Pete's Candy Store
Tucked into a narrow storefront on Lorimer Street, Pete's Candy Store is one of Williamsburg's oldest and most beloved live-music bars. A long hallway bar opens onto a tiny back room with a low stage, string lights and a handful of pews — an intimate setting that has hosted touring and local acts alike for well over a decade.
The Open Mic
Every Sunday evening the back room turns over to Pete's long-running open mic, hosted by Bruce Martin. Sign-up starts at 4:00 PM and the music runs from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The night is built around original songs rather than cover tunes — performers bring their own instrument, and a keyboard stand and aux cable for backing tracks are available on stage. It has become a springboard for a number of now-touring New York City acts, and the room's close quarters make for an attentive, encouraging audience.
Other Programming
Beyond the Sunday open mic, Pete's back room hosts a regular calendar of local indie, folk and singer-songwriter shows throughout the week, along with occasional spoken-word and comedy bookings.
Good to Know
Pete's Candy Store is 21+ and located at 709 Lorimer Street in Williamsburg, a short walk from the Lorimer St and Metropolitan Ave subway stations.