Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is a nightclub on Broadway in Manhattan between 96th Street and 97th Street, spanning several floors. Inside, there are separate areas with dance floors, stages for live performances, and lounges equipped with modern audio systems.

Lou Walters opened the club in 1942 in a building that had previously served as the Cotton Club. The concept combined French and New Orleans elements, and artists such as Frank Sinatra performed there.

The name refers to Latin American dances and rhythms that were central to the club's identity from the start. On stage, professional dancers demonstrate merengue steps and salsa moves, and guests use the open floors to practice the steps themselves.

The club is open Wednesday through Saturday evenings, with the entrance directly on Broadway between 96th Street and 97th Street. You reach the upper floors via stairs or an elevator inside.

Photographers from LIFE magazine documented dancers in 1949 in the dressing rooms as they prepared for performances. These images showed moments behind the scenes and later appeared in a report on the city's nightlife.

Location: Manhattan

Inception: 1942

Official opening: 1942

Address: 200 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10036

GPS coordinates: 40.75986,-73.98456

Latest update: December 20, 2025 11:46