JULIAN MACIAS
The Bitter End is New York City’s oldest rock club and a legendary live music venue located at 147 Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village. Opened in 1961, it has hosted iconic musicians and comedians such as Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Woody Allen, and Billy Crystal.The club has a capacity of about 230 people and offers an intimate setting for a wide range of musical genres and performances.
Known for its rich history, The Bitter End was originally a coffeehouse and folk music venue, famous for its Tuesday night hootenannies in the 1960s. It played a key role in the careers of many legendary artists and was the birthplace of Bob Dylan’s Rolling Thunder Revue. The venue was granted landmark status by New York City in 1992, preserving its cultural significance.
Today, The Bitter End continues to host live music and events with a packed schedule featuring both emerging and established artists. It maintains a loyal following of true New Yorkers and visitors seeking authentic live performances without touristy pretenses.
Opened in 1961 by Fred Wintraub, the Bitter End is New York’s oldest rock club. In 1968 Paul Colby took over as manager and booking agent and by 1974 became the owner. Under Colby, the Bitter End was elevated from basement bistro to renowned rock club.
Its legendary hootenannies on Tuesday nights launched many careers in front of the famous red brick wall.
To namedrop just a few: comedians Woody Allen, Jay Leno, Bill Cosby and Billy Crystal.
Musicians like Billy Joel, Van Morrison, Neil Diamond, Miles Davis, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder or Norah Jones.
The Bitter End was designated a landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission on July 23, 1992.