Paul Kushner
Listening to a live rendition of a timeless jazz classic followed by a bold improvisation while sipping on a craft cocktail is my idea of a good time.
As a long-time jazz-lover, I knew I couldn’t visit Los Angeles without experiencing the City of Angels’ jazz scene for myself.
My trip was a fantastic experience between the incredible local jazz bands, the great food, the drinks, and the people I met. Here are the best jazz clubs in Los Angeles.
The Baked Potato
3787 Cahuenga Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604
Phone: (818) 980-1615
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The Baked Potato has found a winning formula. This small venue hosts some of the best live music performances in LA and offers a simple but delicious selection of food, with most creations involving baked potatoes.
This jazz club feels cozy and a little retro. The drink selection is varied, and everyone will find something they like.
The Baked Potato is on Cahuenga Boulevard within walking distance of Universal Studios Hollywood.
Catalina Jazz Club
6725 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 466-2210
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Catalina Jazz Club feels like an upscale venue with its mix of classy Italian-American plates and Mexican-inspired cuisine.
The bar has an excellent selection of popular beer brands, but you’ll see many patrons ordering classic cocktails.
The venue has a timeless feel, and I loved being able to sit so close to the stage. The outdoor seating area is great for relaxing after a show.
If you’re wondering where to get a drink in Hollywood, I highly recommend the Catalina Jazz Club on Sunset Boulevard and N McCadden Place.
Sam First
6171 W Century Blvd #180, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Phone: (424) 800-2006
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Sam First is one of the best jazz clubs in Los Angeles if you’re looking for local brews or want to enjoy a bottle of fine wine while listening to the city’s best jazz or lounge performers.
This venue also has its own record label and produces recordings of live shows!
I love how intimate the venue feels, and the acoustics are impeccable, thanks to the low ceiling. It’s the first jazz club I visited since it’s right next to LAX in Westchester.
Vibrato Grill Jazz
2930 Beverly Glen Cir, Los Angeles, CA 90077
Phone: (310) 474-9400
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My evening at the Vibrato Grill Jazz in the Bel Air hills was one of the highlights of my trip to LA. They serve delicious American fare, and, of course, the live music is amazing.
The owner is none other than famous jazz trumpeter Herb Alpert. His musical touch shows in the design of the venue, which uses acoustics to enhance the performance.
The Vibrato Grill Jazz is an ideal spot for sipping on an ice-cold martini while enjoying a show. I also think it would be a memorable date night spot with its intimate atmosphere.
Hollywood Bowl
2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Phone: (323) 850-2000
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The Hollywood Bowl is a local staple. It dates back to the 1920s and hasn’t aged a bit.
It’s an electrifying live music venue with a bowl-shaped stage and stunning light effects.
The atmosphere felt very different from the jazz clubs since it’s a venue with over 17,000 seats, but enjoying a jazz concert with a large crowd felt magical.
If you’re in LA in June, don’t miss the upcoming Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl!
Industry Cafe & Jazz
6039 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232
Phone: (310) 202-6633
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Industry Café & Jazz is a modern spot that mixes Ethiopian fare with live music.
If you’re looking for fun places to go out in the Art District, you’ll find Industry Café & Jazz on Washington Boulevard, not far from La Cienega Avenue.
I recommend the Yatakilt Alitcha and the Red Snapper. It’s a fun and cozy spot for catching an early live music show to start out your evening!
Pip’s On La Brea
1356 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019
Phone: (323) 954-7477
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If you enjoy bars and live music, you’re going to love Pip’s On La Brea. This upscale spot has an excellent wine bar, and the cozy décor with warm wood accents creates the perfect setting for live jazz performances.
I recommend the signature chicken wings and the grilled salmon. It’s best to make a reservation if you intend to order food.
Pip’s On La Brea is in the Dockweiler area, near S La Brea Avenue and W Pico Boulevard.
The Living Room
2636 Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016
Phone: (323) 735-8748
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The Living Room intrigued me with its unusual name. I can’t recommend this hidden gem enough. It’s a small venue with a décor inspired by old-timey speakeasies.
It’s also a great spot for meeting locals or relaxing with friends.
The bar’s open mic nights are the perfect opportunity to discover up-and-coming artists, but it’s also a popular spot for catching sports games.
This budget-friendly bar is on Crenshaw Boulevard, within walking distance from the intersection with W Adams Boulevard in the Mid City neighborhood.
Rhythm Room L.A.
206 W 6th St BSMT, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Phone: (213) 537-0394
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The Rhythm Room L.A. is a local staple for music lovers. If you’re looking for fun places to go out in LA, you can’t go wrong with this unique underground venue that feels like a hidden speakeasy with its wooden décor and billiard tables.
The bar serves classic cocktails to match the atmosphere, and you’ll see some incredibly talented jazz musicians.
The Rhythm Room L.A. is in the heart of the Financial District, on 6th Street, within a few blocks of Pershing Square.
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