Cafe Carlyle NYC
 

Has anyone seen Bobby Short perform at the Cafe Carlyle? I have never been to this type of performance and was wondering what to expect at the Cafe Carlyle. I called and they said the cover was $60 but there is no minimum drink or food order, and that tables may be reserved in advance or you may sit at the bar. If a table is reserved are you expected to order dinner? Or are drinks standard? Or does it just depend on the show time? <BR> <BR>Just looking for general advice so I don't look like too much of a bumpkin... <BR> <BR>Kim

Kim, <BR>We went several years ago, reserved a table, and had drinks only. Maybe there are other posters with more recent experience,but if not, just ask the Cafe. By the way, you're in for a real treat. <BR> <BR>Michele

Bobby Short does not appear on their web schedule between now and November (just Woody Allen). We saw Bobby Short there two years ago, and we were a bit disappointed. We were herded in like cattle. My husband and I dressed up for the occasion, but I swear the doorman looked at my husband's shoes before deciding where to seat us. No one was ordering food when we were there, and the servers were in a big hurry to just deliver drinks. The show started late, and I thought there was far too much chit-chat between numbers. So, the show seemed short, and did not include any of our favorite tunes. I thought there were too many tables stuffed into the room. And, I was truly disappointed that so many people held conversations throughout the performance, especially those sitting at the bar. There are only half a dozen or so bar stools, so I would guess it's best to reserve. They were turning people away. Actually, we had a much better time in Bemmelman's (the other bar). The lady performing there (vocals/piano) was fabulous and much warmer. She even played all our requests. There was supposed to be a cover charge (nominal - not $60), but it was never added to our tab.

Actually, Bobby Short is playing there right now, I spotted it in NY Magazine (I think) and then called Cafe Carlyle. I thought he only played in the fall-winter, so I was excited when I saw he was playing when we were going to be up there. <BR> <BR>Donna, I am bummed that you were so disappointed. I would be dragging my husband, so maybe it isn't a good idea. I have just heard so much about Bobby Short and it seems like a classic NYC experience, but maybe I should rethink it! <BR> <BR>Thanks, as always, for the input! <BR> <BR>Kim

Kim, <BR> <BR>Maybe you should repost your question and ask if anybody's been there in the last year as my experience was the exact opposite of Donna's--very soigne, no delays, quiet talk, and great music. <BR>It was , as you wrote, a "classic NY experience". <BR> <BR>Michele