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

03/10/06

Wonderful!

by sandyleeann

That last review had it nailed. This place is fabulous; good service, great drinks(eat before you come), and the music line-up is a dream. If there is an artist you especially want to see than do come earely to get seats. I stayed from 7-midnight and had a blast, when i left the place was still hopping.

• Pros: music, atmosphere, prices

08/15/05

Exposed brick, candlelit tables and a friendly staff make this venue one of the most intimate music spots in town.

by Kara Zuaro

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 excellent cheeses. If a Jimi Hendrix's guitar tone were converted to culinary form, it might taste like the Purple Haze chevre, which is creamy and complex, thanks to a subtle dusting of lavender and fennel pollen.

06/01/05

NYC's New Hot Spot for MUSIC!

by barbaralois

This is the quintessential room to hear praiseworthy music in NYC. It's rumored that musicians are offering their eardrums to play here. The line-ups will keep you engaged. The warm ambiance enhances the total listening experience. The attention dedicated to sound is impeccable. It is evident that the proprietor has an endless pool of respect for the performers' craft. Check out the wine list and artistically prepared mediterranean food. The pannini selections are succulent and the homemade guacamole is superb. I heard a couple of newcomers ask if they could take the chef home with them!

• Pros: Friendly staff, music 7 nights, no cover
• Cons: ltd seats, come early