Comic Strip Live

New York, United States

3.4

Open now

30 reviews

Accepts Credit Cards

Contacts

QR code, vCard

Telephone:
+1 212-861-9386
Website:
www.comicstriplive.com
Address:
1568 2nd Ave, New York, NY, 10028
b/t 81st St & 82nd St
Yorkville, Upper East Side
Nearby public transportation stops & stations:
0.3 mi86th Street (4,5,6)
0.3 mi77th Street (6)
0.3 mi86th St / Lexington Ave
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Bussiness info

Accepts Credit Cards
Yes
Parking
Garage, Street
Bike Parking
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible
Yes
Good for Kids
No
Good for Groups
Yes
Ambience
Casual
Noise Level
Average
Good For Dancing
No
Alcohol
Full Bar
Happy Hour
Yes
Best Nights
Thu, Fri, Sat
Coat Check
No
Smoking
No
Outdoor Seating
No
Has TV
No
Accepts Apple Pay
No

Today

Today 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Open now
Local time (New York) 03:24 Friday, 29 November 2024

Business hours

Monday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Tuesday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Wednesday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Thursday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Friday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Saturday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am
Sunday 12:00 pm – 4:00 am

Description

Specialties

The Comic Strip is proud to be a showcase comedy club and the oldest comedy club in New York. Most comedy clubs have one headliner, so you’re out of luck if you don’t enjoy their humor. Instead, we set ourselves apart from the competition by providing over four headliners instead of the one. Expect an outstanding all-​pro lineup on any given night. Only the best, top professional comics perform on the Comic Strip stage. Many of our performers write and perform new material when they come to Comic Strip simply because they know the level of quality Comic Strip expects, and they always deliver. We also offer open mic events for those who wish to practice their comedy on a live audience.

The Comic Strip is the perfect comedy club experience. In addition to the great comedy, we also serve delicious food and drinks to complete the experience. Our full bar and knowledgeable bartenders can make your favorite drink for you while you enjoy a night of great comedy at Comic Strip.

History

Established in 1975.

Comic Strip Live was the collaborative brainchild of Richard Tienken, John McGowan, and Robert Wachs. For nearly 40 years, Comic Strip has been entertaining New Yorkers and visitors alike, from its original Upper East Side location.

The club originally featured comics, singers, magicians and novelty acts. However, its owners soon realized that stand-​up comedy was the only way to go. Comic Strip Live has been a comedy showcase club ever since, producing an impressive list of alumni including Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, Adam Sandler, Dave Chappelle, Paul Reiser, Ray Romano, and more.

New York Magazine billed Comic Strip «the most expertly booked club in the city.» It’s been voted AOL CityGuide’s «Best Comedy Club.» And in 2008, Comic Strip successfully set the Guinness World Record for Longest Standup Comedy Show with 50 continuous hours featuring over 100 professional comics.

Meet the Business Owner

Jeannie N.

Business Owner

Jeannie has a real knack for providing stellar customer experiences. Whether it’s booking the right comics or creating the right menu, nothing escapes her expertise. Today, nothing brings her more joy than the praise of her guests.

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30 reviews of Comic Strip Live

No registration required
Place rating: 2
Philadelphia, PA
I admit I struggle with comedy clubs. Go to see a movie and at least there’s a big screen and great sound system. A concert? A light show and the energy of a large crowd. A comedy show? I’m sure it’s great to see the big name comedians live but let’s be honest 70% of comedians are mediocre at best and you fake laugh through most of it to make the room less awkward, especially if it’s a week night at a mediocre venue like Comic Strip Live. You can see all their material on YouTube anyway in the comfort of your own home.
Before you write off this review understand that I’ve seen plenty of shows and I do love comedy. I’ve been to Comedy Cellar and Gotham as well multiple times and I can tell you they both have better talent and MUCH better prices. For two people you’ll drop $ 35 on cover and at least another $ 50 to hit the two item minimum. Pepsi is $ 8, bud light is $ 10. Their $ 12 «nachos» are corn chips with cheese whiz.
I just moved here less than a block away from this place, and if the prices weren’t so obscene I might be more forgiving and might even become a regular. Check out comedy cellar it’s a better value. I don’t think I’ll be back.
Place rating: 4
Manhattan, NY
Small, cramped, and kind of dingy, but hey — that’s part of the charm, right?
I’ve been to 4 – 5 shows here and have seen quite a few comedians perform, and have always been entertained. There’s a $ 20 cover, and 2-​drink minimum per person which really isn’t bad for a night out in NYC! If you want a less crowded experience, try the later shows, they tend to be a bit less packed. Make sure to call and make a reservation before you go and check in early if you want a decent seat (not in the first row). If you just want to be entertained and don’t care about all the frills, this is a great neighborhood place to go on a Fri or Sat night!
Place rating: 4
Manhattan, NY
Hilarious comedians on Friday night! Love that this place is a breeding ground of New York comedians. Maybe not for people that are very PC (kind of expected that I guess).
I liked the atmosphere. The drinks could be a bit, OK a lot, better (did not try the food).
Place rating: 5
Manhattan, NY
MC Comedian Ray Alan, as well as the other comics, were hilarious. One comedian didn’t have any delivery what so ever and didn’t look at his audience for his entire set. Plus they guy had no rhythm. He was terrible and most of the audience was unhappy during his routine. The place makes people laugh and if you are unhappy you come out from the show happy. That’s what it all about. Take a look at y pictures from last night and view the happiness on everyone’s faces and they tell the whole story.
Place rating: 4
Downey, CA
The show was so great!
My boyfriend and I went on a Monday to check out some of the SNL Comedians work the stage!
I loved Leslie Jones and he liked Jordan Rock!
The drinks were really terrible, but good thing we went for the laughs!
Really fun night out!
Place rating: 5
Manhattan, NY
Not sure why there’s so many negative reviews which also had me hesitant to go, but i ended up checking out a show with a friend and we had a great time! The comedians were hilarious and the two drink minimum wasn’t that big of a deal from all the negative reviews i read. Drinks were a little pricey with beers are around 9 bucks or more and cocktails are around 14 bucks. Regardless, i would definitely see another show here!
Place rating: 5
Brooklyn, NY
This place is the breeding ground of New York greatest comedians. I saw Jay Pharoah from SNL do a drop-​in on a Monday and bring down the house.
The tickets are affordable, the staff super friendly and they do a bonus show at the end with New York funniest up and coming comedians.
Place rating: 1
Kew Gardens, NY
What a nightmare. Purchased a groupon for my fiancé and I. Arrived, was seated, and was taken care of by our server right away. All great, right? Time for the bill. First, we get the wrong bill. Next, the correct bill comes and we pay. It was split three ways between my fiancé, myself, and a friend. We leave and all is well. Until this morning, my fiancé checks his card statement and realizes he’s been charged two different amounts. One was correct, and the other was an extra amount. I check mine. One amount I was charged for was correct and then I see ANOTHER charge for 55 dollars that was not me! Called comic strip live today and told them about the charges and are currently looking into it. Manager said she will call In an hour. It’s been about three. What a rip off. Avoid completely or pay in cash.
Update — Manager never called. I called her again and said it was her «day off» and claimed she could not find any evidence of the charge and I had to send her screenshots of the charge on my banking app. UNREAL.
Place rating: 2
Kew Gardens, Queens, NY
Atmosphere is okay and mostly funny.
I liked four out of five of the comedians. Some of the humor was highly offensive to homosexual and in poor taste. The comedians also harassed some people who arrived late and asked them «what their story» was, which was also in poor taste. Overall it was a good time. Drinks are overpriced as to be expected… And our waiter brought us the wrong check ($ 125 vs $ 80 a forty dollar mistake on his part) so be careful and make sure they aren’t over charging you. I’ll be back but only if I can get another ticket deal… Not quite worth $ 24 a person.
Also — they fraudulently charged me an extra $ 27 on my credit card and my friend got a fraudulent charge of $ 54 they are SCAMMERS here!
Place rating: 5
New York, NY
Comedians were hilarious. Show was 2 hours. 2 people on Saturday night $ 60 worth it.
Cons — hot in the room and the check in was confusing.
First come first serve on seating so get there early if you want a seat in the front.
Place rating: 1
Red Hook, NY
I would never come to this comedy club again. Me and my friends were treated horrible. It took about 25 minutes for us to receive our drinks after ordering. We got harassed by a male waiter who kept coming to our table telling us we were laughing to loud. He also told other people threw out the establishment to keep an eye on us. He stuck up his middle finger at my friend then after that told us we had to leave but we had to pay our bill first. This establishment has very unprofessional staff who like to target people of a certain color
Place rating: 4
New York, NY
Had a great time sitting front table with a friend. I hope they can expand the food menu. Was impressed by the comics on Saturday 1⁄16.
Place rating: 3
Queens, NY
Place is cool.
The staff is ok.
The drinks are so so. Stick with something simple. The specialty drinks are not special they are disgusting.
The comedians they have makes this spot worth going to. Had a great time with friends here and the front lobby area with small bar is worth spending time looking at the photos. The host is on point and funny, I’d even go as far as saying he was better than a couple of the main acts.
Go have a great time and then venture across the street for some insomnia cookies!
Place rating: 2
Guilford, CT
I can not believe that I am writing a negative review about this place because of how highly recommend it was but, this was a terrible night. The only reason I rated it two stars instead of one is because the comedian’s were excellent! Dispite the quality of the talent the venue was terrible and that is my focus in this review. First off there Is a two drink minimum on top of the cover, which was not unexpected, but the lack of alcohol in the $ 18 drinks leaves a lot to be desired. Second, when one member of our 9 person party leaned over to me and whispered to me «try this it tastes like there is no alcohol» a staff member comes over and said we were being rude for not paying attention. Third, the manager was condescending and clearly not genuine when she pretended to correct the problem. She clearly felt it was a inconvenience and we were irrelevant. The drink she offered as a replacement was also a virgin with a non-​virgin price. They didn’t charge us for the drinks in the end but the damage was done and I would discourage anyone else from visiting this venue. Now for a hour long disappointed train ride home. A wasted night at the comic strip!
Place rating: 3
Hoboken, NJ
The girl talks about marriage, kids and surnames… I just want to tell you no one ever changes their surname in China, ever.
Puerto Rican guy I just love you. And I can cook too ;)
Place rating: 3
Brooklyn, NY
This comedy club is consistently average… which actually is a good thing. I’ve never seen someone awful here, most people are pretty funny with some who are very talented. You can get free tickets if you live in the neighborhood and call ahead. Not the best comedy club but a solid activity to do if you live on the ues.
Place rating: 1
New York, NY
If you want unfunny racism. This is the place.
The host, Mike, took one look at my skin colour, and assumed I speak like Apu from the Simpsons.
I understand comedy, but there is difference between observational humour and prejudiced racism.
All the best with this place guys. Cheap humour and overpriced alcohol is all you get here.
Place rating: 4
TriBeCa, Manhattan, NY
Comic Strip Live
NY Manhattan Comic Strip Live
5pm 14th November 2015
Four Stars
It’s a 30 year old comedy club hosting greats like Eddie Murphy and Jerry Seinfeld. This was our second time coming to Support Ryan Brown. He was hosting which meant we got to see him throughout the two hour set. The comics were generally pretty funny. The service was good since the place was less crowded than the usual tryout shows. With the two drink minimum, I had a Long Island Ice Tea and a Makers Mark on the Rocks ($ 12 but $ 15 after tax).
I would recommend coming here at least once to check it out.
Place rating: 4
Kew Gardens, NY
Had a great time! Used a groupon and didn’t feel like we were treated differently than anyone else. The comedians were good, not for everyone, but that’s how a comedy show is going to be. Most comedy clubs have a drink minimum so we weren’t surprised by that aspect. Overall, enjoyed the night, would go again.
Place rating: 3
Sydney, Australia
A great night out, was disappointed that there was a surprise of a minimum 2 drinks per person…
The comedians were good, the host was better! Haha
Place rating: 4
Tempe, AZ
I great club (as long as you get a great deal). My husband and I got a 2 for one deal ($ 15 for both) and that made it worth it. The first 5 acts — about 2 hours were hilarious! After that, less experienced comedians come on and while hit and miss, at least don’t preform long. It’s a 2 drink/​$ 20 minimum per person which is pretty good when all is said and done. Definitely worth it if you’re in the area!
Place rating: 4
Manhattan, NY
I’m not a huge stand-​up comedy fan. I’ve only been to 2, this being my 3rd, so I don’t have too much experience.
Comic Strip Live is a comedy club, not a comedy theater. So if you’ve been to The Upright Citizens Brigade Theater, know that Comic Strip Live is completely different. There is a small stage and you sit at tables right up against the stage and around the main room. The room is not large at all. I would say it has an occupancy of around 60.
There is a 2 drink minimum, which seems to be the norm in NYC. Ticket prices can vary, depending on what show you go to and whether or not you get a discount. Unilocal sometimes has buy one get one free deals, which you just mention during your reservation. That makes it $ 7.50/person on a weekday night. Depending on when you go and how long you stay, you may be offered a complimentary ticket for a future visit.
Overall, the comics were so so. There were a few that had me laughing, but some of them were just painful to watch/​listen to. Comic Strip Live gets surprise guests occasionally, and we were treated to a surprise visit from Jay Pharaoh from SNL. He was hilarious. It actually made the whole night worth it!
One perk is that even when you’re int he restroom, you can hear the broadcast from the stage, so you aren’t missing any part of the show even if you need to quietly duck into the restroom.
An informal poll from my party of 10 people concluded that the drinks were overall too sweet and not alcoholic enough. The prices are also a bit steep, but again, that seems to not be uncommon for comedy clubs in NYC.
I’ll be back because I have a complimentary ticket. I’ll give it one more shot. I’ll pick the show more carefully.
Place rating: 1
Manhattan, NY
It’s a hit and miss place and it was more miss when we went. Thanks to Unilocal made the admission slightly cheaper buy 1 get 1. Place is small with tables.
They say 2 drink minimum but in reality it’s a 20 dollar minimum per person and a 28% tip. Shouldn’t a tip be what you feel like giving based on the service? Was overpriced, for 6 people came to be $ 40 person! We all ordered simple drinks, coffee, soda and beers and was very overpriced, $ 14 for a beer and $ 6 for a seltzer!
We saw a total of 5 comedians, the host was great along with one other guy. The other comedians were not funny and did not tailor to the audience. Each comedian is on stage for about 15 minutes.
I recommend going to a different place.
Place rating: 4
Sunnyside, NY
I been to this comedy club many times and for some reason its probably one of my favorites.
Yes they sit everyone on top of each other and the drinks/​food aren’t cheap but hey this is NYC where nothing is cheap.
The crowd is always lively and the comedians are hysterical. I have to say very few times I been here where the comedians didn’t make me crack up.
I always try to go to the later shows because the later the show the more vulgar and racist the shows become all in good fun of course.
If you are the type to get easily offended then maybe comedy clubs aren’t the thing for you.
They do have a two drink minimum and tix could get expensive if you buy them at their site but they are always having deals on Groupon or Living Social so just do your research.
Place rating: 4
Toronto, Canada
Came here with a group of four last Sunday. It was possibly the coldest day this winter in the City and it was still a packed house. Nothing prevents New Yorkers from going out and having a good time.
We arrived late and were fearful to be seated right in the front, aka line of fire. We really wanted to watch a comedy show rather than have a conversation with a comedian. Thankfully there was a table for four nestled in the right corner of the stage. The views weren’t obstructed and we still felt close and part of the action. In fact we were picked on once for being Canadian.
Tickets were $ 15 a piece with a 2 drink minimum — drinks could include anything from alcoholic cocktails (~$ 14) to pop (~$ 7).
There was a large line up of diverse comedians — females, males, gays and Asians, all bringing their own flavor of humour to the stage. The flare of the night seemed to revolve around how ‘gay’ is no longer a derogative term, rather a compliment. Lots of prepared material by the comedians with a healthy amount of audience harassment.
The show was about 2 — 2.5 hours long, with an end segment of rapid fire rounds. I believe these were amateur comedians auditioning or trying out new material. It’s worth the stay if you’re not too restless from the previous lineup.
Although we ended up at the Comic Strip Live because the Comedy Cellar was sold out, we’ll definitely come back here the next time we’re in New York!
Place rating: 4
Manhattan, NY
Had such a blast here. Great comedians and better drink options than other comedy clubs.
Still a 2 drink /​$ 20 minimum but for what I paid for the tickets I didn’t mind. Drinks were delicious.
Really enjoyed that most parrons were locals compared with all the tourists you get at comedy clubs near Times Square.
I definitely plan on going back.
Place rating: 5
Scottsdale, AZ
This place is a 5 all day long.
I used an app to find a comedy show in NYC a couple hours in advance & buy tickets for a friend & I. We showed up at Comic Strip Live, & during the purchase process in the app, I had clicked on the wrong venue, & we had tickets for another place.
Employees at Comic Strip Live completely helped us out, & we got tickets to their show instead for free. Fucking great customer service.
The show itself was hilarious, even though some family brought a 12 year old boy with him, & sat him in the front. Weird. I love that the comedians didn’t change their act, because a kid was there.
Service was spot on too. There were a couple of annoying broads at the table with the kid talking while the comedians were doing their show. They were total assholes, but other than that, it was a great experience.
Definitely go here for a show!
Place rating: 5
Westfield, NJ
I have gone here for 30 years. Many huge stars got their start here – Eddie Murphy, Jerry Seinfeld, Louis CK, Chris Rock – and some drop in unannounced to try out new material. Weekend shows usually feature and MC and 4 comics and last 2 ½ hours. Weekday shows run longer.
Lots of discount ticket options are available on the internet to lower the cost from $ 20 on weekends (which is a usual price for name clubs).
The 2 drink minimum will add $ 18 – 25 per person plus tax and tip – this is also standard for top clubs, although obviously high. Skip the overpriced food. Lots of good restaurants nearby.
The comics are generally excellent – veterans of Letterman, Comedy Central, HBO, etc. The crowd is mellow. As at all comedy clubs, do not come here if you are offended by jokes about sex or race.
The staff is excellent, from the folks who answer the phones and greet you to the waitresses.
The worst seats are still pretty close.
NYC has dozens of comedy clubs, many of which are very good and draw from the same group of comics, but the top group is this one, The Comedy Cellar, The Stand, Carolines and Gotham Comedy Club.
Place rating: 4
Manhattan, NY
I’ve never been here before but I’ve had the tickets in my pocket for about a month now. So i decided why not. let’s go
This apparently is a pretty famous stand up comedy show. i really enjoyed myself there. The only complaint i have are that the drinks are a little on the higher priced side in that you have a 2 drink minimum. I understand why — the jokes are funnier as you drink!
All the comics were really good when we went and the show was pretty long. It started around 8:15 and didn’t end till almost 10:30. So you really do get your monies worth here!
Place rating: 2
Manhattan, NY
Pluses:
Funny comedians, which is obviously important.
Minuses:
$ 20 tickets, which is ok if they didn’t overcharge on alcohol and food. $ 13 jack Daniels?! $ 10 corona, Stella and Brooklyn lager?! $ 8 popcorn?!
There are better or just as good comic clubs that don’t require a mortgage to buy food/​drink.