The music brings this up several stars. I popped in on a Sunday with a friend who has been coming here for a while. We sat in the corner and the place filled up with tables being consistently filled throughout. There is also a happy hour, but my drink I ordered during that time didn't get that price and I didn't feel like tracking down someone to ask. The menu has more of a heavier base - pastas and such. We nibbled on some fries since neither of us were too hungry, but patrons around us seemed to enjoy their food. Overall this was an interesting spot to pop into, will probably come back again with my friend to hear some music. It was great. Given that, my experience was closer than 4 than 3. read more

5 stars for the entertainment, service, and ambiance! I mainly visit for the live music, and it never disappoints. I had a reservation and was seated at an excellent table on the first floor upon arrival. The location allowed us to fully enjoy both the view and sound of the musicians, which made for a great experience. The service was outstanding. My waiter was kind, respectful, attentive, and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the evening. As for the food, it was just okay. I started with the fried calamari, which was edible but not particularly memorable. For my entrée, I ordered the shrimp scampi. While it was decent, I probably wouldn't order it again. I prefer a richer butter-and-garlic flavor, but this version seemed to lean more heavily on a wine-based sauce. Overall, the live music, atmosphere, and excellent service keep me coming back. Even though the food isn't the highlight for me, I'll definitely return to enjoy the entertainment. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Shrimp Scampi - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a classic DC experience way more than a hole in a wall generic spot. The DC row house architecture outside of this establishment on U Street is marvelous and the brick interior and decor with the tables and bar is also splendid. Sure, it is small and can feel cramped, but I would strongly recommend a reservation before entering the establishment. The downstairs contains live music, and the music there, the jazz experience is like a baby brass band, I thoroughly enjoyed the quality and musicianship of the band, it was nice. The Ethiopian sisters did a great job as being professional, courteous, responsive, and adaptable servers calm under pressure and astute problem solvers when I had a bill that needed to be adjusted for me and a guest at the table. The bills were adjusted well and the servers were on it! The whisky glazed wings were tasty with delicious, nice texture not tasting rubbery at all like a lot of other places, and that bread pudding gelatin type dessert was way better than anything Blues Alley could come up with. The food here was the best that I have had in the District in quite some time, as the food scene has been severely lacking that even famous comedian DL Hughley referred DC as a hotel and bar city and not a restaurant city on his radio show before out of disappointment. Now, it can be a little dim and dark here and crammed, but the music, service, and food sure make up for it. I think it is a premier must visit spot. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here, as these spots are more of a rare dying breed in the District. We don't always need to have formal, boring white table cloth expensive restaurants. Live music destresses and provides and cozy vibe in the city for entertainment. I noticed the crowd had a bit more energy than they did at Blues Alley in Georgetown which is a bit more stiff and performative these days. It might have the legendary name, but it does not have the heart and soul that Jo Jos. Is Jo Jos perfect no, but it is a fabulous spot for dinner and live music in the DMV that seems authentic and grounded. read more

I recently visited JoJo Restaurant & Bar and overall had a good experience. The drinks were very good and definitely one of the highlights of the visit. The food was okay, not bad, but the cocktails stood out more than the meal itself. My biggest disappointment was the two-hour seating limit at the bar. When we arrived no one was at the bar, when our time was up, there was no one waiting for seats and the bar wasn't crowded at all, but we were still told we had reached our limit and would need to see if a table was available if we wanted to stay longer. The restaurant is known for its atmosphere and live music, which is part of what makes people want to linger. Despite that small inconvenience, the atmosphere was enjoyable, the drinks were good. Overall, I'd come back, but I hope there's a little more flexibility with bar seating when space isn't an issue. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Gin & Tonic - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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We packed in a lot of stops on a Friday before the winter storm. Wanting to claim the title for funnest human, my friend decided to take me to Jojo Restaurant for Jazz music after dinner. Sweet stuff! Okay FUN! Quaint restaurant off of U St, I most definitely had not realized this existed. We had reservations and my date requested the first table so we were front row (more like first table). We walked in, and there was our table with the reserved sign. A trio of musicians played their hearts out. As a lover of music, I appreciated this. Drinks were great! Very attentive workers. Ambiance : it's a D.C. hidden gem with no frills. Very NYC. Come glam, come as you are, you'll fit in! Would recommend! Tip: Don't forget to Tip! No pun intended! Bring cash! read more

What an absolutely wonderful experience. We came here for my boyfriend's birthday dinner. Service was a 10/10. Super accommodating and kind all the way from the door, to the band, to our servers. We had reservations and were sat by the door which typically is totally okay except it was freezing cold this weekend so we were accommodated further into the room for some warmth as soon as a table opened up. I tipped the band and slid a note to the MC which gave the sweetest shoutout to my partner and the band played a happy birthday tune. To our surprise, the two tables next to us were also celebrating birthdays which added to the overall great vibes. The food was very pleasant and the drinks were awesome and served quickly. They gave us a free birthday dessert which happened to be one we were considering ordering !!! Thank you guys for such a beautiful night. read more

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I really enjoy this place not only for the live music and the chill vibes, but the food is so good. The atmosphere and service are nice. This location is small, and many vary with seating capacity for people who want more space. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Pan seared salmon, mashed potatoes and asparagus - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Good times! Went there with my husband to celebrate our anniversary on jazz night. Such a good time! We were super early, but the server got us settled and we got drinks and apps while we waited (no pic, hungry- we had calamari and wings) Dinner was soo great! Hubby got a steak with blue cheese sauce and I got bacon Wrapped shrimp and blackened salmon. Side note: the broccolini on the side was awesome. The band was great, a bit loud so hard for convo, next time we'll sit further back. Will definitely return!! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Ribeye with blue cheese sauce asparagus and mashed potatoes - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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I have been wanting to go to Jojos so when my homegirl suggested it for her birthday I was very excited. We had a five pm resi and when we arrived there was a little line out front. However, right at 5 the doors opened and we were quickly ushered to our seats. The service, food and live music were great! We had a few bottles of wine and I had the seafood pasta without the squid. They even gave the birthday girl a dessert. I will definitely be back for more good times! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Seafood pasta - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I stopped by JoJo's while in town visiting. My friend and I enjoyed our meals and loved the live music. It's a cozy and intimate spot with good food and drinks. The server was friendly and welcoming. read more

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Jojo's Restaurant and Bar was a place I stumbled upon when around the area. It's located on the U street corridor and popular for its live jazz music. Chatting with the bartender, I've discovered that the area has a strong Black influence that draws a lot of rising musicians here. Live music is from Wednesday through Sunday. The musician line up can be found on their website. Reservations are recommended if you want a table close to the band. Seats at the bar do not require reservation. Scan the QR code for the menu. JoJo's is a cool place to hangout and listen to live jazz music. read more

Totally had to get some Jazz in my bones while I'm in DC for a few weeks and I'm super happy to admit that Jojo restaurant and bar made for an awesome first stop. I made a reservation for 6:45pm and I'm happy I did. Although I probably could have managed to snag a seat at the bar without one, the place is teeny tiny and could have easily been filled to the brim. There were a healthy amount of folks in this night and I had a great time sitting incognito and watching them all. Jazz was great! On the melodic side but it scratched the jazz itch I had. Ok now, the food was phenomenal. For dinner I opted for the lamb chops and they were huge and delicious. When the plate came, I immediately knew I had been in Los Angeles too long because we never get anything this size and price back at home. The lamb was beautifully seasoned with delicious potatoes on the side; I scarfed down the whole thing mighty quickly. ALSO! I think the new love of my life is the Apple tartlet. Perfectly sweet with a healthy dose of cinnamon, sugar, and a big dollop of gelato on top. It was everything I needed to top off my already perfect meal. Drinks were great too! I got the jungle inn, a rum based concoction as well as The Ellington. Which was served in a fancy martini glass. Both were amazing. Totally great introduction to the jazz scene in DC at Jojo restaurant and bar! I'm already looking forward to where my next jazz adventure in the city takes me. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - New Zealand Lamb Chops - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Service We managed to snag a last-minute reservation, thankfully, because JoJo's was packed, and without it, we likely would have been waiting much longer for a table. Our server was kind, attentive, and kept things moving smoothly despite the busy atmosphere. Taste: We each had a glass of wine and ordered appetizers, both of which were delicious and well-prepared. The flavors were fresh and balanced, making it easy to enjoy while taking in the live jazz. Ambiance: We had heard so much about JoJo's, especially its jazz music, and were excited to experience it for ourselves. While we were expecting more of a traditional jazz lounge, it's important to note that JoJo's is a full restaurant with live jazz performances. Downstairs seating comes with a $10 per person jazz fee and a two-hour time limit. The space is cozy and a bit tight, so be prepared to overhear (or join in) conversations at neighboring tables. Overall Review: JoJo's delivers on great food, attentive service, and lively jazz. It's a vibrant spot to enjoy an evening out--just keep the seating style and cover charge in mind. We'll definitely be back, especially to check out their happy hour, which we hear is worth the visit. read more

Cannot say enough about JoJo...the music, food. And intimate setting was perfect. Of corse this is Washington DC and as a result parking is always a challenge...we took and Uber. Tje place was packed (loves it elbows rooms only) which added tobthe intimacy. The service, although we did not have a reservation was accommodating. We were able to get seated after a no show. The music and crowd made us feel at home. Of in DC and your schedule permits ...this is a must stop. KEEP IN MIND THE PARKING AND NEES FOR RESERVATION. read more

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Great food, great service, great music. Cover fee of $10 per person for reservations but when we got here we got front row seats immediately. Worth it imo. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

One of my top 5 DC spots for both food and entertainment! Food is excellent. Ambiance is always a chill with a grown & sexy vibe. We've been coming here for over a decade now and this place never disappoints! read more

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Live music was really nice! Ordered the Cajun Pasta with Shrimp and it was really flavorful! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Cajun Shrimp Fettucine - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

As someone who has supported Jojo Restaurant and Bar since its early days, this review is genuinely disappointing for me to write. I remember while they had seating downstairs and definitely you were not charged a $10 entertainment fee and the upstairs area was still very minimal with just a bar that was not used and a few tables and chairs. Over the years, I have continued to patronize by celebrating my birthday and attend new years eve, hosting in the early beginnings hosting an alumni networking event for my college alma mater because I believed in supporting the business. As a meeting and event planner for over 20 years, I have recommended this establishment to friends, colleagues, and visitors looking for a great live jazz experience in DC. Tonight, however, the customer service experience completely changed my perspective. I made reservations to celebrate my sister's birthday for May 16 at 6:30 PM. Due to unexpected construction and parking complications in the area, I ended up running behind while also trying to ensure the birthday guest was safe and accommodated. By the time we secured parking and arrived, it was close to 7:00 PM. I fully understand that arriving late can impact reservations, and I take responsibility for not calling ahead during the confusion. However, what was most disappointing was the complete lack of empathy and professionalism from the hostesses upon arrival. Rather than attempting to assist or even acknowledge the situation with courtesy, the response was dismissive and unapologetic. We were simply told there was "nothing" they could do except place us upstairs when the entire purpose of the evening was to enjoy the downstairs live jazz experience. One hostess even suggested we could "go to the bar, but there are no seats," which honestly felt insulting given the circumstances. What saddened me most was not losing the reservation. It was realizing that after years of supporting this establishment from its beginning stages and encouraging others to do the same, customer loyalty appeared to mean absolutely nothing. Great restaurants are not built on ambiance and music alone. They are built on hospitality, grace under pressure, and how patrons are treated when situations do not go perfectly. Unfortunately, this experience left me questioning whether I will continue supporting or recommending JoJo's in the future. read more

Great good! We both had the lamb chops. Portions were very generous. Wine pours were awesome. Band was awesome. I'd give them a 5 but we made a reservation and then when we got there we were told there were no tables downstairs. We had to sit at the bar. You should save tables and honor reservations! read more

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The salad had a great balsamic vinaigrette dressing on it. It was fantastic. The blue cheese crumbles were nice quality, I got the baby back ribs that were just fall off the bone delicious. My son got the drunken steak with mashed potatoes and spinach and thought it was fabulous. We were out there for a tradeshow, but I highly recommend it read more

Wednesday night live jazz was an absolute VIBE! Tedd Baker Trio played beautifully, and the creole seafood pasta was top notch. Our server was attentive and kindly accommodated all of our requests. Highly recommend this cozy spot!!! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Creole shrimp fettuccine with mushroom Alfredo - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Food was delicious but the live music made the night! I got the Cajun chicken penne pasta and my friend got the shrimp scampi, both were delicious and pasta was cooked perfectly. The live band was great but we sat upstairs and only came down to sit for an awhile after our meal and the place had cleared out a little. It gets packed so you need to make a reservation! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Cajun Chicken Pasta Shrimp Scampi - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Loved the ambiance though small and the tables a little too close together. The band was good despite the bass player showing up late. We arrived at 6 but the band didn't start playing until 6:30 so we feel that we should have had our time extended to enjoy the music for the full time. The food was just ok. The salmon was not seasoned at all - extremely bland. If it wasn't for the sauce on top, it would have been inedible. However it was perfectly cooked. Drinks were great. Bread pudding was too dry but the brownie was delicious and decadent. read more

We really loved stopping into Jojo's last weekend. It was one of the best parts of our weekend trip. We had originally had plans to hit another jazz spot in town but I wasn't thinking we would care for the overall vibe of the show there. I across JoJo's and without knowing for sure who the act would be we made a reservation. We arrived ready for a good show but initially we were in trouble. The gal at the front said that the lower level was full(where the stage was), and was sitting us upstairs. I said we couldn't do that, that we were there for the jazz. after a lucky break that someone left we did get a table downstairs. And the show started. the band was trumpet guitar keys and drums. They were pretty good. Everyone was bouncing off each other and often the keys were the playing the base lines along with keys(he had 2 synthesizers). Later songs a sax and then another sax showed up and played as well. Then a much older fella came in part way to a song and sang some licks as well. Incredible show, solid service and venue. Next time in town we will be back. read more

This spot is an intimate dining experience, and the ambiance is dark and sexy. The greeter at the door is delightful and our server was handling the whole floor. Keep in mind there is an overhead charge per person for live music. I wish the reservation system would've mentioned that so we were prepared! The quartet was awesome and I look forward to hearing some of their music. Definitely the spot for a date night. We came on full stomach so we only tried the mussels appetizer. The sauce was delectable. I only wish that they gave more bread! Bravo jojo ! Definitely get a reservation on google ahead of time, as it is pretty tight inside as far as spacing. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Don't sleep on this place!! We were in town from NY for our 1 yr anniversary and Jojo's did not disappoint. I came for the music and the food blew me away. The calamari was the best I've ever tasted- crunchy and extremely well seasoned. The New Zealand lamb chops with herb toasted potatoes and garlic sautéed spinach was deeeelicioso!!! My husband kept it simple with a Craft Burger and was totally happy. All I can say was the food was "On Point"!! They had a "reserved" sign on the table for us due to our reservation-it was bistro style which we loved since we're so tall and gave us a view over folks sitting lower in order to see the band. The place is intimate with a 40+ age range. There are a sprinkle of 20 somethings here and there but definitely more of a mature vibe which I loved. The music was grown and sexy and did not disappoint. Three piece band Drums, guitar and singer also playing the guitar. The host was a darling and very sweet. The only negative is that the bar is so close to our table that it got a little tight as the night went on. They would definitely benefit from a bigger space. However, Don't pass on Jojo's!! It packs a big punch!! read more

Great ambiance . Loved the jazz vibes. Flavorful food. The bourbon wings & crispy calamari appetizers were a hit. Each dinner entree presentation was visually appealing as well as tasteful. Very attentive staff. My water cup was never empty. Will definitely come again when in the DC area. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Outside of restaurant. - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Excellent food. Service. And top notch jazz! Perfect for the foodie, music lover, and good vibes hunter!

I loved the ambiance of this spot! It was beautiful and dimly lit for an intimate evening. We were going to enjoy the music, which didn't end up lasting very long after we arrived, so that was a bit disappointing. Also I'm not sure if it's advertised online, but if you're looking to sit down at a table, they told us that there was a cover charge and a 2 drink minimum per person. Now I might be able to understand, but we initially spoke with two people who had different prices for the cover which made it seem like maybe they don't charge a cover every night, or that they charge whatever they feel like. Nonetheless, their drink selection is extensive and I personally enjoyed their white wines! read more

Had an AMAZING time at Jojo's!!! From the staff, to the music, to the food! Everyone was so kind and the music was just lovely. I will definitely be back to try the rest of the menu. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Grilled Ribeye and Duke Ellington drink - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Went here for dinner and some live jazz, and the ambiance was great. Very cozy and initiate vibes! I ordered the ribeye with whipped mashed potatoes, and asparagus! The ribeye was a tad bit overdone but still really flavorful with the blue cheese butter sauce. The service was quick and good too! Definitely make a reservation in advance! read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Both the food and service were very good. It was my birthday and once the waiter found out, he brought me tiramisu with a candle and the musician for the night played happy birthday. I had a really beautiful time. read more

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Amazing amazing amazing!!! They accept online reservations, which I highly suggest you do before going. Small place with big business!!! I love to bring my husband here on date nights or special occasions. The live music is the icing on the cake. The food is comfort food, good to your soul type of taste! You will not be disappointed! They also run specials on drinks! read more

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Today, JoJo Restaurant and Bar in DC called at 4:05 PM to tell me they were not going to open today due to a small problem!!! It was my 70th birthday today! My reservation was 6:30 - 9:30 PM tonight!!! They could had contacted me much earlier even yesterday or the day before!!! They gave me a 2.5 hour notice! I guess it could have been worst. Maybe no notice at all!? read more

Place was great. Very cool vibe and staff was very nice. Sol Roots was awesome. New Orleans type funk jazz. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is my go to spot in the city .... Fantastic Food, Great Ambiance, & Great Service. 10/10 read more

Been going to Jojo's since before Covid and I just recently went again in December 2025. Still the same vibe, same great food, and wonderful service!!!! I love Jojo's and will always be a return customer. read more

I went to Jojo's Restaurant and Bar yesterday with an 8:45 PM reservation. Upon arrival, there was some confusion because they couldn't initially find my reservation. That said, the host was very kind and still accommodated us, which I appreciated. I had thought I selected seating downstairs where the live band was, but we were seated upstairs instead. This was a bit disappointing, especially since I'm not from the city and had heard so many great things about this place--I was really looking forward to experiencing the live music. Unfortunately, I didn't get to see the band at all. Upstairs was extremely crowded, with very little room to move around comfortably. After we had already started eating our appetizers and drinking, we were asked to move tables, which is something I've never experienced before and felt a bit disruptive. The wait time for service was also quite long. To be fair, there were only two staff members working the entire upstairs area, and they were clearly doing their best. Because of that, I remained patient and understanding, and I did enjoy the company I was with. The food was good! Overall, while the staff was pleasant and I tried to stay patient, the experience didn't quite live up to the hype for me. I was hoping for a smoother and more memorable visit. read more

I came here to celebrate my fiancé's birthday for dinner last night, 9/8/24. We were seated downstairs in probably one of the worst spots-- the table right at the start of the stairs to go to the upstairs dining. There was always someone behind my fiancé walking up or down the stairs or just standing there and every 2-3 minutes, there was someone walking by bumping my seat-- whether it be someone walking past or servers bringing out food. There is a $10 per person charge added to your bill for live music. The jazz band that was playing was amazing, left a $20 tip for them and I liked that despite how loud it was (this wasn't a huge deal), they played some selections at a lower volume. You are automatically charged 20% gratuity regardless of your party size, and the service reflected that. Usually at these types of places, when gratuity is automatically charged, the servers couldn't care less about the service they actually give because they receive a tip regardless. I was there to celebrate my fiancé's birthday and there was zero acknowledgment or care about this despite noting that in the reservation. Very disappointing service-- I had to ask the server's name (Naku) because she never cared to introduce herself or anything, just took our orders and brought out food and drinks. We were checked on once. The check came to $150 including $23 auto-gratuity, $20 for the cover charges, and the rest for our food/drinks. We ordered two cocktails, my love ordered the lamb chops (he loved this), I ordered the capellini pasta with a side of steamed broccolini which was exactly that-- steamed broccolini, zero seasoning or flavor. I don't eat meat so the capellini was an option that was available and was just alright. I would not recommend this place as like a romantic date night or place to celebrate anything important or special because you will NOT get that type of experience here. Overpriced in my opinion and I hated the service the most for how much you pay to dine here. This is more of a happy hour, after work, grab a quick bite and listen to some good vibes type of place. Not sure if I'll be back, but glad I gave it a try. read more

JoJo Restaurant and Bar - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The music was great, the ambiance was nice. There were many appealing items on the menu. The quality of my food was decent. My dad loved his food. One waiter in particular was so kind and patient and he was very helpful. However, I was disappointed in the way the host interacted with my boyfriend and I. I had modified the number of guests on my reservation and selected 'downstairs' where the band was, about 6 days before our reservation day. I had possibly selected 'downstairs' when I initially booked the reservation, two days before as well. I was not notified at the time I modified res that downstairs was full. When I walked into the restaurant, it was unclear as to whether the person standing there was a host or patron. I gave my name and the host told me my party was seated upstairs. I am assuming the person I interacted with was the host as she asked for my name and lead me to the table. I politely informed the host that I had updated my reservation to be downstairs and asked if my online modification request did not go through. The host replied in a firm tone "No". I definitely modified my reservation so not sure why the host said "no". Then, host proceeded to explain that regardless of this, people would obviously not give up their table downstairs. I did not request that anyone give up their table and the seating issue was not a result of my error. So I was confused by this. When the host lead me to my table she said "it's okay". I don't know why the host said that when I did nothing wrong. My boyfriend informed me that when he came in and told the host that he and his mom were waiting for the rest of the party, the host replied "okay...?". Despite this, everyone arrived and united, and we enjoyed ourselves. In summary, the restaurant was very nice, the band was great but it was my dad's birthday and he wanted to see live jazz while eating on the first floor. I tried to arrange that and I didn't appreciate the dismissive attitude I received. I had left a note in the reservation that it was his birthday. This was not acknowledged until I ordered a desert and said it was for his birthday. If you are willing to overlook service, everything else about the restaurant is very nice and a pleasant jazz experience. read more