The 13 Best Jazz Clubs in Chicago for Music Lovers
Chicago is known for Jazz and is greatly influenced by the soothing rhythms streaming out of its many hubs. With a deep-rooted history, this beloved art form practically hums out of Chicago. Whether you’ve been a fan of Jazz for as long as you can remember, or you’re still navigating your tastes and interests, there is a place for you.
Chicago’s Jazz scene is laudable and impressive, so if you’re ready to delve into the soul of the Windy City via its music, here are the 13 best jazz clubs to add to your list. They tell their own story and collectively portray Chicago as the jazz capital of the Midwest.
The Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
Walk into The Green Mill and you have just taken a time portal back to the Roaring Twenties. Its art deco interior and historic charm have made Green Mill a staple in Chicago’s jazz scene for over a century. You can sit in Al Capone’s favorite booth and enjoy everything from swing to bebop. The mix of live jazz acts will keep you enthused till the early hours.
Jazz Showcase
The Jazz Showcase is family-owned and located in the South Loop. It has offered jazz to the likes of Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie. With great acoustics, international stars, and local talent on the lineup, you’ll have quite a blast. If you’re new to jazz, their Sunday matinee shows are a great way to ease into it.
Andy’s Jazz Club
Andy’s Jazz Club is near the Chicago River, with its approachable, but sophisticated vibe. It’s a well-known spot for a night out that combines amazing food with fantastic tunes and is known for its daily live music and dinner service. Whatever your taste may be: smooth Saxophone solos or Upbeat jam sessions, Andy’s delivers every time.
Winter’s Jazz Club
Winter’s Jazz Club in Streeterville offers a more intimate experience. This traditional jazz venue is cabaret style making every note feel personal. Enjoy a cocktail, sit down, and let the music take you somewhere timeless.
Constellation
Here’s a modern venue in Roscoe Village where jazz meets experimental sound. Constellation is about jostling boundaries, showing both avant-garde jazz and contemporary composition. If you’re looking for adventurous listens and some music that challenges conventions, it’s the spot.
Elastic Arts
Elastic Arts is more than just a jazz club in Logan Square; it’s a creative hub. This non-profit space focuses on free jazz and experimental performances which attracts local and international musicians. Due to its cozy setting, every show is a private concert.
Hungry Brain
From a quirky neighborhood bar some decades ago, it became one of Chicago’s most beloved jazz venues. North Center’s Hungry Brain is known for cutting-edge jazz acts and encouraging an inclusive community vibe. The friendly crowd and laid-back atmosphere are all great.
The Whistler
The Whistler in Logan Square is a cocktail bar by day and a music venue by night. Some of the city’s best improvisational talent frequents jazz nights. The drinks themselves are as artful as the music, and as a result, the place is a wonderful spot for a date or a trip out with friends.
Phyllis’ Musical Inn
While Wicker Park’s Phyllis’ Musical Inn is not a dedicated jazz club, its performances on many nights do bring the house down. If you like live music without the fuss, the casual, dive bar here is what it’s all about, and there is an outdoor patio for summer nights.
Live at Mister Kelly’s
This venue is a revival of the historic Mister Kelly’s, blending the amenities of the modern day, with the nostalgia of Chicago’s jazz heyday. It’s downtown and pays tribute to the club that once brought Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. Acoustically, it’s stellar and features a rotating lineup of contemporary talent.
Room 43
Room 43 in Hyde Park has hosted jazz and blues legends for decades. A favorite of South Side jazz aficionados, it has an easygoing vibe and the music is the sole focus. The lowly exterior shouldn’t fool you—the inside is electric.
The Promontory
The Promontory is another sleek package containing a restaurant, bar, and music venue in Hyde Park. The magic happens on the second floor with jazz nights, big bands, small duets, and everything in between. Get there early for their wood-fired food before the show!
FitzGerald’s Nightclub
FitzGerald’s, technically just outside Chicago in Berwyn, is worth the short trip. From jazz, blues, and roots music, this historic venue has seen it all. The musicianship on stage is first rate as the excited crowd will testify.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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