New York City, USA, is known as ‘The Big Apple’ for its very unique location. At the apex where the Hudson River meets the Atlantic Ocean, the throbbing core which is Manhattan entices all from near and far to come and stake their fortunes. Famously depicted in movies as a financial hub, art mirrors life in this case as New York City is an exciting city where skyscrapers such as the Empire State Building towers over the urban mass. Central Park, made famous by tele-series Friends, is a sprawling park where various entertainment activities are held. Broadway Theatre, where so many famous dancers, actors, and entertainment icons first performed, is lit up in Times Square. In the Big City, time never stops; and indeed, amongst the hubbub, there is always much to see and do that you won’t get to spend much time inside your beautiful hotel. Broadway Theater is staged in neon-lit Times Square. In the day, tour New York City to see its sights and sounds. At night, visit the clubs and bars to feel the energy of the city. Continue reading to learn about the best hip hop clubs in New York City
1. Katra Lounge & Event Space
Katra Lounge & Event Space is a club in New York known for its authentic food and relaxed atmosphere. Well-loved by locals and tourists alike, this club hosts performances by hip-hop performers from around the world. Patrons get to enjoy a variety of cuisines and great music under one roof.
Apart from musical performances, this club also has an expansive event space. Patrons can hold exclusive celebrations and gatherings coupled with good food. The luxurious interiors of the venue add to the relaxed vibe you can experience here.
Katra Lounge & Event Space
Address: 217 Bowery, New York, NY 10002, United States
Website: Katra Lounge & Event Space
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 5pm - 4am (closed on Mon; Sunday available for private events)
2. LAVO Nightclub
LAVO Nightclub is a premium establishment in New York City, especially known for its happening hip-hop performances and delicious food. The club hosts famous DJs and live performances by well-known artists. The intimate setting of the club ensures you have fun dancing the night away. You can also celebrate birthdays and special occasions here.
The nightclub also boasts a stunning Italian restaurant serving delicious fare. Some of the signature dishes at the restaurant include yellowfin tuna tartare and pappardelle bolognese. You can also savor creative cocktails during the lunch hours.
LAVO Nightclub
Address: 39 E 58th St (at Madison Avenue) New York, NY 10022, United States
Website: LAVO Nightclub
Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 11pm - 4am (closed Sun - Wed)
3. Village Underground
Village Underground is the finest spot in NYC to enjoy live performances. This hip hop bar in New York City often books artists that would normally be in rooms two or three times the size–with names like Patti Smith and Ike Turner gracing the stage. Village Underground ultimately gives music fans the opportunity to witness some of the world’s top talents in an entirely intimate environment. The cozy club’s low stage is lit in blue and is encircled by booths and tables. More tables, a standing area, and a long, polished bar are found at the back.
They also feature an open-mic showcase, which takes place every Sunday night at 9:30 pm. This weekly event where performers take the stage is hosted by Sony Records A&R man Ron Grant.
Village Underground
Address: 130 W 3rd St., New York, NY 10012
Website: Village Underground
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 9am - 2am (closed on Tue)
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4. Vault Manhattan
Vault Manhattan, located in the iconic Chelsea Market, has over 1,500 sq.ft. (approximately 140 sq.m.) of space, with a bar and an exclusive entertainment area in a lovely setting that focuses on capturing the spirit of nature.
This R&B lounge in New York City celebrates festivities such as Pride Month, National Siblings Day, and even baseball season. If you and your friends are still looking for a place to hang out, better list this one down. Bottles of pinot grigios and pinot noirs are waiting for you.
Vault Manhattan
Address: 410 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011, United States
Website: Vault Manhattan
Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 6pm - 4am (closed from Sun - Tue)
5. Bob Bar
Bob Bar is in the lower east. The club promises to bring you the best of old school and new school hip-hop, reggae, dancehall and r&b. Not just a club, it also has a gallery that showcases both local and international artists. When you’re at Bob Bar, you’re sure to be exposed to a wide selection of acts and artists.
Name of bar:Bob Bar
Address:235 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Website: Bob Bar
Opening hours:Mon - Tue: Closed Wed - Sat: 7PM - 4AM Sunday: 7PM - 2AM
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
6. Two-Bit's Retro Arcade
Two-Bit’s features a huge selection of arcades and pinballs from the 80s and early 90s, with a bar offering craft beer, good food, fine wine, and speciality cocktails. Private parties can be hosted here as well. Game on!
Two-Bit's Retro Arcade
Address: 153 Essex St, New York, NY 10002 | PHONE: (212) 477-8161
Website: Two-Bit’s Retro Arcade
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 5pm-2am|Sat-Sun 1pm-2am
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
7. Rooftop93
Rooftop93 Bar & Lounge brands itself as a premier nightlife destination for nights out and its stunning interior is a testament to that reputation. The location at the top two floors of Wyndham Garden Chinatown is a huge draw, with a view of downtown NYC. An indoor lounge with floor to ceiling windows and open-air rooftop, you’re served by skilled mixologists who can mix up the perfect NYC cocktail to remember your night. Perfect for a black tie date night out or tourists.
Name of bar: Rooftop93
Address: Wyndham Garden Chinatown 93 Bowery - 18th floor, New York, NY 10002
Website: Rooftop93
Opening hours:Sunday - Thursday (5:00pm - 12:00am) Friday & Saturday (5:00pm - 2:00am)
Average price for two people: 30-50 USD
8. Fat Buddha
Fat Buddha is the place to be if you need to eat before you dance! The club serves Korean and Asian inspired dishes. Grab a plate and wash it down with some beer. They also host some of the best hip-hop DJs. Check out the drinks, with names that are an extension of the club’s personality; the New Yorker mentioned the Mango Blast and the Fluzzy in their reviews of the club.
Name of bar:Fat Buddha
Address:212 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009 (Between 13th & 14th street)
Website: Fat Buddha
Opening hours:Open Every day 5pm-4am | Happy hour:Sunday-Wednesday 5-9pm, Thursday-Friday 5-8pm|Kitchen Hours:Sunday-Wednesday 5pm-2am, Thursday-Saturday 5pm-3am
Average price for two people: 30-40 USD
9. Lounge 247
Lounge 247 is near Bob Bar. Reviewers who come to this club have mentioned being referred here when Bob Bar is packed. A small club, the music is hip-hop, R&B, and oldies. With an affordable cover charge, it’s a casual place to let your hair loose.
Name of bar:Lounge 247
Address:247 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Facebook Page: Lounge 247
Opening hours:Sunday-Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday-Saturday 7:30–10:30am
Average price for two people: 10-20 USD
10. Bembe
Bembe is a laidback club, with live instruments being performed alongside DJ club sets. A diverse group of people come here to dance to the drumbeats, and ceiling fans keep the place cool.
Name of bar:Bembe
Address:Address: 81 S 6th St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Website: Bembe
Opening hours:Hours: 8:30PM–4AM
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
11. Harlem Nights
Harlem nights is a cosy neighbourhood bar for people to gather and listen to live music being played. Hang loose at the lounge with hand-crafted cocktails, and a changing menu of small bites.
Name of bar:Harlem Nights
Address:2361 7th Ave. @ 138 St.
Website: Harlem Nights
Opening hours:* Daily happy hour specials: 4-9pm | Th. - Fri. - Sat. DJs: 10pm-3am|Live music: Most nights from 8:30-11:30pm
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
12. Tavern Bar & Lounge
Tavern Lounge is a fairly new club in New York City. Opened in the late noon, you can grab dinner here, with reviewers on Yelp praising the pizzas and barbecue wings. So if you’re fond of pizza places, this is a spot you definitely want to check out. Located in Queens, the club offers not just hip-hop nights but also comedy nights. The venue is also used for open-mic sessions and performances. There is an ATM at the back of the club if patrons need some cash. A good place for casual hang-outs!
Name of bar:Tavern Bar & Lounge
Address:235 Eldridge St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Facebook Page: Tavern Bar & Lounge
Opening hours:Mon-Sat 3:00 pm - 4:00 am Sun 12:45 pm - 4:00 am
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
13. Fat Black Pussycat
The Fat Black Pussycat is the sister bar for Comedy Cellar. Comedy Cellar is a comedy club, and its sister bar focuses more on late night drinks, dancing, and a good vibe. Mondays are when comedians take to the stage to try their new jokes. Come relax in the spacious Moroccan inspired lounge! Voted the best lounge in NYC by City Search, you’re out for a good time here.
Name of bar: The Fat Black Pussycat
Address:130 W. 3rd Street, New York NY 10012
Website: The Fat Black Pussycat
Opening hours: Sunday-Friday: 4pm-8pm
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
14. Cielo
Editor’s note: Establishment is permanently closed.
If you’re looking to dress to the nines and show off your killer moves, consider modern-retro Cielo Club in Manhattan. The dress code here is “dressy”, so you know the club will be packed with people dressed up. Rated as one of the best hip hop clubs in New York City, the club plays electro, trance, and hip-hop beats to get club revellers going. The rumour is that it may close down soon, so do check out this 15-year-old club while you can.
Name of bar:Cielo
Address:18 Little West 12th St, New York City, NY 10014-1303
Website: Cielo Club
Opening hours:Mon - Tue: Closed Wed - Sat: 7PM - 4AM Sunday: 7PM - 2AM
Average price for two people: 20-30 USD
Dance till the sun comes up
Urban New York City is well-known for its sexy, electric vibe, and its dance clubs are no different. Dress up, pack your best attitude, and dance your cares away. The best acts frequently come to town, so whether you’re in the mood for club hits, comedy shows, or just laid-back live music, you’re sure to find a club with an atmosphere you like. Also, check out the best dive bars and restaurants with a view if you’re still not ready to end the night.