It took me over 3.5 years to come here, which is funny to me, as I am a very regular concertgoer. I am super happy that Club Cafe reopened under new ownership, as that opportunity may have been otherwise not possible. Walking in here, I was immediately surprised by how small and intimate this venue is. There are a few places to sit here, but it is mostly standing room only. No matter where you are, you are likely no more than 15 feet from the stage. Just a heads up -- there is a slight step when you enter into the venue, so step up and/or over it. I tripped on the slight angled step of the door and slightly stumbled into the venue. There are a lot of local acts that perform here -- many that I am not aware of, and so that may have been what kept me from coming here in the past. I happened to come here for a national act, Ondara, of whom I was actually surprised to see performing in such a small venue. I would definitely come back here again for the right performer/band. The acoustics are wonderful. read more

Solid effort to bring in TODD BARRY (Dec 1 2023). Intimate show. Nice small venue on E Carson read more

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Club Cafe remains my favorite small club in the city. I am glad they made it through closure with the Pandemic & we're able to re-open this Fall 2021. Please be advised you must show proof of vaccination to enter the club along with your ID & ticket. This club has a capacity of only 140 people. I advise getting in line for popular gigs a 1/2 hour prior to doors opening if you intend to have a chance of getting a seat. Seating is LIMITED to bar stools (maybe 16) & a few tables (this varies each show). The two bartenders on Friday night for Joe Grushecky & the Houserockers packed house were great. Super friendly! Tip them well! They have a full bar, some craft cocktails, lots of microbrews & decent wine. Be advised they do NOT have a kitchen open now due to staff shortages. If your favorite artist comes here, I highly recommend going. Plenty of nearby restaurants & bars for pre-show grub. Bathroom is small & shaky & often runs out of toilet paper, but does have a big sink & soap/towels. Parking is still a bitch on the South Side. read more

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This is a wonderful, intimate venue for many acts. I was really impressed with their wine and cocktail offerings. There's also beer! The bathroom was really clean, which is surprising for concert venues. Everyone was really accommodating and friendly as well. This is one of my favorite venues in PGH because there's enough seating for everyone yet feels so intimate. I love this little hideaway that's tucked right off E Carson street. read more

I've seen everyone perform here from Black Francis and Reid Paley to local friends and then some. Cozy singer songwriter style venue with a really good sound system. Intimate way to watch performers and interact with them. Nice bar area with pricing you'd expect and they serve food as well. Small tables for seating and most shows are standing room only. If you want a seat for a popular show you definitely need to get there early. read more

This is a great intimate venue to see bands. Great sound system and you're so close to the stage you almost feel like you have to whisper to talk to your pals so the artists don't hear you. There aren't that many tables/seats so if you don't want to stand the whole time you should get there early. I'm perpetually late to everything but I also don't mind standing. Drinks are delicious but pricey and there are some highly prized, elusive seats at the bar so it can be hard to squeeze in there to order. They do have some really great and eclectic artists that roll through so keep an eye out and go - I always have a great time when I do. read more

Pittsburgh has so many music venues. I really am impressed. And this little cozy, intimate setting is superb. "Intimate" is the word described over and over in other's Yelp reviews and that is the most appropriate description. Came here to see the band "The Accidentals" after first seeing them this summer at the Three Rivers Festival downtown. They were billed with Jake Allen and Rising Regina as the first acts. For 12.00 each plus service fees my husband and I got to enjoy 3 acts and 3 hours of music in a quaint setting. Doors opened at 7pm with the first act playing at 8pm. We arrived at 7:30pm and promptly parked right outside the door with our great car karma, I kid you not. What a fantastic start. Then, upon opening the door, there were 2 seats left in the entire place at the bar. Again, fantastic, in a space with about 10 chairs at the bar, some with backs, some not (ours not). Then, there's an open space and after that some tables and chairs but not all that many. Our spot at the bar was perfect for viewing the band with no heads in front of us with people standing for most of the entire show. Sweet! They have a decent wine/beer/cocktail menu and several dining options. We had already eaten so just partook of some glasses of wine. The only downsides to give this a 4 vs. a 5 star rating was the fact that 1) my first glass of wine was served in an extremely dirty rimmed glass -- so dirty that the bartender should have noticed before I, or rather, my husband did and after my first sip. Eww... 2) mid-way through the last act's performance, the bartenders were nowhere to be found for quite a length of time. I ended up asking the front door ticket-taker about that so we could pay our tab before the rush at the end of the show. It all worked out and the venue for a small concert is ideal! But, be sure to get there early so you won't have to stand the whole time! read more

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Do you like a little groovy rock and roll jazz and some music? Fine beverages and dining? Music?? They have it! Come on in!

I have come to this little cozy venue twice now. The first time was to see a band I know and it was fun but the place is only set to hold 50 people comfortably if that and it was packed. This last time we went was nice. We got a cozy little table and ordered food. My friend got the chicken sandwich which he said was delicious. I ordered the four cheese pizza which wasn't bad and size of the pizza was awesome for the price it was. Then we got the cheese plate as an appetizer which was tasty but way over priced and there wasn't much on the plate at all. Now as for the crowd and music It was fantastic! We had a blast they were so much fun to watch and very interactive with the everyone. Reason I gave this place 3 starts was our table was wobbly and off center when we sat our drinks/food down the table would tilt. The cheese plate was way over priced. Other then that the staff and atmosphere was great! read more

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I've been to hundreds of concerts across the country and I'm attempting to write a review of every venue to assist my concert going troubadours. Elizabeth Cook - August 7, 2016 One of my favorite venues in Pittsburgh. It reminds me a lot of the Bluebird in Nashville - very intimate, urban lounge setting, great sound. I have intimacy issues, so sometimes a little too close to the artist. The staff has always been friendly and the prices seem about right. My only grip is they don't seem to use social media correctly to promote shows. I often don't hear about shows until they are sold out or passed. read more

Club Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

I've always enjoyed shows at Club Cafe. The sound is great, and it's hard to beat such a chill, intimate venue! Service is surprisingly good most of the time, despite how packed it can get for shows. As far as the food goes...the regular food menu is so-so, but the new Sunday brunch is awesome! I was really surprised by how good the food was. The excellent service for brunch was a nice addition, as well! Try the weekly locally-farmed omelette specials and the granola french toast. Both excellent! read more

This is one of those venues that's just the right size! I came here for a concert and had a great time. There was minimal time between sets, lots of options at the bar, and the bathrooms were clean--what more can you ask for? One thing to note is that they are CASH ONLY (both for tickets at the door and at the bar)! You can also buy tickets online, though. One downside of the small, intimate size is that there's nowhere to put your coat, so you may want to go without in the winter months. But overall, I would definitely recommend checking Club Cafe out! read more

The bartender manager kept saying over and over to the patrons that the place was a venue - not a bar. Seemed upset to have to work and would not serve unless the band was playing. Don't bother showing up early to have a drink, or food. It sucks to have a venue (with a bar and food) that could be good but has unprofessional management. read more

Nice stage and fun for small town bands. The gentleman helping get all the musical instruments together was very helpful and informative. Nice tap beer selection! And a lot of bottles as well. However it did take us 30 minutes to get our pizza, but it was delicious, light, and absolutely homemade! read more

Club Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

We happened to be in town when Anna Tivel and Jeffrey Martin were playing at Club Cafe. What a delightful experience for these out of towners. The size of the venue was intimate in all the best ways and our bartender Sean was phenomenal. He had curated a twist on the old fashioned with jalepenos and tequila which was phenom! Everything combined together made for an unforgettable memory! read more

While I have been here many times for the music venue, last Sunday was the first time for the brunch and really, where have you been all my life?!?!?! When I lived in NYC, Sunday brunch was what I lived for. Fancy food, awesome drinks, chill venue. Here in Pitt, a bit harder to find. But Club Cafe, as strange a venue for brunch as any, definitely lived up to my big city expectations. The husband and I came at 11 am and the place was already pretty packed. There was a large crowd at the bar, but they were quiet and reasonably behaved. They stuff a bunch of chairs and tables up onto the stage area in such a way that J didn't even realize where the stage should go in that place. The only downside was how cold it was in there. I had on a coat and wished I had on a wool sweater. Some heat wouldn't kill you! I started out the Coffee Chata Chill. Honestly, I wish I was still there drinking it. It's kind of like a frappaccino but with rum with maybe a hint of chai in there. All in all, one of the awesomest drinks ever. Goes down smooth. They have a lot of Bloody Mary's - normally my Sunday staple - and I will have to return to try them all . They have them in a flight, so you can try the vodka, gin and tequila Mary's. I had the shrimp and grits. J had the traditional breakfast with ham and bacon. The bacon was awesome. We like to think of ourselves as bacon aficionados and this bacon definitely was up there. My grits were creamy and lightly spiced with tumeric and goat cheese. The shrimp were spicy and fresh. J's eggs were perfectly cooked, the bread was grilled and the potatoes weren't greasy. If they figure out the heating situation (and honestly even if they don't, just be warned to bring a sweater!!!), the food is outstanding, the drinks are awesome and it's still new enough that it is not overwhelmed with people. Come for the shows, come back the next morning for the food. Outstanding! read more

Small but intimate venue with excellent sound and a much better than average selection of microbrews. The Sound was right on for the shows I've been too. One tip, double check the schedule online, they sometimes have early and later shows. Easy to mix the times up even if you're not dyslexic or scatter brained! read more

Club Cafe - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

We're really lucky to have such a cool, intimate space to experience live music here in the Burgh. I carefully picked the word "experience" because it's not just packing yourself into a concert venue and seeing a dot in front of you that's supposed to be a performer. Here, you're up close and personal, and that's what music is all about. I came to see Martha Wainwright and it was just that. I saw her as not a dot, but a person performing some great songs right in front of me. Sounded great and went with the chill environment of people sitting enjoying the tunes. Best part? Okay, well, other than the music was Atwater Vanilla Java Porter on tap! I'm so into that beer, and on tap!? Amazing! Looking at the chalkboard of drafts, their list seemed pretty solidly stacked with the goods. Plus, with a new brunch service, I'm definitely going to be visiting more often. Food AND music, I'm in! read more

Club Cafe is my favorite place to catch a show in Pittsburgh. They don't get many acts that I've heard of, but that's to be expected for a venue that's max capacity is around 80 people. However, every once and awhile they'll get somebody in that easily could sellout a concert hall 10x the size. So be sure to check their lineup periodically. Bob Schneider and Blitzen Trapper up close and personal? Amazing. I haven't eaten here before, but the food looks good. Their booze is a little expensive, but they have a very good beer menu and some nice cocktails. Anyways, If you're a fan of live music, Club Cafe is a Pittsburgh Gem. read more

Great place to watch a show. Ticket prices are reasonable. Seating is limited with approx 10 tables that may seat 30-40 people. Also approx 10 seats at the bar but standing room otherwise. Definitely get there early if you want to have a seat. Full bar. Food and drink service was quick. It was packed when we went and everyone's tabs screwed up so I would just get my own drinks from the bar next time. I was a little unsure of how the food would be since it's bar food, but it was actually pretty good. The four cheese pizza was larger than I expected and was very flavorful so I highly recommend it. The bathrooms could use a touch up. read more

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Let me start off by saying if given the choice to either have a colonoscopy or go to the South Side at night on the weekend...I would have a serious debate on my hands. Between the 21st birthdays, bachelorette parties, mascara smeared girls crying over a recent break up, and the testosterone induced, overly aggressive affliction wearing individuals, I have a hard time conjuring up much desire to make my way through the labyrinth of Pittsburgh's finest. Fortunately for us, there are some gems on this boulevard of broken dreams. Club Cafe happens to be one of those gems. It is a wonderful spot for those who enjoy entertaining their earlobes with the sound of music minus Julie Andrews. The stage is small but close. The overall atmosphere here is rather chill and great for a relaxing evening. The price is right (Bob Barker also not included) with a small menu for food but a good one. Believe it or not, despite what you may think, you actually don't even have to drink here. If you feel like hanging out with a cup o' joe here..it works..I've done it. From what I hear too they have a pretty happening breakfast but I can't speak for it myself....yet. Typically there will be a cover for any music there but assuming it's a band you want to see, it's rather reasonable. So if you find yourself in need of a place to go on the weekend and you feel like delving to the 7th circle of hell location wise...check out Club Cafe, you won't be disappointed. read more

Club cafe is essentially a large room with a bar that has a stage in it. For smaller crowds, sometimes there are cute little bistro tables out around the room, but for larger/sold out shows, they usually just keep the tables and chairs on the periphery and, of course, the dozen barstools. Even if you get there early, for a sold out show, just expect to stand. It is a great place to just show up to and watch some good tunes. For example, on Monday nights there is Open Mic. Always a good time. My only issue with Club Cafe is that it is in the South Side. And on weekend nights, (especially, if you are going to a late show) get there early, if only to find a parking spot (Street parking only). There are many restaurants surrounding it or just people watch. Or use my go to: The Uber. read more

Club cafe is a hidden gem in the Southside that caters to the true musicians in the area. I rarely have seen the maniac party sceners that are screaming and fist pumping just a few blocks away. It is dark, and intimate with a hazy blue lit aura. There are many small tables scattered closely together. You can pull them together for a larger group and drink cocktails. Not sure why but I get an image of a smokey blues club in NYC. As the performers take the stage they will be the ones to set the mood between acts, sometimes it's very chill and you will be mesmerized by a powerful sultry voice, or you will be jumping out of your seats dancing. Some seats are so close to the stage that the spotlight separates the stage and just feet away you are plunged into darkness away from the light divide. I have come to several shows featuring local bands and then saw the Avett Brothers who are incendiary and have gotten huge! Some of the bands are newbies but then others just take a second to research, you have to pay attention to who may be coming to town because you would be surprised with the high end level performers who stop at this little place. I appreciate that they have an open mic night and are supporters of the local music scene. They do serve bar type food and appetizer bites. I know they have cocktail servers but at times as people are strewn about the place when it's busy it can be hard to get to you, run to the bar during intermission or order when the crowd has settled. All in all this is a great music venue serving a certain Pittsburgh niche but all kinds of social types frequent this establishment. I need to get back soon! read more

This is as much a concert review as it is a review of the venue. Club Cafe is one of the great intimate venues in Pittsbrugh. I've seen several shows here in the past and I'm surprised I haven't written a review of it before. It's true, the sound quality can be a little bit hit or miss. And because it's small, you have to get there early if you don't want to stand for the whole show. Those slight drawbacks aside, the service here is friendly, the appetizers are good, and the drink selections are decent. My girlfriends and I were here this past weekend to see Bill Deasy. Having been thwarted in our attempt last weekend (because the tickets were sold out), we saw him here. It kind of worked out for the better because last week's show was in Washington, PA. Club Cafe is MUCH closer to my house in Squirrel Hill. I've been Bill Deasy fan for years dating back to his Bill Deasy Band days and I would get an older relative to take me to his all-ages shows. I've seen him in each format he's played in: Bill Deasy/Bill Deasy Band/Gathering Field. I can remember when in 1995 with Gathering Field, he scored a huge regional hit "Lost In America". That song is based on Jack Kerouac and 15 years later it still gets to me, especially the line "He silenced her raging seas". The song and album gathered the attention of Atlantic Records who reissued the album in 1996, but the album and subsequently the band were quickly forgotten when Atlantic went through a period of restructuring. The great thing about Deasy is he has continued writing strong material. His stuff varies including folk rock, alt country, roots rock, and rock-n-roll. One thing I like is he's still not milking it off of "Lost In America" and this past weekend's show was ample proof of that. If you like Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Son Volt, Woodie Guthrie, et. al., then you owe it to yourself to check out Bill Deasy/Bill Deasy Band/Gathering Field. The opening act was Laura Shay, an up-an-comer from Philadelphia. I didn't know too much about her (in fact I knew nothing about her), but she seemed to hold her own as the opener. She's like singer Trina Hamlin, playing introspective and passionate music. read more

Club Cafe is one of the best music venues I have been to. What I liked best was the fact that it was a sold out show, but I wasn't being smashed and pushed around by strangers. There were tables along the wall, and stools at the bar but it was mainly just standing room. It is definitely a more intimate acoustic vibe, which was something I really liked. Most of the smaller venues around Pittsburgh pack in a ton of people and you can barely see the person performing, so this was a welcomed change. The bartenders were all really nice, and they had an awesome selection of beer and mixed drinks. I saw that they served food, but I didn't order any. I heard they have brunch, so I might have to do that ASAP! read more

It's exciting that they are now doing brunch. I wish more places in south side would start seeing its a good idea. I've been there twice now, I've ordered the same thing both times "moms chicken sandwich" (I think that's the name of it) and its really good! Problem is the portions are small. It's not terribly priced for what it is, but I walked away still hungry and I am really not a big eater. They give you a small green salad (with nothing in it) and that's it. They also have brunch drinks and their mimosas are cheap and good. read more

I have seen several shows here, in particular worth bands I've seen in concert at other venues. The best thing I can say is the acoustics are very good. For a small show you can hear the music very well and the stories are crystal clear. There is no rise to the audience area so seeing is not necessarily in the cards especially for a short chap like myself. The beer selection is good and trendy though. Didn't try the did but they have some. All and all a good venue for small club shows. That said, the negative is being such a small place the nose from the bar (scooping ice, pouring ice, making ice, moving ice, sledding on ice, anything involving ice) can be very distracting. Also side conversations are not private. read more

Club Cafe is great. It's small and cozy (which works for the type of shows they do) and it's got a great vibe. The appetizers and drinks are all good and we were happy with the beer selection. I was also impressed with how friendly and helpful the door staff and waitresses were. The sound in Club Cafe really was good, especially for a small venue. read more

I have been living in Pittsburgh since Sept. One of my first outings here was to Club Cafe. I am a music junkie and I'm constantly looking for places that cater to musicians. I came to Club Cafe on a Monday for open mic night. My friend singer/songwriter Rachel Lynne (also newbie to the burgh) brought me here. Being open mic night, she was ready to let me hear that angelic voice of hers. Walking in, I was pleased with Club Cafe's intimate setting. Having lived in music friendly cities such as: LA, Miami, Houston, Dallas, I was filled with joy when I saw the stage and all the instruments waiting eager to get played. The place was pretty packed, therefore opted to sit at the bar. The friendly bartender immediately acknowledged us. Big PLUS on my book. Took our drink order and handed us menus. With a quick glance, I immediately came across to my now favorite drinking snack; a warm stuffed pepper jack cheese pretzel. IT'S DELICIOUS!!! So good, that we may have eaten four between the two of us. YUM!! The musicians performing were all very talented. I must admit, I was concerned I would be stuck hearing Karaoke like performances. To my surprise it was nothing like that, I was especially pleased with Rachel Lynne's performance. Her voice is truly angelic. Overall, for one of my first outings in Pittsburgh I had a great night. Got to hear great musicians, greeted by friendly staff and eat the most amazing pretzel with my beer. Since then, I have visited Club Cafe again and am sure it will be one of my favorite spots here in Pittsburgh. Like I said at the beginning, I am a music junkie. read more

I'll admit it. This place is pretty cool. If someone would've described Club Cafe to me ahead of time (hipster-ish?), I probably would've rolled my eyes and said "pass." Instead, the blue lights half a block away caught my attention as I was wandering down East Carson Street, so I decided to venture in and check it out. It was busy but not overly crowded for a Monday night, which I quickly found out was open-mic night. I grabbed a chair at the bar and turned it around to face the small, intimate stage up front, already showcasing some local band. For the next hour or so, various musicians with guitars in hand played individual acoustic selections to the appreciative crowd. At the end, a group somewhat reminiscent of Mumford & Sons, played a couple of tunes to close out the night. Having never really experienced a place like this before, I left in a good mood, having enjoyed some great music by talented locals. It was a refreshing change of pace from the other typical watering holes and sports bars all around the city. Tip: Try the Atwater Vanilla Java Porter. Delicious! read more

I have been to the Club Cafe for shows, but several months back, we decided to give their newer brunch a shot. I have to say, what an awesome brunch. Absolutely fabulous! Whether you are getting your basic eggs with bacon and toast to something like Mo's Benedict or a Churchville Farms Omelette, there is something here to satisfy everyone. If you are looking for an awesome brunch with some unique options. definitely give Club Cafe a shot. read more

Club Cafe is a great little venue with a wide array of entartainment. Just last night I went to a story slam, they have weekly open mic nights as well as larger performers. The staff is always very friendly and the bar tenders are quick with a drink. read more

Club Cafe is one of my very favorite venues in the 'Burgh. It is contemporary and intimate in decor and size. Drink prices are great; and, service is fast and friendly. They also have a small offering of upscale bar food that makes your night complete. We often see The Smokin' Betties burlesque troupe here - and love the vibe. If you're looking for a cozy venue with reasonably priced event tickets, then Club Cafe is the spot for you to attend your next show! read more

I dined here, but in the interest of full disclosure, I must note that this was during a Josh Krajick performance. The food I found to be fresh, and tasty, but relatively overpriced. The portion size was rather small, compared to what I expected. All in all though, I've had far worse food for far more money in other concert venues. And that is where this location shines, as a concert venue it's one of the most entertaining I've been to. Comfortable seating, full bar, and the feeling that I get to really interact with the performer? With the right kind of showman, this can't be beat, and Josh Krajick didn't disappoint. I would definitely return to this venue if they have any performers I'm interested in seeing. read more

What can I say about Club Cafe...? It's a harmonious place for hipsters and bands to come along. Their light, simple fare pairs well with what you'd expect from a little club. Their menu includes chicken wraps, hummus, and small pizzas that all go along very will with a PBR pounder, which is only $3. Their beer selections are spot on with IPA influences. Their cocktails are nothing spectacular, but they are definitely whiskey based. Honestly, I happily wouldn't expect anything other than IPA's and Whiskey at Club Cafe, and I'm perfectly fine with that. So what I'm trying to say is, if you want to go out and have a good time and see a band that'll keep your head bopping, go to Club Cafe and order a PBR. You won't regret it. read more

This is a small acoustic club that is definitely worth the visit. There is limited seating so plan to arrive early if you want a seat. The food is pretty good and the service is very good. I have seen some great shows here and plan to go back often. read more

Great small club for intimate shows. Depending on what you order, drinks can be expensive. read more

First, the music is amazing and gets 5 stars. My complaint is for the bar service, as drinks are watered down to increase sales. The shows last 4 hours and they really take advantage of eager fans looking to have a good time. It is a form of highway robbery, so do yourselves a favor and avoid the bar. read more

This is a nice little venue. I've gone here a few times once was for brunch and it was delicious . I've gone there also to see some bands play like my favorite The Semi-Supervillians since its not a big place you can get up close to the band. Another thing I love about this place is even though they have a bar and serve drinks it is a non-smoking venue read more

Club Cafe - This the bar area! - Music Venues Near Me - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

While I'm not a regular, I've been here over a dozen times in the past five or six years, so I feel like I have a good idea of what Club Cafe does right. It's a small, cozy live music venue that serves food and beverages. Depending on the show or event, there are (or aren't) a fair number of tables. No matter what, though, there's a padded bench that lines about a quarter of the space. That's a nice place to park and take in a show, provided you can get to the club early enough to get a seat. There's a fairly small menu, but since this is a concert venue first and foremost that makes sense. I've had chili and sandwiches there before, and everything was above average. People seem to really dig their pizza, too, which always looks when I see a steaming pie drift past. There are usually lots of good craft and imported beers either on tap or bottled, and they whip up some mean mixed drinks. Fair wine list too, if that's your bag. Service can get a little chaotic once music starts, but that doesn't bother me too much. Club Cafe usually attracts smaller bands, from local Pittsburgh acts to national indie artists. Some higher-profile names sell out quickly (Sufjan Stevens right around the time of his Illinoise release, for instance), other modestly popular acts still draw a large crowd (Richard Buckner, to use an example from a couple of years ago, or Wovenhand). One of my qualms with the place is that the club's in-house sound set-up always seems pushed to its limit with distorted electric guitars. The stage is also small enough that any band that has more than three people looks like they're trying not to knock their bandmates over. One problem I always have with Club Cafe--and I get that this might be a "it's me, not you" kind of thing--is that there's ALWAYS at least one incredibly loud person doing their best to ruin a show. I guess they get plastered before the show at the bar and then buy a ticket so they can keep drinking? I realize that talking to your friends is fun, but come on...other people are trying to watch the show! This has happened the last six shows I've been to. Pittsburgh people tend to be polite, so usually no one says anything...including the staff. THAT is what frustrates me. read more