A friend in New York asked me what clubs I would suggest for good jazz. I asked a few jazz-musicians in New York. Here is what C wrote:
Jazz Clubs -- so many. My favs are Village Vanguard, Smalls, Cornelia St., Birdland, 55 Bar. If your friend doesn't really know jazz and just wants to experience a certain vibe or atmosphere, I'd check out one or more of those. Here is more info:
- Birdland is quite a classy operation -- decent food, a bit expensive, often interesting bands.
- The Vanguard is fabulous, usually -- go hear the big band on Monday night.
- The Iridium is a dump.
- Smalls, on 10th street, has a very nice vibe -- not commercial, usually.
- Cornelia Street Cafe and the
- 55 bar on Christopher Street are very hip. BUT, for me, it depends on if I want to hear a particular band or player and then I go wherever they are...
- Then there is Sweet Rhythm where Sweet Basil used to be.
B wrote:
I love The Jazz Standard and Smoke. Jazz Standard is on E. 27 betw. Park & Lex -- great vibe, great Barbecue (it’s owned by renowned restauranter Danny Meyer.)
Smoke is an intimate club on Bway between 105 & 106 — also great vibe- great music and very comfortable. Also superb food. Both would be great places — then there are more bohemian places like the 55 Bar and Smalls, both in the Village — no food, but sometimes great music.
B2 suggested: Jazz Standard, Iridium, Sweet Rhythm, Jazz Gallery, Blue Note, Smoke, Dizzy's Club @ Lincoln Center.
Village Vanguard: The oldest jazz club in New York City.
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