The Comedy scene in New York is no laughing matter. Between
cover charges and drink minimums, you can spend enough money to
make laughing impossible. The covers are usually much higher on
weekends, so be prepared.
On the other hand, the competitive comedy circuit makes sure
that most venues must hire entertainers that are really funny. New
York has launched the careers of many famous comedians, so you
might be able to see the next Chris Rock while you can still
afford it.
Boston Comedy Club
82 W. 3rd St.
(212) 477-1000
The Boston is not one of the most popular comedy clubs in the
city, but it gets some very funny national entertainers. It’s
the home club of Jay Mohr, otherwise known as Bob Sugar from the
movie Jerry Maguire. He’s hilarious. Keep an eye out for
open-mike nights on Monday.
Caroline's Comedy Club on Broadway
1626 Broadway
(212) 757-4100
Originally a downtown dive that was the epicenter of comedy in New
York, Caroline’s now has fancy digs in Times Square. You can’t
miss it due to the comedy themed restaurant "Comedy
Nation" located upstairs. Caroline’s is still a sure thing
for comedy, big name performers and those about to become big name
performers perform here.
Catch a Rising Star
253 W. 28th St.
(212) 462-2824
This large national chain of comedy clubs has a major branch here
in New York. It’s stage has hosted true up and coming comedians
as well as those who’s star has already risen like Janeane
Garafalo and Richard Belzer.
Comedy Cellar
117 MacDougal St.
(212) 254-3480
This club is the comedian’s comedy club. The headliners are
always top caliber and the setting is very intimate. Established
comedians like to come here to try new material on the middle of
the road crowd. Many stay after their set to have a drink or two
and review the performance with the other comedians who hang out
here.
Comic Strip Live
1568 2nd Ave.
(212) 861-9386
This comedy club is a favorite among Upper East Siders. It
features an eclectic mix of comedians in a casual and comfortable
atmosphere. The Comic Strip is probably most famous for launching
the careers of numerous New York comedians like Chris Rock, Adam
Sandler and Jerry Seinfeld. It’s one of the best the city has to
offer.
Dangerfield's
1118 1st Ave.
(212) 593-1650
Owned by legendary funnyman Rodney Dangerfield, Dangerfield’s
has earned a lot of respect for being one of the main spots on the
comedy circuit. Most performers go on to national gigs like the
Tonight Show or Letterman.
Gotham Comedy Club
34 W. 22nd St.
(212) 367-9000
The advertisement for the Gotham Comedy Club says it all
"Kind of upscale. Really funny". That description is
accurate because Gotham is the classiest comedy venue in the city.
Located in the Flatiron district of the lower east side, Gotham
has a beautiful turn of the century interior. It hosts natioanlly
known comedians like Chris Rock.
New York Comedy Club
241 E. 24th St.
(212) 696-5233
The self-proclaimed "Wal-mart of comedy", the New York
Comedy Club has low cover charges but lots of quality comedians.
(They must buy in bulk) Damon Wayans and Colin Quinn have
performed here, so big names do occasionally drop in. Friday’s
features African-American comics with Latino night on Saturday.
Monday is open mike night.
Original Improvisation
433 W. 34th St.
(212) 279-3446
"The Improv" is where numerous comics got their start.
Located a couple of blocks from Times Square, the Improv gets an
eclectic group of comedy enthusiasts.
Stand-Up NY
236 W. 78th St.
(212) 595-0850
It’s basically the only comedy option on the Upper West Side.
Stand-up NY gets comics that have had national exposure or are
about to. The most famous semi-regular is Robin Williams, who has
been known to drop in for a quick set.
