After exploring the streets of London Town last year and its fabulous jazz music scene (epitomized at the world-famous Ronnie Scott’s), I found my love for some ra-ta-ta-tatting.

For your own listening pleasure, and maybe my own some day, I have compiled a list of jazz hotspots in America. Go ahead, put on your dancing shoes!

Yoshi’s: Oakland, California

Get an authentic essence of the 1960’s jazz scene at Yoshi’s. There’s live music every night and sushi for your dining pleasures. Best part, the tables are arranged on different tier levels and then fanned out, which makes every seat the best seat in the house.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro: New Orleans, Louisiana

Let the sounds of young jazz-playing hopefuls entertain you while you nosh on Snug Harbor’s tasty fried oyster sandwiches. Complete with a dining room, bar and a music room, its no wonder why Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro has been known as the best in live jazz and regional cuisine in New Orleans for 30 years.

Green Mill Jazz Club: Chicago, Illinois

Though alcohol is now legally served here, you will still feel as if you’ve travelled back in time to Prohibition days at the Green Mill. You won’t see Al Capone, who had a table here, or his fellow gangsters, but the art-nouveau interior, including the original banquettes, still hold strong. Most importantly, the music will be sure to impress.

Tula’s: Seattle, Washington

Avoid the rain and get cozy in this quaint jazz club. Tula’s is the place for local talent in an emerald city bustling with musicians to showcase their talents. Any night of the week you can snap your fingers to the groovy beats and enjoy authentic American and Mediterranean cuisine prepared by an Iraqi cook.

 

-Emily Freeman