The Hermit Club in Cleveland, which opened in 1904, nearly predates jazz itself. The venue hosts an array of jazz concerts--big band, in particular--as well as other chamber music. The club serves up American pub fare with items like strip steak and cobb salad. It also caters private parties. The Hermit is a spot that encourages patrons to cut loose on the dance floor to the beat of the club's 19-piece jazz orchestra or the more intimate jazz trio.
The Hermit Club
1629 Dodge Court
Cleveland, OH 44114
216-621-2325
thehermitclub.org
The Blue Wisp Jazz Club makes its home in Cincinnati, which is on the southern tip of the state, right on the border of Kentucky. The venue is known for filling the night air with the brass sounds of live big band jazz, which will often lead to at least a few patrons stepping onto the floor to dance along. Although the cocktail list is the most extensive thing on the menu, the Blue Wisp does provide basic entrees, such as BBQ pulled pork or chicken sandwiches, as well as a variety of pizzas. Weekly specials make an appearance as well.
Blue Wisp Jazz Club
318 East 8th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-241-9477
thebluewisp.com
Although the city of Toledo is not the Midwestern powerhouse that it was decades ago, it still offers top-notch jazz venues. Murphy's Place, which is located inside a restored building in the town's historic district, is known and respected throughout the country. Most nights the in-house band will take the stage, often accompanied by local and touring jazz vocalists. The club is intimate, but there's enough space to get up from the table and swing along with the entertainment. The food at Murphy's is fairly sophisticated with a focus on quality seafood dishes and steaks.
Murphy's Place Jazz Club
151 Water Street
Toledo, OH 43604
419-241-7732
murphysplace-jazz.com