a must! This was my FIRST visit but certainly not my LAST! Very impressed!

    Inside stage

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    2 years ago

    Jazz was amazing. Not really coming here for the food, or drink and the ambiance is nice but also very tight.

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    1 year ago

    Absolutely a great place to enjoy some really great music. Great atmosphere and the staff was amazing!

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    3 years ago

    I spent a good portion of my childhood here. It was remarkable. I would urge any jazz lover to experience it.

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    Ask the Community - Village Vanguard

    Is the venue back to being open after closing for Covid?

    YES

    Is the one drink minimum still in effect? And how much is the price of a drink? (beer or wine)?

    Yes still is, average between $8-$12 you'll probably only have time for 2 drinks.

    Do they sell tickets at the door?

    If the show hasn't sold out ahead of time

    Is it necessary to make a reservation?

    It isn't always necessary but usually it is. Shows sell out fast - so online is best!

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - Village Vanguard

    We are talking about Miles Davis, Bill Evans, Thelonius Monk, Horace Silver and many more.

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    Smalls Jazz Club

    Smalls Jazz Club

    4.3
    (445 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

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    Brownstone JAZZ

    Brownstone JAZZ

    4.7
    (57 reviews)
    4.7 mi
    $$

    Some friends and I attended an event here on a Saturday evening. We attended the 730pm slot that…read moreended around 9pm. The had another session after the one we attended because we saw people lined up as we were leaving. Please remember to bring the debit/ credit card you used to pay for the event. One of the staff was a bit adamant about seeing the card we used to pay even after we showed her our confirmation email and photo ID. The small and intimate sitting area was full. The staff are strict with seating arrangements to ensure everyone has a great view which is accommodating. You are allowed to BYOB. Now to the best part, the musicians. We enjoyed a hour and a half of pure bliss. The musicians were so talented and played from the heart and soul and you felt it. The music was low key to sit back and relax and then upbeat to do a little movement in your chair. lol. This is definitely a place to visit and enjoy some cool jazz in Brooklyn.

    This is a one-of-a-kind setting and performance of jazz and bebop. As with most jazz concerts,…read moreimprov is encouraged so you may get other flavors too from the blues to an upbeat rag. As you ascend the stairs into a well-preserved 19th century brownstone, a man will take your coat as you admire the original finishings and molding. The jazz concerts have been operating in the same room for over 16 years, and currently do so from Fri-Sunday. The owners are so passionate about jazz and Bed-Stuy. When you buy your ticket, you'll see a list of rules, like a dress code of no jeans, hoodies, or backpacks. Years ago, these tickets used to include a fish dinner, but that ended with the pandemic. Get tickets as soon as you verbally agree to plans or else they'll sell out. Only about 20 patrons can fit, so you can bring a small group or even go alone. The musicians know each other well and joke together. The bass and piano instruments are a little banged up on the wood due to year of use, but the pitch is right on target. Although classy, Brownstone Jazz isn't too uppity and unapproachable no matter your musical knowledge. The vibes are intimate, vintage, soulful, and welcoming. The emcee, one of the owners, is excited about birthdays and audience involvement, so absolutely raise your hand if you're celebrating. If you speak another language, you may be asked to translate a song title just to get conversation and context flowing.

    Photos
    The band + guest singer playing a jazz song
    The band + guest singer playing a jazz song
    Brownstone JAZZ
    Brownstone JAZZ

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    The Django

    The Django

    3.6
    (240 reviews)
    1.2 mi
    $$$

    Django is an awesome spot if you're looking to experience a jazz bar in New York!…read more We booked the 10:30pm show and I think this was the right call, because it ended around 12pm and was a great way to conclude our night. The service could definitely be friendlier and more attentive, but I don't want that to take away from the wonderful performers. This experience is on the pricier end, so it's not something I would do often. There was a $40 cover charge per person, plus a 2-drink minimum while you're there, totaling about $80-$100 per person (without any food). From the time we were seated and had a server come to our table, we had less than an hour to order and drink our two drinks. Besides the service and drinks, the jazz show was wonderful and amazing to see. It lasted about an hour, I do wish it was a bit longer for the prices paid and the limited time to drink our cocktails. Overall, we had an amazing time and would definitely come again in the future!

    It is interesting because as soon as I walked into The Roxy, I knew it was the place I have been…read morelooking for. I came here in 2017 and absolutely loved it. I couldn't remember the name so I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in and remembered this was the place I have been trying to remember all this time. In our most recent visit to Django, we walked into the beautiful hotel and headed downstairs to the jazz club. It also appears there is also a movie theater downstairs. We checked in for our 1015p reservation for the 1030p show. Apparently the show prior ran over and we were not seated until 11p. The band was a trio, bass, piano and drums. I hate to say that I was disappointed by the band as a whole. I liked each player separately but I didn't like the covers they were doing. I did enjoy the original songs without the singing (the singing didn't feel like jazz). I think we got a matter of 4 songs by the time everything was done. It was just nothing of what I was expecting in a jazz club, especially the club I remembered the first time I visited.

    Photos
    The Django Cocktails | All Heart - Vodka, Lillet Rose, Raspberry Brandy, Grapefruit, Lemon, Simple Syrup
    The Django Cocktails | All Heart - Vodka, Lillet Rose, Raspberry Brandy, Grapefruit, Lemon, Simple Syrup
    The Django Jazz Club
    The Django Jazz Club
    The Django | Live Jazz in NYC

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    The Django | Live Jazz in NYC
    The Flatiron Room - NoMad

    The Flatiron Room - NoMad

    4.3
    (1.2k reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$$

    We were pleasantly surprised that we were seated near the stage since they were reportedly all…read morebooked when we made the reservation. Depending on how long guests stay sometimes those seats are available as a first come first served so we were lucky. Our server was great and she explained the menu. I opted for the chefs menu which did not disappoint. Every course was thoughtfully prepared and delicious. It was fun to try everything including their starter course of three items. The oyster miso was quite a stand out for me. All of the fish prepared was delicate and lovely. The Parker rolls were soft and a nice complement. My friend who is less adventurous with seafood opted for their shrimp tempera roll, which was as good as you could make a shrimp tempera roll. Well prepared as well as their charcuterie board which we could not finish after everything. It was a memorable night I won't forget with nice entertainment and great staff. My partner held my hand as we walked back to the hotel which never happens. Quite a night thank you!

    Went here for a casual get together with some colleagues when I was in NY. The Jazz vibes were…read morehonestly the reason to pick this place. It's a low key establishment from the outside but once you are in it feels a lot more trendy. The stage is right in the front and all the tables can get a good view of the stage. The music can be loud at times and the ambience is more on the dimly lit side but still a great spot. The service was great, and the drink selection was cool too. I would definitely pick from the selection of speciality cocktails. I got the smoked old fashioned (or similar) and that was potent, Smokey and delicious. We also got a few bites to eat. Other than the tuna tartare (didn't feel fresh) everything we got was nice - nigiri combo, kimchi fried rice, kings toast.... Nice drinks, nice atmosphere, good food and great service!!

    Photos
    Live jazz and blues
    Live jazz and blues
    Shells & Bones: Escargot with bone marrow flan!
    Shells & Bones: Escargot with bone marrow flan!
    Have you attended one of our famous Whiskey Tasting Classes?

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    Have you attended one of our famous Whiskey Tasting Classes?
    Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

    Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

    3.8
    (470 reviews)
    4.8 mi
    $$

    This was my first visit. I will say for positives that the food is great. I had the chicken breast…read moreand subbed out the lentil salad for potatoes, and the server was good about making that requested substitute. The cheese plate was good and the server made great selections / recommendations for us on cheese to try. The server was very attentive. The music was great. It's a fun and lively place to get some food and hear some great jazz! However, they do not show online when choosing a seat that there is a column in front of the seats over to the right hand side of the venue when you enter, right by the stage if you choose those seats.

    I had one of the most disappointing and frankly unacceptable experiences at Smoke Jazz & Supper…read moreClub on March 28th for the 10 PM show. Let me be clear, the main redeeming aspect of this place is the talent on stage. The musicians were exceptional and deserved far better than the environment surrounding them. I ordered a scotch neat, something I'm very familiar with, and immediately knew something was off. When I politely flagged down a waiter, he responded with visible annoyance, as if I was inconveniencing him by being a paying customer. I explained the issue and simply asked if it could be checked or replaced. Instead of addressing it professionally, he walked away without a word, returned holding the bottle and my glass, and said, "this is what you were poured," before carelessly tossing the drink back onto the table. No apology. No explanation. Just attitude. It escalated from there. When I confronted him about his behavior, he denied it outright and then doubled down with an aggressive, confrontational stance, getting in my face and effectively threatening me. His exact words? "If I tossed your drink on the table, it would have been all over you!", and "Man, shut yo ass!" Completely unprofessional and unacceptable in any setting, let alone an establishment that positions itself as upscale. The manager's response was just as disappointing. Instead of addressing the behavior of his staff, he blamed me, asking why I "chased" the waiter and suggesting I should have gone directly to him. That's not how basic customer service works. I tried to resolve the issue directly, respectfully, and without escalation, something his employee clearly had no interest in. I was thinking if I talk to the waiter first, he wouldn't get in trouble with his manager. To make matters worse, the manager continued to defend the waiter rather than de-escalate the situation. At that point, it was clear this wasn't a one-off issue; it's a reflection of how this place operates. I paid my bill and left. For a venue that attracts world-class jazz talent, it's astonishing how low the standard of service is. This place is doing a disservice to the artists who perform there. I will never return, and I would strongly caution anyone expecting a professional, respectful experience to look elsewhere.

    Photos
    Looks like there's going to be a puppet show.
    Looks like there's going to be a puppet show.
    Grilled Branzino sautéed spinach - 1/3/2026
    Grilled Branzino sautéed spinach - 1/3/2026
    Smoke Jazz & Supper Club

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    Village Vanguard - jazzandblues - Updated July 2026

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