Bill's Place Photos
You might also consider
More like Bill's Place
Recommended Reviews - Bill's Place
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Amazing jazz club! The outside is very unassuming but the inside is cozy and the bathroom was very nice. Musicians are so talented. BYOB but they do have water and soft drinks.
Came here to randomly and so thankful I did. This place is has been around for 27 years. It's located in Harlem and has that old timey feel and ran by two lovely people. They have a bar with soft drinks and wine. The vibe is warmth and romantic. I would recommend coming early to get a seat in the main area. If not you will have to watch the experience on a tv. If you like Jazz and history this place is definitely worth the visit.
I can't remember how I found Bill's. Maybe a deep dive online. Maybe one of the recent exposes written about him. But I got to reading about all of the jazz greats and jazz club owners we lost during COVID. So I thought I had to get out to Bill's to party. This little unassuming spot was a literal speakeasy. While it is now bring your own booze and only sells soft drinks and water, it's still hidden like a speakeasy. Simple to use google maps to get to the address, but we weren't sure which door to try (hint, it's the giant red one near the entrance). Billie Holiday was discovered here. This spot is small. Shotgun style. The first show is at 7. They say get there at 6:30 to get a seat, and that's probably fine, but we got there are 6:15 so we could have a seat front and center. The chairs are packed and cobbled together, some old wooden chairs, some old vinyl covered chairs, some high top chairs, a table here, a table there. Reminds me of the seats at preservation hall in New Orleans--not terribly comfortable, but they get the job done. Bill and the band were great. They played a few fast paced jazz tunes and a couple slower ones. Bill sang a couple of fun blues songs. The show lasted about an hour, maybe a little longer. At the end Bill spoke with us a while, told us the history of the place, made some jokes. He's a great guy. Tickets sold on their website. 30 bucks a ticket. As previously noted, no food or booze sold on site, but you're welcome to bring your own, while they sell water and soft drinks. They have ice and cups available. Everyone was so nice--the emcee and the woman at the door were awesome. Totally worth it. See all the jazz legends of Harlem while they are still here. They don't make 'em like Bill anymore.
Had this place on the to do list for awhile and when another event fell through, made reservations for this. Central Harlem location and definitely and old establishment. It seems to have been an older apartment, that they've modifed to a music venue with the main stage area and seating directly in front, then a back seating area with highchairs and tables. We got there early to get a good seat and I'm glad we did. The seating area in the back could be a bit tight and hard to see the musicians but the seats right up front were perfect! They had a coat check/hanging area so in the winter, no worries about lugging that around. I was impressed with the level of the musicians and the length of the show. It's loud in there so if you are not good with small spaces and loud noises, this may not be the place for you. They have an outdoor area and mentioned they are 420 friendly...so in warmer months may be worth the time to check that out. They also had water for sale, which was great as we forgot to bring some with us.
I've wanted to go to Bill's Place for quite some time now, and just got the chance to go with a friend of mine. The ambiance was comfy, it literally felt as if your friends who were professional musicians were practicing in their mom's basement! They do allow outside food and drinks but also have some sodas and glasses for $2 if you are interested. I would recommend getting there right when the doors open to get the best seat! Definitely a must do in Harlem.
This is a one of those "only in New York" experiences that I can't recommend highly enough. I'd wanted to come here for a long time, but only made it here last week. We came with a reservation, which was easily made via the club's website. Though they told us beforehand that doors would open at 7:45pm for the 8pm show, we got there at 7:25pm and were let in. We paid our entrance fees in cash as soon as we arrived, and were directed to sit where we liked. Since we were the first ones there, we scored seats right in front of the band. Bill and the band came in just after 8, introduced themselves, and then started the show. There were probably 20 or less people in the audience, making it for a delightfully intimate show. The club is also BYO, which I really liked, as there are so little BYO places that don't charge a fee in NY. After about an hour, the band concluded the show. Bill ended the show with a short explanation of the historic area we were in in Harlem, which used to be known as 'Swing Street'. Bill and the other host greeted everyone personally and thanked us for coming in after the performance. Overall, this was one of the best New York experiences I've had in a long time, and look forward to returning.
The price has gone up from $20 to $30/seat but it's still worth to price of admission for either the 8 or 10 o'clock seating on a Friday or Saturday night. Be the first in line and grab one of the 10 or so chairs just inches away from Bill leading the way on Sax, with a terrific bass, piano and drum player. Prepare to blast off with an explosion of live jazz within seconds of the quartet taking the stage. Feel free to bring your own libations to enjoy the ride in this historic Harlem Brownstone bottom floor.
Bill's Place is a true gem and makes a wonderful evening outing for visitors and NYC locals alike! I had the fortune of stumbling upon Bill's Place while researching the Harlem Jazz scene, and I'm so grateful I did! Finding a special place like this is exactly why the internet is the greatest thing ever - honestly. Jazz enthusiasts from around the world have found themselves in the tiny basement of a former Harlem speakeasy to witness the passionate, soulful, joyful magic of Bill Saxton and his house band. It will be the best $20 you ever spend in NYC! Make reservations online, head over with some cash, and enjoy the show!
Jazz lover's do not miss out! This is definitely a nice cozy jazz experience. It's wonderful for any occasion, not just a date. I made rsvp long ago because the weekends go quick. It's $20.00 per person. Cash. I'm not sure whether one can pay online. I honestly don't think so. Anywho its BYOB and snacks. We got lucky on the seating as we got to sit up front. The band is literally right there. They play for a while, definitely not a quick session. I didn't feel like Bill Saxton was rushing it. They had a guest female singer, which I personally loved. The overall experience was fantastic UNTIL Bill starting advertising his wife's book and brazenly started pointing out the tip jar. SMH.
6 months ago
3 months ago
History in motion, this place is recognized as the spot where Billie Holiday was discovered. Bill was not there the evening we went and the show started almost 30 minutes late. The quartet did well together as it was clear they were 4 separate musicians. Ice would be marvelous. But this is a no frills or amenities joint. The metal chairs in the back are very uncomfortable. Definitely a great place to hear jazz. read more
Jazz , bring your own food and beverage, tiny basement speakeasy , with a quintet, reservations required, in the heart of Harlem , a great experience, if you love jazz , a limited place, for seating, come early... cups and corkscrew provided . read more
1 month ago
Came here to randomly and so thankful I did. This place is has been around for 27 years. It's located in Harlem and has that old timey feel and ran by two lovely people. They have a bar with soft drinks and wine. The vibe is warmth and romantic. I would recommend coming early to get a seat in the main area. If not you will have to watch the experience on a tv. If you like Jazz and history this place is definitely worth the visit. read more
I can't remember how I found Bill's. Maybe a deep dive online. Maybe one of the recent exposes written about him. But I got to reading about all of the jazz greats and jazz club owners we lost during COVID. So I thought I had to get out to Bill's to party. This little unassuming spot was a literal speakeasy. While it is now bring your own booze and only sells soft drinks and water, it's still hidden like a speakeasy. Simple to use google maps to get to the address, but we weren't sure which door to try (hint, it's the giant red one near the entrance). Billie Holiday was discovered here. This spot is small. Shotgun style. The first show is at 7. They say get there at 6:30 to get a seat, and that's probably fine, but we got there are 6:15 so we could have a seat front and center. The chairs are packed and cobbled together, some old wooden chairs, some old vinyl covered chairs, some high top chairs, a table here, a table there. Reminds me of the seats at preservation hall in New Orleans--not terribly comfortable, but they get the job done. Bill and the band were great. They played a few fast paced jazz tunes and a couple slower ones. Bill sang a couple of fun blues songs. The show lasted about an hour, maybe a little longer. At the end Bill spoke with us a while, told us the history of the place, made some jokes. He's a great guy. Tickets sold on their website. 30 bucks a ticket. As previously noted, no food or booze sold on site, but you're welcome to bring your own, while they sell water and soft drinks. They have ice and cups available. Everyone was so nice--the emcee and the woman at the door were awesome. Totally worth it. See all the jazz legends of Harlem while they are still here. They don't make 'em like Bill anymore. read more
Had this place on the to do list for awhile and when another event fell through, made reservations for this. Central Harlem location and definitely and old establishment. It seems to have been an older apartment, that they've modifed to a music venue with the main stage area and seating directly in front, then a back seating area with highchairs and tables. We got there early to get a good seat and I'm glad we did. The seating area in the back could be a bit tight and hard to see the musicians but the seats right up front were perfect! They had a coat check/hanging area so in the winter, no worries about lugging that around. I was impressed with the level of the musicians and the length of the show. It's loud in there so if you are not good with small spaces and loud noises, this may not be the place for you. They have an outdoor area and mentioned they are 420 friendly...so in warmer months may be worth the time to check that out. They also had water for sale, which was great as we forgot to bring some with us. read more
6 months ago
6 months ago
1 year ago
1 year ago
I've wanted to go to Bill's Place for quite some time now, and just got the chance to go with a friend of mine. The ambiance was comfy, it literally felt as if your friends who were professional musicians were practicing in their mom's basement! They do allow outside food and drinks but also have some sodas and glasses for $2 if you are interested. I would recommend getting there right when the doors open to get the best seat! Definitely a must do in Harlem. read more
2 years ago
This is a one of those "only in New York" experiences that I can't recommend highly enough. I'd wanted to come here for a long time, but only made it here last week. We came with a reservation, which was easily made via the club's website. Though they told us beforehand that doors would open at 7:45pm for the 8pm show, we got there at 7:25pm and were let in. We paid our entrance fees in cash as soon as we arrived, and were directed to sit where we liked. Since we were the first ones there, we scored seats right in front of the band. Bill and the band came in just after 8, introduced themselves, and then started the show. There were probably 20 or less people in the audience, making it for a delightfully intimate show. The club is also BYO, which I really liked, as there are so little BYO places that don't charge a fee in NY. After about an hour, the band concluded the show. Bill ended the show with a short explanation of the historic area we were in in Harlem, which used to be known as 'Swing Street'. Bill and the other host greeted everyone personally and thanked us for coming in after the performance. Overall, this was one of the best New York experiences I've had in a long time, and look forward to returning. read more
3 years ago
4 years ago
The price has gone up from $20 to $30/seat but it's still worth to price of admission for either the 8 or 10 o'clock seating on a Friday or Saturday night. Be the first in line and grab one of the 10 or so chairs just inches away from Bill leading the way on Sax, with a terrific bass, piano and drum player. Prepare to blast off with an explosion of live jazz within seconds of the quartet taking the stage. Feel free to bring your own libations to enjoy the ride in this historic Harlem Brownstone bottom floor. read more
Bill's Place is a true gem and makes a wonderful evening outing for visitors and NYC locals alike! I had the fortune of stumbling upon Bill's Place while researching the Harlem Jazz scene, and I'm so grateful I did! Finding a special place like this is exactly why the internet is the greatest thing ever - honestly. Jazz enthusiasts from around the world have found themselves in the tiny basement of a former Harlem speakeasy to witness the passionate, soulful, joyful magic of Bill Saxton and his house band. It will be the best $20 you ever spend in NYC! Make reservations online, head over with some cash, and enjoy the show! read more
Jazz lover's do not miss out! This is definitely a nice cozy jazz experience. It's wonderful for any occasion, not just a date. I made rsvp long ago because the weekends go quick. It's $20.00 per person. Cash. I'm not sure whether one can pay online. I honestly don't think so. Anywho its BYOB and snacks. We got lucky on the seating as we got to sit up front. The band is literally right there. They play for a while, definitely not a quick session. I didn't feel like Bill Saxton was rushing it. They had a guest female singer, which I personally loved. The overall experience was fantastic UNTIL Bill starting advertising his wife's book and brazenly started pointing out the tip jar. SMH. read more
8 years ago
4 years ago
We went to an early show. Harlem history. Where Billie Holiday was discovered. An original speakeasy. read more
I'm so happy the Internet brought me this place. I'm not from NY so I was looking for somewhere to take my date for live jazz that was affordable and chill. This was perfect. Bill's isn't fancy, it's cozy. Don't go there thinking you'll be served or waited on. Go for the music and the history of the establishment. Main thing, reviews tell you BYOB and the website says dry establishment so I'm here to bridge the gap for you. They ARE a dry establishment and they will not tell you it's BYOB on the site however, they just allow you to bring what you want. So bring some wine bring some snacks bring a picnic. Just clean up after yourself and be a good audience. It was the perfect date nite idea. read more
8 years ago
Date night!!! This is one of our favorite places to escape into another time period. We were in the mood for jazz once again. What better to do on a fall Friday night at 10pm, and so we went to visit our favorite Jazz speakeasy in Harlem. The legendary Bills Place in Harlem is a place for intimate jazz that is up close and personal. You will never be disappointed, and a true music loving New Yorker should experience Bills Place, at once in their lifetime. This was the original location where Billie Holiday was discovered. You will sit and listen to live Jazz at a historical site, umm why would you not want to partake in that. Tips, log on to the website, book your tickets in advance. BYOB and some nice chocolates to enjoy during the show. Super intimate seating, arrive early so that you can select your preferred seat. Be ready to enjoy live great jazz. You will have an amazing time. read more
5 years ago
9 years ago
My first visit to Bill's Place did not disappoint. The atmosphere is simple and cozy, leaving room for the musical notes to fill the soul and every inch of the room. Everyone should find a way to support this great local owned venue with an amazing history. read more
4 years ago
11 years ago
Visiting Bill's is like stepping into a time capsule back to the years of prohibition. It was 1920 when this tiny, intimate venue was established, right on 133rd Street in Harlem, which was called Swing Street due to the abundance of speakeasy's in that particular street. Bill Saxton took over the place more than 10 years ago and keeps up with the tradition. Friday's and Saturday's only you'll be his guest in this cozy ground floor venue, and when I say "venue", I practically mean a long stretched room not larger than a normal living room in NYC. It hosts about 20-25 people, the jazz band, and Bill on the saxophone. They play two sets an evening, starting at 8pm and 10pm. It's recommend you reserve a seat before getting there. Cover is $20 pp, and it's BYOB. A unique, intimate, and great live jazz experience in Harlem. Highly recommended! read more
5 years ago
My husband and I love this place so much. It's our second time at Bills Place and we will definitely visit again on our next trip to New York! read more
18 years ago
Bill's Place is as unique of a New York experience as you can get... Styled after the speakeasies and jazz joints of 1920s and '30s Harlem. Jazz in an intimate brownstone setting, which happens to be Bill's home. Even bettter than the cool atmosphere and awesome music is the BYOB policy. So stock up on 40's and make your way to Harlem (reservation required, Friday nights only) Bill is a harlem native and legendary saxophonist "Bill's Place" located at 148 West 133rd Street, between Lenox and Seventh Avenues. The Bill Saxton Quartet performs two sets every Friday night at 10PM and 12AM. Admission is $15. Between sets, mingle with Bill, his band, and jazz lovers from in and out of NYC. You never know who might walk under the new "Bill's Place" bright red awning Bill's Place is located on the main floor of a renovated four-story brownstone. Look for the red awning and blue lights! Bill opens his Harlem Brownstone to those lucky enough to secure a reservation, every Friday night. Bill is a living legend with a place in Harlem history. More Reviews: http://www.ny1.com/Default.aspx?SecID=1000&ArID=63466 BigAppleJazz.com read more
We had a great time at bill's last week! Bill Saxton and his musicians are great hosts. Some really big jazz names played here back in the day and Bill shares some of these stories throughout the set. $20 gets you in and it's worth it. Plus BYOB makes for a very reasonable night out! They have ice, cups ($1 buck a pop) and bottle openers. There is a warm homey feel about this place. it really feels like you're in someone's living room. Btw, it's a cozy space. If you are uncomfortable with a sax --or possibly a trumpet...(that was the best!)--in your face, don't sit in the front row of chairs and wear a scowl. Ask for a table on the back. That's just a buzzkill. I love this joint! read more
I've never been to a jazz spot in Harlem despite living in NYC for several years now, and I'm glad I came to Bill's. The intimacy, amazing music, BYOB policy, and history of this place make it a real treat. It's fun to come here with a small group of friends and sit back for a great show. I was impressed how they almost didn't stop at all for almost 1.5 hrs of the show. It was well worth the $20 just be sure to get their on time to get good seats. Tips: no bodega in the area have alcohol, though there is a liquor store around the corner for wine. If you want beer go to the supermarket at the end of the block, though it won't be chilled. read more
5 years ago
The musicians are absolutely amazing! It was a quintessential jazz performance. Every piece of music was absolutely captivating, even for someone like me without a lot of passion for music. In addition, This unassuming music venue has so much history; it was where Billie Holiday used to sing and the last remaining Harlem speakeasy underground club. Anyone who wants to experience Harlem should pay a visit. read more
My friend invited me to Bill's Place and I told her I wasnt a huge fan of jazz but I am so happy I came. She informed me it was BYOB so I bought a small wine bottle and truly enjoyed the performances for the night which lasted almost 2 hours. You defintely should make reservations because seating is limited but the seating that you get is up close and personal. The staff are very friendly and interacts with the crowd throughout the night. Some of the sets were low key and others were rocking and body shaking grooves. I had a great time and it was truly a positive and unique experience in Harlem. read more
11 years ago
There's no point in my restating the history of this place which you can read on their website (you should) or most of the other reviews here. What I will say though, is that we have been to dozens of jazz clubs around the world, and Bill's stands out amongst them. It is incredibly small, but as a result incredibly intimate. You are making eye contact with the musicians all night and really share in not just the musical parts being played by the musicians, but the silent dialog between then as the parts are passed back and forth. The music itself was fantastic. (Bill was away on tour, so we saw Patience Higgins, himself a 20yr alumni of the Duke Ellington Orchestra) On this night, we were treated to have the amazing Tommy Campbell on drums and playing his "Porkhestra": talent, fun and rhythm all mixed into one. He made our night, and clowned it up for our two kids who loved every minute of the set. If you are looking to get away from the big name clubs (Jazz Standard, Vanguard, etc) then Bill's offers a great antidote uptown. read more
3 years ago
13 years ago
Great place for real live jazz on a Friday night. Outstanding musicians, and the BYOB policy is a plus, While in there, you may feel at bome. I would definitly go many more times. read more
Page 1 of 3
More info about Bill's Place
148 W 133rd St
New York, NY 10030
Harlem
Directions
(212) 281-0777
Call Now
Visit Website
http://billsplaceharlem.com/
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
Bill's Place Reviews in Other Languages
Ask the Community - Bill's Place
Can you still bring your drinks to the establishment or is that no longer an option?
I was there last night. You can still bring your drinks.
Review Highlights - Bill's Place
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
4 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
14 years ago
16 years ago
11 years ago
6 years ago
