There’s a thriving jazz culture in Cape Town, and a host of venues at which to listen to it. These are a few of our favourites…
Straight No Chaser (formerly The Mahogany Room)
This premier jazz spot is owned and run by three men who know their music: legendary drummer Kesivan Naidoo, trumpeter Lee Thomson and jazz aficionado Lawson Naidoo. Their aim? To create a home for jazz in the Mother City. Note, gigs are on a ‘pay per set’ basis.
Where 87 Station Road, Observatory
Contact +27 76 679 2697, www.facebook.com/straightnochaserclub
Crypt Jazz Restaurant
It may be housed in the crypt below St George’s Catherdral (the oldest in Southern Africa), but this is certainly no dive bar, with local and international acts taking the stage from Tuesday to Saturday. Music is taken very seriously indeed – even the menu is divided into ‘overtures’, ‘signature notes’ and ‘sweet melodies’.
Where 1 Wale Street, CBD
Contact +27 79 683 4658, www.thecryptjazz.com
5 Rooms
If you’re after a memorable meal with your jazz, book a table at 5 Rooms at the beautiful Alphen Boutique Hotel in Constantia. Recently restored and with a menu to sigh for, this Winelands spot hosts a live jazz band (curated by saxophonist Rus Nerwich of The Woodstock Music Academy) from Wednesday through Sunday.
Where Alphen Boutique Hotel, Alphen Drive, Constantia
Contact +27 21 795 6313, www.alphen.co.za
Winchester Mansions Jazz Brunch
The Winchester Mansions Jazz Brunch is legendary. Ease into your Sunday morning with a glass of bubbly and the morning paper, then tuck into possibly the largest breakfast buffet in the city, all the while being serenaded by an ultra-smooth jazz band.
Where Winchester Mansions, 221 Beach Road, Sea Point
Contact +27 21 434 2351, www.winchester.co.za
Pigalle
The Pigalle band plays Monday to Saturday, 7 pm till late, setting the tone for a night of elegant exuberance. Pigalle is one of Cape Town’s longest-running restaurants, its sense of history making it an ideal spot to savour a little old-school swing and jazz.
Where 57A Somerset Road, Green Point
Contact +27 21 421 4848, pigallerestaurants.co.za