New York Dearest
The guide, $35

Drink · Jazz and comedy · 2026

The best comedy clubs in New York.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 13 places.

One of my favorite things about living in the Big Apple is having access to world-renowned comedy clubs in New York City, it feels like a classic night out on the town! If comedy clubs in NYC is on your list, you’re going to want to read this before you go. Some of the biggest names in comedy got their start here, and you can still catch rising stars testing new material just a few feet away from you.

It’s unpolished and always entertaining, even if you’re nervously making eye contact with the person next to you after a risky joke Comedy clubs in NYC offer some of the most unpredictable and entertaining nights in the city.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide
  1. Broadway Comedy ClubTheater · MidtownIf you’re in Midtown and want a casual, no-frills comedy night, Broadway is an easy option.
  2. Comedy CellarTheater · Greenwich VillageYou go to the Comedy Cellar for the vibes and as much as the unpredictable lineup.
  3. Comic Strip LiveTheater · Upper East SideIt’s a good place to catch live comedy without feeling like part of a tourist crowd.
  4. Gotham Comedy ClubTheater · MidtownGotham has that classic “night out” feel.
  5. Greenwich Village Comedy ClubTheater · Greenwich VillageI like it for last-minute plans or when I’m already downtown and want a low-pressure show.
  6. New York Comedy ClubTheater · Midtown & East VillageIf you only do one thing on this list, make it this one.
  7. Stand Up New YorkTheater · Upper West SideI like this spot because it doesn’t try too hard to impress.
  8. The Bell HouseTheater · BrooklynThe Bell House is a Brooklyn staple that leans more alt-comedy than classic stand-up, but that’s exactly why I love it.
  9. The StandTheater · MidtownIf you were to accuse me of ranking the Stand first because of the pizza alone, you wouldn’t be wrong.
  10. The Tiny CupboardTheater · BrooklynThe Tiny Cupboard is exactly what it sounds like. small, DIY, and a little unpredictable.
  11. The Village UndergroundTheater · Greenwich VillageIf you’re downtown and want a comedy night that feels sharp and well-produced, which is why this one of the best comedy clubs in New York City.
  12. Union HallTheater · BrooklynIf you’re looking for something different from the club circuit, Union Hall is worth the trip to Brooklyn.
  13. West Side Comedy ClubTheater · Upper West SideI’ve had a few great nights here. comics who clearly knew how to read the room, quick turnarounds, and the kind of vibe where the audience actually wants the jokes to land.

Best comedy clubs in New York, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: Fail-Proof Comedy Clubs in New York City (Ranked List).