The Blue Note has built its reputation as a premier destination in New York to hear the stars of the music. Big names such as Herbie Hancock and Nancy Wilson perform here regularly, for primarily a tourist audience. In addition, local artists fill the bill on Monday nights and in affordable late night jam sessions, as well as during an emerging late night weekend groove series.

Listed as one of the 100 jazz clubs worldwide by Downbeat.

Photo by Andrea Canter

www.thealgonquin.net

A sedate and pricey cabaret that's survived the modest renovation of the legendary literary hotel in which it sits. John Pizzarelli honed his act here; exquisitely erudite song-stylists are the main course.

Listed in Downbeat's 2004 guide of 100 great jazz clubs.

This room in the East Village, connected to the www.joespub.com

A simple, brick-walled ex-wine-warehouse in remote down town Manhattan with folding chairs, basic bar and a wide open stage for cutting edge artists like John Zorn, Vernon Reid, Thurston Moore and Milford Braves welcomes equally committed audiences.