Jazz at Midtown, West Village - Tribeca & East Side

There are many ways to heat up a New York City evening, but none better then a scintillating jazz or blues concert. Of course it only gets better when you add the flavorful fare served at many of these distinguished venues. With so much to choose from, the following venues feature the best in the city and offer a range of music from classical jazz to an Afro-Cuban mix.

MIDTOWN

Birdland, 315 West 44th Street between Eight and Ninth Avenues has one of the most extraordinary histories. Charlie Parker founded the club in 1949 and featured performances by his distinguished friends such as Count Basie and John Coltrane. The club opened its doors in midtown Manhattan then moved to Harlem in 1986. It was ten years and 2,000 performers later before Birdland made it back to its midtown roots. Today, it continues a tradition of offering first class jazz and sumptuous, award winning Southern Cuisine. For a schedule of events, please call (212) 581-3080 or go to their web site, www.birdlandjazz.com.

Iridium, 1650 Broadway at Fifty First Street has been thrilling International jazz fans since 1994. Iridium's stellar roster of jazz artists, including Les Paul who plays every Monday, along with their Wine Spectator award winning wine list and upscale cuisine make this a perfect accompaniment to any of your plans. The Iridium Sunday Jazz Brunch Buffet features the playful sounds of the Bob Dorough Trio with their irrepressible spirit as well as classic American brunch items including coffee or tea for only $19.95. For a schedule of events or to make a reservation, please call (212) 582-2121 or go to their web site, www.iridiumjazzclub.com.

Chez Suzette, 675 Ninth Avenue between 46th and 47th Street is a contemporary casual restaurant offering classic French and American cuisine at affordable prices. Live musical entertainment enhances the already charming dining experience and their Sunday Jazz Brunch will surely become a favorite of yours. For information on performances, please call (212) 974-9002 or go to their web site, www.chezsuzettenyc.com.

West Village - Tribeca

Blue Note, 131 West Third Street at Sixth Avenue was established in 1981 and has become a premier spot for great jazz of every kind. The cuisine is distinctly American with an eclectic mix of exotic and familiar dishes. For more information, please call (212) 475-8592 or go to their web site, www.bluenotejazz.com.

The Bottom Line, 15 West Fourth Street at Mercer Street is a long-time destination for music lovers who want to enjoy a great mix of artists in a simple setting accompanied by great food and no pretension or fuss. Hamburgers, fries, pizza and club appetizers are the fare. For more information please call (212) 228-7880 or go to their web site, www.bottomlinecabaret.com.

Smalls, 183 West 10th Street at Seventh Avenue is a unique venue featuring 3 bands nightly. The cover is just $10.00 and you can stay as long as you like. The club offers a self-serve, free non-alcoholic beverage bar or you may bring your own. They even have an Early Bird show on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 to 8:30pm. For more information please call (212) 929-7565 or go to their web site, www.smallsjazz.com.

The Jazz Gallery, 290 Hudson Street between Spring and Dominick Streets is one of those rare spaces where the music is the only thing you'll find. There is no food service, but you will find the best in jazz talent in a space that is known to be acoustically perfect. It's simplicity as well as the unbeatable price of only $15.00 for non-members and $10.00 for members is what makes this a must visit venue. If you would like to dine before or after the show you may want to try Herban Kitchen an organic festival of flavor and delectably healthy cuisine. It is truly a wonderful dining experience and it is directly next door to the Jazz Gallery entrance. If you would like to peruse their menu please go to their web site at www.herbankitchen.com. For more information on the performances at The Jazz Gallery, please call (212) 242-1063 or go to their web site www.jazzgallery.org.

Cornelia St. Café, 29 Cornelia Street between Bleecker and W. Fourth Streets started out as artists' café and is now, after twenty-five years, has evolved into a mighty space with three dining rooms upstairs and a performance space downstairs. The café features more than jazz, although a jazz performance is a very good reason to stop by. They showcase the most distinguished musicians as well as poets and sculptors. It is a cornucopia of artistic talent as well as an incredible dining experience. The menu has many satisfying selections and will tempt every palate. For more information please call (212) 989-9319 or go to their web site, www.corneliastreetcafe.com.

Zinc, 90 West Houston Street at La Guardia Place is rated New York City's most happening bar and rightfully deserves the title. Its performance calendar is extensive and impressive in terms of the level of talent they procure as well as the diversity of performances. Thursday evenings are dedicated to Latin jazz and Sundays to Brazilian jazz. Admission is a mere $5.00 per set with a two drink minimum. For more information on their current schedule please call (212) 477-8337 or go to their web site, www.Zincbar.com.

East Side

Jazz Standard, 116 East 27th Street between Park and Lexington Avenues is perfect for the die-hard jazz fan or a jazz novice. Their world class musicians and comfortable, acoustically flawless performance space is perfect for an entertaining evening with friends. Their Blue Smoke restaurant is a barbecue heaven serving the best ribs in the city as well as seafood and classic side dishes. For more information and a current performance schedule please call (212) 576-2232 or go to their web site www.jazzstandard.net.