Village Vanguard

This Saturday March 6th was my mother's and aunt's birthday so I reserved a table at the village vanguard for 6 people. Everyone in my family loves jazz and we have been to many shows in the city before and never had any problems. The waitress came to take our orders once the lights were off and the show started. Instead of shouting her order outloud my mom leaned over to my aunt's ear to tell her that she wants a sparkling water. All of a sudden the manager appeared and tapped our table with two hands scolding us that we are "talking during the show". We tried to tell him that we were trying to give orders but he got more and more aggressive and decided to kick us out. We were still trying to explain the situation despite his behavior but he told us that he can't deal with "peasant stuff". It is a really big shame because he both ruined our night for no reason and missed out on at least 5 other guests waiting at the door (they left once they heard the story). So just be aware you might need a plastic tape to cover your lips before you go in. And I also suggest you don't look the manager in the eye because he might get pissed. more

We had a very bad experience last night due to manager. I hope the owner is able to read all these reviews and take an action, otherwise similar to all other small business they may not able to survive too long. Pros: ??? Cons: Bad Manager more

Village vanguard more

We came all the way from France to hear Amat Cohen Quartet and half the sound was covered by crushing ice and shaking glasses from the bar that looks like a dirty back kitchen. While the audience silently listens to great artists, the barman ruins the spirit of the music. Either he should be fired because he despises the music or drinks should only be served before or after the concert. Truly shocking. Pros: Great music, select audience Cons: High level of noise coming from the bar more

I've been to vanguard twice, and the jazz is great. The host however, is very rude and it turned into a horrible experience for me this evening. While I was waiting for my party at my table and the place was already filling up the host kicked me off my table and offered a few random seats on the back. When I protested he raised his voice at me. When I jokingly said "thank you for your wonderful hospitality" he suggested that he will call the bouncers to kick me out of the place if I said another word to him. I felt like a first-graded being disciplined by the school principal, despite the fact that I paid $35. I would have left instantly had my party not been my girlfriend and her parents whom I was meeting for the first time that night. It was a degrading and embarrassing experience for me. more

Went to see Terrell Stafford late August '08, and there were two guys talking throughout the show. Quite a disturbance to us and several surrounding couples. So, after the first set, the two motor mouths met in back with Mr. Stafford. Were they Village Vanguard management? who knows, but they seemed more like groupies or wannabes. All others in the audience (probably tourists) had far better manners than these two. What a shame to have such a wonderful music spoiled by constant blabbering. Terrell Stafford Sir, if the talking fan boys were yours, please leave them at home. joedanielsnyc@gmail Pros: Amazing music? Cons: ...with narrative voice-over more

I'm not a jazz fan but I've been there almost each time I came to NYC. And I certainly will next time too Pros: Music, Atmosphere more

Others just can't compare - the Vanguard is still the best place to hear jazz. Even though it's crowded, the drinks are small, and the cover has gone up, I still recommend it for all jazz lovers out there. Pros: Historic Cons: Crowded, small drinks, high cover charge more

My aunt is a huge Jazz fan and I am a newbie...we went to see The Heath Brothers and it was a blast. The venue is quaint and very cool and the music was great. The crowd ranged from the young and hip to the old and hipper to those who took themselves way too seriously. The only bad thing was the service. We had the angriest, nastiest waitress I have ever encountered. There was a big in my aunts drink and it took her 30 minutes to replace it and got angry when I asked her about it just thinking she was swamped and needed a gentle reminder. Still...it was a great night. Check it out--a lot of fun. Pros: Good Value, Great vibe, good music Cons: Attitude of the staff more

While I think the blue note draws better talent drummer wise....sorry I'm impartial....this place is quiet nice to listen to jazz. Old basement feel with tons of famous faces on the wall. You are packed closer together than the blue note and they seat you, were as at the blue note for late shows you can seat yourself. We got a couple free drinks with the purchase of the tickets on a Friday nite. more

Now I know where this place earned its reputation. The music was stellar, the drinks were above average and the space, while certainly small, made up for its lack of size (or perhaps that was one of its finer qualities) with excellent low lighting, making for a surprisingly intimate evening even considering our close proximity to other couples. Pros: ambiance, lighting, great music more

This is, hands down, the absolute best place to see live jazz anywhere!!! Serious musicians call for serious audiences - everyone including the wait staff respects the no-talking policy here, allowing the listener distraction-less listening. Along with an astounding history, the acoustics of the room make everything sound that much better... Pros: Incredible Music, Historic Club more

I'm not the most avid jazz fan in the world but I do appreciate fine musical talent. My visit to Village Vanguard this past friday was a first but will not be the last. Walking down the steps and into the basement floor of this legendary landmark fills your senses with wonder. This club has had them all and it was no wonder to catch Jim Hall playing on the Friday night we chose to go. The room is small and seating is crowded but your seats are almost on top of the musicians. Pros: Historical Value, Great talent Cons: Very small more