Introduction: The Roar of Bleecker Street
If The Bitter End is the historic soul of Greenwich Village, The Red Lion is its beating, partying heart. Located at the corner of Bleecker and Thompson, this venue is impossible to miss. With its English pub aesthetic and the sound of rock anthems spilling out onto the street 365 days a year, it is a magnet for tourists, locals, and music lovers looking for a guaranteed good time. The Red Lion is a high-volume, high-energy rock club that keeps the flame of the classic Village nightlife alive.
Philosophy and Vibe: The Party That Never Ends
The Red Lion is not a place for quiet contemplation. It is a place to sing along.
The Vibe: Pub-rock chaos in the best possible way. The decor is classic tavern—dark wood, red upholstery, and walls covered in memorabilia.
The Music: The focus is on Classic Rock, Soul, R&B, and Pop. The bands here are working professionals who know thousands of songs. The energy is relentless.
The Events: Live Music Marathon
While The Red Lion is less known for a traditional "sign-up sheet" open mic than its neighbors, it is famous for its Non-Stop Live Music policy.
- Schedule: Music starts in the afternoon (often 4 PM or earlier) and goes until 4 AM. Every single day.
- The "Jam" Aspect: While primarily booked bands, the late-night sets often loosen up into informal jam sessions where visiting musicians or friends of the band sit in. It is a hub for the NYC working musician community to hang out after their own gigs.
- Note to Players: This is a venue where you get booked by being good and knowing people. It’s not a "walk in and play" room for beginners.
History: A Village Staple
- Origins: The Red Lion has been a fixture of the Village for decades, serving as a reliable home for cover bands and tribute acts.
- Significance: In a neighborhood where venues come and go, The Red Lion’s survival is a testament to the enduring appeal of live rock and roll and cold beer.
Food & Drink: Pub Grub Classics
The Red Lion is a full-service restaurant and bar.
- Food: The menu is extensive pub fare. Fish and Chips, Burgers, Buffalo Wings, and Shepherd's Pie. It’s greasy, satisfying, and designed to soak up alcohol.
- Drink: A wide selection of drafts, imports, and domestics. Prices are on the higher side (Tourist/Village prices), with beers often $9-$12.
Location and Accessibility
- Address: 151 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012.
- Neighborhood: Greenwich Village. Right in the thick of the action.
- Transit: Near West 4th St (A/B/C/D/E/F/M) and Houston St (1).
- Accessibility: Street level entrance. Crowded inside, so navigation can be tough.
Why It Matters
The Red Lion matters because it is the accessible face of the NYC music scene. It’s where you take your out-of-town friends to show them that "The Village still rocks." It provides steady work for hundreds of musicians and steady entertainment for thousands of fans. It is unpretentious, loud, and undeniably fun.