Comic Strip Live
Very small, popular stand-up comedy club. Jerry Seinfeld got his start there. Shows nightly, sometimes multiple sets. Show times vary, so call ahead. Cover US$10-$15 and US$10 drink minimum. 1568 2nd Ave. (between 81st and 82nd Streets), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-861-9386. http://www.comicstriplive.com.

Stand-Up New York
A comedy club with some of the best acts in New York and the occasional guest star. Produced by American Comedy Institute. Political comedy on Monday. Full bar. Two sets per night Sunday-Friday, three sets on Saturday. Cover charge US$5-$12, plus a two-drink minimum. 236 W. 78th St. (between Broadway and Amsterdam), Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-247-5555. http://www.standupny.com.

Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre
This newer addition to the comedy scene is a little different. Rather than delivering typical stand-up comedy, they specialize in Chicago-style improvisation. Show times are irregular, so call first. No cover charge. 161 W. 22nd St., Manhattan, New York City. Phone 212-366-9176. http://www.uprightcitizens.org.