Comedy Cellar

Overview

The Comedy Cellar is New York's most famous comedy club, a low-ceilinged MacDougal Street basement in Greenwich Village where top comedians — including surprise drop-ins from Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, and Chris Rock — perform nightly.

Highlights

• Drop-In Culture: The Cellar is legendary for unannounced appearances by A-list comedians testing new material. On any given night, a major star might walk onstage with no advance notice.
• Intimate Setting: The small room seats about 115 people at tightly packed tables, putting audiences within arm's reach of performers.
• Comedy History: The club where Jon Stewart, Ray Romano, and dozens of other comedians built their careers. It was featured extensively in Louis C.K.'s TV show Louie.

History

Opened in 1982 by Bill Grundfest beneath the Olive Tree Café, the Comedy Cellar became the epicenter of New York stand-up comedy in the 1990s and has maintained that status for over four decades.

Visitor Tips

• Reserve Online: Shows sell out regularly. Book through the website at least a few days in advance for weekend shows.
• Drink Minimum: There is a two-drink minimum in addition to the cover charge ($20–25).
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.