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Borough: Midtown Manhattan (theater district)
Where: 315 W 44th St
Their Words: Now, half a century later, the Birdland banner has been reborn in midtown and called, "close to perfection for serious fans and musicians," by The New York Times. After a decade of neighborhood success on the Upper West Side, John decided to move the club back to Midtown. The new Birdland offers top-flight jazz in a world class setting, good sight lines and acoustics, elbow room, and a menu ripe with award winning Southern Cuisine.
Our Words: Birdland, "the jazz corner of the world," was once located elsewhere in Manhattan and headlined by the great Charlie Parker, for which it was named. Like the Blue Note, Birdland is a tourist spot with cabaret-style seating. More spacious and well-lit than the Blue Note, this space has held concerts by notable jazz musicians like Michael Brecker, Lee Konitz, Dave Holland and Tito Puente. Though a bit pricey, Birdland is worth the occasional visit, if not for its sophisticated atmosphere, then for its big-name shows.
Music Every Night?: Bands come through Birdland for a few nights at a time. Every Wednesday, from 5:30pm to 7:15pm David Ostwald's Louis Armstrong Centennial Band performs. Every Friday, from 5:15pm to 7pm, The Birdland Big Band directed by Tommy Igoe performs.
Capacity: about 175
Reservations: Seating must be reserved in advance by phone (212-581-3080) or online. Seating is available at tables, where there is a $10 food/drink minimum per person, and at the bar, where you will receive a complimentary drink when you pay the music charge - however, you must be age 21 or over to sit at the bar.
Age Restriction: Table seating is all-ages. Bar seating is 21+.
Food / Drink: American cuisine with Cajun accent
Price / Student Discount: $20-50 depending on performer, $10 food/drink minimum per person. by Ivana Ng
