WHERE TO FIND NYC’S BEST JAZZ
by ANNA BEN YEHUDA
The origin of much of today’s music, jazz is one of few musical genres that has remained unchanged through the years. What better place to experience the soulful genre in all of its glory than New York? We scoured Manhattan to bring you the best jazz clubs, below.
Jazz Standard.
Jazz Standard
Usually, the most popular choice isn’t necessarily the best one. The Jazz Standard is the exception to the rule, providing patrons with a true jazz experience complete with professional artists, incredible sounds, and delicious food from Blue Smoke, an eatery that’s located above the music space. 116 E. 27th St., 212-576-2232
Smalls Jazz Club
Often described as the jazz club for jazz artists, Smalls is a tiny basement space boasting a bar and a few pieces of wood that function as benches. Take note of the mirrors placed around the room, which make the musicians’ hand movements visible from any seat you select. 183 W. 10th St.
Jazz at Lincoln Center
This season’s theme, Jazz in the Americas, touches upon the history of the musical genre within the country. Arguably the most known music venue in the city, Lincoln Center is a foray into the most classic aspects of jazz, set against a backdrop of breathtaking city views. Broadway at 60th St., 212-258-9800
Handy Liquor Bar.
Handy Liquor Bar
Though it’s not technically billed as a jazz bar, this beautiful venue located below Chalk Point Kitchen plays jazz nightly from 6-8 p.m. Plus, the drink menu focuses on all things natural and the decor transports you back in time. 527 Broome St., 212-390-1705
Village Vanguard
Opened by the late Max Gordon back in 1935, the Village Vanguard used to showcase different sorts of music and beat poetry. Switching to a jazz-only routine in the late ’50s, this basement club is still loved by artists and fans alike. Small and intimate, it allows you to truly get a feel for what jazz is all about. Also, talking isn’t allowed. 178 Seventh Ave. S., 212-255-4037
Smoke Jazz & Supper Club
Harlem is where most jazz musicians reside, so traveling uptown for a taste of the real thing is a must. The place is tiny, so expect to eat the above-average food in close proximity to other music-lovers. 2751 Broadway, 212-864-6662
Birdland
One of the oldest and most renowned jazz clubs in New York City, Birdland was established in 1949 on Broadway by saxophone genius Charlie “Yardbird” Parker. Forced to shut its doors due to declining sales in 1965, Birdland resurfaced uptown near 105th Street in 1986 and moved back to midtown in 1996. This is the place you’ve read about in all those beat generation novels (think: Jack Kerouac’s On The Road). 315 W. 44th St., 212-581-3080
Jazz Gallery
Jazz Gallery
You won’t find the genre’s most famous musicians here, but you will get to experience jazz’s future glory as the nonprofit venue showcases up-and-coming musicians. 1160 Broadway, 646-494-3625
11th Street Bar
Although it’s not exactly a jazz club, a musician told us to check out the bar’s late Monday night shows, which usually showcase jazz. Clearly, advice from a professional is the way to go. 510 E. 11th St., 212-982-3929
Blue Note
Blue Note attracts hordes of tourists… and top-caliber jazz talent. Head there for Sunday brunch, when the crowds seem to be a bit smaller compared to the weekly night shows. 131 W. 3rd St., 212-475-8592
55 Bar
Definitely one of our favorites. The West Village staple is cozy, lively, and attracts some of the most interesting acts currently on the music scene. Also, it’s cash only. 55 Christopher St., 212-929-9883
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MANHATTAN’S BEST JAZZ
