“Chops” happens on the third Wednesday of every month and is hosted by a quartet led by drummer Rod Alnord, which will kick off the night with a 90-minute set before opening up the jam.
Be sure to check out the menu that’s loaded with Southern comfort dishes like bacon-wrapped meatloaf, saucy boi ribs and shrimp and grits (there’s even a “Chop of the Month”).
There’s no-cover to watch or partake in Rod Alnord’s “Chops” open jazz jam, every third Wednesday at Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe in Tampa.
And Ella’s isn’t the only Tampa Bay restaurant and bar offering live jazz. While we noted in 2019 that one could possibly see jazz in the Bay area seven days a week, here are some local spots for the jazz lover in your life to check out.
Corner Club Every second Sunday of the month, Corner Club hosts a jazz night with local band In The Pocket. The event, which kicks off at 5 pm, is free of charge and tables are on a first come, first serve basis. We’re told that the band allows guests to jump in and perform at certain times throughout the evening for a truly interactive experience. 1502 E Sligh Ave., Tampa. cornerclubtampa.com
The Hangar Restaurant and Flight Lounge Located on Albert Whitted Airport property in St. Pete, this restaurant and lounge provides a truly novelty dining experience. The windowed lounge and open air patio offer views of small plane take-offs and landings, so you can get the tarmac experience without running to your gate. The aviation themed menu, which covers breakfast, lunch and dinner, includes “In Flight Cocktails,” “Pre Flight” appetizers, desert “Landings” and everything in between. Every Monday night from 7-9 pm there’s a jazz jam hosted by Dwayne White that fills up quickly, so arrive early to snag a seat. Second floor Albert Whitted Airport, 540 1st St. S, St. Petersburg. thehangarstpete.com
Hooch & Hive If you haven’t checked out this place since it was a collegiate sink-or-swim bar, where the heck have you been? On top of a ridiculously good and consistent calendar of live music, this venue has started a jazz brunch on select Sundays that features a well-curated and flavorful menu from chef Lou Collazo. While the menu items do rotate, you can expect to find twists on brunch favorites as well as a unique cocktail list. 1001 W Cass St., Tampa. hoochandhive.com
Independent Bar & Cafe There’s never a shortage of excellent live music at this Seminole Heights darling, and the recurring jazz night on the first Saturday of every month is no exception. Grab a seat on the patio and enjoy the music with one of Indie’s many craft beer offerings. Past jazz night performers include ARConnection, James Suggs, and Ross Michael Strauser and his Trio. 5016 N Florida Ave., Tampa. independentbartampa.com
Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails Intermezzo hosts a jazz night every second Tuesday of the month from 7 p.m.-10 p.m., featuring Daniela Soledade and the Nate Najar Trio. Expect to hear a mix of traditional jazz and samba-infused bossa nova style fare. The event is free of charge but fills up quickly, so arrive early if you want to snag a table. Another bonus of showing up before showtime is enjoying happy hour specials from 5 p.m.-7 p.m. 1111 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. intermezzo.co
The North End Tap House & Kitchen Every Wednesday night, this laidback Gulfport venue showcases a rotating line-up of live jazz. Located inside The Village Courtyard just off of Beach Blvd, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a nice evening with your favorite libation (beer, wine & NA). There’s also an extensive menu of sandwiches, novelty hot dogs and more that aims to please. 2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S, Gulfport. the-north-end-taphouse.square.site
Ruby’s Elixir This long-running nightclub boasts live music every day of the week, and many nights include jazz musicians. Grab a drink and a cigar (if you’re into that sort of thing) and enjoy whatever’s playing on the outdoor patio. Ruby’s never charges a cover fee, so make sure you tip the musicians to show your appreciation. Check it out on Facebook page for a calendar of upcoming performances. 15 3rd St. N, St. Petersburg. @rubyslive on Facebook
This article appears in Mar 2-8, 2023.