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The 16 Best New York Stand Up Comedians

Looking for a good laugh in the Big Apple? New York City is known for its vibrant comedy scene, with a plethora of talented stand up comedians ready to entertain audiences with their unique humor and wit.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, checking out a show featuring some of the best New York stand up comedians is a must-do experience. From iconic comedy clubs to underground venues, there's no shortage of options to choose from.

Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with The 16 Best New York Stand Up Comedians, who are sure to leave you in stitches with their hilarious performances.

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

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Featured options

Select an option to see its summary.

#1
Comedy Cellar
4.75,258 reviews
#2
Gotham Comedy Club
4.52,157 reviews
#3
Stone Street Comedy Club
4.9172 reviews

Full list

Compare 15 local options

Comedy Cellar#1
What stands out

  • First-time visitors rave about the fantastic comedians, impeccable service, and the overall atmosphere.

  • Customers appreciate the unique policy of sealing away phones in envelopes, allowing for a distraction-free experience.

  • Guests enjoy the organized seating arrangement, delicious food, and superb cocktails served at Comedy Cellar.

  • Many visitors highlight the exceptional talent of the comedians, ensuring a night filled with laughter and joy.

Comedy Cellar

4.75,258 reviews
117 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Comedy Cellar is a renowned comedy club located in New York, offering a wide range of services and features to its customers. With a stellar rating of 4.7 based on 5258 reviews, it's clear that patrons have had exceptional experiences at this establishment.

Whether you're a comedy aficionado or just looking for a fun-filled evening, Comedy Cellar is a must-visit destination in New York City.

Gotham Comedy Club#2
What stands out

  • The impeccable delivery and engaging performances of the comedians

  • The friendly and accommodating staff that ensure a fantastic experience

  • The two-drink minimum policy with the option for non-alcoholic drinks

  • The intimate setting that allows for a strong connection between performers and the audience

Gotham Comedy Club

4.52,157 reviews
208 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011, United States

Gotham Comedy Club is a renowned comedy club located in the heart of New York City. Offering a range of services and features, such as fast service, a great beer selection, great cocktails, and live performances, this club is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

Customer reviews rave about their experiences at Gotham Comedy Club. From the electric ambiance to the diverse lineup of talented comedians, visitors are guaranteed a night of laughter and entertainment. Some key points highlighted in the reviews include:

Whether you are looking for a fun night out with friends or a memorable experience in the comedy scene, Gotham Comedy Club is a must-visit destination in New York City.

Stone Street Comedy Club#3
What stands out

  • A Saturday night at the club included several comedians and a great time.

  • Guests had a fantastic evening with absolutely hilarious comedians.

  • Visitors enjoyed a fun night out with good vibes, reasonable prices, and excellent comedians.

  • The club offers high-level comedy without resorting to kid jokes, providing a classy and funny experience.

Stone Street Comedy Club

4.9172 reviews
48 Stone St, New York, NY 10004, United States

Stone Street Comedy Club is a popular spot in New York City for comedy enthusiasts. The club offers a range of services and features that make it a must-visit for those looking for a good laugh. From a casual and cozy atmosphere to a variety of alcoholic beverages and delicious food, Stone Street Comedy Club has it all.

Customer reviews rave about the intimate setting and the value for money experience. Here are some key points summarized from the reviews:

So, whether you're looking for a great date night spot or just want to unwind with some laughter, Stone Street Comedy Club is the place to be.

The Stand NYC#4
What stands out

  • First-timers had a positive experience with engaging sets and well-balanced drinks.

  • Guests enjoyed the relaxed ambiance and intimate setting for lively entertainment.

  • Customers praised the friendly staff, good food, and reasonable prices.

  • One visitor highlighted the elegance of the club, impressive comedians, and extensive menu for a memorable night out.

The Stand NYC

4.41,374 reviews
116 E 16th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

The Stand NYC is a vibrant comedy club located in the heart of New York City. With a rating of 4.4, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The club offers a variety of services and features such as fast service, a great beer selection, live performances, and great cocktails. The venue boasts a casual, cozy, and trendy atmosphere, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a night of laughter.

Sesh Comedy#5
What stands out

  • Small, intimate venue with diverse comics and affordable early bird tickets

  • BYOB policy and convenient location near Chinatown and Little Italy

  • Great lineup of comedians for an unforgettable evening

  • No-frills atmosphere with hilarious comics and reasonable prices

Sesh Comedy

4.891 reviews
140 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002, United States

Sesh Comedy is a top-rated comedy club located in New York. It offers live performances in a cozy and trendy atmosphere, perfect for groups and tourists. The club provides various amenities, including accessible toilets and credit card payments. Reservations are required, ensuring a smooth experience for visitors.

Customers rave about their time at Sesh Comedy. Some key points from their reviews include:

These glowing reviews highlight the exceptional experience that Sesh Comedy provides to its guests. Whether you're looking for a night of laughter or a unique entertainment venue, this club comes highly recommended by its satisfied customers.

Comic Strip Live#6
What stands out

  • This place is the bomb! The comedians are hilarious and have different styles that will keep cracking you up. The staff is welcoming and friendly, providing a memorable experience.

  • Such a fun place! Good vibes, good temperature, and great laughs. The host and comedians were outstanding.

  • HAD A GREAT TIME! The comedians were hilarious, and the club has a welcoming atmosphere. The employees and wait staff are friendly, making the experience enjoyable.

Comic Strip Live

4.3827 reviews
1568 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028, United States

Comic Strip Live is a renowned comedy club located in New York City, offering a range of services and features that keep customers coming back for more. The club provides live performances and great cocktails, creating a casual and cosy atmosphere for comedy enthusiasts.

Customer reviews highlight key points about the club:

These reviews reflect the positive experiences customers have had at Comic Strip Live, showcasing the club as a top destination for comedy entertainment in New York City.

New York Comedy Club#7
What stands out

  • Great comedy show with talented comedians

  • Fast and friendly service with a cozy atmosphere

  • Affordable tickets and menu items, perfect for comedy club enthusiasts

New York Comedy Club

4.21,317 reviews
241 E 24th St, New York, NY 10010, United States

New York Comedy Club is a renowned spot for comedy lovers in New York City. With a rating of 4.2 and 1317 reviews, it's clear that customers have a great time at this comedy club. The club offers a range of highlights including live performances and great bar food. Accessibility is ensured with wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Customers can enjoy a variety of alcoholic beverages and food while watching the show. The casual and trendy atmosphere adds to the overall experience.

Here are a few key points from recent customer reviews:

St. Marks Comedy Club#8
What stands out

  • Customers rave about stumbling upon this hidden gem and catching an unexpected show that became a highlight of their year.

  • The venue's intimate setting and limited menu, which includes chips, salsa, and sometimes empanadas, add to the unique experience.

  • Visitors appreciate the diverse lineup of comedians and the owner's occasional special performances.

St. Marks Comedy Club

4.3733 reviews
12 St Marks Pl, New York, NY 10003, United States

St. Marks Comedy Club is a popular spot in New York City known for its live performances and great cocktails. Situated on St Marks Pl, this cozy and trendy comedy club has received a solid rating of 4.3 based on 733 reviews.

Stand Up NY at Café Paradiso#9
What stands out

  • The venue offers spacious seating options and features amazing comedians like Erik Scott.

  • Stand Up NY provides excellent service and a friendly atmosphere for customers to enjoy.

  • Although there were some mixed experiences, many patrons appreciate the club's efforts to reinvent itself and provide a platform for talented comedians.

  • Customers recommend arriving early to secure seating as the shows are enjoyable and worth the visit.

Stand Up NY at Café Paradiso

4.2690 reviews
236 W 78th St, New York, NY 10024, United States

Stand Up NY at Café Paradiso is a popular comedy club located in New York City. The venue offers live performances in a casual, cosy, and trendy atmosphere. Customers can enjoy a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine, along with happy-hour drinks. The club is known for its fast service and great cocktails, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

With a solid rating of 4.2 stars, based on 690 reviews, Stand Up NY has garnered positive feedback from its patrons. Here are some key points from their reviews:

If you're looking for a fun night out filled with laughter and great drinks, Stand Up NY at Café Paradiso is the place to be!

West Side Comedy Club#10
What stands out

  • Delicious food from the popular restaurant above the club

  • Intimate setting and friendly atmosphere

  • Helpful staff and accommodating service

  • Wide variety of local comics and hilarious performances

West Side Comedy Club

4.4229 reviews
201 W 75th St, New York, NY 10023, United States

West Side Comedy Club is a popular spot in New York City for those looking to have a great time filled with laughter. This cozy comedy club offers a variety of highlights like fast service, a great beer selection, great cocktails, and live performances that keep visitors coming back for more.

The atmosphere at West Side Comedy Club is described as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a welcoming space for all. The crowd is known to be diverse, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space, ensuring a fun and inclusive experience for everyone.

Recent visitors have left positive reviews, highlighting the delicious food, enjoyable shows, and friendly staff. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Experience the best of stand-up comedy and entertainment at West Side Comedy Club for a night filled with laughter and good vibes.

Comedy Shop#11
What stands out

  • Had a fun evening with a great atmosphere and variety of comedy acts.

  • Enjoyed the last-minute ticket availability and intimate setting.

  • Found the street culture comedy show hilarious and the service excellent.

  • Appreciated the beautiful bar area and great comedy lineup.

Comedy Shop

4.3384 reviews
167 Bleecker St REAR, New York, NY 10012, United States

Comedy Shop is a popular comedy club located in New York. The venue offers live performances in an intimate setting, making it a great spot for a night out. With a rating of 4.3, it's no surprise that customers have left rave reviews.

Some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a casual yet trendy place to enjoy some great comedy acts, Comedy Shop is the place to be!

New York Comedy Club#12
What stands out

  • Intimate setting with great acts

  • Good value for money with student discounts

  • Hilarious comedians and attentive staff

  • Varied drink options with a $20 minimum purchase

New York Comedy Club

4.2547 reviews
85 E 4th St, New York, NY 10003, United States

New York Comedy Club is a popular spot for comedy enthusiasts in New York City. This comedy club offers a range of services and features to create a memorable experience. Customers appreciate the live performances and great cocktails available at the club. With a rating of 4.2 stars, it's clear that many visitors have enjoyed their time here.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Whether you're a local or a tourist, New York Comedy Club promises a night filled with laughter and entertainment. So if you're looking for a cozy and trendy atmosphere to enjoy some comedy acts, this is the place to be!

FUNY Stand Up Comedy Classes - The New York Comedy School#13
What stands out

  • Participants praise the encouraging and interested approach of the instructors, especially highlighting Brian Scott McFadden.

  • The 101 class is highly recommended for its ability to help individuals grow comedically in a short period, instilling a renewed sense of optimism.

  • Customers enjoy the personalized and constructive feedback provided during classes, creating an environment reminiscent of a great open mic session.

  • Many attendees appreciate how the instructors, particularly Felicia, focus on each individual to help find their voice and authentic self.

FUNY Stand Up Comedy Classes - The New York Comedy School

5.06 reviews
201 W 75th St, New York, NY 10023, United States

FUNY Stand Up Comedy Classes - The New York Comedy School is a renowned comedy club located in New York City. With a stellar 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, it's evident that customers have had exceptional experiences at this establishment.

Whether you're a seasoned comedian or just starting your comedy journey, FUNY Stand Up Comedy Classes has a class or workshop suited for you. Embrace your comedic side and enroll today!

Broadway Comedy Club#14
What stands out

  • One reviewer mentioned that they had a fun time at the comedy show with their friends, highlighting the awesome comedians and recommending others to check out the club.

  • Another customer praised the very funny comedians and the kind ticket seller who walked them to the venue, emphasizing that the packed basement venue was worth it.

  • A visitor shared their experience of attending a show with over 10 comics, some more experienced than others, and praised the high energy and crowd participation encouraged by the MC.

  • One guest mentioned negotiating ticket prices with promoters to get a good deal and enjoying a night with mostly really good comedians and a couple of mediocre ones.

Broadway Comedy Club

3.82,442 reviews
318 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, United States

Broadway Comedy Club is a popular spot in New York City for those looking to enjoy a night of laughter and fun. The club offers live performances from talented comedians in a casual and trendy atmosphere. Customers can expect great cocktails and a selection of food and drinks while enjoying the show.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, Broadway Comedy Club offers a night of entertainment that won't disappoint. With a mixture of seasoned performers and up-and-coming talent, along with great drinks and a lively atmosphere, this club is a must-visit for comedy enthusiasts in the city.

LoL Times Square Comedy Club#15
What stands out

  • Great value for the price with a good variety of drinks and mocktail choices.

  • Brilliant comedy acts with a 2 drink minimum requirement.

  • Expensive but worth it for the hilarious comedians and good service.

  • Avoidable due to high prices, forced tipping, and poor quality drinks.

LoL Times Square Comedy Club

3.51,767 reviews
336 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036, United States

LoL Times Square Comedy Club is a popular spot for comedy lovers in New York City. With a rating of 3.5 stars based on 1767 reviews, this club offers live performances featuring talented comedians. Some of the highlights of this club include fast service and great cocktails, making it a go-to destination for a fun night out.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're looking for a trendy and casual atmosphere with entertaining comedy shows, LoL Times Square Comedy Club is the place to be.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Comedy Cellar 4.75,258
#2Gotham Comedy Club 4.52,157
#3Stone Street Comedy Club 4.9172
#4The Stand NYC 4.41,374
#5Sesh Comedy 4.891
#6Comic Strip Live 4.3827
#7New York Comedy Club 4.21,317
#8St. Marks Comedy Club 4.3733
#9Stand Up NY at Café Paradiso 4.2690
#10West Side Comedy Club 4.4229
#11Comedy Shop 4.3384
#12New York Comedy Club 4.2547
#13FUNY Stand Up Comedy Classes - The New York Comedy School 5.06
#14Broadway Comedy Club 3.82,442
#15LoL Times Square Comedy Club 3.51,767

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Map and areas

Map of New York Stand Up Comedians

Get ready to laugh out loud with this detailed map showcasing New York stand up comedians. From legendary veterans to up-and-coming talents, this diverse lineup of comedic geniuses will have you in stitches. Discover the best spots to catch a live show and immerse yourself in the vibrant comedy scene of the Big Apple.

How to choose stand up comedians in New York City

  1. Experience a diverse range of comedic styles.
  2. Support up-and-coming talent on the comedy scene.
  3. Enjoy a night out with friends or on a date.
  4. Attend open mic nights to discover new favorites.

Frequently asked questions

What makes New York stand up comedians unique?

New York stand up comedians are known for their quick wit and sharp humor. They often tackle controversial topics with grace and intelligence, pushing the boundaries of comedy. Many New York comedians have a background in theater or improv, giving them a strong stage presence and the ability to think on their feet. The competitive nature of the New York comedy scene also pushes comedians to constantly improve and innovate, resulting in some of the most cutting-edge and creative comedy in the industry.

Who are some famous New York stand up comedians?

Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and Amy Schumer are just a few of the famous stand up comedians who got their start in New York City. These comedians have paved the way for many others in the industry and continue to be a major influence on the New York comedy scene. With countless comedy clubs and venues throughout the city, New York is a breeding ground for new talent, producing a constant stream of up-and-coming comedians.

What is the best way to experience New York stand up comedy?

The best way to experience New York stand up comedy is to attend a live show at one of the city's many comedy clubs, such as the Comedy Cellar, The Stand, or Carolines on Broadway. Many comedians also perform regularly at smaller venues or open mic nights, giving audiences a chance to see fresh talent in an intimate setting. Additionally, podcasts and online videos are a great way to discover new comedians and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the New York comedy scene.

How can aspiring comedians break into the New York comedy scene?

Aspiring comedians looking to break into the New York comedy scene should start by performing at open mic nights and showcases at local comedy clubs. Building a strong network of fellow comedians and industry professionals is crucial for getting noticed and landing gigs in the competitive New York market. Consistency and perseverance are key, as the road to success in comedy is often long and challenging. However, with dedication and hard work, aspiring comedians can carve out a niche for themselves in the vibrant New York comedy scene.

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