Jazz clubs
Melbourne is a city for jazz fans with a range of intimate laneway venues offering music four, five and sometimes seven nights a week. Whether it's bebop, big band, fusion or sultry soloists, you'll be surprised by the diversity of music on offer.
Find out who’s on and where by checking the local papers and the free street press. Alternatively, contact the venues direct. Why not make a night of it and head out to one of the better-known jazz clubs listed below.
Bennetts Lane Jazz Club
Set in a back alleyway, the tiny but eminent Bennetts Lane oozes mystique and has been a jazz aficionado's dream venue for eight years. Get there early to enjoy the best Australian and international guests.
25 Bennetts Lane, (off Little Lonsdale Street), Melbourne
The Night Cat
Filled with a vibrant atmosphere, homely couches and deep red wallpaper, the Night Cat features a mixture of live acid jazz and soft vocals with a pianist. Mix with elegant silhouettes sipping martinis and the young and trendy set.
141 Johnston Street, Fitzroy
Tony Starr's Kitten Club
Kitten Club patrons can enjoy drinking and dining in a tucked away, dimly lit atmosphere. The club is great for socialising and sipping martinis with a jazz beat to tickle your senses. Live bands regularly feature.
267 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
Deco Bar
Deco Bar is a homage to the jazz-age style. Indulge in one of the single malts on offer or light up a cigar from of your choice. Tucked away behind the grand piano in the foyer, it's hard to imagine you're in a five-star hotel.
Level 6, Grand Hyatt Melbourne, 123 Collins Street, Melbourne
The Next Blue
A roomy contemporary jazz and blues bar, the Next Blue features conversation pits, custom pool tables and lounges to relax on. Listen to the swinging sounds of Latin and jazz, admire the modern art and take in the atmosphere.
Crown Entertainment Complex, Southbank
Paris Cat
Hidden in a basement down a laneway off Little Bourke Street, Paris Cat gives off an intimate, laid back vibe in the style of the 1930s French jazz scene.
Goldie Place, Melbourne
Melbourne Zoo
During January and February the Melbourne Zoo has an extremely popular Zoo Twilights season of open-air jazz sessions. Enjoy big-band tunes, jazz, Latin and a variety of other toe-tapping styles.
Elliott Avenue, Parkville