Fat Cats
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Fat Cats

4.4
·691 reviews·New York, United States

Legendary Greenwich Village comedy club known for top talent, intimate vibe, and a strict no-phone policy.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdLow
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Fat Cats

Fat Cats

Best Time

Weeknights

Fewer crowds, more intimate feel

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Legendary Greenwich Village comedy club known for top talent, intimate vibe, and a strict no-phone policy.

4.4
(691 reviews)

"Comedy Cellar truly is a legend! Would definitely keep coming back to see more shows."

Vertical photo
TIP

📱 Phone Lock-Up

Phones are locked in envelopes to ensure no disruptions. Pick them up after the show. :iphone:

🎟️ Book Ahead

Tickets sell out fast! Check club websites weekly for new listings and book early. :admission_tickets:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Legendary Comedy Performances

Legendary Comedy Performances

Experience top-tier comedians in an intimate setting. Laughter is guaranteed from start to finish.

Intimate Vibe

Intimate Vibe

The small venue creates a special, close-knit atmosphere between performers and the audience.

NYC Comedy Experience

NYC Comedy Experience

Considered a quintessential New York experience, it's a must-do for comedy enthusiasts visiting the city.

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Planning Your Visit

Phone Policy & Seating

Be prepared for a strict 'no phone' policy; your device will be secured in a sealed envelope. Seating can be tight, so consider this when booking, especially if you prefer more personal space.

Booking & Timing

Club calendars often update weekly, so book tickets in advance for popular shows. Arriving early can help secure better seats, though some find the first row a bit too close for comfort.

Best Times

When
Weeknights
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate feel
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend evenings
Why
Peak energy and top talent
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Comedy Cellar

📱 Phone Lock-Up

Phones are locked in envelopes to ensure no disruptions. Pick them up after the show. :iphone:

🎟️ Book Ahead

Tickets sell out fast! Check club websites weekly for new listings and book early. :admission_tickets:

reddit.com

Are the comedy shows at The Fat Black Pussycat as good as the shows at the Comedy Cellar?

reddit.com

Any tips for a weekend of Comedy clubs in NYC??

🪑 Seating Strategy

Seats are tight. Arrive early for better options, but avoid the very front row if you're shy. :seat:

🍹 Menu Minimum

Expect a 2-item minimum per person from the menu. Cocktails are a popular choice. :cocktail_glass:

reddit.com

Non-MacDougal Comedy Cellar shows: Village Underground vs Fat Black Pussycat Lounge vs Fat Black Pussycat Bar

Tips

from all over the internet

📱 Phone Lock-Up

Phones are locked in envelopes to ensure no disruptions. Pick them up after the show. :iphone:

🎟️ Book Ahead

Tickets sell out fast! Check club websites weekly for new listings and book early. :admission_tickets:

🪑 Seating Strategy

Seats are tight. Arrive early for better options, but avoid the very front row if you're shy. :seat:

🍹 Menu Minimum

Expect a 2-item minimum per person from the menu. Cocktails are a popular choice. :cocktail_glass:

🚶‍♂️ Arrive Early

Getting there a bit before your show time helps with the check-in process and seating. :running:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(691 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Fat Cats is celebrated as a legendary comedy venue with consistently great comedians and an intimate atmosphere that enhances the show. While the 'no phone' policy is strictly enforced and seating can be tight, most visitors find the experience highly enjoyable and a must-do in NYC. Some reviews mention inconsistent service, but the quality of the comedy often overshadows minor drawbacks.

"Really enjoyed the experience. The staffs are very nice and friendly, especially Nick. Comedians are great and they are professional. When you enter they will ask you to put your phone in a sealed envelope, and it’s 2 items in the menu per person. Seats are tight but understandable. Comedy Cellar truly is a legend! Would definitely keep coming back to see more shows."

Chris C

"I was there today for the 7:35 show. It was an okay night—I’ve definitely seen better shows. I love you guys, and I want to share this from the heart: the service needs improvement. There were no ‘thank yous’ or ‘pleases.’ We are there to laugh, not to be intimidated
by the staff."

Emek

"This was my time attending to one the shows, great comics really engaged with audience from start to finish, there's this intimate vibe that really makes it special, there's great cocktail options too. Take into account there's a "no phone" policy; next time in town, will definitely check them out"

Daniel Gómez

What People Like

Legendary comedians
Intimate atmosphere
Authentic NYC experience

What People Dislike

Tight seating
Strict no-phone policy
Inconsistent service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fat Cats is located in Greenwich Village, easily accessible by subway. The closest subway stations are West 4th Street-Washington Square (A, C, E, B, D, F, M) and Christopher Street-Sheridan Square (1, 2). Walking from these stations is usually just a few minutes. Reddit

Street parking in Greenwich Village can be very challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation or a rideshare service to reach the venue. Reddit

The most convenient subway lines are the A, C, E, B, D, F, M to West 4th Street-Washington Square station, or the 1, 2 to Christopher Street-Sheridan Square station. Reddit

Depending on your starting point, walking might be an option, especially if you're in nearby neighborhoods like the West Village or SoHo. However, for longer distances, public transport is more efficient. Reddit

The entrance is typically well-marked on the street. It's advisable to check the exact address on your ticket confirmation and use a map app for precise navigation upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are usually available for purchase online through the club's official website or reputable ticketing platforms. Calendars often update weekly, so check back frequently for availability. Reddit

Upon entry, your smartphone will be placed in a sealed envelope. You can only open it if you leave the venue. This policy helps maintain the show's integrity and audience focus. TikTok

While there isn't a strict formal dress code, smart casual attire is generally recommended. Avoid overly casual wear like athletic gear or flip-flops. Instagram

It's recommended to arrive at least 30-45 minutes before your scheduled showtime, especially for popular performances, to ensure you get good seats and complete the check-in process smoothly. Reddit

While sometimes possible, it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out shows. Booking in advance online is the safest way to secure your spot. Reddit

🎫 🎤 Onsite Experience

The venue is known for its intimate setting, which means seating can be quite tight. Some visitors find the first-row seats a bit too close for comfort. Reddit

Yes, there is a 2-item minimum per person from the menu, which includes drinks and some food items like fries. Prices are considered reasonable for NYC standards. Instagram

Fat Cats hosts a variety of comedians, from established stars to up-and-coming talent. The lineup can change, offering a mix of styles and experiences. TikTok

The intimate vibe and shared laughter make it a great spot for a date night. The 'no phone' policy also encourages genuine connection. Instagram

Shows usually run for about 1.5 to 2 hours, including sets from multiple comedians and potential surprise guests. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Fat Cats offers a menu with cocktails and some light food options, such as fries. There's a 2-item minimum per person required. Instagram

By New York City standards, the prices for food and drinks are considered reasonable. It's a good way to meet the 2-item minimum requirement. Instagram

While they offer some snacks like fries, it's not a full-service restaurant. Many visitors choose to eat dinner before or after the show at nearby establishments. Reddit

Cocktails are a popular choice among attendees looking to meet the 2-item minimum. The menu typically features a range of classic and signature drinks. Instagram

Service is usually available during the show, but it's best to order your items when you first get seated to avoid missing any of the performance. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

No, Fat Cats has a strict 'no phone' policy. All phones are secured in sealed envelopes upon entry to ensure no photos or videos are taken during the show. TikTok

The policy is in place to enhance the audience's experience by encouraging them to be present and engaged with the performance, and to protect the comedians' material. TikTok

Yes, your phone will be returned to you once the show has concluded and you are exiting the venue. TikTok

Generally, there are no exceptions for audience members. The policy is strictly enforced for everyone's benefit. TikTok

You can find photos of the venue and past performances on social media platforms like Instagram by searching for relevant hashtags or the club's official page. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Couples Seeking a Fun Night Out

Fat Cats offers a fantastic and intimate setting for a date night. The shared experience of laughing together at top comedians creates a unique bonding opportunity. The 'no phone' policy encourages you to focus on each other and the performance, making for a more present and memorable evening. Instagram

Consider booking tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows, and arrive a bit early to snag good seats. The 2-item minimum from the menu is easily met with a couple of drinks, adding to the night's enjoyment. It's a classic NYC experience that’s both entertaining and romantic.

Comedy Enthusiasts

For serious comedy fans, Fat Cats is a pilgrimage site. The chance to see both legendary headliners and emerging talent in such an intimate space is unparalleled. The club's commitment to protecting comedians' material through its strict 'no phone' policy ensures a high-quality, uninterrupted show. TikTokReddit

Be prepared for the tight seating and the 2-item minimum. The best strategy is to book tickets as soon as they become available and arrive early. This is where you'll witness the raw talent and sharp wit that defines New York comedy.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Comedy Cellar Experience

Fat Cats, often referred to as the Comedy Cellar, is a legendary comedy club in New York City's Greenwich Village. It's renowned for its intimate atmosphere and for hosting a mix of world-famous comedians and rising stars. The club's reputation is built on providing a genuine, no-frills comedy experience that many consider a quintessential part of visiting NYC. Reddit

Key aspects of the experience include the strict 'no phone' policy, where devices are secured in envelopes upon entry. This encourages full immersion in the performance and protects the comedians' material. The venue is small, leading to a very intimate vibe where the audience feels closely connected to the performers. TikTokInstagram

While the service has received mixed reviews, with some finding it less than welcoming, the quality of the comedy itself is consistently praised. Visitors often describe the shows as a 'laughter crescendo,' making it a memorable night out for comedy lovers. Reddit

Navigating Tickets and Entry

Securing tickets for Fat Cats requires a bit of planning. The club's calendar often only lists upcoming shows for the next week or so, meaning you'll need to check back frequently if you're planning further in advance. Booking online through their official website or authorized ticket vendors is the most reliable method, as shows can sell out quickly. Reddit

Upon arrival, expect a thorough check-in process. The most notable rule is the 'no phone' policy, where your device will be placed in a sealed envelope until you leave. This is a crucial part of the experience to be aware of. TikTok Arriving early, ideally 30-45 minutes before your showtime, is highly recommended. This allows ample time for check-in and helps in securing better seats, though be mindful that seating is generally tight. Reddit

While there isn't a strict dress code, aiming for smart casual attire is advisable. Avoid overly casual clothing. The club also enforces a 2-item minimum per person from their menu, which includes a selection of drinks and light snacks. Instagram