Jazz clubs that showcase Toronto’s best musicians
Grab a pint, pull up a seat and get ready to have your mind blown. These seven Toronto jazz clubs bring sexy back, spanning all eras of the genre. They’re perfect whether you’re looking for a good introduction to jazz or a new place to hang out.
Old Mill Toronto
21 Old Mill Rd, Etobicoke ON M8X 1G5Tucked away inside the Old Mill in Etobicoke, this cozy space is all jazz every week, all year round with some of the city’s best musicians headlining the shows. The baby grand piano is the main feature, challenging Toronto’s premier artists to put their own spin on the jazz standards. The highlight is the Jazz Party, where a performer plays host to anyone who wants to sit in with the band.
Jazz Bistro
251 Victoria St, Toronto ON M5B 1T8This is one of the newest players on the scene, having started in 2011 on Victoria Street. Right away, you’ll notice its quiet sophistication, from the red and black decor to the elegant chandeliers. But most noticeable of all is the red Steinway piano, nicknamed Red Pops. Plenty of talented musicians have tickled its ivories and the club extends an open invitation to all Toronto pianists to drop by and check it out.
The Rex Jazz & Blues Bar
194 Queen St W, Toronto ON M5V 1Z1This Queen West jazz club has managed to hold both critical and commercial appeal, with tourists and locals alike wandering in to catch a great show. There’s music here every night of the week plus weekend matinees. Along with local jazz bands, you might happen upon CD releases, university ensembles and international bands. And if you plan your visit right, you may just catch some world-class A-list talent.
Reservoir Lounge
44 Wellington St E, Toronto ON M5E 1C7There’s jazz, and then there’s jazz done right. At this Wellington East club, which is where Michael Bublé got his start, you can hear downright awesome jazz music five nights of the week. Styles span all eras of jazz but one thing’s for sure: there’ll always be a show worth hearing. You can sit back and groove or take to the floor and dance but no matter what night you come, dress in style to befit the swank mood.
Grossman's Tavern
377 Spadina Ave, Toronto ON M5T 2G3They promise “never a cover” for live music and have always been true to their word for as long as they’ve been around. They’re open every day of the week with music starting as early as 4:30 p. m., giving you the chance to hear homegrown talent and seasoned veterans ply their trade. Plus, you can get on stage yourself during open jam nights and see how you stack up against the pros.
Pilot Tavern
22 Cumberland St, Toronto ON M4W 1J5Since opening in 1944, the Pilot has been one of Toronto’s classic hangouts where you can relax on either the main floor or rooftop patio (weather permitting), with jazz taking main stage in the second floor lounge. Soak in the historic surroundings – Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Dylan and Robbie Robertson have all hung out here – while you listen to jazz combos every Saturday afternoon. The music starts at 3:30 p. m. and takes you well into dinner.
