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Talking all that jazz - the best venues around Australia


There are many clubs around the country which provide sumptuous syncopated rhythms, daring improvised melodies and hip-swinging bass lines, but only a few offer us the entire experience. Jazz calls for a decadent, classy and sophisticated ambience, which is present here at some of our choicest venues.

1
 
The Basement
Circular Quay
This renowned venue has played host to some of the most famous jazz musicians in modern history, including David Campbell and Dizzy Gillespie. Dark and dingy, with dinner and show packages featuring regularly, it is Sydney s premium jazz and blues venue.

2
 
Tailors on Central
Surry Hills
This new kid on the block rivals even the longest-running jazz venues in Sydney. Some of the best jazz groups play and drink here, especially on Saturdays between four and seven pm. Sit-ins are definitely encouraged and, after the jazz, there's an African fusion night. Not bad!

3
 
Bennetts Lane Jazz Club
Melbourne
Open seven nights a week, this dedicated jazz venue - which many call the best in Australia - plays host to top international acts as well as humble local ones. Great food, great drinks, great service and great music - what more could anyone ask for?

4
 
Paris Cat
Melbourne
The chic, intimate interior, fantastic array of drinks and superb music are only some of the reasons why this place was chosen by The Age as one of Melbourne s must-see venues.

5
 
The Jazz Cellar
Mount Hawthorn
Although not a licensed premises, this had to be included simply for its class. The entrance to the club is reached via an old-fashioned telephone box; a staircase revealed in the back wall leads down to the cellar. It's BYO and open every Friday from 6pm.

6
 
Hyde Park Hotel
West Perth
This hotel hosts an array of different jazz nights in conjunction with local groups. Monday and Tuesday nights are the best times to go. The bistro serves up a delicious dinner and the service is very friendly.

7
 
Brisbane Jazz Club
Kangaroo Point
Open from Thursday through to Sunday, this venue hosts jazz bands, jazz jams and jazz sessions every trading night. Set on the banks of the Brisbane River, it's the ideal venue in which to kick back with a drink in hand and relax to some great jazz.

8
 
Royal Oak Hotel
North Adelaide
With more than 3000 wine labels to choose from, sumptuous cocktails, boutiques beers and an all-day bistro, this live music venue is the place to be in Adelaide. The jazz happens every Wednesday and Sunday night while the Oak's resident band, Lucifer's Lounge, plays every Tuesday.

9
 
Hippo Lounge Bar
City
This is Canberra s premier jazz venue. Their Wednesday night jazz sessions have fast become one of the most talked-about nights, both locally and interstate. With a chic, intimately lit interior, an impressive array of spectacular cocktails, fine wines and boutique beers, it's an institution.

10
 
Temple Place
Hobart
With musical instruments cleverly incorporated into the decor, this venue is a haven for any jazz-lover in Hobart. The intimate, dimly lit surroundings and cigar lounge make you feel as though you've stepped back into the 1920s. The Sunday afternoon jazz is the most popular event.