Best Bluegrass Bars in New York City

Here are the top bluegrass bars in NYC. Pull up a chair and enjoy some of the best country music the Big Apple has to offer.

1. Skinny Dennis

Saddle up to “NYC’s premier honky tonk bar” in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s the perfect intro to the city’s vibrant bluegrass scene. The bar features 18 beers on draft, signature cocktails, and a vintage jukebox. Since February 2013, Skinny Dennis has been home to some of the best live country and roots music in New York City, offering high-quality musical entertainment every night.

2. Luckydog

It seems that bluegrass music is alive and well in Brooklyn. This open-patio, dog-friendly bar is also located in Williamsburg, and hosts live bands every Sunday from 4-7 p.m. with no cover. The Grass Messengers, Felix Slim, Jason Loughlin, Demolition String Band, and Wyndham Baird among others have played Lucky Dog. It has a friendly, relaxed vibe, and when you go there, you really feel like you are part of the musical spectacle it celebrates. Luckydog also offers a bluegrass jam on Thursdays, led by banjo player Ellery Marshall, from 8 p.m. until late into the night. All are welcome to join in and play!

3. Sunny's Bar

Sunny's Bar is located in Red Hook, Brooklyn. The bar acts as a waterfront saloon and provides a warm atmosphere for those looking to hear weekly country and bluegrass jam sessions.

4. Mona’s

This is my favorite place to hear live music in the city. Located on Avenue B in Alphabet City, this is the perfect low-key dive bar to truly immerse yourself in NYC’s bluegrass music scene. Come in on Mondays for Mona’s weekly bluegrass jam. It’s always packed, and it’s always a great time. You might even see a Nashville musician or two. It’s a popular place for players of all backgrounds to hang out and make music together.

5. Jalopy Theatre

Jalopy Theatre is located on Columbia Street in Brooklyn and was founded back in 2006 by couple Geoff and Lynette Wiley. According to their website, "We showcase folk roots, bluegrass, country, blues, and traditional world music at our live concerts, the Brooklyn Folk Festival and other music festivals, and through our record label Jalopy records." The Jalopy also offers food and drinks, plus classes, and workshops for adults.

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