Though comedy clubs are found all over Georgia (about 60), most specializing in "urban comedy" are found within Atlanta. However, many clubs in and around Atlanta are not designated exclusively for "urban comedy," or only African-American patrons. Instead, they host performers and audience members of all races, perhaps holding an occasional "urban night."
The Uptown Comedy Corner calls itself "the place for live urban comedy in Atlanta." Their featured comics have appeared on BET, and other black-themed shows. They have hosted Damon Wayans, Bruce Buce, Mike Epps and Chris Tucker onstage, with such celebrities as Jay-Z and Usher in the audience. Located just south of the Georgia Tech campus, the Uptown has a two-item minimum purchase and a strict 21-or-over policy.
Uptown Comedy Corner
800 Marietta St. SW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(404) 881-0200
http://www.uptowncomedy.net/
The Punchline Comedy Club has had Dave Chappelle and Eddie Murphy tread its boards, as well as Jerry Seinfeld and Jeff Foxworthy. They also hold Open Mic nights. Prices are a bit steep for the higher-profile comics (around $30), but you can see lesser-known comics for $10. The Punchline claims to be the oldest and largest comedy club in Atlanta and offers free tickets for first-time visitors and one guest.
The Punchline Comedy Club
280 Hilderbrand Drive
Atlanta
(404) 252-LAFF
http://www.punchline.com/
The Atlanta House of Comedy boasts a fine roster of mainly African-American comics and will sponsor the First Annual Comedy Festival in April, 2010.
Atlanta House of Comedy
The Apache Cafe
64 3rd St. NW
Atlanta, GA 30308
(404) 876-5436 or 678-458-6765
http://www.atlhouseofcomedy.com/
http://www.myspace.com/27wayzent
$10 admission
The BackStage Restaurant & Lounge really packs 'em in with nightly live entertainment, including singers, talent shows, karaoke and comics. Bruce Bruce performs regularly.
BackStage Restaurant & Lounge
2505 Godby Road
College Park, GA 30349
(404) 763-1100
http://www.backstageatlanta.com/
Funny Farm Comedy Club hosts a mix of comedians and comedy festivals, as well as comedy classes for beginners. Their Open Mic night is Thursday for $10, while their weekend shows range from $12 to $25.
Funny Farm Comedy Club
608 Holcomb Bridge Road Roswell, GA 30075
(404) 467-4242
http://www.funnyfarmcomedyclub.com/
Dabomb Sports Grill is located in Lithonia, Ga., and is the "only black-owned club in the city." Though they're mainly a sports bar, they have Open Mic nights on Tuesdays for comics.
Dabomb Sports Grill
www.dabombplatinum.com
2912 Evans Mill Road
Lithonia, GA 30038
(770) 484-8883
The Gate in Jonesboro, Ga., is mainly a hip-hop dance club, but does occasionally sponsor African-American comics. They serve all-you-can-eat crab legs on Wednesdays.
The Gate
6510 Tara Blvd.
Jonesboro, GA 30236
(678) 851-0565
