Coda

Like many of New York’s most interesting spaces, Coda is housed in a former bank, its marble floors and columns a reminder of imperial pomp and a time when attractive bank tellers handled our hard-earned cash.

Outside, a bouncer and his red velvet ropes add that air of exclusivity that New Yorkers crave, but once inside, the welcoming space opens up, with a long bar to the left and a sprinkling of tables and banquettes to the right. Above, golden chandeliers cascade from the ceiling, and on the lower level the bank’s former vault creates an intimate space away from the crowd.

The music ranges from rock to funk to pop to jazz, sometimes in the course of one evening. The stage is large enough to accommodate an eight-piece band. And there is plenty of room for enthusiastic fans to bop, bump and grind to the music when it grooves. It can be very loud in here, which might explain the sign above the bar, “Coda Ear Plugs, $2”.

Snacks such as fondue are available for the after-work crowd, along with a reasonable happy hour. During peak show time bottled beer is $6 and cocktails start at $11. Keep track of your cash and bar tab, as the bartenders are slammed the entire night. Coat check available.