A Guide to New York City’s Underground Jazz Clubs

Katherine Garciano
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New York City has long been the epicenter of jazz, where legends like Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Thelonious Monk carved their names into music history. While well-known venues like the Blue Note and Village Vanguard draw tourists and jazz aficionados alike, there’s a thriving underground scene that offers intimate settings, raw performances, and a true sense of community. If you’re looking to experience jazz beyond the mainstream, this guide will take you through some of the best underground jazz clubs in New York City where music, history, and culture collide.

The Best Underground Jazz Clubs in New York City

1. Small’s Jazz Club

Smalls jazz club | NYC's Underground jazz club
Photo via smallslive

Small’s is a legendary basement jazz club known for its no-frills setup and commitment to pure jazz. Founded in 1994, it has hosted some of the finest musicians in the world. With live performances every night and an intimate, dimly lit atmosphere, it feels like stepping into a 1950s jazz den. The club also streams performances online, allowing jazz lovers worldwide to tune in.

  • Location: 183 W 10th St, Greenwich Village basement NY 10014
  • Price: $35
  • The Student Ticket Price is $10 and is applicable for the 12AM Set only, Sun-Thur
  • Website: www.smallslive.com

2. Mezzrow

If you enjoy Small’s, Mezzrow is its sister venue, offering a more relaxed, piano-focused experience. Named after jazz clarinetist Mezz Mezzrow, this cozy spot is ideal for those who appreciate intricate piano work in an intimate lounge setting. The candlelit room and stellar acoustics make it a perfect venue for unwinding with a cocktail and good music.

  • Location: 163 W 10th St, Greenwich Village New York 10014
  • Price: Price: $35
  • The Student Ticket Price is $10 and is applicable for the 12AM Set only, Sun-Thur
  • Website: www.smallslive.com

3. Zinc Bar

Hidden behind an unassuming entrance, Zinc Bar transports you to a different era with its speakeasy vibes and red-hued lighting. It features a mix of straight-ahead jazz, Latin jazz, and even some experimental performances. Regulars appreciate the unique programming and the bar’s commitment to showcasing both seasoned and emerging artists.

  • Location: 82 West 3rd Street, Greenwich Village  10012 New York
  • Price: $30–50
  • Website: www.zincbar.com

4. Bar Next Door

Originally a historic jazz club in the 1950s, Cafe Bohemia was resurrected in recent years to bring back its underground magic. This small venue features some of the best jazz talent in the city, staying true to its original roots as a musician’s club. It's an excellent place to experience jazz as it was meant to be played—unfiltered and passionate.

7. Barbes

Brooklyn’s jazz scene really took off when French expats Olivier Conan and Vincent Douglas opened this welcoming bar and performance venue in 2001. The intimate back room, with space for just 40 people, has become a local hotspot, featuring world-class talent and a mix of performances, from bluegrass jams to surprise shows by famous neighbors like Madeleine Peyroux and author Paul Auster. Tuesdays bring the lively Slavic Soul Party, and Wednesdays offer “Night of the Ravished Limbs,” a new-music series with energetic live workshops.

8. Blue Note

The Blue Note is one of the most iconic and tourist-friendly jazz venues in New York City, and it also holds onto the legacy of Greenwich Village’s golden era of nightlife. Since opening in 1982, it’s been part of a vibrant music scene, with clubs like Gerde’s Folk City and the Village Gate still in action. The late-night groove series is a must for younger crowds, offering affordable cover charges and performances with a more beat-driven twist.

9. The Kitano

Tucked in the upstairs bar of an elegant Japanese hotel, this hidden gem on New York’s jazz scene offers intimate, piano-driven performances Wednesday through Sunday. From young talents like tenor saxophonist Donny McCaslin to jazz legends like bassist Cecil McBee, the close quarters make for an experience you won't find in larger venues. With shows often free, requiring just a drink minimum, it’s definitely worth a short detour from the usual spots.

  • Location: 66 Park Ave, East 38th St, New York, NY 10016
  • Price: $40 - $50 per person
  • Website: www.roof66park.com

10. 55 Bar (Currently Closed, but Worth Watching for Reopening)

Though it closed in 2022 after decades of being an underground gem, jazz lovers are hopeful for its return. This legendary dive bar hosted genre-defying jazz musicians, from avant-garde improvisers to blues-inspired players. If it reopens, it’s worth putting on your list.

Tips for Enjoying New York City’s Underground Jazz Scene

  • Check the schedule: Many underground jazz clubs have changing lineups, so check their websites or social media for the latest events.
  • Arrive early: Since these venues are often small, getting there early ensures you get a good seat.
  • Support the musicians: Some places have no cover charge but pass around a tip jar—show appreciation for the artists!
  • Be respectful: Many underground venues emphasize listening culture, so keep conversations to a minimum during performances.
  • Explore beyond Manhattan: While Greenwich Village is the heart of New York City jazz, Brooklyn and Harlem have fantastic underground spots worth checking out.

New York City’s underground jazz clubs capture the true essence of the genre—intimate, spontaneous, and full of life. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back evening with smooth melodies or a thrilling night of cutting-edge improvisation, these hidden gems offer something for every jazz lover. So step away from the tourist hotspots, venture into the city’s lesser-known corners, and let the music guide you into the heart of New York City jazz culture.

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