Chars LIVE

Chars 3.0 Update Fam: The OGs of Char's knew something was up. The top 5 bands are absent, the fav staff is gone, & the internet updates on the website/social media are hit 'n miss. We know the place is up for sale then sold, but we still want a place predictable in quality, service and experience. I'll be around to check on progress, but its tough to promote the locale when this much changed. The final night before the close with Von Willis was awesome and reminded me of the old throwback days. Great to see everyone one last time. If this place reopens, I'll put up a 4th revision review ~PT3 ______________________ ***Char's Live [2.0] is much improved. (The Good) The band, dj & singers are always on point. Hopefully Lady Jae returns one day. The drinks are cheaper than average, seating is comfortable & outdoor is heated when needed. This is a predominantly 70's-80's baby group but some young folks sprinkled in. The catering outside is solid & fairly priced. The renovations were nice & appreciated. People in general are friendly & engaging with the staff frankly the best part. Reservations are set online only & wisest 2-3 days in advance with a table $ ordering minimum. Same goes for the side vip rooms. The door charge MAY seem steep, but it includes 2 drinks & band cover. This is intentional to filter out bodies there for the wrong reasons. (The Bad) The dance floor is the same size as before so make sure you are OK with people touching you. The AC is MUCH improved. Expect to sweat your edges out still if you are a High EFFORT dancer. They reduced the number of bar stools noticeably so the bar area is not for reclining but ordering. There is a sliding stall door in the men's restroom but only fits 2 at a time so could be awkward if you are a lineman. The line outside is a strugggggle if you get caught up in it, prep your heart for a 1 hr wait IF THERE is a premier band. Normal groups, no wait. If your friends show up after, they can't cut or get it after you do. Limited non-reservation tables so be there early if you want a seat. Vip room includes a speaker, but not within eyeshot of love performing groups. A TV with livestream however was added but isn't used much. ***The punchline: Bang for your buck, this place is great & I'll be back. Cya tonight. -Pt3

Was a great evening. We drove around for an hour looking for a place just like this. My wife Charmaine and I had a fun evening. The band was spectacular. The room has perfect layout. Beautiful people everywhere! Loved the Golden lounge. We will be back!

Super impressed with this place. I expected an older crowd, but it was very diverse. The band and singer were fantastic. And the free drink tickets with the cover were a great idea. Me and my friend had a great time as two 27 y/o’s.

Have absolutely loved coming in here for many years. The absolute best blues bar, and overall live music in Phoenix. But I went last evening and found out now they charged $25 entry fee if you would like to set it a table even if it’s not busy. Two of my party had to use the restroom which they were nice enough to let them do as I waited by the front door. I watched six other people find out the entry fee and turn around and leave. Hopefully they make it a bit more reasonable soon it has always had a cover and should. But it was like 10 or 15 bucks. I know they remodeled but you pay extra to sit on the new furniture anyway.

If I could leave 0 stars I would. SO very disappointed in the new renovated Chars! $20 to get in $25 more to sit at a table. Back in the day...5 years ago.... this place was the bomb! They took out the majority of the seating to make a stage for the band. This was mine and my husband's favorite place to listen to great jazz and dance. Unfortunately we will never go back.

I had heard many of times that this place was good. That was back in the days when it was good. This place is garbage. It is totally outdated. The good singers that used to sing their don't sing there anymore. The good bands that used to play their don't play there anymore. The employees drama spills out onto the customers what should never happen they need to keep their business to themselves. What kind of management is going on here? This seems like one of those you need me I don't need you places. The furniture looks like an old episode of Good times which is already back in the days. There is no food so it's hard to write it on food some of the food vendors that come in there are good and some are just okay. Invite your friends or not they are probably not going come. Don't even waste your time there is nothing to get excited about here at all.

Went for reggae concert security guard was our first impression he was friendly helpful and kind. I don’t drink much we went to the bar I ordered a gin drink told the female bartender surprise me. The drink was a cocktail masterpieces I was so happy with the services and employees. The venue is small put cozy and was perfect for the sciatic of the reggae jams

Amazing live music. Amazing service. This is the perfect date night spot. Book your table in advance to get the best experience. This is a local gem where you can experience amazing live music talent and music. This is a great spot to celebrate or a birthday or bachelorette party. The drinks are great and the food trucks have exceptional food. This is a Phoenix local spot that everybody should go to.

One of Phoenix's live music landmarks - 35 years in business. The timeline has improved the lounge inside/out as a few decades ago it was a cramped, dark dive-in for music, mini concerts & dancing on the old school parquet dance floor. Present day, the venue is more appealing with an interior overhaul offering more space, a bigger dance floor & an improved stage/sound system. The added-on room that dubs as the VIP Lounge is a small nook with a sofa, a couple of chairs & end tables. The mix of bar & pub-style tables/chairs offer seating for about 50 people. Some tables can be reserved if you contact them earlier in the day. We came on a Thursday night to celebrate a family member's birthday & The Optimystics were playing - a local cover band. Aside from 2 employees at the door, there was only one Bartender working which kept the service running slow. No food is offered except whatever Food Truck or Vendor is out front. Free parking is located next to & behind the building. If it's a special event, Valet is $10-$20. I don't think it's worth it as street parking is a viable & safe option. Be prepared that the door cover may change from calling a few hours before arriving as opposed to when you arrive. We were told via telephone it was a $5 cover & then when we showed up it was $7. Check out their minimal website for "updated" information. Closed on Mondays.

I have fun here! The atmosphere reminds me of a crowded Juke Joint down south. The music is everything!!!!! The live music is fun and the DJ is excellent. He will definitely play your jam. I go here alone and dance the night away and often meet new friends. I've never tried the food truck, but I've heard good reviews. This is my favorite place to hear live music, and dance. In addition it's pretty easy to meet people. Everyone is friendly with the same goal of having fun.

The Goddess and I found this little gem looking for live music. We found out a local blues artist was playing and jumped on it. First, this place was easy to find off off 7th near Indian School Rd. It was a short easy drive from the Arts District. Parking was easy. While the lot is small, there are plenty of places close by to park. It's well lit. It's a dark, sexy atmosphere with close cocktail tables the sound is great out if this vintage establishment. There is a cozy lounge with sofa and casual seating if you want to chat with the great music playing in the background. The bar and staff were very friendly. They have a modest selection of quality pours, and a respectable selection of beer including a couple tap options. Great find and definitely a return establishment for us. We look forward to bringing out of town guest to this great spot! The only reason it didn't get 5-stars in because of the intimate venue space, getting from seat to bathrooms is a challenge. You also have (2) tabs if you order from bar and the wait staff. If you know ahead of time, it makes it bearable.

Classic ambiance, great music and drinks. This spot seems to attract a warm and thoughtful but fun crowd.

Chars is TRIPPING! $20 GA cover for a seat at the bar or standing. $25pp for a table PLUS $25pp in drink spend so it's $50pp to sit at a table. There were tables available that were not reserved but we were told we could sit there but if someone wanted to reserve it we would have to get up. So disappointing

Came on a Saturday because it said open, money was wasted getting an Uber! We pull up and they're closed. Terrible advertising. Never again.

Small venue but good atmosphere good vibe no drama I loved the pizza truck outside. Some bartenders are definitely better than others. Not a lot of parking so utilize street parking.

Not the Chars I knew and loved. They now charge an entry fee. No dancing and hardly any standing room due to reserved tables and VIP section.

Went for the first time last Friday for a date night with my husband and we had a blast! Great music, drinks are reasonably priced, staff is friendly. Love the R&B/soul vibes. Soooo much better than going to Scottsdale clubs!

I was visiting from California on my way to the Grand Canyon and wanted to see what the locals do on Friday nights. Mr. wanted to check out some live music so we found this place with a Google search. Upon arrival we noticed a food truck selling BBQ which smelled delicious. Several patrons seemed to be enjoying the food inside the venue. The venue was packed for a small venue and continued to fill up over the course of the night. The dj played good music between the live music sets. No one seemed bored here. Try this place if you're in the area.

My husband and I wanted to find live jazz and blues for our date last night and we stumbled upon Chars Live. Big Pete Pearson was going to be playing and, while we are new to the area and are still learning the music scene, I read great things about him. We arrived 30 minutes early with the fear of not getting a table, and ended up being the first ones in the door! Most of the crowd trickled in after 7:30, with the start time being at 7. The drink selection wasn't anything outstanding, but they had some good options! I enjoy pours of tequila or bourbon and had multiple good options. Keep in mind that if you start a tab at the bar and then sit at a table, you will also need to start a second tab with the waitstaff that comes to your table. The establishment consisted of an intimate lounge room, a wall covered in records, and high top tables in front of the dance floor. As the music started, my daddy issues arose from within me with glee as it took me back to my old BB King cd from childhood. The backup musicians were impressive and it was the first night the drummer had played with them! They played for about 30 minutes before welcoming Big Pete Pearson onto the stage. His voice had that perfect, traditional blues rumble to it and his look completed his vibe perfectly. We will definitely be returning to Chars Live, and I am intrigued to learn about the other musicians they host!

Well all great things don't last they say... We LOVED Chars when we started going a few years back and will still pop in- it did close down and go thru a big remodel. I do not know the details but I do know they did a good job. Chars still has some of it's charm but has changed a lot- moved the stage which made for a lot more space. There was a $10 cover- we enjoyed the guy opening so much, I'm happy we went in, but the band after was good but somewhat boring. Hopefully they get some good performers and can still be the local blues watering hole for those of us who truly enjoy it,

Love this place. My girlfriend and I come every now and then when we're bar hopping on Melrose. They have live music and it's a cool spot. Performers are always awesome. People let loose and dance too. Dimly lit, cool lounge type vibe. I usually get a martini and it's always on point. Definitely recommend coming here for date night.

Best live band in Az and good drinks just entirely tooooo small, literally no space but I heard they are remodeling, excited to see the updates

Nice vibe, great music. I didn't stay long but I enjoyed the music and the energy inside. The band was great

Love this place. Live music everyday and it's typically classic cool vibes. Sometimes this place makes me feel like I was born in the wrong era! There's usually a small cover charge but worth it. On the busier days there's food trucks and vendors in the front! Highly recommend for a night out

Great live bands! Soul Power band on Fridays is AMAZING!!! Drinks are well priced. Street parking can be a bit "adventurous" & there's REALLY limited seating so get there early or wear your comfy shoes & bring positive vibes with you!

Four of us arrived around 8 pm on Sat October 1. We drove 40 minutes from Surprise. Each paid $10 cover at the door. Got inside and there was a Reserved sign on every table. I asked if we had called could we have reserved a table and was told "no" but we could sit at the table till the party arrived. If no one "showed up" by 9:30, we could stay there. At 9:40 the "mystery party" showed up and we were booted from our table. In the meantime, we were ignored by the server who ultimately told me she wouldn't wait on us as we weren't the "reserved party"! So had I called I would not have been able to book a table, yet all the tables were reserved. Needless to say, we WONT be going back and no I DON'T recommend supporting this business. Shady.

I can this place being a good time if you arrive early. Small place with minimum seating. Music was great, but was so pack I count get close to the bar. Stayed less than an hour and left.

Complete DISAPPOINTMENT! 10.00 cover charge to enter and stand. The only way you will get to sit is if you reserve a table ($25.00 per chair at a table.) We were able to sit on the patio (mind you it is the middle of December and it was rather chili outside.) Asked the Security guard to turn on the heater. "It is out of propane"! Are you kidding?! Don't you think that prior to opening for the evening this would of been one of the responsibilities of one of the employees to check to make sure that all of your guests are comfortable. Obviously not. Inconsistent making of drinks. Ordered same drink twice, 1st time served in a Rocks glass, second time served in a High Ball glass. Will not be back nor recommend to anyone.

My number one issue with many clubs is the sound level. There is no reason for either DJs or live bands to be so loud that you can't have any conversation and worse...hearing damage. The sound level at Chars is at levels that damage your ears. Please take some ear plugs with you to protect yourself and don't be afraid to say something to management. I will not return to Chars. It's a health issue.

Loved the vibes and overall feeling of this place. During a trip to visit the Grand Canyon for the weekend, my boyfriend and I had a night to enjoy some of what Phoenix had to offer. We stumbled across this gem and was pleasantly surprised at how fun it was! The night we went there was live music and singer who was AMAZING. I wish I could remember her name because she made our night. We had a couple of drinks which were reasonably priced. Will visit again if ever in town.

I love live bands and this place was a hidden gem. Had breakfast at one of the local spots near my hotel and we asked where we could find some music and people a little older in then what we've been experiencing. They told us about this place. Small quaint place that is a great atmosphere and the music was on point!! Highly recommend coming here if you're in the Phoenix area to hear some live music!!!

We came for jazz and the band played for a little bit and then a DJ took over and played old school hip hop for most of the night. If you're looking for a jazz club, this ain't really it. Strange crowd too. Would not return.

This was amazing! Loved the atmosphere, music, good drinks! One suggestion... RESERVE A TABLE! By 9am they were at capacity!

I've been going to Chars for over 20 years and after the purchase I went to the grand opening night and was quite disappointed in the attempt to change it to a hipster bar. I am so glad I gave it another chance and brought family from out of town to enjoy Tuena and Soul Power. We were so pleased with the improvements made from the grand opening, the drink prices were lowered, the sound equipment was improved and the old Chars vibe was in the building again. We will add it back in to our regular rotation of entertainment again. I commend the new owners for listening to the returning patrons and ditching their original efforts on fixing something that wasn't broken.

This place was tiny, packed, no seating was available for $10 to get in. The drinks were very expensive but everybody inside was really nice. Also there was a cover band playing and they were really good.

I'd actually say 3.5 but I round up NEVER down...lol but it's little and for a much older crowd...(much cuz I'm not ready to be a grown up)...lol the drinks are inexpensive and there is always a live band! Seeing that its so small is always seems "packed"! It's chill and drama FREE all are welcome regardless of color or creed!

Have to take a star away because this spot is too small for the number of folk that come here and parking sucks. Small lot n good luck getting out of it. I told my brother to find street parking for his camero. Guy outside selling movies out his trunk so I knew we were heading towards a cool spot. $7 cover for the band which isn't bad. I'm just not used to paying. It's crowded. We managed to get maybe 3 bar type seats right on the edge of the small dance floor. There was 6 of us so some of us stood. But how about a spot where folk actually dance? Great live r n b band who called me out to the dance floor thanks to my girl Z. Good drinks. Don't know how much cause a friend paid but they were decent. Not strong enough but good enough. Lights come up at 1250. We close at 1am. Say what?! Dang. Only in AZ. Aint no after hours. Aw well. Come on out early n dance my friends

Love the atmosphere and the band. Kind of a small venue. Drinks were good. People were nice

Management is sketchy with tips. Used my photo without my consent to advertise this scammy business weeks after I quit. They don't have proper change and don't let clientele know.

Great music, vibe and good drinks. I love the diversity of people and everyone is very friendly

Been craving a jazz bar to go to lately so I checked out the performance schedule and went on a Sunday night. Drinks are good but the music was fantastic. Got everyone up on their feet in the dance floor. Atmosphere was electric, the people all friendly, can't wait to go back for another show!

Let me start by saying that i'd give it 5 stars if it had a better layout. That being said, if you like funk and blues, this is the place to go listen to groovin' live music. The best part is it's like the world should be...color blind. Everybody is just there to listen and dance to good music and there is no hint of racial b.s. If you haven't been, this is a hidden gem!

I agree with Suzie. The club is whitewashed. They took one of my favorite spots in Phoenix and turned it into every other club in Ole Town Scottsdale. I'm very disappointed. This once was a cozy, very welcoming spot where the drinks were right and the people were like family. Made me feel like I was back home (Florida). Now... it's a place for millennials to pretend they know soul and what REAL r&b is. The band is always amazing and I'm sure they are disappointed as well.

Sadly this isn't what it used to be. They kept the name but it is nothing like the old chars. Now it's a venue , with valet, hefty cover, wrist bands, unfriendly bar tenders, tables for sale $75+.. and completely over-crowded to the point it can be potentially unsafe. Know your exits just in case. Standing room only , yes massive crowd standing on the dance floor? There is no floor left to dance. Pple who purchased tables were surrounded with standing bodies. What a mess. Chars was very special, it's gone.

This club has been WHITEWASHED!! It is not the same vibe. The drinks are weak, the service is horrible. They are trying to turn it into an upscale spot. You can put paint and white wash the staff. But it will never be the same. If you are a brotha looking for your WG this is your place.

Revamped since the pandemic, is got more than just a fresh coat of paint. Give it a try!

This is a true hole in the wall with good music. The drinks are always on point and inexpensive. Don't bring a first date here but you can bring your girl friend of two years.

If this was any closer to my house I'd be there every day. Super cool divey bar hole in the wall feeling with the best musicians around. This is the place to sit and jam out while enjoying a drink or two.

What a HUGE disappointment. I don't plan on ever returning. Having been a patron of Chars for over two decades, I and my companion were so saddened to see what it's become. There's no sitting room unless you happen to get there really early and get a seat at the bar. $25 to reserve on-line, one of the few tables, otherwise plan on standing the entire time with nowhere to place your drink when you're on the dance floor. Unless of course, you take your drink with you while you're dancing, which other people were doing. BAD idea! So much of the seating was removed. The ambiance of the "old Chars" is gone. The band playing that night performed for themselves and had no connection to anyone in the place. I also felt like I was at a hip hop concert. The amazing live music that used to grace Chars was certainly absent the night we were there. I'm just so thankful I was able to experience Chars all the years I did when it had class and a much more diverse older crowd as well. The new owners very obviously didn't listen to the "regulars" as they said they did and would, when they purchased Chars, with intentions to preserve its uniqueness and quality. Failed royally on that.

Great place for live music and drinks. My husband and I made a last minute decision to come here after another bar. He had never been here. This was only my second time. We enjoyed the Friday night band. The crowd was good and cheerful. The waitstaff were quick and friendly. A lot people seemed to be enjoying the food vendor across the street. Cover was $7 a person. We will definitely be back!!!

My bad review is a comment. We went way Saturday night before 9pm and this place was so crowded we couldn't find a place to even stand. Dance floor packed not sure how anyone could actually dance. Impossible tongetba drink. We had four so we ended up pushing through one time around the bar and out the front door. 28 dollar cover for five minutes of music. Hope that money goes to the band. Get there early if you want to find a place to stand. People seem to love this place. Wish they wouldn't let you in if there is no room left. Wond2r what the fire Marshall would say

Dope music venue, all music genres. It reminds me of a New Orleans music space with the same energy. There was a small dance floor and not overrun with vacationers. I took a star away, because the bathroom is hideous.

I am sorry to do this, but the gig is up. I've been to Chars a few times in the past noticed something was off but good times. Tonight..I ordered a few drinks again and for sure was correct ' watered down liqour. I am a certified bartender and know my liqour . I order 2 doubles of scotch both tasted off and no buzz. Asked the bartender and he got offended and said that illegal, well.yes sir.. I Know. I ordered a different liqour, Same thing. I know for a fact they are watering down drinks.

This is one of my Cheers spot!! Both the music and drinks are consistent. What you see is what you get. The people, the band, everything! The bathrooms may be the smallest I've ever seen! On a Friday, Saturday or Sunday it can get so pack there won't be room to stand or sit. Get here early! Like 9 pm early. Otherwise your pretty much ass'd out

Very nice a little small will definitely have to come back. The music is very good, drinks good just a very nice place to chill.

So this was my absolute favorite place to go. Because of the current situation...it's closed and for sale. So where is everyone going instead?!

Celebrating a close friend's birthday, our group found its way to Chars at around 10 or was it 11? On a Friday night. I was excited because I've heard so many great things about this funky little blues bar. Super crowded bumper-to-bumper type contact was common with everyone inside, but the music was live which was refreshing to dance to and sometimes chill to throughout the night. The band did a cover of No Diggity as well as a few 90s R&B songs mixed with some more actually classic blues songs. My friend was even serenaded with The Happy Birthday song. After passing through a small foyer when you first enter this blues house, you can go right towards the stage which had a small dancing floor with surrounding tables, or you could go left which opened towards a narrow passage with red lighting along side a very long bar. Despite everyone ordering drinks at the same time, we all got our cocktails in a timely manner. We all really enjoyed our evening at Chars. The crowd is definitely mixed but super warm and friendly. It's a relief to switch from the atmosphere in Scottsdale where you're trying to see and be seen to an atmosphere that is laid back and whole heartedly fun!

My new favorite place! Such a unique vibe and ambience. Get there early if you can, parking lot is small and it's a small location as well. Once we got there at around 9 we went to the back and there are couches and a coffee table. As if you are in a living room. Played a lot of classic old school hits and the energy there is positive. People are very friendly and fun. The decor almost makes you feel like you are in an old home and has a Southern feel to it. Will return and most likely be a regular!