Jazz Bistro

BOTTOM LINE: Definitely a recommend — come for the music (⁵⁄₅ stars), but there are a few things you should probably know ahead of time (i.e., shushing policy ¹⁄₅ stars).
Jazz Bistro is a tricky place to review, so get ready for a bunch of caveats. I really wanted to give it a higher rating, but a few things still weigh it down since its opening a few years ago.
The live jazz scene in Toronto isn’t exactly bustling — you have the tried and true Reservoir Lounge and The Rex, along with new additions like Poetry Jazz Café and even Fat City Blues. Jazz Bistro positions itself near the top with the classy décor and their gorgeous Steinway piano. The servers are professional and the bar has a good selection of wines and standard cocktails, though not so much for beer. They clearly have a good working relationship with musicians as evidenced by their full schedule of acts, and really, this is what you’re coming for. You definitely won’t be disappointed with the music, though your experience may be marred by other issues.
So what are these issues? The glaring one is their «shushing» policy and their tactless approach at managing it — IT’S A HUGE TURN-​OFF (read: brash and abrasive owner). Judging by my own experiences, and other Unilocalers, this has been an ongoing issue and it’s remarkable it hasn’t changed over the years. In my most recent visit, our table got singled out by the owner (amongst other chatty tables — read: everyone else!) and we were shushed in, quite possibly, the most patronizing tone. No other tables were shushed, and as the night went on, the chatter in the entire place only grew, and with no obvious detriment to the performance (or enjoyment of same). Also, what do you expect your customers to do when you offer a dinner and a performance, and half your patrons are on a date or celebrating a birthday?!
Here are a few recommendations so you can get your shit together:
1. If you’re gonna shush people, than make it explicit — explain this to your customers either at the door and announce it when a set begins. Don’t expect your patrons to know these «unwritten rules».
2. When you do shush people, don’t be a dick about it since you never even set that expectation in the first place.
3. And if you’re going to shush people, at least do it consistently. It makes no sense to shush one table but not the louder one next to it.
Finally, what about the food? Although it’s hard to get excited by the menu, I do think the best way to enjoy Jazz Bistro is to go for a dinner and a performance. Not only will you be able to reserve a table by the stage, which is what you want, but it just feels «right» for a night out! That said, I would recommend sticking with the BISTRO BURGER, adding some sides and sharing some appetizers, such as the WILD MUSHROOM FLATBREAD. All the other mains seemed priced a bit high for what you’re getting, and are named in a way that sound much more decadent than it really is.

Beautiful spot right in the heart of downtown Toronto. It’s a bit beyond the comfortable price range of a 20-​something year old but it’s got class, style, and amazing music. The mushroom flatbread is exquisite and goes for about $ 10, as does the cheapest glass of pinot grigio.

An excellent date night spot.
Went there not knowing who was performing, and ended being there for a CD release party. The stage is in the center of the room and all the tables surround it. If you want the best seats, ask to be seated on the right hand side of the stage. We were right next to the band!
Ambience is amazing. Dim lights, candles, low hushed talking.
The menu is quite extensive as is the wine list. Had the fish stew wish was perfect, basa, shrimp and scallops in a tomato sauce with grilled crostini.
The salmon steak with potatoes and green beans was also really yummy, salmon cooked perfectly.
The staff is great, extremely attentive and professional.
Apps start at 10 $
Entrees start at 17 $
Drinks range from 7 – 14 $ for a glass of wine.
All in all a great place. Will definitely return

Rare are the places where the service can be so bad that it ruins everything and I have to write such a bad review. From the lukewarm and inattentive entry hostesses to the totally inattentive, slow and dismissive waiter we got.
The atmosphere is pseudo-​upscale and food is simply uninspired, bland and smell can be utterly annoying for those here for a late drink and some music.
Musician was good, though he lacked warmth and catching-​up mojo, like that place in a nutshell. I missed there the good Chicago, Copenhagen and London clubs and lost time, money and patience.

Came here twice for their Sunday jazz brunch. Fantastic pianist both times — wasn’t too loud so you could still converse at the table without having to yell. Food was great… especially the freshly baked scones!

A group of 5 of us went to the Jazz Bistro last night. I had made reservations about 1.5 weeks ahead so we got the table closest to the stage. It is a pretty small place and I felt like we were a bit too close, so next time we’re going to sit back a bit further. We were pleasantly surprised that the volume was just right and didn’t blast our ears even though we were so close. The sound system was excellent, too. I was a little disappointed with the food; first of all half the things on the menu (literally) were not available because apparently they are in the process of switching over to their spring menu, so it took a little while to figure out what we were ordering. They will no longer be serving classic bistro pots because apparently they didn’t sell well. The steak was a little tough and the clam chowder ($ 18) with side of boxed spring mix was rather bland and not filling.
Décor: ⁵⁄₅ — dark coloured walls and tables with dim lighting, like a speakeasy should be
Food: 3.5÷5 — not bad overall but could definitely improve
Service: 4.5÷5 — our server was the embodiment of service, but our main dishes took a long time to come out (even though the place was half full) but it was ok since we were enjoying the performance.
Show: 5+ — Mr. George Evans, what an amazing guy! The band was fantastic, too.
Parking: we parked at Ryerson University (300 Victoria St) for $ 10 flat for indoor parking, not bad for the downtown core and only a 2 minute walk away. After 6pm on Saturdays Ryerson is only $ 8 flat:
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There is an outdoor 24-​hour VINCI Park next door to the Jazz Bistro, their weekend evening parking rate is $ 15.
Jazz Bistro also has a terrace level which was closed for the season, but looks great from the photos.
Live music really is something that is under-​appreciated in this digital age. I would encourage everyone to get out there and interactive with some of our awesome local performers, you’ll be glad you did! At $ 15/​person for a live show by extremely talented artists who were singing long before auto-​tune was invented you can bet that we will DEFINITELY be going back!

I recently visited Jazz Bistro for a New Years party during a short trip to Toronto. I booked sight unseen, based largely on the reviews and description of the party; a 4-​course meal and six hours of jazz for $ 150. The experience was good for the most part, save some issues with the seating.
The Bistro is set up like a wide, shallow horseshoe of dining and bar space around a central performance stage. It has two levels; a main floor, where the entrance and performance stage are located, and a second floor that closely mirrors the first floor, save a balcony cut-​out over the stage area. The main floor is where the bulk of the action happens; the stage performance, the dancing (although there isn’t a true dance floor), and soft lighting. The second floor is more remote, dimly lit, and located up an external stairway; it has about eight tables surrounding a balcony offering narrow birds eye views (the top of the performer’s heads, 2 – 3 patron tables, and none of the dancing), and another approximately 20 tables in cozy corners with no view of the stage. The second floor would have been fine for a larger group where people are more interested in chatting over a meal with music in the background, than for individuals wanting to primarily see the band and experience the scene.
Upon arrival my friend and I were ushered to a second floor table, despite seating being available on the first floor. There were also no party favors at the table, as there were on the first floor. I brought my concerns about the remoteness of the location to manager Ira, (who is unfortunately quite handsome and pleasant, which made it hard to complain) and was told that the second floor views were just as good, and in many ways preferable to those on the first floor. Unconvinced after 90 minutes, I persisted, and got moved to the main floor, where there was still available seating right next to the stage. For the first time that night I felt part of the party; able to see the full band and the other patrons. The seating issue was the sole low point of the night.
The food was delicious. The meal started with a selection of 3 breads (which we had to request be heated) as well as a delicate mushroom consommé. I then had a Mahi tuna appetizer, expertly prepared, and a lamb Wellington entrée. Dessert was a selection of 5 chocolates, including an ice cream and white chocolate bark. My friend had the steak and lemon tart. The beverage list included a number of Canadian cocktails, and the pours were adequate.
The music was top notch. The first two hours featured a jazz pianist playing at an ornate grand, golden piano, The main act, Soul Soup, came onstage at approximately 10:30, and played a two hour set of rocking mashups of American Jazz, R&B, and Soul favorites. Patrons took to the floor during the main act, and danced with abandon. Champagne flutes were passed out just before midnight, and we toasted in the new year to a rollicking version of Auld Lang Syne. All in all, it was a relaxed and jovial atmosphere.
I would recommend Jazz Bistro to anyone visiting Toronto, provided that you aren’t unwittingly confined to the second floor after paying full price.

So Swanky and nicely light… I came here for my girlfriend’s work Christmas party and so while all the hor’doervers (snacky french things) were free as was the beer, I will still try to give Jazz Bistro a rating.
Ambiance: ³⁄₅ While not my usual cup of tea (think more Guinness and Irish people), this place was quite nice, with piano music playing and alot of space for the myriad academic shmoozing,
Food 2.7÷5: The little coconut shrimps were good, but the meat ball and tomoate skewers were hard to eat and the little rice paper veggie wraps were very oddly spiced.
Music 3.5÷5: Even though this isn’t my kind of music, it was nice to see a working Jazz musician paid to perform.
I would go back for a pint and an appetizer just to see if they do better food for paying customers.

Great addition — replacement to Top of the Senator House — they’re really turned the space into something upscale and magical. It’s just nice to have another jazz place in Toronto, and what i love about Jazz Bistro is it fits in nicely to the repetoure we currently have — this is one place where you can sit down, eat dinner and have a spot to dance at as well, without worrying about getting there earlier, etc. I like this place a lot.
My only comment would be the service is a little portentous. I don’t think they have the right staff at the moment. Get some woman in there! Warm the place up a bit.

I’ve been known to make crazy mistakes like show up to a party on the wrong day.
Yesterday, it sort of happened again.
Two of my girlfriends and I planned on a Sunday brunch before seeing a 1:30p show at a theatre in downtown Toronto. Being the only one of the three who actually lives in the city, I chose a hot spot (according to on-​line reviews) just across the street from the theatre. I’d never been but had always heard about it. I was excited to go.
I showed up a bit early at the restaurant. It was a very cool place with a baby grand piano and a small stage, where a beautiful pianist was warming up for what I found out was to be a small jazz performance during Sunday brunch. I thought to myself that I couldn’t have picked a cooler place! I was satisfied with my choice, sat down at a table for 4 and ordered a coffee and enjoyed the mellow tunes from the performer.
It wasn’t like my 2 girlfriends to be late. But hey, we all have kids and they were coming from out of town, so I sat back, sipped coffee and also did a little people-​watching.
Then my cell phone rang.
Yup. Turns out I was at the wrong restaurant.
My girlfriends had been waiting for me for about 10 minutes at the restaurant next door.
I ran to the place next door and waded through dozens of people in a line-​up that was out the door. I found my two friends at the front of the line and we all looked at each other and said: «Let’s get out of here.»
I brought them over to the place I had ordered my coffee at, which is called The Jazz Bistro.
It was one of my better mistakes.
Live Jazz, fantastic décor, cool and classy ambience (like Jazz music itself), and delicious brunch? What more can three hungry, theatre-​ready gals ask for?
The waiter knew. «Mimosa, anyone?»
A very smiley and handsome server brought us a bunch appetizer plate of warm, homemade mini-​scones and whipped butter. The girls and I sat back, chatted about life and enjoyed what has now become one of my favourite brunch spots in Toronto.
At this time of day, the Bistro offers their brunch menu, so naturally, I ordered my favourite brunch plate — Eggs Benedict. I always say that it’s the Hollandaise sauce that makes the Benny and well, Jazz Bistro delivered. The sauce was creamy, a perfect yellow and had just the perfect amount of tang and consistency. The cuts of peameal bacon were thick and juicy. I savoured every delicious bite, along with the potato gallette and salad that came with it. It was a very generous portion that held me over until dinnertime later that evening.
One of my friends ordered the Baked Omelette (with fine herbs, asperagus and goat cheese). It looked like a gorgeous quiche (see the photo). My other friend ordered the House-​cured Peameal bacon and Roasted Chicken on a Kaiser, sans Kaiser. (She saved her daily intake of carbs for the mini-​scones) Even without the bun, her brunch looked beautiful and tasty on her plate.
The Omelette
The Omelette
I’m so glad that I made the mistake of going to the «wrong» place. I would never have known about The Jazz Bistro otherwise.
I want to go back.
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It was my first time but I can already imagine coming again. This is a great choice for a dinner + show date. The atmosphere is great.
At a regular eatery, I would not care much about service. But in a place like this, service is important and this place delivers. We had a very considerate server who gave us options for seats and asked if the angle was ok.
We didn’t actually eat anything here and just ordered drinks. My partner simply decided we wouldn’t like this kind of food so we ate before coming here, which was perfect as the show was just about to start.
In terms of getting value, this is WAAAYYYY better than doing dinner and a movie. The problems with movies is that you can’t talk during the movie. There’s a cover charge for the show and I think it’s worth it. $ 20 a person is actually very reasonable when you consider that you’re getting a LIVE performance. Sure, it’s probably not someone incredibly famous but I still enjoy this way more than shelling out $ 20 for a movie.
I would definitely recommend this and may come again.

I have visited the Jazz Bistro on multiple occasions throughout the year. The musical acts are very well selected and cover a good variety from standards, soul and instrumental performances through to more contemporary styles depending on the day of the week. I particularly enjoy the Young Artists series which showcases the local talent and is a ‘pay what you can’ system which all goes towards these talented individuals.
There is a cover charge most evenings which varies by the performers. While I think this is reasonable, it’s worth noting just so you’re aware before you get there! It’s also definitely worth booking in advance as often they have limited availability if you just walk in.
Your Jazz Bistro experience starts when you enter the door and one of the friendly managers will help you get seated, either on the main floor or second floor mezzanine which looks down onto the stage. The server will show up very quickly (and quietly most importantly if a performance is under-​way!) and are more than competent — it is clear they are very familiar with the menu offerings.
The bar staff especially are highly skilled and knowledgeable. I enjoy the seasonal cocktail list but they’ll happily whip you up an expertly-​mixed classic drink as well.
On the third floor is a separate bar and adjoining outdoor patio. While the weather is getting a little bit chilly lately, it’s still worth going up there for the unique atmosphere… and drink specials from 5 – 7 most evenings!

Happy accident.
With only an hour before an appt at the nearby hospital, hubby and I decided to have a quick bite and drink. Wandered up on a Saturday during TIFF and arrived at 645 not knowing where we were going but menu looked decent. The hostess was fantastic about our tight timeline, as were all the staff. As we were seated (ironically beside all the CityTV personalities decked out their TIFF-​party wear!) we suddenly realized we were woefully underdressed for the venue (think pajama pants and yoga gear) but were treated superbly nonetheless. They promptly brought a nice selection of breads and butter, water and our drink order.
We each had the short rib burger which comes with bacon, Gouda, sautéed onion, tomato and lettuce on brioche and your choice of frites or salad (we did one of each). Burger was delicious– juicy and flavorful. Frites were tasty, salad was mediocre, just greens and a pretty boring vinaigrette (the server did warn us of this). $ 17 for meal each. I also had 2 glasses of a tasty house Shiraz ($ 10/​glass-​generous pour) and hubby had a pint of steamwhistle. Total bill $ 70, plus a generous tip… because the service was OUTSTANDING. Every staff member went out of their way to be professional and it ran like clockwork. They were SO accommodating and had us out in 40 minutes but still somehow not rushed feeling. As a bonus, there was a jazz pianist playing softly.
I’d say food was 3.5 (hard to really judge based on burgers) but the service was 5+ so we will definitely be back to check out more of the menu.

We had drinks here last Friday. So impressed with the music and service we reserved dinner here last night.
We arrived at 1930 and our table was ready as promised. Quick efficient service gave us a drink and our order placed before the music (the fabulous Ault Sisters) started at 2000. The place was packed.
The food was first rate. My Cioppino was the best I’ve had, with the seafood perfectly done and the soup a piquant delight.
The sound, while appropriately present, was not so loud as to be uncomfortable. It was also very well done.
Service continued to be amazing through the evening. Two sets and we were off at 2200. A thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Dorothy Stone and Ori Dagan were playing at Jazz Bistro last Sunday, so my parents and I went there to watch them. They are AMAZING! I am not big on jazz but the music and performance were just awesome! I totally fell in love with Ori Dagan, he is so talented and handsome :-)
Now about Jazz Bistro. The place is really nice but the tables are very close and you can hear all conversations going around you. I just hate when people talk during the performance, it is such a disrespect to musicians… Food –wise, I had scallops with risotto and my parents had halibut and steak. The food was good, though my risotto was a bit mushy. Wine selection could be better — we had a hard time picking decent red wine and didn’t like our choice anyway.

Celebrated my boyfriend’s birthday there on Saturday night. I mentioned his birthday in our reservation. Our waiter brought the dessert to us after the meal and that said «Happy Birthday» in chocolate sauce on the plate. Everything about our meal was terrific — - the food, the service, the atmosphere. Of course, the live jazz music was awesome too. We had a fantastic evening.

I had a wonderful brunch here with my friend and I had the eggs Benedict and he had the French toast. Kick ass for both of them as they were textbook perfect. But the icing is that the talent that day was tremendous. An a Capella group called WIBI. So for a great brunch with a show this is the definite place to go. What a great gem in the city:) I highly recommend it.

Jazz Bistro has some great acts. I went to hear Linda Ippolito (amazing) and got the bonus of a tango quartet that was lights out.
The service here is just ok. It is slow at times and inconsistent at others.
The biggest challenges here are…
1. The clanging of dishes in the kitchen and squeaking of the kitchen door can be heard during the performances. This is unacceptable!
2. There is no space to dance or move about. If you come here after sitting all day at work, plan on lots more sitting!
Beyond that, the food is slightly above average. The drinks are good, with reasonable prices.
If you know you want to hear a performance, definitely plan to attend. This is a nice place with Ok food. Simply note the challenges in advance.

I don’t know about the food, but y’all need to come down for the music. This the first new Jazz venue in this city in years, and they actually pay the musicians, and have a no talking policy. Service and music here were great. I hope they can make a go of it. Toronto needed a club that is truly a jazz club after the departure of Top O’The Senator and the Montréal Bistro.
Some reviewers, like below, do not understand the culture of a club and that it’s nice to go out with friends and listen to some great music, and not have to talk. You can talk at the set break!

With the closing of the legendary Montréal Bistro and the great Top O the Senator, it’s been too many years since Toronto has had a serious jazz destination (note: the Rex Hotel is still obviously a staple, but what I’m talking about is a club where the musicians don’t have to compete, volume-​wise, with the patrons).
Well ladies and gentleman, the Top O the Senator has been re-​imagined and reinvented as Toronto’s latest and greatest jazz venue, the JAZZ BISTRO. The renovated space now features music downstairs but two-​level seating, so you can also sit upstairs and view the music directly or watch the action on two large monitors. The new design is absolutely gorgeous, from the beautiful bar to the opulent chandeliers to the uniquely stunning red piano. Think: sexy, jazzy, cool.
Toronto: this is our Birdland, our Blue Note, our very best showcase for Canadian (and international) jazz talent, thanks to the bistro’s veteran music booker (from the old Senator club) Sybil Walker.
Tues-​Sat nights or Sun brunch, come here to see the who’s-who of Canadian jazz music… and to enjoy the very best jazz you will hear anywhere across Canada, period.
As for the food, we did find it a little hit and miss (short ribs – hit! arctic char – miss; crème brûlée – hit!)…but will be happy to try more of their menu items.
Either way, I for one am ECSTATIC with the look, feel, acoustics and talent line-​up of the Jazz Bistro and will certainly become a regular in the months and years ahead. You should too. Let’s all bring friends, order lots of food/​drinks, and keep our local jazz venues in business!!!