Must-See Music Venues In Park Slope

With so many music venues in Park Slope, the avid music lover doesn't have to walk far to see a live band. Whether you're into jazz, reggae, indie rock or country, Park Slope is a diverse music hub for artists and fans alike. Below are 11 unique spots to catch a show.

Bar4 is so much more than a neighborhood bar. Couches surround the interior walls with a perfect view of the stage while a candle-lit copper bar creates a laid-back vibe. On a nightly basis an eclectic mix of jazz, rock, and country bands can be heard. Additionally, an open mic night that features spoken word artists and singer-songwriters continuously bring new talent to the stage. One of the most respected open mic nights in New York, bartender Kevin Johnston said it's what first brought him to Bar4.

Specifically a fan of the venue's "supportive music culture" and intimate space, Johnston is amazed at how the open mic night evolved into its own and says Bar4 is a "good, supportive spot for local bands and bands from all over the world." Going on six years strong, Bar4's open mic nights provide entertainment and diversity.

Barbes

At its Fifth Avenue location for the past decade, Barbes has been winning the ears of the local community for years. Owned by two French musicians, the venue originally acted as a place for themselves and friends to perform. Since then, the spot has expanded to feature live music every night. With diverse performances, Barbes features everything from Brazilian percussion, opera and Latin rhythms to Americana, country and jazz.

In addition to live music, Barbes is known for its beer and scotch, said bartender Paul Salvino.

"People expect to hear great music when they come," he added.

And that they do. Not your average concert venue; on any given night the owners may also make an appearance onstage.

The decade-old Bar Reis embodies three floors where concertgoers can see live music. Whether it's downstairs with the pool table or by the bar or watching from the balcony, this neighborhood venue is known for it's friendly environment, great music and affordable food.

"You might not hear a live band every night, but I guarantee you'll hear new music," said bartender Josh Hoisington.

Known by many as the "it" place to see live jazz in Brooklyn, Puppets Jazz Bar has been in Park Slope for five years. Serving a full vegetarian meal, patrons can dine in while listening to jazz greats  — and sometimes even grab a drink with them after.

Puppets features local and international jazz talent as well as reggae, blues, funk, hip-hop DJs, open mic nights and more. Co-owner Jaime Affoumado can be frequently found behind the drum kit.

The Rock Shop

The name explains it all. At Park Slope's newest venue, music fans can expect to find talented rock bands performing every night of the week. With a full stage complete with lights and a sound system, The Rock Shop has a Manhattan rock club feel without having to leave the Slope.

Known for hosting national and international rock bands as well as a DJ on the weekend, the venue also boasts a roof deck with a pool table and all the burgers and wings you could ever eat. 

Voted one of New York's top five concert venues by Time Out New York, Southpaw is known for its diverse billing. On a weekly basis, acts range anywhere from hip-hop, bluegrass and indie rock to comedy and reading series. In addition to the upstairs space with the main stage, floor and lounge-like seating, DownSouth, located downstairs from the main room, also holds events, concerts and DJs.

And don't forget about The Rub, Southpaw's monthly dance party.

Not the run-of-the-mill tea spot, Tea Lounge doubles as a music venue and movie theater. With frequent jazz performers, open mic nights and a singer-songwriter series, the space has much to offer.

In addition to hosting music events and caffeine addicts, the space boasts a diverse food menu and bar, making it the perfect all day and night hang out.

Built in an abandoned warehouse, Union Hall's unique layout provides something for everyone. With two bocce ball courts, shelves stacked with books, a mouth-watering menu of food and space downstairs for concerts, comedy shows and readings, the location easily impresses.

Whether it's an up-and-coming indie band or an 80s dance party, Union Hall's eclectic mix satisfies. In addition to its concert space, an outdoor courtyard is opened during the summer for drinks, where many bands load-in and relax before their show.

Honorable Mentions

While they're not in Park Slope, per se, it's not an enormous trek to check out these three venues within walking distance.

The Bell House

Located in Gowanus, The Bell House is open every night until 4 a.m. and hosts some of the most talked about bands in the music business.

The performance and art space frequently features up-and-coming musicians as well art exhibits and film screenings. With a laid-back feel, the intimate environment makes it easy to approach your favorite act before or after the show.

Roots Cafe

With a southern flavor, Roots Cafe is a hub for Brooklyn musicians. Every Wednesday and Friday night Roots features live music from bands in the community, B.Y.O.B.