Nuyorican Poets Cafe

01/28/12

Another reason why there is no place like NYC!!

by nomie at Citysearch

If you are into spoken word/poetry this place is a must-go! It is always crowded. The line is always long. I believe for $20 you can pay for VIP seating. Which in my opinion is well worth it. I don't mind standing. But if you don't pay for VIP that is exactly what you will be doing. No liquor is sold. I believe only a small variety of beer. But many don't mind because that's not what this place is about. Also, don't let the young people on line discourage you from entering. Many teachers bring their students to these events. Many times some of those same awkward teenagers get on the mic and blow the audience away! The host is always good.

P.S. I highly recommend poetry night

02/01/10

Speak your mind

by marisa 17 at Citysearch

You can count on this place to deliver a unique and underground scene.

Their open mic nights are well known around town and when I stopped by it was something that must be written about. The MC was on point... and it was super crowded. I would suggest getting there before the crowd does so plan ahead about 40-45 minutes.

If you're up for some good history of nyc, this place can definitely fulfill your dreams.

• Pros: Open Mics, Culture

10/31/09

AWESOME SPOT

by eunit525 at Citysearch

They make you feel comfortable..Very friendly people....

Poets are AWESOME....you will have great time..get there about half hour early for a good seat..place gets jammed pack....best nights i've been are Fridays....but i heard Wednesday and Saturdays are great too....Just go YOU WILL LOVE IT

• Pros: Good poets, good host...Lots of laughs
• Cons: crowded as heck

04/14/09

Lives up to it's rep

by NYC311 at Citysearch

This place makes me smile. It lives up to it's rep. You leave feeling cultured, respected, and loved. Great vibe, cool music, poetry, readings...you name it. If you want drinks, the place has those too. It's basically the cornerstone of culture in NYC. I can't say enough good things about the Nuyorican Poets Cafe.

• Pros: Culture!!!

03/10/05

what nyc is about

by lilnap at Citysearch

I've been here a few times for the Friday night Poetry Slam and its a nice place to get some "urban culture". Get there 1/2hour early (9:30) if you expect a seat, otherwise you'll find yourself on top of the piano or fire escape It's $10 at the door and the only thing the "bar" serves are beers and wine. The bartender was rude and demanded a tip even before giving me my drink. Drink afterwards, no reason to tip just for taking the cap off my Corona ($4). It has a small homey feel, red brick walls and a 4'x4' stage. Slams last until 1-2am. 3-4 poets compete, 3 poems each and audience members are given score cards. The highest and lowest scores are dropped, remaining 3 scores are averaged, at the end of the highest scorer gets the biggest cash prize, others get a smaller fraction.

• Pros: Nice, laid back spot, "authentic" new york
• Cons: bartender, SMALL