About Evol NewYork
Evol NewYork is a modern nightclub and karaoke lounge located in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood. This recently launched venue occupies the second floor of a historic SoHo building (formerly home to Biny Karaoke Bar) (whatnow.com ). It features about 5,000 square feet of custom-designed space, including an industrial-chic interior with brick and metal accents, a massive 1000-square-foot LED video wall, and a dedicated private karaoke lounge (evolnyc.us ) (www.tagvenue.com ). With a stage, several dance floors, and VIP areas, Evol combines high-tech visuals and loud music to create an immersive club atmosphere. Its polished sound system, premium lighting, and cutting-edge audio/visual setup set it apart from typical karaoke spots. Evol can host around 350 people (180 seated) (www.tagvenue.com ) and is known for top-tier hospitality like bottle service and custom cocktails. The venue’s design and multimedia features make it notable in the local nightlife scene, offering a new fusion of nightlife and entertainment in SoHo that reflects the neighborhood’s creative vibe.
Events and Programming
Evol hosts a mix of nightlife events, typically with DJs, live music, and karaoke. Regular weekly programming often includes “Evol Saturdays” dance parties with guest DJs and themed nights (pop, Latin, EDM, etc.) (www.mapquest.com ). Themed events and special celebrations are common – for example, an upcoming Halloween party is planned with Latin Bass and Reggaeton performances (shotgun.live ). Some promoters or creative collectives also hold one-off immersive events; one local review praised a recent “Black Box” art/dance night, noting how digital visuals on the wall enhanced the experience (m.smore.city ). Karaoke remains a big feature: Evol’s private karaoke room is available for singing fun and private celebrations, continuing the space’s karaoke tradition. In addition, Evol is frequently booked for private parties and corporate events. Shows vary week to week, but on club nights you’ll see young crowds dancing to club beats late into the night. Ticket prices vary by event size – smaller club nights often open free or with a modest cover (around $10–$20), while special headliner or holiday events may carry higher cover or ticket costs. (Be aware that drinks are pricey; visitors report cocktails around $15–$25 each (m.smore.city ).) To catch events, check local listings or Evol’s announcements for schedules and headliners. Overall, the venue emphasizes high-energy dance events, DJ showcases, and late-night karaoke-themed entertainment on a regular basis.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets and cover charges at Evol depend on the event. For many nights, especially on weekends, there is a cover fee – generally on the order of $10–$20 per person. Major special events or holidays might have higher pricing or advance ticket sales. Smaller parties and karaoke nights may be free or just a cover at the door. There is no single “box office” building; instead, tickets are usually sold through event promoters or at the door. Many nights operate on a general admission basis with wristbands or stamps. The venue’s official site and social media often announce details. For private bookings (birthdays, teams, etc.), Evol offers reservations through its event management channels. VIP tables and bottle service can be arranged ahead of time for an extra cost. As noted by a recent attendee, cocktails alone run about $15–$25 each here (m.smore.city ), so plan your budget accordingly. For popular shows expect lines at opening – arriving early or purchasing an online RSVP can ensure entry. Box office staff will check IDs at the door since Evol is strictly 21+ (no minors allowed) (www.mapquest.com ).
Seating and Layout
Evol’s layout is largely open-plan. The main (second) floor is dominated by a large dance floor and bar areas, with high ceilings and exposed structural elements. Seating is mostly lounge and bar-height tables around the perimeter; there are no assigned seats for general events. According to venue info, the full capacity is about 350 people (with up to 180 seated) (www.tagvenue.com ). The space includes multiple distinct zones: a primary dance floor/club area under the big LED screens, a VIP lounge section off to the side, and a separate private karaoke lounge. The karaoke lounge is somewhat walled off and can accommodate smaller groups for sing-alongs, with its own seating and equipment. For general shows and dancing, the best viewpoint is near the front of the dance floor or alongside the bar areas, where you get the full surround sound and can see the visuals. One reviewer observed that some guests sat along the back wall while others danced on the floor, enjoying the immersive light display (m.smore.city ). In summary, Evol is mostly general admission standing, with casual lounge seating available; reserve tables in VIP areas if you want a dedicated spot, or stake out a standing spot near the center for the full club experience.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Evol NewYork is at 2 Thompson Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10013 (evolnyc.us ). This corner location is in SoHo at Canal Street near the Lafayette and Thompson Streets intersection. Subway: Multiple subway lines are within easy walking distance. The A/C/E trains stop one block north at Canal Street & Varick; the 6 and J/Z stop a few blocks east at Canal & Bowery; the R/W stop at Prince & Varick. All of these stations are generally a 5- to 10-minute walk from the club. Due to New York’s 24/7 service, late-night returns are easy via subway. Several bus routes also run along Canal and Varick. Taxi/Rideshare: Rideshare drop-off is best on Thompson or nearby Grand Street; a yellow cab ride can stop on Varick or Lafayette close by. Parking: Street parking in SoHo is very limited. Evol’s venue listing notes “free on-street parking,” but in reality you’ll likely end up at a metered spot (www.tagvenue.com ). Manhattan meters in this area run about $2–$6 per hour (en.parkopedia.com ). For longer stays, a parking garage is advised: expect garage rates around $35–$38 for 2 hours in this neighborhood (en.parkopedia.com ). In short, public transit is usually easiest. If you do drive, allow extra time to find a spot and consider pre-booking a nearby garage via parking apps.
Inside the Venue
When entering Evol, you’ll go through a host stand or security check at the main entrance on Thompson Street. The atmosphere is stylish and high-energy: colored club lights, thumping music, and projections on the LED wall create a futuristic party vibe. Security will check IDs (21+ only) and may inspect bags. The floor is split into the main club space and the private karaoke lounge that requires a separate reservation or rental. You’ll find coat-check available (common NYC club courtesy) to store jackets. Bar and Drinks: Evol has a full bar running along one side of the club. They offer a variety of cocktails – for example, specialty drinks like a Watermelon Basil Smash or a bourbon cocktail named “Nutty Professor” (as mentioned in their menu preview) (whatnow.com ). Save room for drinks, as a recent patron noted cocktails are $15–$25 apiece (m.smore.city ), and even bottled water runs about $6. Food: Unlike many nightclubs, Evol does serve curated bar snacks. Expect shareable plates such as shrimp cocktail, buffalo chicken dip, chicken salad wraps, and Caprese paninis (whatnow.com ). These can be ordered during your visit to tide you over, but it’s not a full restaurant – the menu is limited to appetizers and small bites. Music and Sound: The audio system is powerful and bass-heavy, designed for dancing. There’s also a PA/mic setup for announcements or karaoke. Phones and cameras are typically allowed (no strict photo ban), but avoid flash photography during live acts. The staff often live-mixes the music or provides tracks for karaoke. Restrooms and Notices: Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are at the rear of the venue. As usual, smoking indoors is prohibited, so outdoor areas near the entrance are used for smoking breaks. Evol does not provide free Wi-Fi for guests. Remember to keep hydration in mind – bottles of water or soft drinks at the bar are surprisingly pricey. Overall, Evol has all the trappings of a premium late-night club with techno visuals, plus its own karaoke lounge twist.
Nearby Amenities
Evol’s SoHo location means plenty of options before or after your visit. Restaurants: The area around Thompson and Canal is rich with eateries. For pre-show dining, you can find anything from quick slices to upscale cuisine. Classic New York spots include local pizza joints and delis on Canal Street, hip cafés on nearby Lafayette, and chic bistros. (For example, the Metropolitan area is known for crowd-pleasers like Balthazar or Otto Pizza, or you can grab sushi or burgers a few blocks away.) If you want something fast, a short walk will also yield Chinatown and Little Italy options just south of Canal. Bars and Lounges: SoHo has numerous bars a few blocks away. Within two or three streets, you’ll encounter sleek cocktail lounges (little speakeasy bars or rooftop bars on nearby rooftops like Public Industrial or Mr. Purple), as well as well-known pubs. If you want craft cocktails before heading into Evol, places like Attaboy (on Eldridge) or the Mercer Bar (inside The Mercer Hotel) are in the neighborhood. For a celebratory drink after the show, bars along Broadway or Spring Street are open late. Hotels: For out-of-town guests, there are hotels in twin-digit blocks. The prestigious Mercer Hotel (13 Prince Street at Mercer) is a high-end option just a few blocks northwest (en.wikipedia.org ). The Crosby Street Hotel sits west on Crosby Street. Other nearby lodgings include boutique and chain hotels in SoHo and the nearby Lower East Side. The Greenwich Hotel/Madison Square Park area is a short taxi ride south if needed. Other Services: There are convenience stores, bodegas, and coffee shops (like Starbucks or local cafés) within a 5-10 minute walk, useful for snacks or last-minute supplies. ATMs are available on adjacent streets. When to Arrive: Plan to get there about 30-60 minutes before your event. If you dine out first, many restaurants in SoHo have late dining hours or early evening menus. After the show, subway service and City buses operate throughout the night, as do ride-share cars; taxis are readily available on Canal Street late into the early hours. Taxis and Ubers can pick up right outside on Thompson or Grand street for a safe trip home after the club closes.
What Makes This Venue Special
Evol NewYork stands out for its blend of karaoke fun and nightclub energy under one roof. Unlike a typical karaoke bar, its high-tech setup (especially the enormous LED wall and top-notch sound system) gives each night a memorable, immersive feel. Guests have remarked that dancing there feels almost like “being in a digital space” due to the dynamic visuals (m.smore.city ). The private karaoke lounge is another signature feature — it lets friends grab their own mic and perform in style, which you don’t get at most dance clubs. Because of its cutting-edge gear and flexible use of space, Evol has quickly become a hotspot for creative events. For example, its founders envisioned blending a restaurant, bar, karaoke, and live music venue (whatnow.com ), and that multidisciplinary concept is unique in NYC. Local DJs and performers love the customizable staging areas and sound quality, so live acts and themed nights often test new setups here. History-wise, this spot continues a Soho nightlife legacy: it took over from Biny Karaoke in 2022, carrying on SoHo’s tradition of late-night entertainment (whatnow.com ). In essence, the combination of a private sing-along room, premium cocktails, and a futuristic dance floor culture gives Evol its special charm. It’s as much a multimedia showroom and event space as a party club, which keeps both performers and audiences excited to return.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: Evol is a 21-and-over venue (www.mapquest.com ). Always bring a valid photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to get in. Dress Code: There’s no strict dress code, but smart casual is recommended. Leave athletic gear and big hats at home; most patrons wear trendy downtown outfits. Bags and Security: Standard NYC club practice applies – expect a quick security check on your bag or coat at the entrance. For winter visits, leverage the coat-check. What to Bring: Keep in mind drinks are expensive, so bring enough cash/card for a few cocktails (they run ~$15–25 each (m.smore.city )). You might also want earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud bass. Phones are allowed, but consider one in your pocket during dance parts. Accessibility: Because Evol sits on the 2nd floor, accessibility is limited by the building’s elevator. If you need wheelchair access or an elevator, call ahead to verify. Arrival Time: Door is usually around 10pm on party nights. For smaller events, coming early helps avoid cover or lines. On busy nights, people often gather well after midnight, so arriving by 11pm is wise to secure entry and good spots. Seating and View: There’s no assigned seating, so if you want to sit, head toward the back or lounge areas once inside. The prime spot for dancing is up front. If you’re in the karaoke lounge, note it’s a separate area – make a reservation in advance if you want a guaranteed private room. Etiquette: Be respectful of performers if it’s a live show. For karaoke, there may be list sign-ups for songs. Tips for singers: enjoy the high-end microphones and backing tracks provided. For dancers, enjoy the light shows! Not Allowed: Evol typically does not allow bringing outside food or large cameras. Smoking is illegal inside. Follow the staff’s guidance. After-Dark Travel: After closing (3–4am), subways (especially A/C/E) run all night, and rideshares abound. Use your phone or a taxi stand – Canal and Varick is a major intersection with cabs. COVID/Health: (If relevant for time) They may not be enforcing mask mandates indoors, but bring one if required by local law or if you prefer. Check if any special entry rules on Evol’s site before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get tickets for events at Evol NewYork?
Evol NewYork doesn’t have a traditional box office. For public events, tickets or cover charges are usually arranged through promoters or sold at the door. Check local event listings or Evol’s announcements for ticket info. For private parties or corporate events, you would contact the venue directly to inquire about booking and pricing.
What does it cost to go to Evol? Are there cover charges?
Cover charges vary by event. Many weekend DJ or dance nights have covers around $10–$20. Special events or holidays might be higher. Keep in mind Evol’s drink prices are on the high side (cocktails are about $15–$25 (m.smore.city )), so budget for that too. Some early-week events may even be free or lightly ticketed.
Where exactly is Evol NewYork located?
Evol NewYork is located at 2 Thompson Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10013 (evolnyc.us ). It’s at the corner of Canal Street and Thompson Street in SoHo, Manhattan. The entrance is on Thompson Street.
What public transit options are near Evol?
Several subway lines serve the area. The A, C, E trains stop at Canal Street & Varick (one block north), the 6 or J/Z trains stop at Canal & Bowery to the east, and the R/W stop at Prince & Varick. All these stations are a short walk (roughly 5–10 minutes). There are also many bus routes on Canal and nearby crosstown streets. Rideshares and taxis can drop you off on Thompson or Canal Street.
Is there parking available near Evol?
Officially, Evol notes “free on-street parking” (www.tagvenue.com ), but in practice SoHo parking is very limited. Metered street parking runs about $1.50–$6 per hour (en.parkopedia.com ). If you drive, your best bet is a nearby parking garage – expect to pay roughly $35–$38 for just a couple hours (en.parkopedia.com ). For most visitors, public transit or ride-sharing is easier.
Do you have to sit or is it general admission?
Evol is primarily a standing-room club environment. The main club floor is open general admission for dancing, with some lounge seating along the sides and at the bar. In total it fits about 350 standing or up to 180 seated (www.tagvenue.com ). The karaoke lounge inside is a separate, smaller seating area. If you want a guaranteed spot, consider reserving a VIP table or arrive early to snag seats near the perimeter.
Where are the best places to stand or sit for a good view?
For dancing and music, the center of the main floor is ideal – you’ll be close to the DJ and the LED video wall. Those who prefer to sit often go to the back lounge or edges of the club. One visitor noted that people were able to “sit down in the back of the room” or dance up front (m.smore.city ), so either works. VIP tables or the raised karaoke lounge (if booked) also offer good vantage points. Basically, standing in the crowd gives the full concert feel, while sitting is better for watching comfortably.
Is Evol NewYork 21 and over?
Yes. Evol strictly enforces a 21+ age policy (www.mapquest.com ). You must be at least 21 to enter, and a valid ID will be checked at the door. There are no exceptions for younger guests during normal events.
What is the dress code at Evol?
There’s no strict formal dress code, but patrons generally wear upscale casual nightlife attire. That means nice shirts, dresses, button-downs, or street-chic outfits. Avoid athletic wear, tank tops, or overly casual gear. Essentially, dress as you would for a trendy Manhattan club – stylish but comfortable.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into Evol?
No. Outside food and beverages are not allowed. Evol provides its own food menu and full bar inside. If you arrive hungry or thirsty, you can order shareable appetizers or alcohol at the venue – but you can’t bring in your own snacks or drinks.
Is there a coat check?
Yes, Evol provides a coat check area at the entrance. This is common in NYC nightclubs. During the winter or colder months, you can check your jacket or larger bags for a small fee or sometimes for free. This keeps your belongings safe while you enjoy the event.
What food and drink options does Evol serve?
Evol has a full bar and a selection of shared plates. The menu includes appetizer-style dishes like shrimp cocktail, buffalo chicken dip, chicken salad wraps, and a Caprese panini (whatnow.com ). For drinks, there are cocktails, wine, and beer. The cocktails are signature-style (e.g. a watermelon-basil smash or the “Nutty Professor” bourbon drink, as advertised on their menu) (whatnow.com ). Do keep in mind that drinks are on the expensive side ($15–$25 each (m.smore.city )), so budget accordingly.
Are there vegetarian options at Evol?
Yes. While Evol’s menu has some meat-based dishes, there are vegetarian-friendly items. For example, the Caprese panini (mozzarella, tomato, basil) and salads make good vegetarian choices (whatnow.com ). Many cocktails and plant-heavy appetizers can also suit vegan or vegetarian guests. It’s not a full-restaurant menu, but you can find a few light meat-free options on their shareable plate menu.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Evol is located on the second floor of its building. It may have an elevator, but this isn’t guaranteed. Accessibility details are not explicitly provided on their website. If you or someone in your party needs elevator access or special accommodations, it’s best to call Evol in advance to confirm what is available. Generally, older SoHo buildings can be hit-or-miss on ADA features.
What is the capacity of Evol NewYork?
The maximum capacity is roughly 350 standing (with seating for about 180) (www.tagvenue.com ). This makes Evol a medium-sized nightclub – big enough for lively crowds, but still intimate compared to large arenas. This size allows for energetic dance events while keeping things relatively personal.
Does Evol have indoor or outdoor spaces?
Evol is entirely an indoor venue. All dancing, karaoke, and performances take place inside the building on the 2nd floor. There are no outdoor patios or rooftop areas for patrons. (Only outdoor areas are on the street by the entrance, e.g. for smoking.)
What time do shows usually start?
Evol is a late-night venue. Thursdays open at 10:00 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 10:00 PM (evolnyc.us ). Shows or DJ sets usually begin around those opening times, but often crowds grow later (11–12am). If you have a specific event, check its start time – some events might begin an hour or so after opening. Generally, plan to arrive between 10–11pm for evening events.
Does Evol host private parties or corporate events?
Yes. In fact, Evol is often rented for private gatherings, birthdays, or corporate parties. It offers turnkey event packages with its flexible space, catering options, and the private karaoke room. The official Evol site advertises private events bookings, letting groups reserve the whole venue or specific areas. For pricing and availability, you would contact the Evol event team directly.
Who owns or founded Evol NewYork?
Evol NewYork was developed by restaurateur Andy Zheng. Zheng is the owner behind this new lounge concept (whatnow.com ). He envisioned Evol as a fusion of a bar, restaurant, karaoke lounge, and live music venue. The “Evol” concept was formally announced in 2022 to take over the former Biny Karaoke space (whatnow.com ).
What was at this location before Evol?
Before Evol, the address was occupied by Biny Karaoke Bar & Lounge. Biny was a popular karaoke spot with private rooms, cocktails, and sushi. It closed in mid-2022, after which the Evol concept replaced it. The building’s second floor retains some of that karaoke legacy, but Evol has since modernized the space with its new design.
