Cleopatra's Needle

My friend and I decided to try a restaurant in the neighborhood. How could we have missed this place for so long? The service was outstanding. We could not have asked for a more helpful or attentive waitress. The food was delicious! Get there before 8 PM as it does get crowded for the jazz. We will definitly be back ... outstanding upper west side restaurant!

I go here all the time to listen to music, sing at the "open mic for singers", enjoy a very healthy, fresh salad or falafel sandwich, drink a nice martini and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. It's a great neighborhood hangout. At night, it is very cozy and romantic, and the late night jam sessions are really fun- sometimes, famous musicians stop by- and the jazz here is the real thing!

Nothing outstanding about the food, atmosphere, drinks, or music, the place doesn't know what it wants to be, and chaos is the order of the day here, it is pricey.

Drinks are a little pricey but there's rerelty a cover for the music and usually no minimum.No complaint there.But this is one of the best Jazz joints in the city.It's a Mecca for the new guys in town,and there's always a chance that some well known cat will jump in.I've seen a great many terrific players get their start right here.Japonese genius,Toru Dodo,is the main one who started here and has been moving up the line and yet still comes back,loyally.The food is decent as is the service.Nice people all around.You're really hip when you're here.

I went here to meet some friends. We got a place at the bar, where we had a great view of the live band playing some excellent jazz. The food was good, healthy down-to-earth fare, and there were excellent choices for vegitarians, as well. I had the vegitarian Moussaka, and my friend had some chicken wings and french fries, which came in a basket. We had Sam Adams draft beer (a bit pricey), and the friendly bartender told us stories about some of the famous jazz legends who have stopped by. A great find!

Walked into Cleopatra's Needle with no expectation – but I was instantly optimistic by the atmosphere. A very good jazz band playing – dim lighting – I felt like I was in a Woody Allen movie. WOW did it disappoint! I ordered a turkey burger which – smelled and tasted unappetizing – came with no lettuce, tomato, or dressing. I had one bite and that was it. I also subbed a cesar salad for fries – also not good – covered in dressing. My friend ordered chicken breast – it too was plain – but it was at least not as disappointing as my turkey burger. These two dishes were around $45.00 – objectionable for the value they delivered. The service was almost as poor as the food… When we complained about the food – I got a big sarcastic smile and a ‘Thank You.’ If you want a beer and to sit and listen to some jazz – fine – this place will get that done for you. If you’re hungry i suggest going elsewhere.

If you are a jazz lover this is a must do.