New York Cue Club

Frequently Asked Questions

1. About the Club

Where is the club located?

NYCC occupies the entire floor of a building on West 37th Street between 5th and 6th Avenues, in Manhattan, NY 10018.

What are the club's hours?

There are no Club hours. Members have access 24/7 all year round.

How will the club change with time?

Whatever changes the future brings, NYCC will operate for the benefit of its members. We'll seek feedback from members and introduce changes and improvements as finances permit.

What type of organization is New York Cue Club?

NYCC is a corporation aspiring to not-for-profit ideals. We operate as a sporting/social/community club solely for the benefit of our members.

Who are the investors?

The investors are passionate pool players of varying skills and experience. All have contributed time, expertise and funds to create the ideal playing experience for dedicated players in NYC.

Can I become an investor?

No additional investors are needed for the foreseeable future.

2. About the club's playing experience

What's different about New York Cue Club?

The list is long. Here goes...

  • The best tournament grade tables, lights and balls anywhere - always clean, always maintained.
  • Quiet, highly secure, private space dedicated to playing pool.
  • Low monthly fee covers unlimited access to everything 24/7.
  • Fees deliberately kept as low as possible.
  • Plenty of space between the tables.
  • Online table reservations.
  • Digital scoring systems at every table.
  • Cue lockers that will fit even your oversized cue case.
  • Newly installed AC and heating system keep humidity constant to create perfect playing conditions year-round.
  • Free use of projector and software for guided training drills at every level
  • A kitchen and lounge area with comfortable couches and chairs
  • BYOB with storage space for members' personal beverages at no cost.
  • Snacks and beverages for sale at low cost.
  • Free WiFi.

What equipment does the club offer?

NYCC features 11 new, custom-made Gabriels Gryffon 9-foot tables, with Simonis 860 cloth and Predator Arena Lights. All equipment is of the highest quality available.

I have never heard of Gabriels tables, can you tell me more?

Gabriels is a Belgian manufacturer of high end billiards equipment. The company used to make pool tables but for many years limited its focus to carom billiards, widely played across Europe and Asia. In carom, Gabriels tables are used in almost all international tournaments. Its older model pool tables are gorgeous but very few exist in the United States.

Recently, Gabriels introduced their newly designed top-of-the-line 9ft Gryffon pool tables. See it here: The New Gabriels Gryffon.

Already used at a number of private pool clubs in Europe, the Gabriels Gryffon has a stellar reputation as the best constructed tables manufactured anywhere in the world. Many European table mechanics and professional players have Gabriels Gryffon tables as their personal training table.

Gabriels is now re-entering the US pool table market. NYCC is the first venue in the USA to have their new tables.

Why not Diamond or Brunswick tables?

We considered all the high-end table makers. After discussions with several international pro players and well-known table mechanics, we settled on Gabriels tables as the best playing experience. To quote one Hall-of-Fame pro: “When you play on a Gabriels table you just don't want to stop playing.”

What pocket sizes do the tables have?

We have eight pro-cut (4.5”) tables for standard play, two tight-pocket, pro-cut tables (4.25”) and one ultra-tight international tournament training table (4.00”). Choose whatever pocket size works best for your game.

How close to each other are the tables?

Every table has at least 65 inches of clear space all the way around. Some have even more. You’ll barely notice players at the next table.

What balls are available?

Our balls are all tournament-grade Dynasphere Palladium or Aramith Pro-Cup TV sets.

Can I reserve tables prior to arrival?

Yes, members can reserve online up to a week ahead. You can add yourself, other members or guests to your reservation. There’s no fee for making a reservation. Considering dropping in without a reservation? Members are always welcome and can jump on any free table.

How long can I book a table for?

Tables may be reserved for a maximum of 4 hours, up to a week ahead of your playing time. You can play for longer if your table is not reserved by another member.

If you need to cancel a reservation, you can do it online.

What if all tables are booked or being used?

No-one wants to wait for a table, right? If all tables are occupied during peak periods, single players are required to share their table with at least one other member.

What if someone doesn't show up for a reservation?

If you haven't started playing within 15 minutes of your reservation the table is open to any member.

What other playing equipment do you have?

We provide tables, balls, racks, house cues, bridges, chalk and a ball cleaning/polishing machine. Additionally, each table has its own tablet for signing in/out and for digital score keeping.

How is the equipment and the space maintained?

Members are responsible for cleaning their table and placing balls in the automatic ball cleaner at the end of play. Cleaning products and equipment such as table vacuums are provided by the Club. See the House Rules.

Professional cleaners provide regular general cleaning of the Club.

3. About the Club Environment

How do I access the club?

Building Access:

The building has a doorman during standard business hours. Outside standard business hours the building front door is opened with your personal electronic keycard.

Club Access:

Your personal keycard also works for the elevator to grant you access to the 8th floor. Your NYCC phone app unlocks the door to The Club.

What security systems does the club provide?

Only members can enter the club. Beyond building and club access we have high resolution security video cameras continuously recording throughout the club. All members, of any gender, can feel secure at all times.

What does the space look like?

Visit us on Facebook & Instagram to see for yourself.

What other amenities does the club have?

In addition to the main playing area we've got a kitchen and a lounge area where you can eat, drink and socialize. And restrooms where you can, well... you know.

Are there cue lockers?

We're New York Cue Club so yeah, we have cue lockers. There are 112 lockers available to members for a one-time charge on a first-come-first-served basis.

What equipment is available in the kitchen?

The kitchen is for storing and reheating pre-prepared food, not for serious cooking. We have a refrigerator for members' food and drinks, and a second refrigerator filled with drinks and snacks for purchase. There's a microwave, a coffee maker and a dishwasher.

Is it possible to purchase food or drinks at the Club?

We'll have a fridge with drinks and snacks available for purchase. These items are offered at close to cost price - way less than anything available at other pool halls or public establishments.

Is there a bartender, server or kitchen staff?

No staff. That's one of the ways we keep membership fees low.

How do I get drinks or food?

You order takeout or help yourself to drinks and snacks from the Club fridge.

So how do I pay for it?

You record what you take in the log book and we bill the payment method you have on file.

Wait. Is this some kind of honor system? In NYC? Among pool players?

Absolutely. We're a community and we respect and trust our members enough to employ an honor system. By avoiding staffing costs we can keep membership fees lower which is a win for everyone. So, yes, an honor system among NYC pool players - probably a world first. Of course, there are security cameras throughout the club including in the kitchen. And if it doesn't work, well, it was worth a try.

Can I store my own drinks at the club?

Sure. You can store them in the kitchen marked with your name. However the Club is not responsible for lost items.

Can I leave food in the refrigerator?

No-one likes a crammed or smelly fridge so only store food you plan to use that day. If you leave it overnight you might find it gone by morning.

Is there coffee and tea?

Yep. Free.

Can I order take-out delivered to the club?

Absolutely! But remember the elevator is locked and only members are permitted inside the Club. During business hours, meet your delivery person in the building foyer on the ground floor. After business hours, delivery drivers are not able to enter the building so you'll need to meet them at the street entrance.

Where can I eat my food?

The Club lounge is also the Club dining room. Small snacks and drinks are acceptable at table side, but please eat meals in the lounge/kitchen area.

Who will clean up after me when I finish my meals?

You will. We all take care of our own mess so the Club can avoid the need for staff and membership fees are kept lower. Just leave the Club the way you'd like to find it. Easy peasy!

Is there parking?

Hell, no! Midtown Manhattan is a parking nightmare during the day. At night some street parking spaces are free and there are always paid parking garages. There are several subways nearby. Just saying...

4. Membership

How many members will be accepted?

Here's the dilemma: How to create a vibrant atmosphere and still avoid overcrowding, even at peak periods? For 11 tables, research suggests the Club can sustain at least 150 members. Our goal is to have as many members as possible without compromising the ideal playing experience.

If I'm accepted as a member, when can I start playing at the club?

Your acceptance email will specify your start date. In general, your start date depends on when you apply.

What is the application process like?

Applying for membership is easy. Just click the application link on this website. Applying is free but does not guarantee acceptance. We will review your application and respond within 2 days.

Can I tour the space before applying?

Sure you can, but you'll need to wait until after the Club opens and then make an appointment. To request a tour send an email to management@nycueclub.com.

Is there an application fee?

No, it is free to apply.

Is there a joining fee?

For members applying after the club opens there is a joining fee of one month's membership fee ($295).

I have regular playing partners. Can we apply as a group?

The application form includes space to include your playing partner's contact info. We'll send them a note inviting them to apply. We review every applicant as an individual, not as part of a group. Membership numbers are limited, so encourage your friends to apply immediately. You'll always find plenty of people to play with at NYCC – every level from passionate beginner to experienced pro.

What are the criteria for acceptance as a member of NYCC?

The criteria for acceptance are simple. You must be a pool player who can be counted on to follow the House Rules and respect club property and other members. That's it – there are no other criteria.

Is NYCC a non-discriminatory club?

Of course. We endorse and abide by all NY State and Federal non-discrimination laws.

Do you have a waitlist if the club is full?

Yes, when the club is at full capacity there will be a waitlist. As soon as the Club can accommodate additional members the next person on the waitlist will be offered membership.

How does the membership waitlist work?

The waitlist will progress in the order applications are received. If a place is offered to you and you change your mind about being a member, just let us know so we can offer the place to someone else.

How long might it take to be offered a membership from the waitlist?

Once the club is at capacity, we can only offer a new membership when an existing member resigns. As long as you don't withdraw from the waitlist, you're in line.

What is expected of me as a member?

Apart from having fun (we insist!), you're required to abide by New York Cue Club's House Rules. These rules are fair, easy to follow and ensure a welcoming and ideal playing environment for all members.

What if I see other people not following the House Rules?

We are confident that our members behave well towards the Club and each other. So confident, in fact, that there are no on-site staff. However, if you see someone behaving badly – e.g. not cleaning up after themselves, or being disrespectful to another member – please notify us. There are security cameras throughout the Club making it easy to review and resolve any potential problems.

Can my membership be terminated by the club?

When you join NYCC you're asked to read and accept the Membership Agreement and the House Rules. Members who violate those agreements may have their membership terminated. We hope it never happens.

Can I bring guests to the club?

We all want to bring guests but Members come first. We need to clearly understand Member usage patterns and that could take up to 6 months after opening. Until then, no guests, no exceptions. We'll change that as soon as possible.

Does the club have a house professional?

To start with, no. But that could change.

Can I bring my own coach to the club?

Yes, recognized professional coaches are admitted with members for the sole purpose of conducting lessons within the club.

Is there a fee for the coach?

No. We welcome professional coaches. Neither the coach nor the member pays any fee for conducting lessons at NYCC.

Who else is be allowed in the club?

NYCC is reserved entirely for the enjoyment of its members. We won't be renting out the space for corporate events or other commercial ventures.

Are there any exceptions?

The club retains the right to reserve some or all of the space for occasional special events. For instance, NYCC may host tournaments or special training events for members. These will be open to all members and announced well in advance.

What about traveling professional players?

We may occasionally invite world class professionals to visit the club. You'll be able to observe these top pros as they play or practice. You can meet and talk to them, maybe even challenge them to a game or two.

5. Fees, Billing & Cancellation

What are the monthly costs of membership?

$295 per month. That's as low as NYCC can make it while still covering costs and ensuring there is no overcrowding at peak times.

Is there a joining fee?

Yes, there is a joining fee for all new members applying after the club is open. It's a one-time fee of one month's membership i.e. $295.

Why is there a joining fee?

The joining fee covers the administrative costs of adding new members to the club. We need to add new members to the security systems for accessing the building and the Club floor and then adding them to the reservation software. It also includes the purchase of a unique after-hours building access card. We add any surplus from the joining fee to the Club reserve to be used exclusively for the benefit of members.

Any special discounts available?

Pay a year's membership up front and get an extra month free.

When are initial fees due?

Once you're accepted for membership you'll need to pay your first month's fee plus the one-time joining fee. You won't be billed again until fees for the second month are due.

Will the membership fee stay the same?

The current membership fee covers the cost of operations plus a small margin for unexpected expenses. We'll only increase monthly fees if we cannot absorb increases in the cost of operations. We'll give you plenty of notice so you can decide if you want to remain a member.

When and how are monthly membership fees collected?

As part of the Membership Agreement you are required to accept an auto- pay arrangement. We process payments on a fixed schedule just before the start of each new month.

What forms of payment are accepted?

We accept credit cards and ACH electronic bank transfers. No cash or checks. There is no fee for ACH payments but credit card companies charge the Club a small fee for each transaction. If you pay with a credit card we pass that fee on at cost.

Can I freeze my membership if I don't anticipate playing in a particular month?

If you have a documented medical issue which prevents you from playing, we may consider a temporary freeze or suspension of membership fees. For most issues – e.g. a change in your financial circumstances – a suspension of fees is an immediate disadvantage to all other members and can't be permitted. You can always resign your membership and reapply at a future date.

How long in advance do I need to cancel my membership?

You can cancel anytime, but you will not get a refund for the month already paid. Memberships paid annually will be prorated to the end of the month in which the cancelation is requested. You have access to the club for the rest of the month.

Can I rejoin if I cancel my membership?

If you cancel your membership and want to rejoin in the future you must re-apply. If there is a waitlist at the time you re-apply you would need to wait for another membership place to become vacant. And you'll be charged another joining fee. Please consider very carefully before canceling your membership.