Sometimes a night out with cocktails and friends, relaxing and listening to jazz music is just the way to end a day. The Boston area boasts plenty of options for places to go to take in the sounds of live musicians playing a variety of styles of jazz on instruments such as bass, drums, and trumpet. Check out these ten places featuring jazz music throughout Boston.
1. Scullers Jazz Club
400 Soldiers Road, Boston, MA 02134
(617) 562-4111
Since 1989, Scullers Jazz Club, at the DoubleTree Hotel, has featured some of the best jazz performers. They play a variety of music including Blues, Soul, R & B, Cabaret, World, Latin, and Contemporary Jazz. They pride themselves on receiving awards such as Best Live Music Venue and Best First Date Spot.
2. Wally's Café
427 Massachusetts Ave, Boston, MA 02118
(617) 424-1408
Wally's Café, established in 1947, is a part of Boston’s history. The owner, Wally, was the first African-American to own a nightclub in New England. Though they did move locations, it has always been a place where both well known musicians and even students from local schools like Berklee could play. It is also a place where live music is played every day of the year.
3. Ryles
212 Hampshire St, Cambridge, MA 02139
(617) 876-9330
Ryles in Inman Square, well known in the area since 1919, is a lively place to dance and listen to live jazz, swing, meringue, and other styles of music. Their Sunday Jazz Brunch gives you the chance to hear the music you love, while sipping Bloody Marys and eating breakfast favorites like pancakes, omelets, and eggs benedict. With two floors to explore, they feature national and local jazz performers, and have drinks and dining options.
4. The Beehive
541 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02116
(617) 423-0069
The Beehive in the South End has a lot to offer. Locals come here to enjoy the outdoor seating, brunch, dinner, and drinks, and especially the live music. Check out their website to find out when their next Jazz dinner or brunch will be and to find out what other bands will be performing.
5. Johnny D's
17 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144
(617) 776-2004
Since 1969, this Davis Square restaurant and club features a broad range of musical acts. Rock, jazz, reggae, world, and bluegrass are just a few of the many options. Serving dinner and brunch, the music line-up has something to offer everyone.
6. Les Zygomates
129 South St, Boston, MA 02111
(617)542-5108
Featuring a menu filled with French favorites and an impressive wine list, Les Zygomates, in the Leather District, offers jazz music for the after work crowd from Tuesday through Thursdays. There are also performances on Fridays and Saturdays as well, with performers listed on their website.
7. Regattabar
1 Bennett St, Cambridge, MA
(617) 661-5000
Located at the Charles Hotel, the award-winning Regattabar has been one of Boston’s best jazz clubs since it opened in 1985. They host an annual Jazz Festival to bring together jazz enthusiasts to hear some of the best acts in the business. While enjoying the music, appetizers and drinks can be ordered as well.
8. Lizard Lounge
1667 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
(617) 547-0759
Lizard Lounge, just north of Harvard Square, is an intimate spot to listen to live jazz. They also feature open mic and poetry nights amongst other events. Locals love the cozy feel and beer and drink selections, plus the location below Cambridge Common.
9. Darryl's Corner Bar and Kitchen
604 Columbus Avenue, Boston, MA 02118
617) 536-1100
Darryl’s allows you to not only listen to live jazz, but also enjoy their full menu. Southern favorites like gumbo, catfish, and ribs transport you out of Boston for the night for some New Orleans inspired fun.
10. Bond Restaurant and Lounge
250 Franklin St, Boston, MA 02110
(617) 956-8765
Right in the Financial District, Bond offers you live jazz on Wednesdays, surrounded by gorgeous chandeliers and an upscale atmosphere. Perfect to relax with drinks and light bites, Bond offers a sophisticated clientele and vibe once a week, with about two hours of free live jazz to enjoy.