The Jazz Kitchen

A soulful night of jazz, flavor, and history—The Jazz Kitchen delivers on every front. If you're looking for a place where music, food, and local legacy collide in the most delightful way, The Jazz Kitchen is it. We had an unforgettable evening listening to Emmaline and her band in a sold-out venue, seated just offstage with a perfect view and surrounded by good friends and great vibes. From the moment we arrived, the experience was top-notch. We kicked things off with house cocktails—my wife loved the Slow and Low, while I went for the Fashionable Pig, paired with appetizers that hit the spot: Crab Cakes and Pepper Artichoke Cheezy Dip were crowd-pleasers. Dinner was a flavorful tour of Cajun-inspired dishes: the Shrimp Etouffee earned rave reviews (though one found it a bit spicy), and the Not So Cajun with Shrimp and Chicken was a hit. Even my simple order of French Fries exceeded expectations. Dessert was where the magic really happened. The Brownie Decadence—a warm brownie with vanilla ice cream and caramel drizzle—was pure bliss. My wife devoured the Carnegie Deli Cheesecake, and another friend loved the Opera Cake. Every bite was a celebration. Our server, John, was phenomenal—attentive, friendly, and clearly passionate about making the night special. But what truly elevates The Jazz Kitchen is its role in Indianapolis’ jazz heritage. Since opening in 1994, it’s been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene, hosting legends like Harry Connick Jr., Ray Brown, and Diane Schuur. It’s not just a venue—it’s a living tribute to Indy’s rich jazz history, continuing the legacy of greats like Wes Montgomery and Freddie Hubbard. The club’s partnership with the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation and its role in the Indy Jazz Fest show its deep commitment to keeping jazz alive in Naptown. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or just looking for a memorable night out, The Jazz Kitchen is a must-visit. Great food, world-class music, and a heartbeat of Indianapolis culture—all under one roof.

Last night Jazz artist she was excellent and her band was just as wonderful. Thanks for the Great show. Jazz kitchen food always delicious, Service is always very good.

I saw a fantastic jazz band performance here. They were top notch musicians and the music was beautiful. I ordered a vegetarian dish that was quite good and my wife was happy with her food. She wanted a cocktail and tried to order a "perfect gentleman", but the waitress said there were no "perfect gentleman" available any more... She got something else and was happy with that. Morale of the story, you can't always get a "perfect gentleman", but you can find something that this is perfectly good. We sat in a corner booth not facing the stage of TV. We were in the room next to the room with the stage, We couldn't see the stage. I liked it that way. There was only one tv showing the show to the room next to the stage room. So if a couple sat at some of the tables, one person's back would be to the TV. Tip to the owners, mount 2 more TV's., or not. I liked being tucked in a corner booth with my wife. The music was the foreground sonically, but visually we were the other's cynosure. If there were 2 more TVs, it would remove the exact situation I preferred. It's great how it is. You could buy tickets early and show up for the show early if you want to be up close to the band. We were 10 minutes late, and still very happy with our seating. She loved dessert too, ice cream and bread pudding. I fully recommend checking it out.

What a cool spot! We stopped by on Monday night for the open sign up night. It was cool to see the jam band environment. Drinks were groovy and the brownie ice cream was amazing 😻. Make sure to book ahead as they have full performances most nights of the week!

Absolutely incredible! Went to see Emmaline and she was amazing. The food was insanely good! Service was great as well. 10 outta 10 for sure!

What a wonderful experience. Our first time there. We have visited Indy many times, but this was the first time we saw a performance at the jazz kitchen. The food, the Service and the performance was phenomenal. We sat close to the stage, but honestly any seat would be good. We'll definitely be back.

Visiting The Jazz Kitchen was such a treat! Kat Edmonson was phenomenal (as was her guitarist!). The food was excellent (highly recommend the crab cakes!), service was great, and ambiance was cool, too! Definitely a great spot to go if you’re looking for something different to do for a night out. There’s a nice covered patio area if you’re just coming for dinner, too! Parking can be a bit tricky in the area, but overall isn’t too hard to find. I didn’t manage to get many pictures, I was so in the moment, but would 100% like to come back at some point!

This was a great place. The food is amazing and the service is wonderful. I will be back. The atmosphere is very calm and it is great for a date night.

Legendary supper club for jazz enthusiasts. You will never be disappointed with the music or the food. The staff is efficient and accommodating- be sure to tip generously!

the Jazz Kitchen is an Indy treasure! The surprise is that the musical guests are exceptional AND the food is superb!!! Last night I had the Strawberry salad and added grilled salmon. Sounds simple but it was Dee-lish!!! Th grilled shrimp appetizer was well seasoned!! The sound of the performers is always pristine! The Wes Montgomery Tribute was phenomenal!!! Thank you!

I didn't eat! After a hot humid day at work, smooth jazz and a couple glasses of Chardonnay was perfect! Our server assured my Chardonnay was replenished. It was tasty (2 glasses for) $23.00 (before tip.) The performer was Ann Hampton Calloway, and she was fantastic!

It's been a long time since I stepped into Jazz Kitchen but it still gives the old soul spirit! We attended a tickets event and was seated on the main floor with a party of 6! Sadly, I didn't order any food, but plan to when I return. The staff is collectively kind and willing to help w a novice to the scene. Not only was the entertainment 5 stars, the people on attendance were very friendly! If you're looking for something different, please check out this local dive and support live music! Grateful for the seats and fun establishment. Parking could be better but it happens.

I waited too long to try the Jazz Kitchen. What a vibe! First off the place is gorgeous and is an intimate place to watch live Jazz. The guests were all dressed to impress and respectful throughout the show. We were seated 30 minutes before the show and were able to order food and drinks. I ordered the white chocolate blueberry bread pudding and it was a 10/10! So good. The prices for tickets and food were reasonable for a lovely night out without completely breaking the bank.

Salsa Thursdays at The Jazz Kitchen are so much fun! The free lesson at 8:30 is great for beginners, and after that the dance floor opens up and the energy is amazing. Everyone just dances with everyone, and while most people are experienced, it never feels intimidating. Whether you go with friends or solo, you'll have a great time.

Jazz Kitchen is a very special place. People might will tell you about it but you have to experience the wonderful food, the high energy and engaging atmosphere. The paella is and the sangria was a great way to wash it down. Don't listen to me...GO!

This was the first time here here for me on Saturday night to celebrate my sister's birthday. It was 50 years in Hip Hop. We all bought general admission tickets on their website with a first come, first serve seating situation. Come to find out there was reserved seating inside if you bought tickets through the promoter of the event. This was not advertised at all the Jazz Kitchen's website, so we and many other patrons had to sit outside for the event. We couldn't see the performances or enjoy the ambiance of the event. Also, the kitchen was closed for the event. Only tacos were sold outside in the patio area. It was disappointing all around.

This place is a local treasure of good vibes and excellent music. The Jazz Kitchen has been around since 1994 and I haven't had a bad meal here no matter how many times I go. The vibe is intimate. If you love jazz check this place out. Usually this is my number choice if finding a spot to take someone new in town. The ambiance of the decor and the music makes it a major impact on someone who hasn't been to Indy. I recently went for their Sade Tribute with talented Blackberry Jam. If you going for a event make sure you get your ticket early because they sell fast. For good seating , come at least 30 mins early . We sat in the main dining area. There is a minimum of $15 per person during the show but the drink and food is worth it. On Thursday they have Latin Night. And Monday are Monday Jam Nights.

Always fun, great music and delicious food!! A "must" if you're visiting Indy or looking for an amazing time

Stopped here with friends & enjoyed a nice evening. The menu had good options & there was full bar. Would swing by again if in the area.

I like The Jazz Kitchen. A cozy place to take in some good music & have a great cocktail. The food, in my opinion, is mediocre, but the quality of the drinks & the swiftness & friendliness of the service make up for it. I highly recommend to all, & will absolutely return.

I've long wanted to check out Indy's iconic The Jazz Kitchen, easily one of our best spots for live jazz since it first opened in 1994. It's got a national reputation for its live jazz performances (including national acts), wonderful cuisine, and top-notch atmosphere. Part of my hesitation has always been the parking situation in this area of what is essentially on the line of SoBro and Broad Ripple. It's always been street parking along with some options across the street at Fresh Market. They all seem to perfectly co-exist, however, and I was grateful that someone else was driving so I could really check out the scene for possible future visits. Street parking directly in front went away with the addition of a bus line, though street parking continues to exist. We parked in the Fresh Market area and they seem to have plenty of parking. As a wheelchair user, I find unpredictable parking a bit harrowing and it can get in the way of my attendance at a venue. The other modest disclaimer here is that I was at The Jazz Kitchen for a special event rather than a traditional concert/dinner situation. This was an awards ceremony with food options and a live DJ in place of live music. I will admit that it felt weird to have my first experience here not include jazz. First off, the venue is beautiful with amazing acoustics. It definitely gets a bit loud and as a speaker (and one of the presenters for this event) you definitely hear any conversations in the crowd. However, hearing the acoustics immediately made me want to attend a concert here. If I understood the venue correctly, and it was set up differently for this event, the main area is to the left when you enter. There's a center bar and an area to the right for those who don't want to attend the concert (but will actually hear the music). I was in the main area and food was set up in the back area. I was impressed that the stage had a small ramp set up, though I'm not sure if this was a Heartland thing or a Jazz Kitchen thing. Regardless, as a wheelchair user it was appreciated (it wasn't quite ADA and I did end up needing a little assistance - a combo of its grade and my lack of strength from recent surgery). The venue was set up nicely - even full, it was surprisingly accessible for the most part. There's some side rows that would not be wheelchair friendly, however, wheelchair options are pretty plentiful here. The restrooms are a bit narrow, however, I was able to get in them. There were two urinals and one stall. It's not perfectly accessible, though it's certainly very workable and better than a ton of music venues. Servers were friendly and every employee I met was a delight. I was able to get iced tea - since I had surgery recently, I was playing things pretty safe. I tried a couple of the food options (shrimp and a jerk chicken option) and both were amazing. I had a hard time not going back for more. I was also impressed with how quickly servers handled a toppled over bottled water - I suppose for a jazz club I shouldn't be surprised that it was smooth. During good weather, they have some outside options. The entryway is a bit narrow - this made it a bit difficult to depart since you had to pass a "red carpet" where photos were happening, but for daily event management it makes sense. The Jazz Kitchen tends to be an evenings only establishment with concert costs separate from dinner (think like a comedy club where there's often a minimum for drinks/food in addition to the show). While I'm still a bit intimidated by the parking situation, this was a blast and I'll no doubt be back.

Good music great atmosphere the staff is amazing friendly and attentive I'll definitely be going here more often now after what happened at the Chatterbox downtown this weekend They don't deserve anyone's business stay away from that place if you can.

Emma is our server and she's friendly and personable. We are here to see the famous guitarist Norman Brown. Sad to say that Emma was not what I expected :-/ I wasn't too happy with where we were seated because I seen the servers more than the artists' . So all the stars I have is for Norman Brown. NOT THE JAzz kitchen!

I love the Jazz Kitchen service was great the show was amazing! We came here for my cousins birthday and we had a great time. The food was good but lacked some seasoning. I love it here. Perfect for date night, birthday dinner, or anniversary. The drinks were great ! Please come here and enjoy a good show

- Food & Ambiance: Fantastic! And, that's not just me. During a Smooth Jazz cruise in 2024, I spoke to Richard Elliot, Peter White, Mindi Abair, Grace Kelly & others that have performed at the Kitchen. They all say they love the food, as well as the ambiance that are hallmarks of the Jazz Kitchen. - Service: The service we have had always meets the expectations one would have before and during the live performances.

Love , love , love the ambiance! I can't rave enough about the place . Combining live jazz, good food and great drinks in one spot is really something to rave about . The acoustics in the place are amazing so the sound quality is top tier . Perfect for a date night or even a solo date .

We stopped by the Jazz Kitchen on a Monday night during "Walk-In" night. We can see why this is a neighborhood staple--great ambiance! Definitely feels like a jazz club. However, there were a few odd things about our visit, the first being that it was our first time here and we felt out of the loop. We arrived for dinner at 5:30pm, and when we finally asked when the "Jazz Jam" session started around 7pm our waitress said "well, this night is usually just for regulars, so they like to visit before they start. Maybe 8pm?" That being said, we were gone before any Jazz started, which was a bummer. It would have been helpful if she had asked "first time here?" or "what brings you out tonight"? At $30 a plate, I just expected a higher level of customer service. We were also told when we walked in that we would be sat with strangers (my social anxiety was in high-gear), but it was pretty empty and no one ever joined our table (though I was anxious the whole dinner in anticipation, haha!). Just a weird experience with a lack of guidance from the staff. The only vegetarian options were a strawberry fields salad or a vegan roasted vegetable/quinoa bowl. I was hoping for 2-3 options (I think a previous menu had veggie tacos?). We also ordered the two vegetarian apps (Fries + Pepper Artichoke Dip) which were okay. I wish they fries were a little more crispy + seasoned. The dips were also odd. Hopefully I can come again and hear some proper Jazz! Now that I have visited, I am wiser.

First of all, if your music lover, this is an amazing venue. They're literally isn't a bad seat in the house. Generally when I get into a music venue, expect the food to be just OK but here it's absolutely delicious. We went to see Rock E. Bassoon and it was amazing. We didn't realize that they were in effect and opening act but the guy they opened with was really great. Definitely worth checking this place out.

30 YEARS!! We are crazy for waiting so long to visit the best entertainment in Indianapolis. Four women vocalist, each so different, yet voices so beautiful! I had the sea bass special of the night, baked perfectly. Sorry, omitted photo. Salmon, salads and pork chops around the table. Not a crumb left on any plate. Parking can be difficult, so we parked at grocery across the street, sorry. We will be back soon. Cost of entertainment, excellent food and drinks was VERY reasonable.

The Jazz Kitchen hosted Megan Simonton for a night of Holiday songs and cheer! The singing was beautiful. On a regular night, the Jazz Kitchen has musicians play or sing live while you enjoy signature drinks and Cajun-Creole food. Every Thursday night starting at 8:30 pm, salsa and bachata lessons are offered for FREE! It's so much fun! I enjoyed the crab cakes and caesar salad. Both were flavorful. Parking is located on the street, so get there a little early because you may have to walk a little further than you'd want.

Food was great and atmosphere was a vibe. Service was great as well. Make sure you tickets well in advance.

The Marlin McKay Sextet * The Softer Side of Roy Hargrove was EXCELLENT! Mr McKay's narration was relevant and on point in terms of the MUSIC & the story with the music! The MENU is a variety of food!

We normally eat prior to show, and go to Kitchen for drinks and dessert. WHY? After attending Colts game, we got dressed in the car to arrive prior to the doors opening. Dinner at JK was option, so we opted for that, being marginally primed with Nachos and Popcorn. The artichoke/cheese dip was really good, pita bread warm and not dry. Frites were sizable portion to share and came with three Dipping sauces, including ketchup. The my Black Blue Salad came one a flatbread platter, four pieces of perfectly cooked flatsteak couple with artisan salad mix and balsamic dressing.... It's steak and salad, and it was perfectly executed. Drinks are always great here. Bartender gets free reins and never pours lightly. Coffee is dark and really good with the Chocolate Decadence, it was welcome dinner finale'. We went for Sarah Scharbrough Christmas show and really enjoy this tradition. Great night out! Thanks to JK team, staff, doors and all. Really nice night out.

It had great ambiance. The food was delicious, the portions were ample and the service was prompt. What more could you ask for?

Frequent this spot often and I am a huge fan! Always good ambiance, food and music! Drinks and service are not always consistent but still a fav hang.

First time visit & it was Latin night! The overall experience was nice. This isn't really the place for a first date or to talk much amongst each other on a Thursday but the vibes are definitely there if you like to dance! I got the not-so-cajun chicken which was HOT when it came out. That's always a plus. My partner got the Churrasco Steak which was really good! My only complaint is our server didn't really check on us much & it wasn't really busy but overall she was a sweetheart & very knowledgeable of the menu. ++

I live for live music and Reggie & friends nailed it!!! And they serve good food! The crab cakes were fresh and delicious and my goodness the bread pudding was I was sat a table with three older gentlemen who welcomed me in. I received great service in a nice environment and got to sing along!!!

I've enjoyed the Jazz Kitchen twice now, each time more impressed than the last. What I appreciate most is how respectful guests are of the artists; there's a no talking rule, and they mean it. The food is always excellent, the service is top-notch, the music is fantastic - what more could you want? No, really, what else is there?

I went for a concert. Vibey atmosphere. The bathrooms were clean. Very intimate. The food was okay. There are not many vegetarian options. I ordered the tacos and wasn't really a fan. The service was good. Our waiter frequently checked on us. There is a $15 food/beverage minimum, so I was forced to get something even though nothing seemed appealing to me on the menu.

Great jazz shows can be heard at this supperclub. Worth the drive, even if you are from out of town. Buy tickets on line. Any seat is a good seat if you are in the main area. Very good acoustics. Not only is the music good, but the food is above average for sure. You will not go wrong ordering the 2 shrimp tacos entree with fries. The fries were too good, not just a side filler. It was hard to resist the white chocolate bread pudding. Warm, dense and decadent. The portion was enough for 2 if you aren't feeling greedy! Service was attentive. There was always someone walking around to keep your table clear or take additional orders. There are 2 shows. About 1.5 hours. After the first show everyone leaves main room and it is cleaned for second show. If second show isn't sold out, you can stay for it at no additional cost. Large bar area divides main room from lounge area where you can hear show but not see live performance. Parking can be tricky. No dedicated lot. Street parking available mostly in resdiential area. No nearby hotels.

Rating? Food was great. Service was great. Music was great. We sat in the bar area. Did not have reservations which was fine. Sat in a booth. Here is my problem. The tables have a card that says "no talking during the show please". Okay I get that and respect that. However the stage is is literally 30 yards from where we are sitting, in the bar area, with loud jazz. Just my wife and me having dinner. Lo and behold here comes the "Noise Nancy". Mind you, she is sitting in the foyer a good 10 feet from us. Why in the hell are you coming over to us say you can hear us having a conversation about what to eat and no talking! Ma'am, please leave us alone! Then you come back and tell the couple next to us the same thing. WE ARE LITERALLY SITTING NEXT TO THEM AND CAN NOT HEAR THEM! Ma'am, please use the same energy to the other tables that are clearly talking so loud we can hear them but you failed to address them. It be your own people. Needless to say that put a 1 star. We were not loud, yo ass was just ear hustling. Decibels off the chart and you got bionic ears. Smdh.

This review is only for the overall environment and drinks. We visited on a Thursday for the Jazz Kitchen's weekly Latin Dance Night and had a wonderful visit! They had a range of seating by the stage as well as some in another room or outside on the patio for those that want to have a quieter experience. We ordered a few of the signature cocktails at our table, and they were delicious! Our server even checked in later in the night after it got busier. We loved the free salsa and bachata class. It would make a great date night, but it's also ideal for friends looking for a fun group activity. The instructor took his time to explain the steps for us beginners, and he even added in a few tips to add flair for those that have been dancing for awhile. The environment here is unmatched and we can't wait to return!

My wife & I had a wonderful experience! We specifically drove to Indy from Cincinnati for a weekend getaway to catch Marsha Ball. The food, service & atmosphere was spot-on. We were impressed with the service. Very professional. We're looking forward to another concert there in the near future. Kudos, Jazz Kitchen!

Thank you very much for your kind accommodations, great food and stunning entertainment. I travelled from out of state to celebrate my mom's birthday and the staff was more than accommodating. You made the event memorable and made us feel so special. I am eternally grateful. Thank you for making it so special.

Everything was great. We had front row seats so sat right up on the stage. Top shelf margaritas were on point. Venue was great, clean. Got to see a little of the bar area and back which looks like a good upgrade.

The food, entertainment and ambience was amazing! I am looking forward to returning to this venue the next time I visit Indy!

Been going to jazz kitchen for years. As always I go to see entertainment, and I have never been let down. I really enjoyed the show. It was perfect. Our waitress was nice at the very beginning. She was very tentative but as the show went on, she never came to check on us only to bring us our checks. I do understand they get busy, but I think one check in when we recived our food would been great. I will still continue to go to Jazz kitchen love the food was perfect. I got the chocolate cake to the chocolate cake was OK. Not really worth the price.

Were in the for a concert a few weeks ago and Adam was our server and took good care of us. Food was great. Service was awesome. Thank you!!!

The Jazz Kitchen was amazing. I haven't been here in a very long time and my co-workers wanted to listen to music and a friend mentioned here. Food was wonderful, service was fantastic but the music was AMAZING!!! So much talent from many people. Can't wait to visit again!!

My only regret is that I haven't visited this business sooner! We visited The Jazz Kitchen on Sunday night for a band showcase and our experience did not disappoint. Ambiance: Dimmed lighting, but comfortable and inviting. We sat in the main room by the stage, and I was happy to see so many other patrons in attendance. Such a fun atmosphere! Service: Super friendly service. Food: Everything we tried was delicious! The Not-so-Cajun Chicken Pasta was great and the portions were very generous - my fiancé and I ended up just splitting this dish. We also tried the Pommes Frites as an appetizer - yum!

The food is delicious. It has a great atmosphere and excellent service. I love this place . The music is always good.

Read the other reviews, but I found it great, and what makes it better than just "Good" is the value. The food and beverage prices aren't high. You can pay much more across the street. We saw Billy Cobham's latest band, and they were stellar. We had food, too, and it was great. Our friends had desserts (it was later) and I had an appetizer, and my date was very happy. The prices were not mind-numbing, and the service was great. There are "bowl" choices for those counting carbs, and I was impressed by the value. I expected before I came that I might feel robbed at the end, and I certainly did not. Prices are reasonable. The venue is very good for music (bring earplugs if you need them) and the mix was pro, too. A five star rating from me means you're at the top of your game, and that's how I feel about the Jazz Kitchen. I'll go more often, even though it's a heavy drive for us!

Everything was wonderful! Our service was great, wine choice was excellent, and food was absolutely delicious. I had the Not So Cajun Shrimp with lite heat which was perfectly spiced. One can't go wrong with Men In The Fire for entertainment , they are absolutely outstanding!! The venue is nice and quaint. We Highly recommend the Jazz Kitchen.

Enjoyed an amazing ladies night at the Jazz Kitchen. The Wow Presents: Megan Simonton's Holiday Show was filled with the magical sounds of Christmas melodies with a jazz swag! We tried various foods, drinks, and desserts. Not pictured was the Crab Cakes, Tacos, Salmon, Not-So-Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Carrot Cake, Key Lime Pie, and Chocolate Cake. Various drinks like the Hurricane and Top Shelf Margaritas! Everything was so good! If your looking for a chill hot spot with great food and drinks, the Jazz Kitchen is a MUST!

Very fun time attending Latin Night for the first time! Free street parking is available within easy walking distance! If you get there before 8, it's free to get in. Otherwise there is a cover charge after 8. The staff was very nice & attentive. I loved the free salsa lesson before the music started. I figured 30 minutes for a lesson would seem to last a while but it flew by. I was impressed with how much the instructors were able to teach in a short time. DJ was very fun & kept things upbeat. There were a lot of amazing Latin dancers but it's such a fun environment that I didn't feel self conscious that I wasn't an amazing dancer. It does get very hot very quickly. We left about 10:45 because we were all so hot & it was very crowded. I didn't get food but the menu looked amazing.

4 stars. We had a time last night!!! LOL The reviews made the food sound amazing, but the actual experience left ALOT to be desired. Out of the five entrees we enjoyed, the crab cakes were the only solid winner. The non-alcoholic drinks were more enjoyable than the spirited ones. Service is great before the show. Get there earlier so you can be finished before the show begins to truly enjoy your dining experience. But the venue is fantastic! Every seat is a good one. No need for VIP seating. The best table is in the back left in the corner. It's elevated and out of the way. Parking is decent as long as you arrive early. Street parking is convenient. Can't wait to get back there for another performance! I'll be sure to eat, first.

My sister and brother-in-law were out from California and we wanted a fun treat for them. Wow! Oliver Nelson Jr was at the Jazz Kitchen playing a lot of his father's music. They did not disappoint!! Not was the music incredible, but Jazz Kitchen serves food that's over the top good. I had the barbecue glazed pork chop and loved it. My wife had the walnut-crusted salmon and ahe also was delighted. I plan on watching Jazz Kitchen's website and returning to enjoy their various musicians. Oh, and the proprietor was so welcoming and gracious.