Bartini Bar: Babylon's Premier Open Mic Destination
Nestled in the heart of Babylon Village on the west side of the Babylon train station, Bartini Bar has established itself as a cornerstone of Long Island's live music scene. This intimate dive bar combines a welcoming atmosphere with a genuine passion for supporting local musicians, making it a beloved gathering spot for both performers and music enthusiasts.
Monday Night Open Mic
Every Monday night, Bartini transforms into a showcase for local talent, offering musicians of all levels a platform to share their craft. The open mic has become a Long Island institution, providing a creative and friendly atmosphere where performers can hone their skills, test new material, and connect with fellow artists and appreciative audiences.
What Musicians Get
Full Professional Backline:
- Complete PA system with microphones
- Guitar and bass amplifiers
- Full drum kit
- Keyboard
- Professional sound support
This comprehensive equipment setup means musicians can simply show up with their instrument and be ready to perform—no need to haul heavy gear through Babylon Village. The full backline makes Bartini accessible to everyone from solo acoustic acts to full bands wanting to try out new arrangements.
A Supportive Community: The open mic attracts a diverse mix of performers, from first-timers working up the courage to take the stage to seasoned musicians using the night to try new material. The atmosphere is encouraging rather than competitive, with fellow performers and regulars offering genuine support and appreciation for everyone who steps up to the mic.
Performance Experience: For emerging artists, Monday nights at Bartini offer invaluable stage time in front of a live audience. It's an opportunity to build confidence, work on stage presence, and get immediate feedback in a low-pressure environment. Many Long Island musicians have cut their teeth at Bartini's open mic before going on to bigger stages.
What Patrons Can Expect
Live Music Six Nights a Week: While Monday is dedicated to open mic, Bartini's commitment to live music extends throughout the week. The venue features live bands every Friday and Saturday, karaoke on Thursday nights, and various performances on other evenings, making it a consistent destination for music lovers.
Intimate Atmosphere: With a capacity of around 104, Bartini offers an up-close-and-personal concert experience. There's no bad seat in the house, and the cozy layout creates an immediate connection between performers and audience that's hard to find in larger venues.
Quality Drinks at Fair Prices: The bar features an impressive selection of specialty cocktails, including their notable pistachio martinis, along with a rotating selection of tap beers. The bartenders are known for being friendly and accommodating, creating a relaxed environment where you can settle in for an evening of entertainment.
Hot Snacks Available: Complementing the drink menu, Bartini offers hot snacks including pizza, beef patties, and pretzels—perfect for keeping your energy up during a night of musical performances.
Happy Hour Specials: Take advantage of happy hour on Fridays from 4-7 PM before the weekend bands kick off.
A Community Hub
What sets Bartini apart is the genuine music-loving spirit that permeates the venue. The owners themselves are musicians and live music fans, and their passion shows in how they've cultivated the space. The staff is consistently praised for their friendliness and the welcoming environment they create.
Beyond regular performances, Bartini has hosted numerous benefit concerts supporting causes including cancer research, Haiti relief efforts, and local food drives, demonstrating their commitment to the wider Babylon community.
Practical Information
Hours:
- Monday - Saturday: 12:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Age: 21+
Getting There: Conveniently located on North Carll Avenue in Babylon Village, just west of the Babylon train station, making it easily accessible by both car and LIRR.
What to Know:
- Cash ONLY
- Outdoor seating available
- Casual dress code
- Loud, energetic atmosphere
Why Bartini Matters
In an era where live music venues are increasingly rare, Bartini Bar stands as a testament to the enduring power of live performance and community gathering. The Monday open mic isn't just an event—it's a weekly celebration of local talent and the courage it takes to step into the spotlight.
Whether you're a musician looking for a supportive stage to share your music, or a music lover searching for an authentic live music experience, Bartini Bar offers something increasingly precious: a place where artists and audiences come together to celebrate the transformative power of live performance.
For musicians ready to take the stage or music fans looking for their next favorite local act, Monday nights at Bartini Bar are where it happens.