Everyone knows that in Miami the music scene is run by the DJ. In each and every nightlife venue there’s always a DJ ready to take over the dance floor with his or her sounds, however, as much as the crowd here likes to dance, many times they get pretty fed up with the bleeps and squeaks that comes with the DJ, and prefer to opt for a live band…something a little more down-tempo. That’s why, believe it or not, there are some pretty amazing jazz nights around the city; the types of nights where you can indulge in very organic sounds that won’t blast out your eardrum. We’ve compiled a short list of the top jazz nights in Miami that we think you should definitely check out on your nights off from the DJ.
Stone Groove Tuesdays @ The Vagabond
30 NE 14th Street, Miami, FL 33132
As soon as The Vagabond announced that it would host a jazz/blues night, it was a pretty big hit from the start. Sure the venue wasn’t slammed every Tuesday night, but once it picked up speed and a weekly Tuesday night crowd that knew what to expect and knew exactly which of their friends to bring along, it was a hit. Stone Groove brings in one of the best crowds in Miami, chill, intelligent, and dying to get away from the weekend sounds of the DJ. If you’re looking for a good alternative way to spend a night out on the town, there may not be a better pick in the city when it comes to jazz.
Jazz Jam @ Churchill’s
5501 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami, FL 33137
When you mention Churchill’s to any local in Miami, they know two things: one, it’s a rock-n-roll institution, and two, it hosts one of the longest running jazz nights in the city. Many wouldn’t expect this, but stroll by any Monday night and you’ll see what we’re talking about. Some of the city’s best musicians have played at Churchill’s for their weekly Jazz Jam and continue to do so. If you want a good drink, a low-key atmosphere and some great music that won’t leave your ears ringing, Jazz Jam at Churchill’s is one of the best jazz nights in Miami.
Wednesdays @ Van Dyk Café
846 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach, FL 33139
The Van Dyk Café is always on everyone’s To-Do List when it comes to site-seeing in South Beach. But although they’re mainly known for their décor and their menu, what many may not know is that upstairs there’s a jazz haven waiting. On Wednesday nights they always feature live jazz sounds from the city’s best. So if you happen to be on South Beach on a Wednesday night, this is a great place for a date. Not only will you have a great meal, but you’ll also be in attendance at one of the best jazz nights in Miami.
Wednesdays @ Club 50
485 Brickell Avenue, Miami, FL 33131
When it comes to nightlife and The Viceroy, there’s only one place that comes to mind, Club 50. Home to the best view in Miami (since it is located 50 stories above the entire city), Club 50 is always popping off on weekends, but during the week, more specifically Wednesday nights, it hosts a great jazz night. If you’ve never been to Club 50, we suggest checking out their jazz night first, if you like the vibe then, maybe you’ll be ready for the onslaught of their open-format DJs on the weekend. We prefer the first choice though.
Jazz Wednesdays @ Tobacco Road
626 S. Miami Avenue, Miami, FL 33130
Tobacco Road is the oldest bar in all of Miami, and that’s saying a lot considering how old this damn city is. They host live music events all the time, but on Wednesday nights you’ll find them hosting one of the best jazz events in the city. Whether it’s inside or they take the music outside, you’ll quickly feel at home with the food, drink specials and setup at this old-time venue. Sure it won’t seem like a fancy spot, but with all the glitz and glam in Miami, who needs any more of that?
