Best Open Mic Spots in NYC
Do you have musical talent or know someone who does? Why not show the city what you've got? Check out the best open mic spots in New York City... if you dare to be discovered!
709 Lorimer St | Williamsburg
Pete's Candy Store has long been a launchpad for rising singer-songwriters, hosting open mics for over 20 years. Notable performers like Vampire Weekend, Lake Street Dive, and Sondre Lerche have graced their stage. Ready to make your mark? Join them every Sunday from 5–8PM and show the crowd what you've got! Sign-up starts at 3PM.
236 E 3rd St | East Village
PHOTO: NUYORICAN
Think you’ve got what it takes? Step up to the mic at Nuyorican’s legendary open mic nights! It’s first-come, first-served, so arrive early–this iconic spot fills up fast with artists eager to share their music and poetry, with the occasional comedy and storytelling sprinkled into the mix. With weekly and monthly events, it’s the perfect stage for both newcomers and seasoned pros alike. The Cafe was named by Time Out New York and CitySearch as NYC's best open mic venue!
254 W 72nd St | UWS
Ashford & Simpson’s Sugar Bar is famous for its incredible food and even better live music. Icons like Stevie Wonder, Freddie Jackson, Whoopi Goldberg, Stephanie Mills, Alicia Keys, and Cyndi Lauper have all graced this hotspot. With a standout menu, signature cocktails, and Thursday night open mics, it’s the ultimate destination for pure talent, entertainment, and vibes.
343 W 46th St | Hell's Kitchen
PHOTO: DON'T TELL MAMA
Don’t Tell Mama is a vibrant and musical venue that is split into four spaces: a piano bar, a restaurant, and 2 separate cabaret rooms. It’s the perfect spot to showcase your talent and sometimes celebs even drop by to sing. At the piano bar, guests can perform for the crowd from 9:30 PM to 2:30 AM daily–just jot your name and song on a napkin and hand it to your server or the pianist!
41-04 31st Ave | Astoria
PHOTO: THE LOCAL BAR
The Local Bar in Astoria is a chill spot for live music! Enjoy Comedy Tuesdays, Karaoke Fridays, and Saturday open mics. Grab a craft beer and sign up for open mic starting at 3PM, with the show kicking off at 4PM. Plus, all musicians get a complimentary drink!
214 Starr St | Bushwick
PHOTO: STARR BAR
Starr Bar in Bushwick is a neighborhood bar and entertainment hub, celebrating community and supporting social justice movements. The venue hosts parties, art shows, open-mics, karaoke, political discussions, fundraisers, film screenings, and even film shoots. Keep up with their socials for updates on open mic nights and more!
538 E 14th St | East Village
PHOTO: Otto's Shrunken Head
This rad Tiki Bar is no stranger to the live entertainment scene! It stands out as one of the few spots that perfectly blends rum-based concoctions with awesome music. In addition to live music, they host DJs, open mics, poetry and literary readings, film screenings, and even karaoke. Open mics take place EVERY Wednesday night, drawing a great crowd and a great vibe.
Want your open mic spot featured on this list? Hit us up at [email protected].
Updated August 2025
