Knitting Factory

Following in the footsteps of so many of the borough's recent transplants, this erstwhile TriBeCa music hall recently decamped to Brooklyn. Once an integral part of the downtown scene—acts ranged from seminal rockers Sonic Youth to acclaimed rap duo Clipse—the Knit is looking to start a new legacy in Williamsburg’s emerging Metropolitan Avenue/Grand Street corridor. "There is definitely something for everyone who likes live music and likes to socialize," says Bruce Duff, Knitting Factory's director of marketing and publicity. "The showroom is intimate enough to get nice and close—yet big enough to be equipped with an impressive light show and sound rig." Shows are open to those 18 and over, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Previous incarnations of this iconic music venue existed on East Houston Street at the edge of NoLIta and on Leonard Street in TriBeCa. This locale, in the heart of a thriving nightlife scene, started a new chapter in the venue's rock 'n' roll history back in 2009. Capacity is approximately 300 in the intimate main room; the front bar is not just a place to sit for a drink before the show—it sometimes hosts events, like Sunday night comedy.