Swinging Jazz, unique cocktails and exquisite food. Who could ask for anything more? The Pearl Brewery’s first dedicated music venue—Jazz, TX—has it all. With five shows a week and two shows a night, there is almost always something to see whether it be San Antonio’s talented local jazz musicians or popular national touring acts.
Since its opening in 2016, Jazz, TX has become San Antonio’s go-to spot to see Jazz music. Jazz itself has experienced a wane in popularity over the last 20 years leading to fewer dedicated jazz venues, but there does seem to be a resurgence of public interest with hit movies like Whiplash and La La Land.
Club owner and experienced bandleader Doc Watkins wanted to create a venue to give musicians an opportunity to play that also showcased local talent in a unique way.
“We draw very heavily on local and regional talent which is something that most of the top jazz clubs in the world [don’t do],” said Watkins. “I just wanted to create a space for my band to play in and for other local San Antonio and South Texas bands to play too.”
But music isn’t the only attraction that has made Jazz, TX into a unique must-see destination. While Watkins said most jazz clubs offer high quality music, they often neglect the menu.
“We put just as much effort into our food, and into our service and into our drink program as we do into our entertainment,” he said.
Watkins assembled together a team of highly-experienced chefs and bartenders to create a palatable experience on par with the music.
Jazz, TX offers a wide variety of carefully chosen wines inspired by Jazz artists, upscale liquors and masterfully mixed cocktails. Jazz, TX’s chefs have prepared an equally impressive menu items including: Foie and Brisket Tacos, Golden Roasted Cornish Hen and Rattle Snake Mac and Cheese.
Currently, Watkins hopes to expose more people to jazz and culture by working in conjunction with Texas Public Radio on a pilot series that will take place at the club. They are currently producing five episodes that will air once a week beginning in April. “Live From Jazz, TX,” will feature Watkins and his band as the host of the show with a special guest musician who will then play. An interview segment where Watkins will have a conversation with the guest will also occur.
Jazz, TX is open Tuesday through Saturday with a happy hour show starting at 5:30 p.m. with no cover charge. The main act will start at 8:30 p.m. with a $10-$20 cover charge. More information about upcoming events and to purchase tickets can be found at jazztx.com.
