New York Jazz Rooms and a Riverfront Venue Compared

4.6 (166)

Thu, 17:00 – 22:00; Fri – Sat, 17:00 – 23:30; Sun, 18:00 – 22:00

248 W 132nd St

Behind a secluded Harlem basement entrance, this veterans post hosts Hammond organ jazz in a very small room with regulars and guest singers or players. Drinks are inexpensive. Food is sometimes offered, though private events can limit availability. Eat beforehand rather than count on a meal.

4.7 (501)

Mon – Sun, Open 24 hours

660 12th Ave Fl 6

Along 12th Avenue, this modern event space overlooks the Hudson River, skyline and river piers. Presentations and galas use an upscale layout with screens visible from rear seating and professional staff. Check the specific event before visiting, rather than treating it as a nightly jazz club.

4.6 (1,382)

Mon – Sun, 17:30 – 01:00 (+1)

163 W 10th St

A dedicated Village listening room keeps performers close in a dark, compact space with clear sightlines and exceptional acoustics. Nightly sets and jam sessions share the room with classic cocktails. Tickets are required for sets, and a one drink minimum applies at the tables. Book ahead.

4.6 (3,727)

Mon – Thu, 17:30 – 04:00 (+1); Fri – Sun, 14:00 – 04:00 (+1)

183 West 10th Street, basement

Daily live sets and late night jams fill this Greenwich Village basement with close listening. The club maintains audio and video archives with the SmallsLIVE Foundation and has streamed performances from 2007 onward. A one drink minimum applies per person, per set. Tickets are not refundable.