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?

Just looking for general advice so I don't look like too much of a bumpkin...

Kim

Kim,
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.

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.

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!

Thanks, as always, for the input!

Kim

Kim,

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.
It was , as you wrote, a "classic NY experience".

Michele