Jazz
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The best jazz clubs in D.C.

Home to Duke Ellington, D.C.'s jazz clubs are as legendary as the city itself

Omnia Saed
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Washington, D.C. has a jazz scene that’s as rich as its history. This city has been home to legends like Duke Ellington, and the tradition is still alive and kicking. Step into one of D.C.’s jazz bars, and you’re in for more than just a night of music—you’re diving into a piece of living history. Whether you’re tucked into a cozy corner of a dimly lit club or enjoying the energy of a lively lounge, these spots offer a taste of jazz that’s all about soul, improvisation, and that unmistakable D.C. vibe.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in D.C.

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.

Best jazz clubs in DC

  • Nightlife
  • Nightlife
  • Georgetown
  • price 2 of 4

This iconic jazz supper club, founded in 1965, has hosted major names like Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Bennett, Sarah Vaughan, and Ella Fitzgerald. With world-class blues, jazz acts, and top-notch acoustics, patrons find the ticket prices and drink minimum totally worth the money. Plus, this is the best spot in town to combine your love of seafood gumbo and catfish with smooth and groovy tunes.

  • U Street Corridor
  • price 2 of 4

This two-level brick-walled spot on U Street pulses with the sounds of local and international live jazz and blues acts on Wednesday through Sunday nights. The venue clings to 1920s ambience and flair with carved mahogany furnishings, while the second level features a cozy vibe thanks to a fireplace and lounge seating. It’s a swanky spot without the formal dress code. American fare like burgers, lamb chops, and herb-grilled salmon can be found here, but don’t miss the classic cocktails on their happy hour menu.

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  • Nightlife
  • Clubs
  • Alexandria
  • price 2 of 4

When The Birchmere made its debut back in 1966, it quickly became the go-to hub for bluegrass music. In its more than 50 years, the historic hall has grown into an internationally renowned music destination that draws artists of all calibers and genres (though jazz and blues remain at the forefront). Inside, The Music Hall is a first come, first seated basis, while The Flex Stage is where you’ll find standing audiences during performances. Enjoy a flatbread or club sandwich, then sink into the tunes of regular performers like Boney James or touring acts like Chris Isaak.

4. Georgia Brown's

Since 1993, Georgia Brown’s has been a D.C. staple, serving up Southern charm right in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for a spot that blends incredible food with smooth jazz, this is it. Sundays are all about the Live Jazz Brunch, where you can indulge in a four-course meal for $60, featuring South Carolina Low-Country classics like green tomatoes, banana pudding, and shrimp and grits—all while the music transports you straight to the South. And if you’re craving more, swing by on Wednesday evenings from 7 to 10pm for another round of live music.

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5. Mr. Henry's

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Billing itself as the “home of Roberta Flack,” this Capitol Hill venue—where the famous singer reportedly got her break—hosts a live jazz supper club Wednesdays through Saturdays. Each night varies between jazz jams, Latin grooves, and feature acts indoors while there’s also a cozy and social patio outside if you’re simply passing by. The daily drink specials are worth a look, and the food menu is focused on hearty comforts like crab cakes, Reubens, meaty burgers, and a Sunday fish fry.

  • Nightlife
  • Clubs
  • Bethesda
  • price 3 of 4

Originally an Art Deco theater built in the 1930s, this space went through extensive renovations before reopening in 2013 as a jazz supper club. Still boasting the vintage vibe of the original space, the club is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Breathe in the air of nostalgia and enjoy jerk wings or shrimp and grits as performances begin. Acts range from The Isley Brothers to Deniece Williams, Walter Beasley, and more.

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7. Bossa

Bossa in Adams Morgan might be named after Brazilian Bossa Nova, but this eclectic lounge goes way beyond just one genre. It's a lively spot where good music reigns supreme, and you’re just as likely to catch a jazz group as you are a mix of R&B, blues, and medley that’ll have the crowd on its feet. With Brazilian tapas and a perfectly mixed caipirinha in hand, you can sit back, relax, and let the music take you wherever it wants. At Bossa, it’s all about the vibe—and the vibe is always on point.

  • Silver Spring
  • price 1 of 4

Takoma Station Tavern is an eclectic venue with comedy on Thursdays and plenty of sports nights, but Friday night is where it’s at for jazz performances. There’s a solid rotation of ensembles, quartets, and other feature acts in a venue that’s known for its warm ambience and inviting vibe. This is a casual spot—one that’s not too demanding on the wallet—with a menu that pays tribute to beloved musicians with entrees like the Bob Marley honey jerk chicken sandwich and a Charlie Parker basket of wings.

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