Zinc Bar Photo by Fatima Rose Esquivel
This place feels like a second home,” says Alex Ramirez, a regular with a smile as warm as the club’s ambience. “The music transcends everything else. It transports you somewhere magical.” Down a flight of inconspicuous stairs, Zinc Bar, nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village unfolds like a secret world. It is a subterranean sanctuary for jazz aficionados, curious minds, and anyone seeking an unforgettable evening of live music and intimate connection. It offers a haven for those who crave the soulful sounds of jazz, a place where you can discover new artistic horizons and a chance to be swept away by a truly special experience.
A Warm Welcome
This hideaway for music lovers boasts a rich history. The building at 82 West Third Street once housed the legendary Cinderella Lounge, a cornerstone of the Village’s jazz scene in the mid-20th century. Renowned musicians like Thelonious Monk and Billie Holiday graced its stage from the end of prohibition into the 1950s. When Zinc Bar’s owners took over in 2008, they aimed to honor that legacy. They succeeded in creating a space that preserves the spirit of the Village’s jazz soul.
Zinc Bar isn’t your typical, brightly lit bar. Instead, imagine a cozy escape. The walls reflect hues of red bathed in a warm, amber glow from strategically placed sconces. Bartenders, dressed in classic black outfits, stand behind a bar on the left side of the room when you enter. Their practiced hands craft cocktails with a quiet efficiency. The murmur of conversation and the gentle clinking of glasses create a low hum of anticipation.
As you make your way towards the back, the murmur softens. Velvet curtains hang like a magician’s drape, promising a world of wonder on the other side. A gentle hush falls as you push through, revealing the heart of Zinc Bar – the performance space.
An Intimate Setting
A raised platform bathed in a soft spotlight. Unlike a concert hall, the seating here is intimate. Round, wrought-iron tables are scattered center of the stage, spaced comfortably apart to allow for conversation between sets. Flower vases and flickering candlelight create an air of sophistication, while plush velvet chairs ensure a comfortable escape for the evening’s musical exploration.
A Toast to the Night
Unlike some performance venues, service here is discreet. Attentive staff take orders for drinks before the show begins and throughout with minimal interruption. There’s a thirty dollar minimum per person for drinks in addition to a thirty dollar entrance fee for the performance itself.
A Night of Connection
The performers at Zinc Bar are more than just musicians. They’re storytellers. A captivating vocalist might lock eyes with a patron in the front row, infusing a ballad with an extra layer of intimacy. A soulful saxophonist might weave through the tables, their melody swirling around the room, drawing the audience into the heart of the performance.
A Shared Passion
“I love coming to Zinc to discover new talent and immerse myself in the beauty of jazz music,” Lily said, echoing the sentiment of many regulars. “There’s something truly special about the atmosphere here. It’s so warm and inviting, you can’t help but feel at home.”
Max Thompson, experiencing Zinc for the first time felt captivated by its charm. “The music here is electrifying. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever heard before,” he enthused. “It’s a place where you can truly appreciate the beauty and complexity of jazz music.”
The upcoming lineup reflects the eclectic spirit of Zinc Bar. From the Jason Marshall Quartet to the Guitar Masters Series featuring Pete McCann, there’s something for everyone. To see a complete list of performers, visit the Zinc Bar website at https://www.zincbar.com/.
