Club Cache, a no-frills underground salsa club, is one of the New York Latin music scene's best-kept secrets. Club Cache features a spicy salsa dance party from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Thursday, preceded by free salsa lessons for beginners. The place tends to get ridiculously crowded about 11 p.m. and may even be a little too claustrophobic and sweaty for those looking for a relaxing night out. In addition to traditional salsa, you'll hear classic mambo, cha cha, and merengue performed by live bands or played by DJs. Club Cache occasionally hosts live salsa dance performances that are guaranteed to make your head spin.
Club Cache
221 W. 46th St.
New York, NY 10036
(212) 719-5799
clubcachenyc.com
Columbus 72, a dance club on the Upper West Side, holds weekly salsa and Latin music events in its small (some might say cramped) dance floor. The salsa-dancing crowd tends to be slightly older and more experienced, so it may not be the best place to jump in if you've never salsa-danced. Like many small basement clubs, the temperatures rise once the place fills up, so make sure you drink plenty of water and allow yourself some fresh air every now and then. Don't miss Friday night's after-work live Latin showcase. Expect to pay about $10 at the door.
Columbus 72
246A Columbus Ave.
New York, NY 10023
(212) 769-1492
columbus72.com
LQ is rapidly becoming one of New York's hot spots for Latin music. Wednesday night is salsa night, featuring a live band with salsa legends such as Eddie Palmieri and Johnny Pacheco. Don't be shy if it's your first time salsa dancing. Friendly salsa veterans are usually on hand and willing to show you the ropes. Again, be prepared to sweat and see lots of skin once the crowd picks up and the music starts bumping. Show up early, about 7 p.m., for a free salsa lesson.
LQ
511 Lexington Ave
New York, NY 10017
(212) 593-7575
www.lqny.com