Comedy Cellar
NYC's legendary brick-walled comedy club, a proving ground for stars and a must-visit for authentic stand-up.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more chances for big names.
Comedy Cellar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more chances for big names.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
NYC's legendary brick-walled comedy club, a proving ground for stars and a must-visit for authentic stand-up.
"If you are coming here for a review you might not know, so let me clue you in… it hits, 5 ⭐️ every time."
🎯 Book Your Tickets Early!
Reservations are essential and sell out weeks in advance. Don't wait!
📱 Phone Pouch Policy
Phones are locked in pouches. Embrace the moment without digital distractions.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Legendary Stage
Main Showroom
Witness rising stars and surprise drop-ins from comedy giants on this iconic stage.
Surprise Guest Appearances
Main Showroom
You never know who might show up! Big names often test new material here.
Intimate, Brick-Walled Atmosphere
Main Showroom
Experience comedy in a classic, cozy setting where every seat offers a great view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead, Arrive Early
Phone-Free & Two-Drink Minimum
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Tickets Early!
Reservations are essential and sell out weeks in advance. Don't wait!
📱 Phone Pouch Policy
Phones are locked in pouches. Embrace the moment without digital distractions.
🥤 Two-Drink Minimum
Be prepared for a two-drink minimum per person. Food counts too!
🤝 Arrive Early for Seats
Even with reservations, arriving early helps secure better seating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Tickets Early!
Reservations are essential and sell out weeks in advance. Don't wait!
📱 Phone Pouch Policy
Phones are locked in pouches. Embrace the moment without digital distractions.
🥤 Two-Drink Minimum
Be prepared for a two-drink minimum per person. Food counts too!
🤝 Arrive Early for Seats
Even with reservations, arriving early helps secure better seating.
🎤 Respect the Stage
Don't heckle or interact unless the comedian engages you first.
💸 Payment Limit
Maximum of two cards for payment per party. Plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Comedy Cellar is consistently praised as a must-visit NYC destination for its top-tier comedians and intimate atmosphere. While reservations are essential and a two-drink minimum applies, the experience is widely considered worth it for the chance to see both established stars and rising talent. The strict no-phone policy enhances the live performance experience.
"Comedy Cellar. If you are coming here for a review you might not know, so let me clue you in… it hits, 5 ⭐️ every time. I visit every time I visit NYC. It’s always worth the trip.
Important to note: YOU MUST RESERVE. Unless you frequently win the lottery playing the standby game is not worth it unless all else fails and you have almost no one in your group.
It’s a small room and the tables are close. Two drink minimum for every guest. I would recommend keeping it to drinks. Maximum of two cards for payment per party.
No phones, electronics or recording devices. No interacting with the comedians unless they interact with you (generally).
Have fun, cause you never know who you will get."
Luke Warren
"We had a blast. There was a two drink minimum but the had food that counted. No phone or smart watches during the show. They put them in a sealed pouch. We got chocolate cake as one of our drinks. The comedians are amazing. Our local friends said this is where big names test their material. Our waiter Nick was wonderful."
Heather Summers
"First time in NYC and decided to check out a comedy show during the week. Got some standby tickets and I was thoroughly surprised by the talent they had. The venue was awesome as well as the service. This was probably my favorite experience the whole trip."
Randy Bellorin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Comedy Cellar is located in Greenwich Village at 154 Bleecker Street. The closest subway stations are the West 4th Street–Washington Square station (A, C, E, B, D, F, M lines) and the Christopher Street–Sheridan Square station (1 line). Many visitors find it convenient to walk from these stations.
Yes, the Comedy Cellar is famously located in the heart of Greenwich Village, a vibrant neighborhood known for its arts and culture scene. +1
While the original and most famous is in Greenwich Village, there is also a Comedy Cellar location in Las Vegas at the Rio Hotel & Casino.
Given NYC's traffic, the subway is often the most efficient way to reach the Comedy Cellar. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also options, but can be subject to delays.
Street parking in Greenwich Village is notoriously difficult to find and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or a ride-sharing service.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Comedy Cellar website. It's highly recommended to book in advance as shows frequently sell out.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show and time, but generally range from $20-$30 plus a two-drink minimum. Check the official website for current pricing.
While standby tickets might be available, they are not guaranteed and often involve a long wait. Booking in advance is the most reliable way to secure entry.
The Comedy Cellar typically has multiple shows every night, often starting around 7 PM and continuing late into the evening. Specific show times can be found on their website.
There is no strict dress code, but most attendees dress casually. Avoid overly revealing or offensive attire.
🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience
The Comedy Cellar is known for its intimate, brick-walled setting, creating a close-knit atmosphere where you can really connect with the performance.
No, the Comedy Cellar has a strict no-phone policy. All phones and electronic devices must be turned off and stored in sealed pouches provided by the venue.
Generally, you should only interact if a comedian directly engages with you. It's best to let them lead the interaction.
Latecomers may not be admitted to ensure the show is not disrupted. It's crucial to arrive on time, especially if you have a reservation.
The Comedy Cellar is typically for ages 16 and up, but it's always best to check the specific show's age policy as some may be 18+ or 21+.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Comedy Cellar offers a food menu that can count towards the two-drink minimum.
The menu typically includes classic bar food and snacks, such as appetizers and desserts.
Yes, servers circulate during the show to take drink and food orders.
Each guest is required to purchase a minimum of two drinks or food items during the show.
The Comedy Cellar has a policy of a maximum of two cards for payment per party.
📸 📸 Photography
No, photography and videography are strictly prohibited during shows. Your phone will be placed in a sealed pouch upon entry.
The policy is in place to protect the comedians' material and ensure an uninterrupted experience for the audience.
You can certainly take photos of the exterior of the Comedy Cellar before or after your show to capture the iconic facade.
Yes, your phone will be returned to you after the show concludes, and the pouch will be unlocked.
It's best to avoid taking any photos of comedians on the premises to respect their privacy and the venue's rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you are looking for a comedy experience suitable for a wider age range, it's best to seek out family-friendly comedy shows or improv theaters that specifically cater to all ages. The intimate setting and adult themes at the Comedy Cellar are best enjoyed by adults.
💰 Budget Travelers
To make it more budget-friendly, consider attending shows on weeknights, which might have slightly lower ticket prices or fewer crowds. You can also opt for less expensive drink choices or share appetizers to manage the food and drink costs.
🌟 Comedy Aficionados
Embrace the surprise element! The lineup can change nightly, and you might witness a surprise drop-in from a major celebrity. The intimate setting ensures you get a front-row experience to the art of stand-up.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Comedy Cellar
The club's success is often attributed to its owner, Bob consistent dedication to the art of stand-up. He's known for fostering a supportive environment for comedians, which in turn attracts both emerging talent and established stars looking for a place to test new material. This dedication has cemented the Comedy Cellar's status as one of the most prestigious comedy clubs in the world.
Attending a show at the Comedy Cellar offers a unique opportunity to witness comedy in its rawest form. The close proximity to the stage and the audience's engaged energy create an unforgettable experience. It's a place where laughter echoes through the brick walls, making it a must-visit for any comedy enthusiast.
Navigating the Stage Time Grind
Many comedians use the Comedy Cellar as a testing ground for new jokes and material. This means audiences might see established stars working out fresh bits, alongside up-and-coming talent striving to make their mark. The pressure to perform well is high, but it also leads to incredibly sharp and hilarious sets.
For aspiring comedians, the Comedy Cellar represents a significant milestone. Success here can open doors to further opportunities in the comedy world. The club's commitment to quality ensures that only the best make it to the stage, making every performance a potential discovery of the next big comedy star.
The 'No Phone' Rule: A Digital Detox
This digital detox is often praised by attendees who appreciate the opportunity to be fully present in the moment. Without the distraction of phones, the audience's engagement with the comedians is heightened, leading to a more immersive and communal experience. It encourages genuine laughter and connection, free from the constant urge to document or share.
While initially jarring for some, the no-phone policy is widely seen as a positive aspect of the Comedy Cellar experience. It fosters a unique atmosphere where the magic of live comedy can truly unfold, creating shared memories that are best experienced firsthand rather than through a screen.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit