Where Comic Strip Live appears on New York Dearest
It's on 1 of my list. Each entry below is what I wrote about it there, with my verdict on that list, the fullest first.
Worth it
- SubwayQ to 86 St, 5 min
- Address1568 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
- From my guide, updated September 2026.
Comic Strip Live has been around since the 1970s and still holds onto that old-school comedy club energy. It’s located on the Upper East Side, which makes it feel slightly removed from the downtown circuit and gives the space a more neighborhood feel.
The room is long and narrow, which oddly works in its favor. The focus stays on the stage, and the crowd tends to be pretty engaged. It’s not a scene-y spot, but you’ll see everything from sharp veterans to newcomers figuring things out. It’s a good place to catch live comedy without feeling like part of a tourist crowd.
Worth it, says Antonina. Been? Say if you agree.