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New York City, New York / Bars and nightlife

Mona's

An old-school Irish punk bar in the East Village that has become a legendary epicenter for traditional jazz jam sessions since 2007.

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What is Mona's known for?

Mona's is an old-school Irish punk bar in Manhattan's East Village that has hosted a late-night, trad-jazz jam session since June 2007.

When can I hear live jazz at Mona's?

Trad-jazz jam sessions take place every Tuesday night, starting at 9pm and continuing into the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Is there a cover charge to enter?

No, there is no cover charge, although donations are occasionally collected via a beer mug.

Where is Mona's located?

Mona's is located at 224 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Mona's is an old-school Irish punk bar located at 224 Avenue B in Manhattan's East Village. The establishment maintains a gritty, authentic atmosphere that continues to draw a diverse crowd of regulars and music lovers. Since June 2007, the bar has hosted a weekly late-night trad-jazz jam session. These sessions are led by Dennis Lichtman and his band, Mona's Hot Four, and typically run from Tuesday nights at 9pm until the wee hours of Wednesday morning. For those visiting on a Tuesday, the experience is immersive and community-driven. There is no cover charge for the music, making it accessible to any passerby. However, a regular named Bill Morse often circulates through the crowd once an hour to collect donations via a beer mug, supporting the musicians. Over the years, this venue has established itself as a primary epicenter of traditional jazz in New York City, blending the raw energy of a punk bar with the sophisticated rhythms of trad jazz.

Visitor tips

  • Visit on a Tuesday night starting at 9pm to catch the legendary trad-jazz jam session.
  • Bring some cash for the donation beer mug that circulates every hour.
  • Expect a crowded, old-school bar environment; dress casually for the 'unwashed masses' vibe.

Nearby context

Located on Avenue B, Mona's sits in the heart of the East Village, a neighborhood known for its history of counter-culture, punk rock, and artistic rebellion, which perfectly complements the bar's identity.

Sources

Evidence and links