Blue Whale (CLOSED)

What most people don't know about Weller Court, an unassuming concrete mall in Little Tokyo popular for its ramen cafes and Marukai Market, is that it's home to one of the best jazz clubs in the city. Despite its name, the Blue Whale isn't easy to spot, which means those who are there know why they came. If you're looking for a date conversation soundtrack, this isn't your place. The cover price at this romantic but vivacious club is unpretentious and you won't be asked to spend anything beyond the door cover, so music comes first and talkers aren't tolerated. When it comes to jazz in LA, Blue Whale has its finger on the pulse. CD release parties are common here and popular jam session nights bring in emerging talents at reduced admission. The most peculiar thing about the Blue Whale is the challenge it presents to its listeners: entertainment that will keep you there till dawn and uncomfortable, cube-shaped seats that seem to quote Dan Hick's song, “How can I miss you, if you won't go away?”