Minton's Playhouse image

Minton's Playhouse

Restaurant American restaurant Live music venue New us american restaurant Jazz club

🫤 I really wanted to like this place. I love live jazz and supporting music played in person, especially as we get over the effects of the pandemic on live entertainment. Here’s my take on Minton’s. I was under the impression that this is a historic landmark and storied place. When you walk in, there... People often mention jazz, music, show, drinks, great, time, band,


Address

206 W 118th St, New York, NY 10026

Website

www.mintonsnyc.com

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (656 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 7 PM to 3 AM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 7 PM to 3 AM
  • Friday: 7 PM to 3 AM
  • Saturday: 7 PM to 3 AM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: jazz (12) music (8) show (8) drinks (6) great (6) time (6) band (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 2/5 Annmarie R. 2 years ago on Google • 321 reviews
    I really wanted to like this place. I love live jazz and supporting music played in person, especially as we get over the effects of the pandemic on live entertainment. Here’s my take on Minton’s. I was under the impression that this is a historic landmark and storied place. When you walk in, there’s really no evidence of this. The place is completely renovated and devoid of charm or elegance. I read in a NYT review that men should be encouraged to dress sharp.. but most were wearing casual clothing. It felt more like a cruise ship lounge than a historic venue for jazz music and fine food. We were also not told of a minimum purchase with each person- $40 per person PLUS an automatically added 20% gratuity and $20 added to support the musicians. I always tip 20% or more but I was not informed when making the reservation that there was a minimum. Our night for four people ended up being over $320 when we had a few appetizers and drinks. Absolutely a rip off and not okay to surprise a guest with these rules. Our party ate beforehand because we didn’t know about this rule. What’s more? The music was okay, but not exceptional. I’m not a professional, but it was clear that the group performing were good, but not out of the ordinary talented. Patrons were also talking loudly and taking videos/pictures during the performance that clearly got in the way for other guests. Management/Waitstaff should inform the audience to be respectful of others. I really wanted to like this place but between the rip-off minimum payment and cruise level entertainment atmosphere, this place is a no-go for me. Save your money. Try The Blue Note or another jazz spot for a true experience.
    30 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Peter B. 1 year ago on Google • 335 reviews
    This is a Harlem and New York City jewel. It is a cozy comfortable space with great entertainment and perfectly prepared food. Everything is fresh. The presentation is on point. Everything we ordered was absolutely delicious. Book your reservation now!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 J. R. 1 year ago on Google • 246 reviews
    The experience was wonderful. The place is a gem and a flash from the past. Our group of 16 stated the food was fantastic......I will return.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Allen b. 1 year ago on Google • 95 reviews
    A landmark positioned in the heart of Harlem connected to Cecil’s Steakhouse. We went there on an early (6pm) reservation and first Jazz show (7pm). Overall a great experience. Parking - As any typical NY establishment, parking on the street is next too impossible, however, there is a parking garage about a block away that was reasonable (surcharge for large SUVs). Nice 1 block walk amidst the brownstones and community. Reservations - We were guests of another party, but our reservation was for 6pm, and they advise they hold for 15 minutes. Due to traffic we got there 6:30 and was still okay. I personally think the earlier the better as it was not packed. Not sure about walk-in or takeout. Service was spectacular. Very fast and prompt service for drinks, clearing dishes, and delivery of food. Food is priced reasonable. The only thing we couldn’t do which was surprising, was substitute side dishes with our order, as they had an abundance of side options. The food was good, seasoned and cooked well. Dessert assortment was excellent, something for everyone (not just chocolate). Jazz show - The show started a little late, but it set the ambiance and atmosphere right. Although small, you cannot tell or feel it when your sitting down eating and enjoying music and fellowship. A definite return in the future. **Menus attached.
    12 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Veronica E. 5 years ago on Google • 185 reviews
    I had a nice time here during Restaurant Week. The food was delicious and I even had a couple of drinks I’ve never tasted before. The blackberry Gimlet was my favorite. The jazz band was pretty good and one of the musicians was a multi-instrumentalist. Overall I enjoyed myself but it won’t be a regular spot for me.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Liz B. 2 years ago on Google • 87 reviews
    The history of this place in Harlem is amazing. The newly renovated Minton's is beautiful. Small but spacey enough. You pay 25 dollars per person to watch the jazz show plus dinner and I felt that it was a bit rushed to get you out for the next show. Perhaps the layer show is better to sit and relax and listen to music and eat. The food is delicious
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Candice P. 3 years ago on Google • 119 reviews
    OMG best Valentine's date ever. My husband saw this place on his way to work one day and since is a live jazz fan he wanted to go. I am so glad we went, it was amazing. The food, the service and the band omg awesome. Loved everything about this place and we will definitely be returning again.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Avis B. 5 years ago on Google • 106 reviews
    A beautiful spot for jazz. You have room to move around, not like some places in Midtown. Lovely ambiance. Good food and friendly staff. This was my first time here. I am looking forward to a return visit. The band is great. I met some repeat customers.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katherine L. 1 year ago on Google
    My first time there. The decor was beautiful and warming. Saw a live band from Cuba and it was delightful. Enjoyed myself and it was a beautiful vibe.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tiger Perry (Perry B. 1 month ago on Google • 66 reviews New
    MINTON'S PLAYHOUSE is back..... 🎊 Amazing performances, always a cool vibe and mouth-watering 😋 food. 👍 Highly recommended 👏

  • 5/5 Reginald M. 1 year ago on Google
    Great sophisticated atmosphere of music and amazing food!! The food and drinks are superb!! Historically known for Jazz!!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Stephan B. 1 year ago on Google
    If you’re looking for a real Jazz experience with the opportunity to hear local talent then going to Minton’s on a Thursday night is the move to make! It’s a small space so you want to make reservations and get there on time. Attention to details from the volume of the music to the presentation of the food is something you can expect. The staff and the artist are friendly and approachable. I have been several times on Thursdays and I plan to continue.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Aileen K. 1 month ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    A nice way to enjoy jazz that doesn’t break the bank. The musicians were wonderful and the servers/bartenders were attentive. We ordered drinks - off menu - and they were good. The food was decent - typical to what you’d expect from a jazz bar. Tickets were affordable and once they turned the lights down, the ambience was nice. There are some things that seem to be a work in progress (the sound guy and the singers didn’t seem to be on the same page and the lighting at the bar could use some work). But once the show got going, it was a really enjoyable time. We’ll definitely be returning as it’s a neighborhood establishment worth the patronage. Good for dates and groups.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Emily Alexandra G. 3 weeks ago on Google • 25 reviews New
    Really good authentic jazz and drinks ! I had the non-alcoholic Cruizin for a bluzin @EmilyGuglielmo

  • 5/5 Laura C. 1 year ago on Google
    The BEST live jazz show ever! The house band were incredible and we went on "Jam Thursday" which meant members of the audience could join and sing/play an instrument/jam with the band. It was such a great, lively and positive experience and I'd recommend it in a heartbeat!

  • 5/5 Dolly P. 1 year ago on Google
    I loved it so much that I did not want to leave. A must visit place on a Thursday night for all music lovers.

  • 5/5 Mary Kay Y. 1 year ago on Google
    We were personally taken to Minton’s by one of the managers from Cecil’s, Brian, when he smartly realized the vibe we were looking for. I made the mistake of planning a special birthday dinner during comedy night at Cecil’s (most likely a great time as well). Because of this move, I am SUPER impressed with these restaurants! Besides that, the food and drink were EXCELLENT! And the jazz was fantastic. Great jams, great vibe. Highly recommend.


Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Food
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Food at bar
    • ✓️ Hard liquor
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible restroom
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery

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