Don't Tell Mama

This is the go-to place when you want to sing or when you want to support others singing. Sidney Meyer runs the place and is a total gem and a great performer himself. No matter how nervous you are, he will always say the right thing. They give everyone a shot and the food is very good, too, reasonably priced, fresh and fulfilling.

Where else will you get served a drink and sung to by the same person?

If Hell’s Kitchen is the heartbeat of NYC then Don’t Tell Mama is the heartbeat of NYC Cabaret. The legendary piano bar and cabaret rooms has been making Hell’s Kitchen sing for over 40 years…and when the pandemic closed down the venue, the venue came to the streets and the staff sang from the stoop. Even though it does tend to attract a lot of tourist and B & T folk in the front room, the drinks are amazing. I recommend going to happy hour there if you want a great drink and avoid the late night crowd. If you have people coming in from out of town, TAKE THEM TO MAMA’S! They will love it and the staff sings their faces off. This place will always have a special place in my heart because I have seen so many of my friends shine bright on stage in those back cabaret rooms and have even workshopped many of my shows there. It’s every cabaret singers’ home-base and where a lot of people have gotten back into performing. If you have not seen a cabaret show and you live in the neighborhood, check it out! You never know what amazing talent you may discover.

I have been doing shows at Don’t Tell Mama for over a decade, and I just love the atmosphere there and all the people who work there. It brings me such joy to give people of all ages their NYC cabaret debut.

Whenever I have guests in town, this piano bar is one of the places I take them to, and it never disappoints. In fact, friends that I’ve introduced it to, make it a point to include DTM on their agenda when they’re back in the city. The staff not only serves food and drinks, but they also serve the best entertainment. You will find the bartender making your drink, while singing Popular (from Wicked) on the microphone at the same time. They are all talented singers and actors, who make this piano bar one of the best in Manhattan… and they take requests!! Be prepared though because sometimes you will find a wait outside the venue, especially around the time shows let out on Broadway. If you can, plan accordingly so you can secure your seat at the table.

I've had so many great times there. Seen/done so many shows. Always a blast.