In a feature profiling the new generation of New York comedians, The New York Times queried why the comedy scene was still thriving in New York City despite difficult economic times, to which Manhattan-based funnywoman Carla Rhodes simply replied: ‘Art always flourishes during down periods – we cheer the world up.’ It also helps, perhaps, that live comedy in the city is generally one of the cheapest forms of entertainment and is highly accessible - particularly in the East Village and Lower East Side. If you didn't already know, your 'hoods are home to some of the best comedy clubs in the city, and as it turns out, the entire country (though what else would you expect from the city who brought you Jerry Seinfeld, George Carlin, Billy Crystal and Andy Kaufman?). Below, we've listed in no particular order some of the best places in your neighborhood to catch some quality, knee-slapping comedy.
First up is Laugh Lounge on Essex Street, a Yelp favorite for its generous offering of ‘good laughs at fair prices’ and the city's ‘the most original raw stand-up talent in an intimate setting where comics and audience can truly connect.’ Additionally, Citysearch reviewers rated the lounge a solid four-and-a-half stars, kudos substantiated by a rare NYMag.com user rating of 9/10. Laugh Lounge also boasts a selection of alcoholic beverages that the booze experts over at Shecky’s Nightlife hail as ‘impressive' - which we suggest are best enjoyed during their rib-tickling 'LOL in the L.E.S' showcase every Friday night at 8:30 pm (try to catch a session featuring the hysterically funny Grant Cooper at the mic).
Next in line is the brilliant EastVille Comedy Club, our Editor's Pick of the bunch. Why? Because it’s cheap (sometimes even free!), unpretentious and boasts some of the greatest open-mic nights in the city. According to Goldstar, the club simply has ‘the nation’s best stand-up comedy’ and regularly features talent seen on Comedy Central, HBO, The Tonight Show and Letterman. Furthermore, it’s been ‘Critics Picked’ by New York Magazine, scores four stars and endless raves from Yelp, and is described by Time Out New York as a ‘bona fide chuckle-hut-style stand-up club.’ Still not convinced? Let the locals tell you - NearSay contributor and CityRover founder Max Vishnev swears EastVille has the most ‘local feel of the nearly 20 comedy clubs in the city – and you won’t pay scalper rates for your beer, either.’ Definitely worth checking out, if you haven't already.
Next on the list is Arlene’s Grocery, famous not only for their cheap beers, karaoke nights and live rock 'n' roll, but also for being the performance space for some of the city’s best new comedy acts. Time Out NY spills that the former bodega/butcher is home to ‘Sweet,’ a ‘Critic’s Picked’ weekly comedy show by ‘comic’s comic’ Seth Herzog that brings comedians the likes of SNL/VH1 Best Week Ever’s Jessi Klein and Late Night With Jimmy Fallon’s Hannibal Buress to Arlene’s (yeah, you know we wrote about it!). You can catch ‘Sweet’ at Arlene’s every Wednesday through til 2011, but if you’re after something even quirkier check out Carla Rhodes’ monthly gig at Arlene’s – the part-ventriloquist, part-comedian, part-rock singer puts on a great show that Flavorpill promises will 'thrill and delight you' (and whose debut episode entertained a ‘sold-out crowd’ at Arlene’s this year). Don’t miss the laughs served up at this hidden little comedy haven.
Last but not least is Lucky Jack’s on Orchard Street, who, like Arlene’s, regularly transforms from a top-rated bar into a comedy joint boasting grade-A open-mic laughs. Lucky Jack’s is particularly infamous for its uproarious standing-room-only stand-up comedy shows featured on MTV which boast comedians from Letterman and Comedy Central (Going NYC tells us the next one coming up is this Wednesday, November 3 at 9 p.m.; you can catch the likes of SNL’s Charlie Gaeta and Comedy Central’s Jim Mendrinos). Oh, and did we mention you get free pizza, too? No doubt, Lucky Jack’s is a must-see for their stellar ‘stand-up Irish service - and the best Guinness in town’ (Citysearch). Grade-A comedy, top beer and free food - doesn't really get much better than that.
The Best Comedy Clubs in the East Village and Lower East Side
Laugh Lounge is located at 151 Essex Street, near Stanton Street.
EastVille Comedy Club is located at 85 East 4th Street, near Bowery.
Arlene's Grocery is located at 95 Stanton Street, near Orchard Street.
Lucky Jack's is located at 129 Orchard Street, near Delancey.
