Opened in 1977, the narrow basement performance space of the Cornelia Street Café (pictured above) offers a cheaper, cozier alternative to other clubs in town that have high cover charges or a pesky drink minimum. An excellent place to take in some live jazz music, this mirrored, blue-bricked room also hosts events appropriate for all musical tastes, and even offers nights of poetry, comedy, and a science series. This much-varying bill of fare is suggestive of the history and engaging spirit of the venue, but in the end the intimacy and acoustics of the place lend best to performances of the musical type. With cute tables lining both walls and a well-stocked bar tucked in the back, the atmosphere is pleasant for romance and conversation between acts, and hey, it ain’t too shabby that they’ve got a three-star dining experience right upstairs. The Cornelia Street Café offers an easy all-in-one – a fine meal in a café that’s reminiscent of grandma’s house – and an intimate live show for the latter part of your evening.

Opened in 1977, the narrow basement performance space of the Cornelia Street Café (pictured above) offers a cheaper, cozier alternative to other clubs in town that have high cover charges or a pesky drink minimum. An excellent place to take in some live jazz music, this mirrored, blue-bricked room also hosts events appropriate for all musical tastes, and even offers nights of poetry, comedy, and a science series. This much-varying bill of fare is suggestive of the history and engaging spirit of the venue, but in the end the intimacy and acoustics of the place lend best to performances of the musical type. With cute tables lining both walls and a well-stocked bar tucked in the back, the atmosphere is pleasant for romance and conversation between acts, and hey, it ain’t too shabby that they’ve got a three-star dining experience right upstairs. The Cornelia Street Café offers an easy all-in-one – a fine meal in a café that’s reminiscent of grandma’s house – and an intimate live show for the latter part of your evening.