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New York Jazz Clubs

Jazz may have developed in New Orleans but New York is the city where the music really took off in new directions. Nearly all of the major jazz figures of the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s paid their dues in the underground jazz clubs of New York, many of which are considered historic landmarks today. Whether you're lucky enough to catch a veteran jazz superstar or just wander into a local late-night jam session, you're bound to have an unforgettable experience at any of these top jazz venues.

  1. The Village Vanguard

    • Synonymous with New York jazz since its opening in 1935, The Village Vanguard is a true landmark of jazz history. Nearly every important jazz artist from John Coltrane to Thelonious Monk, Miles Davis to Sonny Rollins graced the stage here on numerous occasions. Many "Live at the Village Vanguard" recordings have become enduring jazz classics. Today the Vanguard hosts a wide range of visionary newcomers and seasoned veterans who frequently mention The Vanguard as one of their favorite places to play. Entrance usually costs around $35 with a $10 drink minimum. Be sure to arrive early if you want a good seat near the stage.

      The Village Vanguard
      178 7th Ave
      New York, NY 10014
      (212) 255-4037
      villagevanguard.com

    Smoke

    • While many New York jazz clubs now offer formal seating and require listeners to pay for each set in advance, Smoke has retained that informal, come-as-you-go atmosphere that harkens back to the golden age of jazz. This intimate venue is arguably the place in Manhattan to catch an after-hours jam session. Despite its low-key vibe, Smoke still manages to attract heavy hitters like Ron Carter, Eddie Henderson and Steve Turre. The music is consistently solid regardless of who's up on the bandstand. Be sure to catch Sunday's Latin jazz night and Wednesday's world jazz night. Smoke also features a diverse and affordable menu of American classics like baby back ribs and Alaskan king salmon.

      Smoke
      2751 Broadway
      New York, NY 10025
      (212) 864-6662
      smokejazz.com

    Birdland

    • Birdland left its uptown perch in 1996, moving to its current, more centralized Midtown location. Many jazz purists lament both the spic-and-span atmosphere and watered-down music selection, but for most fans Birdland is still one of New York's premier places to hear jazz. The musical highlight for many is Chico O'Farrell's Sunday night Afro-Cuban Big Band, an all-star ensemble featuring some of the best Latin musicians in the city. Birdland's talented kitchen offers a nice selection of sandwiches, pasta dishes and hearty steaks.

      Birdland
      315 W 44th St,
      New York, NY 10036
      (212) 581-3080
      birdlandjazz.com

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