Mercury Lounge

Update!  Two reasons why:

1. - Seems like they fixed the stage, elevated it a bit recently, as the last few times I've gone sightlines have not been a problem.

2. - I always, always, have a pleasant customer service experience here.  Bartenders, doormen, front door, etc.  If you call, you get a very helpful live person immediately.   I really value this, as it is definitely not something to take for granted.

This is a great place to see a show, and I value it as one of the city's great music venues even more as it gets tougher and tougher in New York to have a reasonably priced night out.

Been here a couple of times for shows -decent venue, small stage, always a cover, pretty divey blah blah blah

But let me rave about my drink. The Manhattan.

After a bad day at work, I asked the bartender to make us something strong and good. She asked if we liked bourbon and I said sure. So she makes us a Manhattan. It came in the smallest cup and cost me $11, but this drink kept me drunk for the next FOUR hours! (Ok fine, I drank it on an empty stomach, but still.) The bourbon was really strong, every sip felt like a shot.

Get your money's worth and order this drink if you know what's good!

Another one of my fav live music venues.  It small enough where you can be up close and personal with an artist you enjoy but not too small where you feel cramped.  Mixed crowd. Good cheap drinks.  Fab sound system.  Cheap tickets.

TIP: All standing room except a small side bench. So if your short make sure you get a spot in front.