From torch-song cabarets to cutting-edge dance clubs, from neighborhood bars to velvet-rope lounges, plus world-class comedy clubs and establishments with all manner of live entertainment, New York City is a world capital of nightlife. Here you can find libations from beer and wine to elaborate cocktails and high-end champagne, often accompanied by great food.
Although comedian Rodney Dangerfield was famous for his trademark line “I get no respect,” his namesake comedy club on New York’s Upper East Side gets a whole lot of it: Dangerfield’s, the longest-running comedy club in the world, is now celebrating its 40th anniversary.
Dangerfield (who passed away in 2004 after complications from heart surgery) and business partner Tony Bevacqua founded the club in 1969, and despite today’s economy, it remains a top attraction. Mayor Bloomberg recently acknowledged the milestone anniversary and credited the club as home to the “world’s greatest comedians.” Stars who have performed at Dangerfield’s are a who’s-who list of comedy legends: Jay Leno, Andy Kaufman, Roseanne Barr, Tim Allen, Andrew Dice Clay and Jerry Seinfeld have all logged stage time. Today, it’s not unusual for celebrity comics, like Chris Rock, to drop by and test out new material.
Dangerfield’s continues to attract the hottest new talent. “[There are] no amateurs,” says Bevacqua. “All [the] comedians have TV credits.” And what brings top comedians to his club? “Our longevity makes us unique,” he says. “Comics like the prestige, the caliber, of the club.”
1118 First Ave. (61-62 Sts.), 212-593-1650; www.dangerfields.com.
Stop into any of Heartland Brewery’s locations and you’ll see that it isn’t just beer that’s brewing at New York’s first American-style brewpub. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to kick back and relax, and the five locations make it easy to escape the rush of the city. Sample one of the many unique brewed beers, try a tasty martini, or have one of the appetizers. And located next door to the Times Square location is HB Burger, which serves nine specialty burgers and “hard shakes,” which are definitely not for kids! 35 Union Square at 16th St., 212-645-3400; 127 W. 43rd St. btw. Sixth and Seventh Aves., 646-366-0235; South Street Seaport, 93 South St. at Fulton St., 646-572-2332; 350 Fifth Ave. at 34th St. in the Empire State Bldg., 212-563-3433; 1285 Sixth Ave. at 51st St., 212-582-8244; heartlandbrewery.com.
