Laughter can relax your whole body, lowering levels of the stress hormone cortisol. What better way to get some laughs than at a vibrant NYC comedy show? Whether you are looking for a club in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, this list provides some of the best tourist and local hotspots.
1. Comedy Cellar
The Comedy Cellar is a must-see in NYC. It has a reputation for being the “Harvard of comedy clubs.” Up-and-coming comics and big names alike take the stage to showcase their talents. Chris Rock, Amy Schumer, and Jon Stewart all debuted at the Cellar and have returned since.
Various showtimes are offered daily, and lineups are announced weekly. There are three venues available: MacDougal Street, Village Underground, and Fat Black Pussycat Lounge. Regardless of which venue you choose, they are all located in Greenwich Village and around the corner from one another. Although MacDougal Street is the original Comedy Cellar, all venues sell out just as fast. It is recommended that tickets be purchased in advance to secure a spot. Shows are 90 minutes long and feature 5-7 different comics.
The venue is 21 and over, leaving no room for an ill-tempered child to disrupt your night out. Plan to leave your work week and cell phone behind when you enter the Cellar. Pouches are provided and kept in your possession that holds your phone during the show. There is a two-item minimum for food or drinks, with a wide selection of cocktails, shared plates, and entrees offered. Expect the unexpected, as surprise guests may sometimes make an appearance.
2. Gotham Comedy Club
Comedian: Sam Morril Photographer: Eddie Merino
You are in for a surprise at the Gotham Comedy Club, where Jerry Seinfeld and Jim Gaffigan have famously made drop-in appearances. The Emmy-nominated series “Last Comic Standing” was filmed at Gotham, along with Seinfeld’s documentary “Comedian.” Professional comics include Netflix, HBO, Showtime, and The Tonight Show.
Count on seeing a show any day of the week, with the most popular being Comedy Juice and All-Stars. The venue is cozy, and tables are close together, so you may become friendly with your neighbors. Gotham has the typical two-drink minimum. As much as you are there to unwind, you will face some indecisiveness when choosing between the bar’s 30 vodka options. Shows are 90 minutes long and feature 5 comics.
3. The Stand
Comedian: Tony Hinchcliffe Photographer: John Cafaro & Troy Conrads
The Stand in Gramercy Park has become a comedy hotspot over the last decade. Opening in 2012, the venue offers a modern, comfortable atmosphere contrasting to the typical cramped basements. Top comics are scouted by individuals who additionally book stand-up acts for The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
You can catch a show any day of the week, from an afternoon brunch special to a midnight spectacle. There are two rooms to choose from when purchasing tickets– the main room or upstairs. Headliner shows are in the main room, with emerging talent performing upstairs. A show has an estimated time of 90 minutes with around 5 comics a set. There is no drink minimum, and full table service is provided.
Shows tend to be interactive, with comics poking fun at those in the audience. It is warned to sit in the front at your own risk of some lighthearted banter.
4. Bushwick Comedy Club
If you prefer to bring a beer as your wingman, Bushwick Comedy Club has you covered. The club is widely marketed as “Brooklyn’s only BYOB comedy club,” a unique change from the traditional 2-drink minimum. Having just opened this September, the club has quickly gained traction for its intimate comedy experience.
Shows are held Thursday through Sunday, with doors opening at 8 p.m. and comics on stage by 8:30 p.m. There are new lineups every night featuring comedians from Comedy Central, HBO, and The Tonight Show. Not only do you get a taste of NYC’s comedians, but the show also offers rotating chef pop-ups every weekend. Cuisines range from barbeque-style ribs and burgers to homemade dumplings. The shows are 90 minutes long and feature 5-6 comics.
The club has a 50-seat showroom, ideal for those who prefer a smaller venue. Guests can hang out in the lounge before and after shows to socialize and meet like-minded individuals.
5. Q.E.D.
The atmosphere at Q.E.D. is often compared to “being at a friend’s house.” Located in Astoria, the venue carries the energy of Queens: something for everyone. You can see comedy shows and beyond: writing classes, arts and craft workshops, storytelling, watch parties, and more.
Days of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, with comedy shows every weekend. The room features lovely candlelit tables. There is no drink minimum, but you must bring your own drinks to the table. If you are hungry, snacks like cookies, popcorn, and chips are offered. No need to worry about standing around upon early arrival. You can browse the Q.E.D. shop, which has an assortment of books, art supplies, and games. Shows last 90 minutes and feature 5 comics.
You never know what will happen next in New York; the comedy clubs perfectly capture that essence. Get in on the excitement, grab a cocktail, and enjoy the show!
XOXO,
Your Fashion Bestie
