National Underground
(212) 475-0611
159 E Houston St
New York,
NY
10002
40.7229
-73.989
Neighborhoods: Lower East Side, Downtown
Last updated 4.01.09
What People Are Saying About National Underground
The Editor
Justine Goodman
Citysearch
In Short
Musicians/ brothers Joey and Gavin DeGraw's rock bar isn't just another Lower East Side pseudo-glam spot, it's a bona fide rock and roll club with live music seven nights a week and none of the now ubiquitous bottle-service annoyances. The space (once home to Martignetti Liquors) has been gussied up with hanging tapestries and a pair of Texas longhorns above the bar--not that the crowd of locals, musicians, and local musicians notice the decor, as they sip inexpensive cocktails and listen to bands churning out everything from original songs to Beatles covers.
Hits: No pretenses, no college kids, and a relaxed door policy where you're welcomed rather than stonewalled.
Misses: There's no stage or separate performance area, so when it's crowded, some patrons may find themselves in awkwardly close proximity to the band.
User Reviews
edEx
March 20, 2009
Great place to listen to live music. I ordered their "All or Nothing Burger" (I got the "All") which left me with nothing but the desire for a better burger; less than 5oz of a thin beef pattie, cooked one way–well done, a crappy supermarket bun, and a side of three thinly sliced roasted potatoes—an over priced burger that should be more appropriately called the Nothing or Nothing Burger, skip the food and listen to the good music.
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HL
March 11, 2009
My friends and I visited the city this weekend and stopped by the National Underground to listen to our friend play his bass. I was pleasantly surprised by how cool this place was. The music was free, no cover charge and honestly, really good. We got to hear folk/country, blue grass and rock. The burgers were delicious and the bartenders kept our drinks filled all night. We liked it so much we went there both nights we were in the city. I would highly suggest this bar to anyone who likes a chilled out atmosphere with great music.
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nycgal143
November 09, 2008
I love this place. There is nothing fancy about it...beer, live music and amazing burgers. The perfect spot to relax and listen to some amazing musicians. The bartenders are super friendly and if you go in during its less busy hours they will remember your face and if you go there often enough, what you like to drink. The music is different every night, but one thing is certain it is always entertaining. One of my favorite nights is Sunday when the National Saloon Band is playing. The band consists of a few older men who really know how to play and if you chat with them, which they are always happy to do, you will get to hear some amazing stories. Oh, and I have to mention the burgers....I am not a big burger fan in general, but I friend recommended that I try one and oh man, am I glad I did!! They are so juicy and always cooked to perfection. They used to have a pasta salad on the side, which was amazing, and I am hoping they bring that back soon!! This place is defiantly a upcoming bar in New York City. Don't miss out!!
read full reviewThe Details on National Underground
Know Before You Go:
Ordinarily there's no cover charge, but it may depend on who's performing so inquire in advance to be sure.
The Extras:
The basement houses both an additional bar and an additional band, every Tuesday and Thursday through Saturday. The space may also be rented for private parties.
Where to Sit:
A semi-private, curtained area toward the back may look like it's VIP, but anyone can sit; the only bottle-service here is a $4.75 bottle of Hi-Life.
Category:
Bars & Pubs, Bars & Clubs, Neighborhood Bars, Dive Bars
Payment Methods:
American Express, Visa, MasterCard
