Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar occupies a subterranean space beneath the Olive Tree Cafe on MacDougal Street. It was founded in 1982 by Bill Grundfest and cafe owner Manny Dworman. In the early days, the club struggled to attract audiences, and the owner famously insisted that comedians perform for empty chairs to create the illusion of a busy venue for anyone passing by on the sidewalk. This commitment to the craft helped the club survive its difficult first years. Over time, it became a legendary proving ground where top-tier stand-up comedians continue to hone their sets in an intimate, brick-walled basement.