(212) 477-4155
196 Allen St
New York,
NY
10002
40.7218
-73.9888
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Lower East Side
What People Are Saying About Rockwood Music Hall
The Editor
Kara Zuaro
Citysearch
The Scene – A floor-to-ceiling storefront window opens up the square room, a full bar stretches across one wall, and a curtain drapes around a catty-cornered stage. In a city where under-the-radar solo artists are often confined to shabby underground venues, like the lower level of CB's Gallery or the basement of Radio Perfecto, Rockwood sheds some light on the performers. – – The Draw – Friends of amateur performers deserve a reward for their moral support--and this bar gives them something to cheer for. The menu includes a well-picked beer and wine list, and…
02/16/09
The BEST PLACE in NYC to see/hear the BEST TALENT in NYC
by bjbarratt
I almost hate to tell you how great this place is...It's already too popular now. Rightfully so, and it's ALL ABOUT THE MUSIC. Ken Rockwood has managed to turn a closet into a concert hall of sound and Tommy, the booker, has a knack for booking THE BEST talent in NYC. The Regular bar staff is super friendly - it's like stepping into the perfect little sphere of live music. The only problem is that with perfection comes popularity and with popularity comes big crowds including music industry peeps - one thing that becomes a drag at the already TINY venue. A small price to pay for an intimate night with truly amazing musicians.
- Pros: Best sound system and mixing for live venue/ intimate/ GREAT artists
- Cons: Very, very small often very crowded, but SO worth it
12/28/06
The best small music venue in New York City
by richardm001uk
Wonderful intimate venue on the LES showcasing consistently good singer/songwriters and local bands. Always a chilled (but rocking) atmosphere - this is not your grunge and warm lager type venue. Most customers drink from the short, but well selected, wine list, served by the (generous) glass or bottle, but a good selection of bottled beers and liquor. Never had a problem with other customers (unlike one of the other reviews) - they're usually a quiet, attentive, mellow bunch enjoying the music whenever I'm there. hey don't serve food any more (which is a great pity) and the drinks prices are a little on the high side, but as there's no cover, and for the consistent quality of the music, I'm happy to pay!
- Pros: Consistent quality of the music, atmosphere
- Cons: Drinks prices, no food anymore
10/15/06
GREAT LIVE PERFORMANCES, VERY CROWDED, SMALL VENUE
by rebel1978
My gf and I went here last Friday night to see a particular musician perform. The show itself was really good. The sound quality was great and it was definitely a nice hang out spot......IF YOU GET THERE EARLY. Otherwise, it becomes extremely crowded mostly with upper class, rich froo froos who don't have manners. We had a problem with one couple who deliberately stood right in front of us, blocking our view of the stage. The drink prices were also VERY HIGH. I paid $5 just for ONE bottle of domestic beer!! Big rip-off for a small lounge such as Rockwood. I would only recommend this place if one of your favorite musicians are performing there and you don't feel like paying a cover charge. Rockwood never charges a cover charge, but their drink prices make up for that.
- Pros: Great Sound quality for live music, no cover charge
- Cons: Too small, over-crowded, rude patrons
The Details on Rockwood Music Hall
Save Money:
There's never a cover, just a one-drink minimum. From 5pm to 7pm, before the performances start, all drinks are two for one.
Look Good:
Order the very generous $14 three-cheese plate, which comes with bread, grapes, sliced apples and sweet membrillo (Spanish quince paste). Share with friends or make it a meal.
What to Drink:
If you like a fruity red wine, opt for the South African Graham Beck ($9), or sample a rich and smooth Brooklyn Chocolate Stout ($6).
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