There are many places to listen to influential jazz musicians in New York; for me, Smoke is high on the list. It has very good acoustics, people pay attention and the sight lines are terrific. I think musicians appreciate this because Smoke attracts the best, and that is what makes a for a great jazz club: the idea that the great players want to play there.
The renovated room is theatrical, well lit, and comfortable. The kitchen is open seven nights a week from 17:30-22:00. The food is good: short ribs served with smooth, creamy mashed potatoes are rich and soulful, like the music.
I appreciate that concept of quality control, from what you hear to what you eat. And, other club goers are respectful, the third component of a great club. Calm ambience, low level of clatter, quiet conversation prior to the show. I find ambient sound in many music joints, no matter what city, to be way out of control.
There’s a Sunday jazz brunch from 11:00 - 16:00; different ambience, different reason for being there.
For an experience straight out of an Edward Hopper painting, consider going late, when you can’t sleep, rainy night, walking the streets of New York early in the morning, checking out the act in Smoke’s room by squinting through the rain spattered windows---it’s open until 03:00.
At 106th Street on the west side of Broadway, just a few blocks north of the 103rd Street station on the 1 Train (Red). Easy to find, across from Mama's Too.
Find your way with 304 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
A walk through Central Park in New York is probably your best way of appreciating the folliage change colors. I recommend walking along the allée of elms.
by
The American Folk Art Museum in New York hosts free live jazz and eclectic concerts, with thoughtful exhibits and a folksy gift shop worth browsing.
by
"Sisters" in New York is a Jamaican restaurant. Let's put it like this: when I go to Jamaica, I don't seek a restaurant until I come back!
by
"Patisserie des Ambassades" in New York has extensive opening hours and prepares dishes & desserts for every time of day. It's refreshingly old-fashioned.
by
"Loeb Boathouse Restaurant" in New York's Central Park is in the vicinity of the Bethesda Fountain and I think it's best for a warm-weather drink...
by
In the lobby of 1166 Avenue of the Americas in NYC hang some significant tapestries by Lichtenstein & a large bronze homage to capitalism by Otterness...
by
The MTA in NYC offers subway "nostalgia rides" during the summer months on old cars from the '30s and '40s. Book your ticket now!
by
"Teranga" in New York City, in the Africa Center, is a restaurant as well as a library. It feels musical and maintains a feeling of communal comfort...
by
"Grand Bazaar" NYC is the city's largest outdoor market, also with an indoor section. Here you can find absolutely everything and for bargain prices!
by
S&P Sandwich Shop, opened in 1928, serves Jewish classics like matzoh ball soup and latkes in a nostalgic setting that feels like stepping back in time. A must-visit!
by
"Rubenstein Atrium" in New York's Lincoln Center has a free performance every Thursday night. I recommend you try to arrive around 18:30 to catch a seat.
by
304 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 304 Insider Tips