10 Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans

Walking down Frenchman Street in New Orleans, you might be surprised by the colorful old buildings and lively atmosphere. Before you know it, you’ll fall in love with the place. Then, out of nowhere, a bunch of musicians appear with various instruments. When they start their own concert on the corner of Royal Street, people stop and watch and a dance party begins. You’re experiencing the New Orleans music scene for the first time.

10 Best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans

New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz music, so you can’t go anywhere in the French Quarter without hearing it. Since living here, I’ve made a list of my favorite jazz clubs. Because all their styles can be completely different depending on your mood and the type of night you have planned. Some jazz clubs are geared toward partying, while others offer a more relaxed dining experience.

1. spotted cat

This funky spot is a long, narrow club with a bar and an intimate stage. Live bands play here daily and a cover charge may apply. At night, this is a very lively bar, and despite the lack of space, you can always see people making room for dancing.

The Spotted Cat is located on Frenchman Street in the Marigny (pronounced mah-lene) area of ​​the French Quarter. Jazz styles here include traditional, blues, funk, and a variety of other styles.There are very few seats inside and no food options.—But if you want to enjoy jazz, drinks, and meet people from all over the world, this is the place to be.

2. Three Muses

This Frenchman Street venue is one of my favorite clubs to start the night. It’s a small and relaxing place, but their menu includes banh mi, French fries, and Korean fried chicken sandwiches. There is a bar with a wide selection of cocktails and drinks. Live bands often play Friday through Monday nights.

Expect plenty of solo piano performances from 5pm to 7:45pm, and a jazz band from 8pm to 11pm. “The Three Muses” is also a great way to introduce children to jazz music.

3. Frizzell’s Jazz Bar

Fritzel’s has been a fixture on Bourbon Street in New Orleans since 1969. I’m not a fan of the glitz, dollars and hen nights that flock to this street, but Fritzel’s is a must-visit.

Live music will be held from 12:30pm, 365 days a year.Make time to watch Richard “Piano” Scott play in the first time slot — It’s hard to believe that someone can move their fingers that fast and still create amazing music.

4. Preservation building

This venue was founded in 1961 and focuses on local musicians. You’ll often see lines forming outside to see the bands that play 360 days a year. These performances are ticketed and there is no kitchen or bar on site. Only bottled water is allowed inside.

Over the years, Preservation Hall has witnessed legendary jazz artists such as George Lewis, Sweet Emma Barrett, and the Humphrey Brothers. They also have a house band. Preservation Hall Jazz Band. Their group has a total of more than 50 local master musicians. If you are a jazz fan and can only stay one night in the city, this is the place for you.

5. Cozy Harbor Jazz Bistro

This jazz club is located on Frenchman Street, just steps from the lively French Quarter. Snug Harbor has been offering live jazz music and local cuisine for over 30 years. Inside his beautifully restored 1800’s storefront, you’ll find his three rooms: a cozy dining area, a fully stocked bar, and a cozy music room.

Snug Harbor hosts live music performances seven nights a week, primarily featuring the vibrant world of New Orleans modern jazz. This place has a more formal feel than more intimate places like Three Muses (mentioned above). You can’t eat in the music room, so it’s a “enjoy your meal and then go see the show” type of venue.

6. Palm Court Jazz Cafe

It’s a breezy place with a 1920s garden party atmosphere. With white walls covered in jazz paraphernalia, an exposed brick stage, and circular tables draped with linen tablecloths, this place on Decatur Street in the French Quarter offers something different. Masu. While most jazz clubs are concentrated, this gem was a great find.

There is live traditional jazz music five nights a week. Open during the day during Jazz Fest in April or May. Palm Court’s dinner menu is a fine dining experience with dishes like steamed crawfish Nantua in a brandy cream sauce and Creole beef he indie.

7. Club Bamboora’s

This venue is named after the drumming and dancing known as ‘Bambooras’. If you hear this, you won’t want to dance. Club Bamboula’s is a large venue on Frenchman Street that specializes in all jazz genres, including Cajun Zydeco.

If you’re in the mood for a party, this is the place. They also serve casual Caribbean Creole cuisine, often offering free food samples such as red beans and rice, called “laguniappes.” There is no cover charge for the band.

8. Blue Nile

The Blue Nile is a Frenchmen street jazz venue that attracts some of the most famous artists in the genre. Kermit Ruffins, one of New Orleans’ favorites, plays here a lot. This is also the starting point for Trombone Shorty. Some events are ticketed.

This is basically a standing room only place, with most of the patrons on the dance floor. There’s no food, just a well-stocked bar and a delicious cocktail menu.

9. Maison Bourbon

“Dedicated to the Preservation of Jazz,” the sign says, and that’s exactly what they do. Maison Bourbon We specialize in sophisticated live traditional jazz. Located on Bourbon Street, it combines exposed beams, exposed brick walls, and an elegantly sparkling bar. He stands out as one of the authentic jazz establishments along Bourbon Street, offering top-notch musical performances.

The band’s traditional jazz performance continues to flow almost continuously throughout the club with minimal interruptions. Admission is free with a simple requirement of one drink per set. Despite being located on a busy street, the interior has a surprisingly calm atmosphere and plenty of seating, making it the perfect environment to relax while listening to authentic jazz. Additionally, Maison Bourbon strives to improve accessibility, making it a suitable choice for wheelchair users seeking an authentic jazz experience.

10. Jazz Playhouse

of Royal Sonesta New Orleans The Jazz Playhouse is a famous jazz club located in the heart of New Orleans. With dark walls and comfortable furniture, this classy venue features great jazz music, cocktails, and appetizers. Admission is on a first-come, first-served basis, with a minimum of 1 drink per set.

This club offers a comfortable environment, reasonable rates, and even free water refills. An ideal spot to enjoy jazz without a cover charge in the French Quarter. In addition to energetic music, you may also find other entertainment here, such as burlesque shows.