Came here for the jazz night around 6pm on a Saturday to celebrate a friends bday. The performance started about 15 min late. Note there's a coverage charge for this jazz section to be $15. I believe the next performance is about $25 around 7:30ish. This spot is pretty vibey and would work well as a date spot. Note: the views we got as a group of 8 is not that great Music was good as well and I noticed several servers went up to sing(not sure if singing is a hiring requirement but they're pretty good). We ordered tequila shots and some cocktails. I noticed the cocktails were pretty strong! They def did not skimp out on their liquor. read more

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I really hate to offer up a negative review based on such a short visit, but I feel like I have no choice (and also that I need to warn people about the vibe and policies at Jazz Bistro). We arrived on time for our reservation and were reminded about the $20 per person cover charge, which was fine by me since it goes directly to the musicians. We were shown to a table that was very close to the stage, which was cool, but the way the table was placed meant that my back was to the stage, which meant I had to keep craning my neck to get a decent view. It was uncomfortable, to say the least. Add to that the extremely loud music and a lack of proper air conditioning and I was just suffering in my seat. But I was trying to be a trooper about it, so I ordered a Manhattan. The drink was pretty decent, but I was just so hot and so uncomfortable that finally I threw up my arms and requested the cheque. Our waiter was very apologetic but we were charged the full cover, which meant that with the drink and tip the bill came out to $77. $77 for a 26 minute experience is a little ludicrous. I can't say I'll ever return. One thing I'll say is that there's a reason jazz clubs usually have round tables. It's so unpleasant to have the band at your back, and I'm shocked that's the layout they're going with. read more

What a fantastic jazz ensemble and experience and boy howdy did I enjoy this place. Seek reservations if you want to go as these can be bar seating only like it was for my group. This place was recommended and I was certainly pleased to visit. Almost every part of my meal was delicious. The part I didn't like I returned. There is a cover charge for the band depending on when you arrive. Early show or late show. They have an ultra late show too. I found one of my new favorite Pinot and for that I am grateful. This place packs up and appreciate the musicians. If I can I will visit before I leave. The bartenders are great, true craftsmen in their art. Highly recommend! read more

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Jazz Bistro is a Toronto gem! I can't speak for the food, but the ambiance and the service were impeccable. Happy Hour is a fun time for a first visit. Get your feet wet, check out the vibe, and you'll be back for the headliners! read more

Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I don't live in this city and I've only been here once. I didn't try the food and I seldom spoke to anyone. Do yourself a favor, and visit. The service was awesome, the decor is comforting, the cocktails are strong and soothing. If you love jazz and their normal nights are anything like this Thursday visit I refuse, you're in for a treat. read more

We loved the share platters, and the live music was wonderful. Service was good. But they served us bread and then charged $7 for it... yikes read more

Nice, intimate bar setting. We paid a $15 cover on a Friday night. The cocktails are strong and delicious. We tried the fries which were good. Service is prompt and very friendly. read more

A beautiful multi-faceted intimate room off Yonge Dundas square on Victoria Street. The venue is the former Top of the Senator. Still showcasing live jazz but also prides itself as a supper club. Attentive staff. A menu for big and small appetites and everyone we sat with truly enjoyed their fare. I added a side order of broccolini to share which i recommend. They have non-alcohol choices. And feature a quality wine selection. Food is very reasonably priced and quality. Drinks priced to support the musicians. No complaints. Go visit and enjoy. read more

My 500th Yelp review has gotta be for one of my absolute favourite places in the whole city, Jazz Bistro. While Toronto boasts a large number of live music venues, with many offering jazz, Jazz Bistro is the city's last remaining serious jazz room - the type of jazz room you can still find in cities like NYC. What do I mean by that? Well, in most venues the performers have to compete with the conversation noise of the crowd. Not here. Jazz Bistro does its best to uphold a 'quiet policy' where guests are politely asked, at the outset of each show, to please keep their conversation discreet or non-existent to allow everyone to listen to and enjoy this wonderful music. And wonderful it is. Jazz Bistro books a stellar variety of Canada's finest musicians and vocalists, as well as international talent, Tuesdays through Saturdays. On weekends they also have sweet late-night jams starting at 11:30pm. Looking for a special date night? This is as about as sexy an atmosphere as you can get. The black and red room, with that incredibly beautiful, one-of-a-kind (literally) black and red Steinway grand piano, the red velvet curtains, the mellow lighting. It's a whole mood. And the food is pretty fabulous too. I know, it probably sounds like I work for this place. I assure you, I don't. I'm just a regular here - and for good reason. It's my happy place - a super fun, mellow and classy spot to truly savour the special art form of jazz. read more

It's Friday night, I'm with my girlfriend - we stop in at Jazz Bistro. There was a cover charge, but I don't remember how much it was. Maybe 5$-10$? It was worth it, because the jazz band created such a chill, James bond type of atmosphere. I felt like I was in a high end bar from the 1960s. I ordered a Meat and Cheese board, bottle of wine, rack of lamb for me, steak for her. We spent maybe 2 hours there, and it was an experience I won't forget. Food was great, music was great, atmosphere was great! read more

Jazz Bistro - Lamb and Steak - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Zoe was so thoughtful and timely! Really enjoyed our time at Jazz Bistro. Great martinis!

Had a beautiful experience here! First time and will definitely not be the last. My friend and I were seated near the band to the right of them. The food (we had the burger and Caesar salad) was great. The waiters were excellent continuing to check in on us and refill our water. The jazz band was excellent, classy, very experienced and so friendly engaging with the crowd. What a beautiful experience. read more

Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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It's a nice place for dinners the atmosphere was great and the music was nice. The food was good . We had a very confused server. We were upstairs in the private area. He almost like he didn't want us to order anything at the end . Maybe he want us to leave so he can get another customer ready read more

I went here with couple of my friends for a birthday celebration. They only take reservations if you are going to have dinner with them too. Their crew is friendly. Live music started at around 9pm by that time we had finished having our dinner. There is a cover charge per person if you'd like to stay longer for the music. We had some other engagement so we had to leave. Ambience is really cool, so will definitely come back for the show. But the food was not that great. We ordered Vegetarian pasta's and they had zero sauce. Just boiled pasta, olive oil and few pieces of veggies. It felt like we just ate boiled noodles :( Hope they have some more options in their menu or may be make some changes to their existing menu by adding more flavours and sauce. read more

My sister recommended this place before we went to the theatre across the street. She'd said she enjoyed it in the past but noted when we sat down the menu was different. There weren't many options but we decided to go with the tomato burrata salad and the gnocchi. The former was okay but the latter I didn't really like. There was some live jazz which was good but loud. The staff was fine. I just wasn't overly impressed and likely wouldn't return. read more

Jazz Bistro - Gnocchi - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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We were a party of two and were automatically charged an 18% gratuity without any prior notice. No one else around us was charged the same, and after checking other reviews, it seems this has happened to other people of color as well. This feels discriminatory and completely unacceptable. I was deeply disappointed and I will never return. read more

Jazz bistro is a long-standing institution and establishment in Toronto with great drinks and sultry jazz beats! They have a great selection of classic and unique cocktails and food to match. I really love the live music here though which goes well into the night. This is definitely a hidden gem in Toronto but not to be missed! read more

Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

This review is just for the food. The staff were super helpful and the jazz was pretty good. Ambience was enjoyable. However, I wouldn't order food from here again. If you're here, I would recommend eating before and then just grabbing a drink. The burger was way too salty. The appetizers were expensive for what they really were (grocery store charcuterie board). read more

I went here for a birthday celebration and the place was really nice. They only take reservations if you're having dinner with them too. The place has a nice ambiance when you walk in and the customer service was terrific! However, the food was mediocre. I've read the reviews so I didn't have high expectations for the food. We ordered the lobster bisque for the appetizer and the Jazz Bistro Burger and Garganelli pasta for the main. I felt the food was a bit overpriced for what it is. The food wasn't that great. The show was exceptional and the place really set the mood for the evening. I would come back for the show and a drink but not for the food. read more

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The young blonde hostess at the front was a bit snooty + rude. Please leave this passive-aggressive attitude in 2017 where it belongs. A pretty face can never mask an ugly heart. The other staff and waiters definitely made up for this. They were friendly, gave good recommendations and attended to our needs well. This place is a gem. Wish there were more spots like this in Toronto. Food: 3.5/5 We ordered multiple dishes. A few appetizers and a main course. We found that the meals either had too much salt or were lacking in salt. Could have used more seasonings and herbs in the dishes to make the meal less bland. Like, if you're doing some kind of Italian/Mediterranian dish, don't be so frugal with the garlic + herbs. Also, the menu is not really accommodating to people with food alergies, vegetarians + vegans. Most restaurants in Toronto have added at least one vegetarian/vegan option to their menu. They should step up and do the same. This has left me seeing this place as a spot for drinks + entertainment rather than dinner. Ambience: 5/5 Beautiful, nostalgic, retro vibes. This restaurant is stunning. It gets very dim during performances and the decor has a classic look and feel. There's pretty chandeliers, cool art and both bars (downstairs + upstairs) look nice as well. They keep the place in good condition. The crowd at Jazz Bistro were mature. I would recommend this place to people who like the classics/classic music, families with older children and to couples that want to have a romantic date. It's classy, intimate and cozy but not to the point were one would feel stiff + formal. Entertainment: 5/5 The performers and entertainers change all the time so can't speak on every every night but when we went, we saw a great show. The singers were very talented and shined in the spotlight. Would definitely go back to see other shows in the future. read more

Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

A good dinner choice for music lovers. Decent food (love the dip for the plates) and great live music. Services are great too and thanks to them my wife had a great birthday night. read more

Jazz Bistro - Half Chicken, Gnocchi - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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I took my 13 year old niece for dinner during summerlicious. I had the vegan soup which was fresh and tasty and my niece had the kale salad, which she said was very good. They did not bring me a spoon for my soup and I had to wait several minutes to get someone's attention to get a spoon. For her entree, my niece had the chicken which she said was excellent. Very well cooked and nice flavour. I had the vegan quinoa with squash and pomegranate. It was fairly bland. They gave nice rolls and butter to start with....a cheese and onion biscuit and a whole wheat bun. Both were excellent. For dessert we both had the vegan peach cobbler that came with dairy free ice cream and we both enjoyed it fully. We were fortunate enough to have some jazz groups from a music school performing. Service was fairly slow, but allowed time to enjoy the music fully. We were on the third floor and it was full. read more

BOTTOM LINE: Definitely a recommend - come for the music (5/5 stars), but there are a few things you should probably know ahead of time (i.e., shushing policy 1/5 stars). Jazz Bistro is a tricky place to review, so get ready for a bunch of caveats. I really wanted to give it a higher rating, but a few things still weigh it down since its opening a few years ago. The live jazz scene in Toronto isn't exactly bustling - you have the tried and true Reservoir Lounge and The Rex, along with new additions like Poetry Jazz Cafe and even Fat City Blues. Jazz Bistro positions itself near the top with the classy decor and their gorgeous Steinway piano. The servers are professional and the bar has a good selection of wines and standard cocktails, though not so much for beer. They clearly have a good working relationship with musicians as evidenced by their full schedule of acts, and really, this is what you're coming for. You definitely won't be disappointed with the music, though your experience may be marred by other issues. So what are these issues? The glaring one is their "shushing" policy and their tactless approach at managing it - IT'S A HUGE TURN-OFF (read: brash and abrasive owner). Judging by my own experiences, and other Yelpers, this has been an ongoing issue and it's remarkable it hasn't changed over the years. In my most recent visit, our table got singled out by the owner (amongst other chatty tables - read: everyone else!) and we were shushed in, quite possibly, the most patronizing tone. No other tables were shushed, and as the night went on, the chatter in the entire place only grew, and with no obvious detriment to the performance (or enjoyment of same). Also, what do you expect your customers to do when you offer a dinner and a performance, and half your patrons are on a date or celebrating a birthday?! Here are a few recommendations so you can get your shit together: 1. If you're gonna shush people, than make it explicit - explain this to your customers either at the door and announce it when a set begins. Don't expect your patrons to know these "unwritten rules". 2. When you do shush people, don't be a dick about it since you never even set that expectation in the first place. 3. And if you're going to shush people, at least do it consistently. It makes no sense to shush one table but not the louder one next to it. Finally, what about the food? Although it's hard to get excited by the menu, I do think the best way to enjoy Jazz Bistro is to go for a dinner and a performance. Not only will you be able to reserve a table by the stage, which is what you want, but it just feels "right" for a night out! That said, I would recommend sticking with the BISTRO BURGER, adding some sides and sharing some appetizers, such as the WILD MUSHROOM FLATBREAD. All the other mains seemed priced a bit high for what you're getting, and are named in a way that sound much more decadent than it really is. read more

I've been known to make crazy mistakes like show up to a party on the wrong day. Yesterday, it sort of happened again. Two of my girlfriends and I planned on a Sunday brunch before seeing a 1:30p show at a theatre in downtown Toronto. Being the only one of the three who actually lives in the city, I chose a hot spot (according to on-line reviews) just across the street from the theatre. I'd never been but had always heard about it. I was excited to go. I showed up a bit early at the restaurant. It was a very cool place with a baby grand piano and a small stage, where a beautiful pianist was warming up for what I found out was to be a small jazz performance during Sunday brunch. I thought to myself that I couldn't have picked a cooler place! I was satisfied with my choice, sat down at a table for 4 and ordered a coffee and enjoyed the mellow tunes from the performer. It wasn't like my 2 girlfriends to be late. But hey, we all have kids and they were coming from out of town, so I sat back, sipped coffee and also did a little people-watching. Then my cell phone rang. Yup. Turns out I was at the wrong restaurant. My girlfriends had been waiting for me for about 10 minutes at the restaurant next door. I ran to the place next door and waded through dozens of people in a line-up that was out the door. I found my two friends at the front of the line and we all looked at each other and said: "Let's get out of here." I brought them over to the place I had ordered my coffee at, which is called The Jazz Bistro. It was one of my better mistakes. Live Jazz, fantastic décor, cool and classy ambience (like Jazz music itself), and delicious brunch? What more can three hungry, theatre-ready gals ask for? The waiter knew. "Mimosa, anyone?" A very smiley and handsome server brought us a bunch appetizer plate of warm, homemade mini-scones and whipped butter. The girls and I sat back, chatted about life and enjoyed what has now become one of my favourite brunch spots in Toronto. At this time of day, the Bistro offers their brunch menu, so naturally, I ordered my favourite brunch plate - Eggs Benedict. I always say that it's the Hollandaise sauce that makes the Benny and well, Jazz Bistro delivered. The sauce was creamy, a perfect yellow and had just the perfect amount of tang and consistency. The cuts of peameal bacon were thick and juicy. I savoured every delicious bite, along with the potato gallette and salad that came with it. It was a very generous portion that held me over until dinnertime later that evening. One of my friends ordered the Baked Omelette (with fine herbs, asperagus and goat cheese). It looked like a gorgeous quiche (see the photo). My other friend ordered the House-cured Peameal bacon and Roasted Chicken on a Kaiser, sans Kaiser. (She saved her daily intake of carbs for the mini-scones) Even without the bun, her brunch looked beautiful and tasty on her plate. The Omelette The Omelette I'm so glad that I made the mistake of going to the "wrong" place. I would never have known about The Jazz Bistro otherwise. I want to go back. www.nothingsfordinner.wordpress,com read more

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I have visited the Jazz Bistro on multiple occasions throughout the year. The musical acts are very well selected and cover a good variety from standards, soul and instrumental performances through to more contemporary styles depending on the day of the week. I particularly enjoy the Young Artists series which showcases the local talent and is a 'pay what you can' system which all goes towards these talented individuals. There is a cover charge most evenings which varies by the performers. While I think this is reasonable, it's worth noting just so you're aware before you get there! It's also definitely worth booking in advance as often they have limited availability if you just walk in. Your Jazz Bistro experience starts when you enter the door and one of the friendly managers will help you get seated, either on the main floor or second floor mezzanine which looks down onto the stage. The server will show up very quickly (and quietly most importantly if a performance is under-way!) and are more than competent -- it is clear they are very familiar with the menu offerings. The bar staff especially are highly skilled and knowledgeable. I enjoy the seasonal cocktail list but they'll happily whip you up an expertly-mixed classic drink as well. On the third floor is a separate bar and adjoining outdoor patio. While the weather is getting a little bit chilly lately, it's still worth going up there for the unique atmosphere... and drink specials from 5-7 most evenings! read more

Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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An excellent date night spot. Went there not knowing who was performing, and ended being there for a CD release party. The stage is in the center of the room and all the tables surround it. If you want the best seats, ask to be seated on the right hand side of the stage. We were right next to the band! Ambience is amazing. Dim lights, candles, low hushed talking. The menu is quite extensive as is the wine list. Had the fish stew wish was perfect, basa, shrimp and scallops in a tomato sauce with grilled crostini. The salmon steak with potatoes and green beans was also really yummy, salmon cooked perfectly. The staff is great, extremely attentive and professional. Apps start at 10$ Entrees start at 17$ Drinks range from 7-14$ for a glass of wine. All in all a great place. Will definitely return read more

Jazz Bistro - View from the right hand seats - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Really loved the atmosphere at the jazz bistro. Came here for dinner with my family before we saw "come from away". Menu has a great selection. I had the spicy spaghettini and was super happy with it. I'm a huge garlic fan and it was quite garlicky (so if you love garlic, highly recommend). The pasta was also spicy (hence spicy spaghettini) but it wasn't overally spicy! Highly recommend! read more

Jazz Bistro - Spicy spaghettini - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

We had drinks here last Friday. So impressed with the music and service we reserved dinner here last night. We arrived at 1930 and our table was ready as promised. Quick efficient service gave us a drink and our order placed before the music ( the fabulous Ault Sisters) started at 2000. The place was packed. The food was first rate. My Cioppino was the best I've had, with the seafood perfectly done and the soup a piquant delight. The sound, while appropriately present, was not so loud as to be uncomfortable. It was also very well done. Service continued to be amazing through the evening. Two sets and we were off at 2200. A thoroughly enjoyable evening. read more

Jazz Bistro - The Ault Sisters at Jazz Bistro - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

A group of 5 of us went to the Jazz Bistro last night. I had made reservations about 1.5 weeks ahead so we got the table closest to the stage. It is a pretty small place and I felt like we were a bit too close, so next time we're going to sit back a bit further. We were pleasantly surprised that the volume was just right and didn't blast our ears even though we were so close. The sound system was excellent, too. I was a little disappointed with the food; first of all half the things on the menu (literally) were not available because apparently they are in the process of switching over to their spring menu, so it took a little while to figure out what we were ordering. They will no longer be serving classic bistro pots because apparently they didn't sell well. The steak was a little tough and the clam chowder ($18) with side of boxed spring mix was rather bland and not filling. Decor: 5/5 - dark coloured walls and tables with dim lighting, like a speakeasy should be Food: 3.5/5 - not bad overall but could definitely improve Service: 4.5/5 - our server was the embodiment of service, but our main dishes took a long time to come out (even though the place was half full) but it was ok since we were enjoying the performance. Show: 5+ - Mr. George Evans, what an amazing guy! The band was fantastic, too. Parking: we parked at Ryerson University (300 Victoria St) for $10 flat for indoor parking, not bad for the downtown core and only a 2 minute walk away. After 6pm on Saturdays Ryerson is only $8 flat: http://www.ryerson.ca/ubs/parking/rates/index.html. There is an outdoor 24-hour VINCI Park next door to the Jazz Bistro, their weekend evening parking rate is $15. Jazz Bistro also has a terrace level which was closed for the season, but looks great from the photos. Live music really is something that is under-appreciated in this digital age. I would encourage everyone to get out there and interactive with some of our awesome local performers, you'll be glad you did! At $15/person for a live show by extremely talented artists who were singing long before auto-tune was invented you can bet that we will DEFINITELY be going back! read more

Jazz Bistro - Fois gras appetizer - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Went here for Summerlicious. Big mistake. It usually takes a bad experience for me to post. The overall bad experience I had all stemmed from one waitstaff. The food was meh. Had the bone marrow appy, Arctic char entree followed by the strawberry cheesecake profiterole. The char was not bad but the bone marrow was bland, and the profiterole was dry like cardboard plus the cheesecake filling tasted like it was strawberry flavoured philly cream cheese! My main beef: Ordered a $14 cocktail that did not taste like there was any alcohol in it at all. Mentioned this to the waitress who got SO defensive & dismissive. If a customer complains, just get them a replacement drink or comp the drink! She was just so rude and did not take my comments into consideration. AND to top it off - they auto-charged an 18% gratuity on all Summerlicious meals. WTF!!! That meal did not deserve any tip. I do not reco this place at all. Over priced and rude staff (if only 1). Only went there bc it was close to the theatre/show. read more

First time here. The greeter in front of the restaurant was very friendly and polite. So we gave it a try. Ambiance obviously lives up to its name of a Jazz theme. We came at lunch so it was quiet and no band playing-but nights there is a live band. Service is very good. The food portions was decent but definitely not big. The food quality was good. Chicken was cooked and not over cooked-tasty and a little bit of spice gave it a nice taste. The crab cake was not oily and tastes good. Will try it out next time with the live band. read more

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Went to celebrate wife's birthday. We both love live jazz and good food. Reservation set and asked for something with a candle for desert course. Called to remind them 30 minutes before arrival. Was not busy, perhaps 30% full. They forgot the birthday surprise. Drinks VERY small. $15. Food really delicious. Beautiful presentation but not served hot and only 3 of us to serve. Considering the price including $15 cover for the jazz, it was expensive. So disappointing for the price. Perhaps problems due to post-covid reset. Don't think I would try them again. read more

So Swanky and nicely light... I came here for my girlfriend's work Christmas party and so while all the hor'doervers (snacky french things) were free as was the beer, I will still try to give Jazz Bistro a rating. Ambiance: 3/5 While not my usual cup of tea ( think more Guinness and Irish people), this place was quite nice, with piano music playing and alot of space for the myriad academic shmoozing, Food 2.7/5: The little coconut shrimps were good, but the meat ball and tomoate skewers were hard to eat and the little rice paper veggie wraps were very oddly spiced. Music 3.5/5: Even though this isn't my kind of music, it was nice to see a working Jazz musician paid to perform. I would go back for a pint and an appetizer just to see if they do better food for paying customers. read more

A happy accident! I had found a place on yelp for brunch, but as I waited inside the narrow and seemingly non-air-conditioned space, with my wife on the sidewalk in a wheelchair, I grew concerned about her mobility. When I went outside and told her this, she said, "What about this place next door?" This was the Jazz Bistro. We easily slid in with the wheelchair and right to a table stage side. Alas, no pianist for brunch! The food and service was very good, and the ambience very relaxing. I recommend this as a great place to check out when in Toronto. read more

Visiting Toronto from SF Bay Area and felt like we needed something different for dinner last night. Searched for "live music supper club" and discovered Jazz Bistro right around the corner from Eaton Center Marriott. Figured it must be our destiny and booked. Sure glad I did. This place is wonderful from top to bottom. First off their website is a Ten; explicitly tells you everything you could possibly want to know. Detailed and accurate menu, show times and talent, cover charge amounts. The venue is brilliant. You can dine downstairs very close to the stage or upstairs in a loft area that is open to the stage for sound and also features two large screen TVs showing the stage. Clever. I understand they also have a nice rooftop lounge but did not check that out. Service personnel all seemed quite professional. Kitchen folks must know what they're doing too. We were very happy with our meal and would have been so even without the wonderful live music emanating from a stage no more than 6 feet away. We ordered 5 different food items and they were all excellent! Can't say anything negative about the place but will point out two things for their informational value. First the food menu offerings are somewhat limited in number. Not horribly limited, mind you, but also not voluminous So if you or your dining partner are picky eaters be sure to check out the menu on the Jazz Bistro website, not the Open Table menu, it's inaccurate. Second the Wine List is pretty weak in terms of choices, so if you are a wine snob you won't be happy. I arrived thinking I would order a bottle of Champagne but there were none on the list. The only sparkler at all was an Italian Prosecco which means it's Charmont bulk process and I try to avoid that stuff. So we ordered a bottle of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc which was quite good and at $60 a bargain IMHO. And btw, our very helpful waiter even provided each of us a taste of the wine before we ordered a full bottle. Just one more example of a high class operation! read more

Went there at 8 today 20 jan 2017 Ambiance :10/10 Jazz music10/10 excellent piano player and singer (owner) Barman (jef) excellent Hostess 10/10 excellent Food : tasteless (ordered the fish dishes ) The chef should be replaced immediately . In my humble opinion the inly problem is the food . read more

I visited the Jazz Bistro on its opening night featuring a live jazz vocalist. Expecting some opening-night hiccups, I was relatively sympathetic of the servers who were unfamiliar with the menu, dropping plates and glasses. Hopefully these kinks work themselves out soon. Having made reservations a week prior, we were seated near the stage, with a great view. The sound in the room was good, excellent balance of voice to instrumental and the amplification sounded very natural. The atmosphere is on the cozy side, especially near the stage, as tables are stuck close together to maximize the number of patrons with good views. The menu is quite large, with a full lunch menu, and the dinner menu of appetizers, salads, pastas and entrees ranging from chicken, duck, beef, lamb, and fish. There were some interesting flavours, but my lamb was dry and surprisingly small for the price. The service was attentive but slightly inexperienced, as evidenced by all of the servers waiting until the end of the last song to start bringing out the bills. This resulted in our party sitting and waiting for 20 minutes after the show, just waiting to pay. The phone service was worse; each time I called to inquire about the show and making reservations, the staff was in a huge rush to get me off the phone, which put a bad taste in my mouth even before I stepped into the restaurant. I was in for a big shock when I received my bill, as the tickets for the show had been added to my bill. I'm accustomed to paying the cover at the door, and paying for the dinner as a separate bill, so I was extremely displeased to have tax and tip added to the cost of the ticket. Apparently, they have a coat check downstairs, but I'm afraid to use it, in case some mysterious amount shows up on my food bill. read more

I recently visited Jazz Bistro for a New Years party during a short trip to Toronto. I booked sight unseen, based largely on the reviews and description of the party; a 4-course meal and six hours of jazz for $150. The experience was good for the most part, save some issues with the seating. The Bistro is set up like a wide, shallow horseshoe of dining and bar space around a central performance stage. It has two levels; a main floor, where the entrance and performance stage are located, and a second floor that closely mirrors the first floor, save a balcony cut-out over the stage area. The main floor is where the bulk of the action happens; the stage performance, the dancing (although there isn't a true dance floor), and soft lighting. The second floor is more remote, dimly lit, and located up an external stairway; it has about eight tables surrounding a balcony offering narrow birds eye views (the top of the performer's heads, 2-3 patron tables, and none of the dancing), and another approximately 20 tables in cozy corners with no view of the stage. The second floor would have been fine for a larger group where people are more interested in chatting over a meal with music in the background, than for individuals wanting to primarily see the band and experience the scene. Upon arrival my friend and I were ushered to a second floor table, despite seating being available on the first floor. There were also no party favors at the table, as there were on the first floor. I brought my concerns about the remoteness of the location to manager Ira, (who is unfortunately quite handsome and pleasant, which made it hard to complain) and was told that the second floor views were just as good, and in many ways preferable to those on the first floor. Unconvinced after 90 minutes, I persisted, and got moved to the main floor, where there was still available seating right next to the stage. For the first time that night I felt part of the party; able to see the full band and the other patrons. The seating issue was the sole low point of the night. The food was delicious. The meal started with a selection of 3 breads (which we had to request be heated) as well as a delicate mushroom consomme. I then had a Mahi tuna appetizer, expertly prepared, and a lamb Wellington entree. Dessert was a selection of 5 chocolates, including an ice cream and white chocolate bark. My friend had the steak and lemon tart. The beverage list included a number of Canadian cocktails, and the pours were adequate. The music was top notch. The first two hours featured a jazz pianist playing at an ornate grand,golden piano, The main act, Soul Soup, came onstage at approximately 10:30, and played a two hour set of rocking mashups of American Jazz, R&B, and Soul favorites. Patrons took to the floor during the main act, and danced with abandon. Champagne flutes were passed out just before midnight, and we toasted in the new year to a rollicking version of Auld Lang Syne. All in all, it was a relaxed and jovial atmosphere. I would recommend Jazz Bistro to anyone visiting Toronto, provided that you aren't unwittingly confined to the second floor after paying full price. read more

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Dorothy Stone and Ori Dagan were playing at Jazz Bistro last Sunday, so my parents and I went there to watch them. They are AMAZING! I am not big on jazz but the music and performance were just awesome! I totally fell in love with Ori Dagan, he is so talented and handsome :-) Now about Jazz Bistro. The place is really nice but the tables are very close and you can hear all conversations going around you. I just hate when people talk during the performance, it is such a disrespect to musicians... Food -wise, I had scallops with risotto and my parents had halibut and steak. The food was good, though my risotto was a bit mushy. Wine selection could be better - we had a hard time picking decent red wine and didn't like our choice anyway. read more

Last night we planned a surprise evening for my daughter's' birthday. All eight of us walked away with such content. The servers appreciated us, the appetizers and entrees were fresh and mouth watering, (four vegetarians among us!!), and It was so exciting to hear Toronto's great jazz performers again!! Thanks Ted and your entire team for such a memorable evening. read more