Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar

Introduction: A Sweet Slice of Soul on the Upper West Side

Nestled on West 72nd Street, just a stone's throw from the bustle of Broadway, lies Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar. Founded in 1996 by the legendary songwriting duo Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson (the masterminds behind "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" and "Solid"), this venue is more than a restaurant—it is a sanctuary for soul music. The moment you step through the doors, you are transported into a world of warmth, rhythm, and history. It feels less like a commercial club and more like being invited into the living room of music royalty. With its distinctive decor and palpable energy, Sugar Bar is a pilgrimage site for R&B lovers and a vibrant hub for the NYC soul community.

Philosophy and Vibe: Intimate, Tribal, and Electric

The vibe at Sugar Bar is undeniably unique. The interior is designed to resemble a tribal hut, with straw-thatched roofs over the bar, African masks, and warm, amber lighting that casts a golden glow over the room. It is cozy, intimate, and steeped in a sense of community.

The philosophy here is "Solid"—solid food, solid music, and solid vibes. The sound quality is pristine, optimized for the rich vocals that are the venue's hallmark. The staff are known for being welcoming and often part of the musical family themselves. On any given night, the boundary between the stage and the audience dissolves; it’s not uncommon for famous friends of the owners—like Stevie Wonder or Roberta Flack—to drop in and take the mic. It feels exclusive yet inclusive, a place where the love for music binds everyone together.

The Events: Thursday Night Open Mic & The Tuesday Blues

Sugar Bar is famous for its high-energy weekly events that draw talent from all over the tri-state area.

The Main Event: Thursday Night Open Mic: This is the big one. Thursdays at Sugar Bar are legendary.
Time: Sign-up typically starts around 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM (check local listings as times can shift), with music running late into the night.
The Host: The night is often steered by a charismatic MC and backed by a world-class house band that can groove on anything from gospel to neo-soul.
The Rules: It’s a popular room, so get there early to sign up. Singers are the stars here. You get one or two songs. The crowd is supportive but discerning—they know good music.
Nuttin' But The Blues (Tuesdays): For those who prefer the raw emotion of the blues, Tuesday nights are a staple. It’s a jam session vibe where local blues players and touring pros mix it up.
Note: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for the Open Mic, as tables fill up fast with regulars.

History: Built on a Foundation of Love and Hits

Opened in 1996, Sugar Bar was the brainchild of husband-and-wife team Nick Ashford and Valerie Simpson. They wanted to create a space where they could showcase new talent and enjoy food from their heritage.

The Owners: Ashford & Simpson are Songwriters Hall of Fame inductees. Though Nick Ashford passed away in 2011, his spirit looms large over the venue, and Valerie Simpson is frequently present, ensuring the standard remains high.
Famous Moments: The stage has been graced by icons like Maya Angelou, Freddie Jackson, Chaka Khan, and Prince. It was the place to be for post-concert parties and industry gatherings.
Legacy: It remains one of the few black-owned, artist-owned venues in Manhattan that has survived gentrification and industry shifts, remaining a beacon of authentic culture.

Food & Drink: Southern Comfort with a Twist

Unlike many music venues where food is an afterthought, Sugar Bar takes its kitchen seriously. The menu is a reflection of the owners' backgrounds, featuring Southern and Caribbean influences.

The Menu: Signature dishes include the Catfish Strips, Fried Chicken, and Short Ribs. The Mac & Cheese is a crowd favorite. Vegetarian options are available but limited.
Prices: Entrees range from $20 to $35. There is typically a music charge (cover) added to the bill during showtimes, or a set menu requirement.
Drinks: The bar serves a full range of cocktails. The "Solid" specialty cocktails are potent and sweet. Expect NYC prices ($14+ for cocktails).

Location and Accessibility

Address: 254 West 72nd Street, New York, NY 10023 (Between Broadway and West End Ave).
Neighborhood: The Upper West Side is a mix of residential quiet and commercial bustle. Sugar Bar sits in a sweet spot that is easy to reach but feels tucked away.
Transportation: The 1, 2, 3 trains stop at 72nd Street, just a block away. It is incredibly convenient for subway riders.
Parking: Street parking is available but competitive. There are paid garages on 72nd Street and surrounding blocks.
Accessibility: The venue is ground level, but the layout is tight. It is wheelchair accessible, but navigating a crowded open mic night might require assistance.

Why It Matters

Ashford & Simpson's Sugar Bar matters because it is a living legacy of Soul music. It is one of the few places left in New York that feels genuinely *soulful*—not as a marketing term, but as a feeling in the air. It provides a crucial platform for R&B and Gospel singers who might not fit the mold of the downtown rock clubs. To sing at Sugar Bar is to seek the approval of the ancestors of the genre. It is warm, it is black, it is beautiful, and it is absolutely essential.