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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Chicago

Cool jazz

A space with a distinct, effortless energy where the jazz feels authentic and the mood is right.

Based on 518 Opinions
+515
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Updated April 2026
01
Epiphany Center for the Arts image 1
Epiphany Center for the Arts image 2
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Historic church converted into an event venue offers intimate acoustics and rotating art displays. The atmosphere blends inviting neighborhood vibe with diverse live music, including jazz and DJ sets. Outdoor terrace and garden spaces complement the indoor bar and dance floor areas.

A lively jazz club sits on the upper level with regular performances. Big band dances and groups like Robin Watson's Combo fill the room with exciting jazz music on weekends.

Rotating featured art and multiple live music venues create a dynamic vibe. The event space inside the old church and the cool bar add to the unique atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the renovated church space really cool and artsy."

"I saw fantastic art exhibitions from Chicago's top emerging artists."

"The jazz vibe in this repurposed church is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm in the main bar with discounted drinks.

2

Free or low-cost events are available all weekend long.

3

Parking is limited; nearby street and garage options are available.

02
Jazz Showcase image 1
Jazz club

Intimate jazz club with historic dรฉcor and excellent acoustics creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Live performances feature talented musicians playing in a setting that honors jazz legends. Dim lighting and comfortable seating offer a balanced sound experience ideal for soaking in pure jazz.

An intimate setting with excellent acoustics hosts some of America's best jazz musicians. The venue offers a historic atmosphere dating back to 1947 and keeps jazz accessible and affordable for all fans.

A very cool vibe fills the jazz lounge with a super cool atmosphere. The tunes played during performances add to the overall coolness of the venue.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great live jazz performances here."

"I enjoyed the excellent cocktails and draft beers."

"It's a really cool place with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 per person for entry.

2

Jazz Showcase does not serve food but allows patrons to bring their own.

3

It is advisable to buy tickets in advance as shows often sell out.

03
Puttery image 1
Miniature golf course

Large, well-decorated space features a library-themed course and a rooftop area with notable views. Atmosphere combines jazz music with a fun, social vibe suited for couples and groups. Miniature golf includes a digital scoring system enhancing the experience.

Jazz music here is consistently incredible and great. The performances bring a lot of energy and fun to the atmosphere.

A fun work event fits well in this space. Staff like Rodney add a helpful and cool vibe.

People are saying

"You'll have a fun time with the challenging mini golf courses."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and laid back."

"The Jazz here was the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or events.

2

The bar is wheelchair accessible, but the golf courses are not.

3

Expect upscale pricing for food and drinks at the venue.

04
The California Clipper image 1

Vintage lounge with art deco decor and leather booths creates a timeless atmosphere. Live jazz and DJ sets energize the space, with a dance floor and two bars supporting a lively crowd. Ambiance shifts from chill cocktail vibes to a bustling dance scene as the night progresses.

Vintage ambiance sets the mood with soulful jazz saxophone filling the air. Performances by artists like Richard Peรฑa add a cool, old school vibe to the scene.

The spot has a cool vintage look and decor that sets a chill vibe. It features a live music setup that adds to the easy lounge feel.

People are saying

"The cocktails here taste like liquid history."

"This bar is a center for DJs and dance music."

"It's a really cool vintage bar with good vibes."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday with a two-drink minimum.

2

The venue hosts a $5 cover charge on weekends for DJ events.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

05
Pour Decisions Chicago image 1

Live jazz music fills the space with top-tier performances while multiple large TVs broadcast sports loudly, creating a conflicted atmosphere. Upstairs offers a speakeasy vibe with a pool table, piano, and private party rooms featuring stylish decor and a full bar. The crowd enjoys specialty cocktails and highly praised wings, blending lively energy with casual comfort.

Live jazz music plays on weekends with an incredible jazz trio performing. The group features top players delivering amazing jazz that draws attention on Friday nights.

Upstairs offers a cool and calm vibe during private parties. The spot features many TVs and a modern bar setting that feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The bar staff here really make sure you're taken care of."

"You have to try the bottomless wings; they just melt off the bone."

"It's a cool spot with a lot of TVs to watch the game."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature $20 all-you-can-eat wings, a popular deal.

2

Thursdays offer an $8 burger with fries and $5 domestic drafts.

3

Trivia night happens every Wednesday, adding to the midweek fun.

06
Blue Chicago image 1
Live music bar

Small, vintage blues bar with an intimate, no-frills setup focused on live music. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy, with close proximity to local talent performing on a narrow stage at the back. Venue stays lively until late, attracting an enthusiastic crowd and offering cash-only service with room to dance.

An intimate space hosts classic jazz with cool musicians and singers. The vibe feels like a fun little jazz bar with a strong blue jazz influence.

Classic jazz and blues music create a cool atmosphere with old school Chicago style vibes. Live bands and singers keep the energy authentic and lively.

People are saying

"The live music here is phenomenal and top-notch."

"I found the atmosphere really cool during the blues concert."

"The Jazz here has a great, friendly atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Blue Chicago is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for drinks.

2

There is a $15 cover charge to enter Blue Chicago.

3

Live performances start at 9pm, with doors opening at 8pm.

07
Lemon image 1

Bar combines live music with an upscale cocktail lounge vibe in a cozy, low-light setting. Space includes multiple seating areas and a patio, creating a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Music volume balances well for both listening and conversation.

A nightcap here comes with a real jazz club feel and classic cocktails. The jazz performances are pretty decent and fit the vibe well.

Pop-up events bring a cool vibe to the spot. Live music plays softly, adding to the atmosphere without overpowering. An outdoor patio offers a relaxed, tucked-away space for drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are thoughtful, creative, and perfectly balanced."

"The jazz here is immaculate, truly incredible."

"The drinks here are thoughtfully crafted and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Live music performances occur from Thursday to Saturday, featuring various bands.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 shots and beers.

3

Bingo night is hosted every Wednesday at 8pm with a small entry fee.

08
Bistro Monadnock image 1
French restaurant

Historic building hosts a French bistro with European charm and elegant design. Live jazz music creates a relaxing atmosphere complemented by a skilled bar offering standout cocktails. The space feels cozy and stylish, attracting those seeking a refined dining experience.

Live jazz performances happen regularly, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Soft jazz music plays in the background, adding to the pleasant ambience.

Effortlessly cool Parisian bistro vibe fills the space. Located in a historic Chicago building, the atmosphere feels both classic and fresh.

People are saying

"The escargot here is outstanding and alone worth the visit."

"I loved the live jazz music playing."

"This place has a cool, historic building and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to avoid being turned away.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect a $10 charge for each cheese on the charcuterie board.

09
The Whistler image 1

Small bar with live DJ and jazz music creates a cozy, welcoming vibe for chill adults. Outdoor patio offers ample seating and a break from the intimate indoor space. Music sets encourage dancing, though the dance floor remains modest in size.

Wednesdays feature very good jazz with live performances that keep the music hot all night. Jazz nights mix with DJ sets to create a lively, staple neighborhood vibe.

The atmosphere has cool vibes with a chill crowd and laid-back service. Draft drinks don't quite match the overall cool feel.

People are saying

"The DJ here keeps the energy fun and the vibe dope."

"The vibe here is really cool."

"I enjoyed the live jazz performances and DJ nights."

Good to know

1

Live jazz performances happen every Wednesday night.

2

DJ nights occur throughout the week, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

There is usually no cover charge for entry.

10
Le Piano image 1
Jazz club

Jazz club offers intimate candlelit setting with Chicago-style Parisian bistro decor and live experimental music performances. Atmosphere feels romantic and cozy, ideal for evening jazz and drinks. Seating layout and lighting create a refreshing vibe that highlights the music and ambiance.

An intimate jazz club with a vibe like stepping back in time to Paris. Brazilian Latin Jazz on Wednesdays offers a chill atmosphere with some of Chicago's best jazz musicians performing.

A very cool venue for live entertainment with a cool atmosphere under the Morse Red line stop. Great musicians play cool jazz here, though the bar does not fully meet its potential.

People are saying

"The jazz here is soulful in an intimate, amazing atmosphere."

"The patio is spectacular and a fun place to relax."

"It's a cool venue with a cozy, intimate atmosphere."

Good to know

1

There is a music fee of $15 per person for entry.

2

Live jazz is played on weekends until 1 am.

3

Brazilian Jazz performances occur on Wednesdays.

11
UMMO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a modern jazz inspired design with upstairs loft featuring live music and pool table. Atmosphere shifts from quiet and intimate dining to a lively late-night hangout with DJs and bands. Decor includes quirky records and stylish interiors creating a warm, upbeat vibe.

Swanky jazz vibes fill the space with upbeat energy and a sexy lounge ambience. A jazz band plays alongside house music, enhancing the modern jazz aesthetic and warm, stylish atmosphere.

People are saying

"You honestly canโ€™t go wrong with the outrageously good pasta here."

"The atmosphere here is cool, with a classy, moody jazz vibe."

"The modern jazz vibe here is warm and stylish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups, to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

The loft space converts into a club after 10pm with a DJ and dancing.

12
TNT Rooftop Restaurant image 1

Rooftop setting offers beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere with top-tier music from DJs playing 90s and 2000s hits. The vibe suits date nights and small parties, featuring a semi-private room. Food and drinks include flavorful seafood and cocktails, with standout items like lamb chops and lemon drop cocktails.

Smooth jazz music plays at a comfortable volume, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The tunes blend well with the beautiful decor during meals.

Rooftop offers a laid-back energy with cool music and a spacious vibe. Friendly people add to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing."

"The food here is flavorful and well-prepared."

"I loved the smooth jazz music playing during my visit."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all night on Thursdays for ladies with special pricing.

2

Wine Wednesday offers three tastings and a full glass for $20.

3

An 18% gratuity is added for all parties, regardless of size.

13
Woodlawn Tap image 1

Old school dive bar with a slightly updated vibe offers a cozy, laid back atmosphere and intimate space. Jazz and blues performances on Sundays add to the wholesome, lively energy. Cash-only policy and student clientele shape the experience near campus.

Jazz bands and quartets play regularly, especially on Sundays. Performances feature local artists and college graduates, creating a steady jazz and blues scene.

Atmosphere feels cool and dark, giving the bar a distinct vibe. It stands out as a pretty cool spot overall.

People are saying

"This neighborhood bar is a timeless, friendly staple."

"I love the jazz band on Sundays."

"I found this place to be pretty cool."

Good to know

1

Woodlawn Tap is a cash-only bar, so bring cash for your visit.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially on weekends with a college crowd.

3

Live music events occur on certain nights, adding to the bar's vibe.

14
Chemistry Chicago image 1

Restaurant features live music and staff in lab coats creating a chemistry-themed atmosphere with stylish decor. Energy runs high with a loud, chaotic vibe and a crowded space. Food includes standout dishes like wagyu fettuccine and lamb chops, while cocktails are notably overpriced.

Live jazz performances happen here, offering authentic jazz music experiences. Occasionally, a DJ plays, but the focus remains on live jazz.

Live music and friendly staff create a very cool vibe. Tables have chemistry-like effects adding unique photo opportunities.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"The vibe here is pretty cool and entertaining."

"The jazz here is amazing, especially the salmon."

Good to know

1

Sunday brunch ends at 3:00 PM, so arrive early.

2

A 20% gratuity and a 5% entertainment fee are automatically added to bills.

3

Reservations are for 1.5 hours, so plan accordingly.

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