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The Best of New York · Drink · Jazz and comedy

The best comedy clubs in New York City

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 PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best comedy clubs in New York City, 2026

  1. Broadway Comedy ClubTheater · MidtownIf you’re in Midtown and want a casual, no-frills comedy night, Broadway is an easy option.
  2. Comic Strip LiveTheater · Upper East SideIt’s a good place to catch live comedy without feeling like part of a tourist crowd.
  3. Gotham Comedy ClubTheater · MidtownGotham has that classic “night out” feel.
  4. Stand Up New YorkTheater · Upper West SideI like this spot because it doesn’t try too hard to impress.
  5. The StandTheater · MidtownIf you were to accuse me of ranking the Stand first because of the pizza alone, you wouldn’t be wrong.
  6. Union HallTheater · BrooklynIf you’re looking for something different from the club circuit, Union Hall is worth the trip to Brooklyn.
  7. 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.
  8. Comedy CellarTheater · Greenwich VillageYou go to the Comedy Cellar for the vibes and as much as the unpredictable lineup.
  9. Greenwich Village Comedy ClubTheater · Greenwich VillageI like it for last-minute plans or when I’m already downtown and want a low-pressure show.
  10. New York Comedy ClubTheater · Midtown & East Village
  11. 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.
  12. The Tiny CupboardTheater · BrooklynThe Tiny Cupboard is exactly what it sounds like. small, DIY, and a little unpredictable.
  13. 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.

On the map

Where they are

6 neighborhoods, Midtown and Brooklyn most of all.

Brooklyn

Greenwich Village

Midtown

Upper West Side

Midtown & East Village

Upper East Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

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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).