Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar opened in New York City in 1981, founded by Bill Grundfest as the city’s comedy boom was beginning to take shape downtown. Generations of comedians developed material there, including Ray Romano, Chris Rock and Jon Stewart. The Cellar has also become part of the city’s comedy record through filmed specials, documentaries and television appearances, with its website maintaining an archive of past lineups and clips. Its history reflects the way a comedy club can function as both a performance room and a proving ground: comics have used the Cellar to test material, build an audience and return after achieving wider recognition. Today, the club continues that connection to New York’s stand-up scene.

Comedy legends such as Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, Ray Romano, Kevin Hart, Jon Stewart, and more have taken the stage here — and it was founded by Emmy and Golden Globe-winning writer Bill Grundfest. Its Greenwich Village location had Comedy Cellar destined for greatness since it was founded in 1982. It’s a pristine facility but — living up to its name — still gives attendees the feel of going down to a cellar for a gritty, underground comedy show. But it’s not just performances to enjoy here — if you think you have a future in stand-up comedy, Comedy Cellar can help get you there, as it also offers classes for the aspiring comedian.