New York: Top Ten Music Venues with Good Grub

Updated October 14, 2009

Cake Shop

New York Bars & Clubs » Lower East Side » Indie Bar

Equal parts bakery, record shop and music venue. Peter Bjorn and John play the occasional secret show on the downstairs stage. You don't get banana cream pie like this in Sweden.

Highline Ballroom

New York Bars & Clubs » Chelsea » Live Music

This 700-person venue houses some big acts, like Amy Winehouse and the Arctic Monkeys. The kitchen offers two menus, depending on whether you sit or stand; mini kobe burgers make an appearance on both.

Joe's Pub

New York Bars & Clubs » NoHo » Live Music

Norah Jones and Ryan Adams have graced the stage at this stunning theater with topnotch acoustics. Food and drink might rack up a hefty bill, but it's one of the most intimate venues in town.

Pianos

New York Bars & Clubs » Lower East Side » Live Music

Crowded hipster destination for deafeningly loud performances, usually involving a whiney lead singer. The guitar solo might disappoint, but the $8 red wine burger and fries definitely won't. Beware of fratty weekend crowds.

Union Hall

New York Bars & Clubs » Park Slope » Indie Bar

Beneath the cozy, library themed bar lies a sweaty rock club. Before you venture below, order the steak sandwich; it's not half-bad, and you can dance the calories off later.

Union Pool

New York Bars & Clubs » Williamsburg » Indie Bar

Known for their outdoor smoking lounge and site of many a make-out sesh, there's nothing hungry hipsters like more than tacos. The El Diablo Taco Truck is open seven nights a week and it's magical.

Spike Hill

New York Bars & Clubs » Williamsburg » Pub

Imported brews and single malts pair nicely with fish and chips at this casual pub cum music venue. Known for giving newbies a shot, performances draw raucous young crowds.

The Bell House

New York Bars & Clubs » Park Slope » Live Music

From the guys behind Union Hall, this warehouse turned rock club presents a variety of acts and events, from TV on the Radio's Kyp Malone to DJ dance parties. The front room—low-lit and filled with armchairs—is an ideal setting to enjoy some edibles. Menu includes dub pies,…

City Winery

New York Restaurants » Soho » Mediterranean

Knitting Factory founder, Michael Dorf, strikes gold again, with a grownup venture merging music and wine. The kitchen offers a full menu plus an assortment of Murray's Cheeses. Sip on a nice Rioja and listen to tunes that won't make your ears ring afterwards.

Brooklyn Bowl

New York Bars & Clubs » Williamsburg » Live Music

Music + bowling + Blue Ribbon fried chicken = hybrid entertainment at its best. The 600 max venue books rock shows and monthly jam bands. Make sure to lick that chicken grease off your fingers if you're hoping for a strike.