Jazz has been a pasttime since the days when Angelenos in the 20s went out and painted the town a sophisticated red. Jazz in LA, especially, has grown into its own community of musicians, restaurant owners and of course, jazz lovers. If you're wondering where to go for jazz in Los Angeles, check out these don't-miss venues.
Jazz in Los Angeles ©iStockphoto.com/Eva Serrabassa
Catalina Bar & Grill (Hollywood)
LA jazz buffs continue to point to Catalina Bar & Grill as the essential jazz club in Los Angeles. It's been bringing in the best acts for ten years, and those who dig jazz will feel the presence of the great players who made jazz what it is today: Dizzie Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, Chic Corea, Joe Williams, Max Roach, Joe Henderson, Art Blakey. With all this history, who can deny that Catalina Bar & Grill has earned its place as one of LA's best jazz clubs.
Jazz Bakery (Culver City)
This is the place for no-frills jazz, and its theater-like setup puts the spotlight on the musicians. In other words, founder Ruth Price is all about the purity of the music. It's no surprise that Jazz Bakery is LA's only nonprofit jazz venue, which means it has stayed afloat because of the music and regulars who support it. Bonus for students: get half-price rush tickets with your student ID.
The Baked Potato (Studio City)
If you're skeptical about whether or not the name coincides with good jazz, listen to the suggestions of local jazz lovers who come here for the talent. Its dive bar atmosphere suggests that it's the music that keeps The Baked Potato on everyone's top ten jazz club lists.
Spazio Jazz Supper Club (Sherman Oaks)
This LA supper club is about as classic as you can get. Don't be surprised if you feel a little taken aback by the sophistication of Spazio. The same goes for the music: the jazz here, which ranges from Latin to big band swing, brings back the era of cocktail lounges and refined tastes.
Vibrato Grill & Jazz
In addition to the impeccable restaurant design, the jazz at Vibrato brings a certain touch of cool style to the richly appointed interior. You'd think the atmosphere might dwarf the music, but you'd be wrong, especially with music visionary Herb Alpert manning the concept of the restaurant. Think elegant, smooth and sensual — and that goes for the patrons, too.
House of Blues® Sunset Strip (West Hollywoood)
Depending on when you go, you'll find a different kind of band playing at this iconic West Hollywood venue. There are names like Chris Isaak and Billy Idol who might not fit the bill at a "blues joint," but show up Sunday for the gospel brunch and you'll get a real Southern blues treat.
