Fresh, retro and the best place in San Fran to catch live jazz
It's a sexy little joint – part restaurant, part club – in North Beach, Califorina, but there’s nothing watered down or blasé about Jazz at Pearls or Kim Nalley, the chanteuse who owns the stage. Don't take my word for it, though. The New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle, and DownBeat Magazine all rate Jazz at Pearl's as one of the hottest clubs worldwide.
The dim lighting, 30's style set-up and straight-up entertainment paired with tapas – the house specialty – guarantee a night to remember. Kim has a style all her own and, like Billy Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone, she's a magnet on stage, relentless and merciless.
There are 2 shows nightly, at 8 pm and 10 pm, but Kim isn't the only performer you'll want to see.
International jazz personalities such as Marcus Shelby, Donald Harrison Jr., Homenagem Brasileira and the David Fathead Newman Quartet have all crossed the stage of Jazz at Pearls.
There’s a 2-drink minimum along with the purchase of your ticket and if you're uber-fussy about your wine, they'll cork yours for $20. Their dinner menu is like their talent calendar – fun, spicy and value for your money. Apps and tapas are their specialty, but full service for entrees is available until 1 am.
Doors open an hour before each performance, but 20 minutes is early enough for ticket holders. Don’t be late though because empty seats are given away before the performance begins. And if you can't make it, give your ticket to a friend. They don't issue refunds.
If you're lucky enough to make VIP seating in the front row (I was), Kim may ask you to croon with her. Be prepared to yell– there's nothing shy about the crowd here.
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