Patch Picks: Five Local Live Music Bars

If you want to see a rockin’ band, you could train it to Manhattan or trek to New Haven. Or wait till summer to catch a Thursday night show at Alive at Five. But if you don’t want to travel far this fall to catch some guitar riffs, here are a few great bars to catch the best local original and cover bands:

Thataway Café (409 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich; 203-622-0947): Whether you’re in the mood to hear your favorite hit covers or experience an up-and-coming, original act, Thataway delivers several nights of rock 'n roll acts every month. On Thursdays, patrons can enjoy acoustic guitar acts, and on Sundays, karaoke lovers can perform, too.  

The Gingerman (64 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich; 203-861-6400): This cozy gastropub is best known for its beer, brunch, and hearty fare, but on occasion it becomes the spot to see blues and rock acts (The Mars Project is playing Oct. 8). Keep checking the website for music updates.

Beach House Café (220 Sound Beach Ave., Old Greenwich; 203-637-0367): From roots-rock acts to Grateful Dead cover bands, this bar is a casual, laid-back spot for classic rock lovers. The food also rocks with a menu that includes several American-meets-nautical creations, like spicy BBQ grilled shrimp and a seafood Cobb salad.

Sundown Saloon (403 Greenwich Ave., Greenwich; 203-629-8212): This family bar on The Avenue serves up rock, blues, or alt-country music about once a month, in addition to fresh-squeezed Margaritas, burgers and lots of sports (via several LCD hi-def TVs). Check the website for upcoming events.

Tiernan’s Bar & Restaurant (187 Main St., Stamford; 203-353-8566): At least twice a week, some of the hardest-rocking bands frequent this popular Stamford hotspot. But while there’s always room to dance in front of the stage, getting a drink at this super-busy nightclub pub usually requires a bit of shoving.