A cherished Atlanta landmark, this blues club's reputation as one of the city's best live music venues is a well-deserved status. The award-winning club, named after songwriter "Blind" Willie McTell, has been booking acclaimed local and national blues acts since 1986, including such legends as Charles Brown and Rufus Thomas. Backed by the talented house band, well-known wailers inspire patrons to down their deliciously inexpensive drinks and hit the dance floor to groove with abandon. (404-873-2583)
Home of the internationally acclaimed Mudcats, this unpretentious Atlanta bar is what blues clubs were meant to be. Having hosted some of the biggest legends in blues history, Northside Tavern continues its tradition of booking stellar musicians almost every night of the week, and whether you're a dancing fiend or a wallflower, you can't help but move your body to the beat. Cheap drinks, pool tables and fire-blowing bartenders round out this late-night hot spot. (404-874-8745)
An unassuming local favorite in the Atlanta area, this blues club's intimate setting adorned with eclectic decor perfectly complements the bluesy tunes belted from the small corner stage by some of the most talented acts in the region. The staff is attentive and amiable while serving up selections from the extensive menu of scrumptious sandwiches, beers, wine and martinis. If your eardrums start singing the blues, head to one of the comfortable, quieter outdoor patios. (770-578-6872)
Beluga Martini Bar is one of the most stylish jazz clubs in Atlanta, complete with shabby-chic furnishings, a mature but fun-loving crowd and, of course, the sultry tones of the saxophone mingling with cigar smoke. Also an award-winning martini lounge, Beluga is the perfect place to grab a Pomegranate Pucker and simply lose yourself in the music. Then, if your second martini so inspires you, get out there and shake it on the dance floor. (404-869-1090, 404-869-1725)
Dedicated music-lovers seeking authentic jazz clubs in Atlanta adore Churchill Grounds, the city's top spot for genuine, unadulterated jazz performed by brilliant ensembles and soaked up by a mature, sincerely appreciative crowd. The bar area is a superb setting for savoring strong yet reasonably-priced cocktails and light fare before the show, which takes place in the cozy, quiet Whisper Room. Additionally, the lounge is located near the Fox Theatre, making it the perfect post-theater experience. (404-876-3030)
Experience something completely unexpected at Dante's. Inside the large building, a replica 18th-century ship, complete with rigging, rests in a reservoir of water (inhabited by live crocodiles!). Thirteen levels accommodate diners, who indulge in cheese or meat fondue while admiring antique fittings and furnishings around them. Visitors to the ship can enjoy soothing live jazz six nights a week, and a vocalist performs Mondays. A great wine list is an added perk. Guests are permitted to come for the music without having dinner. Reservations for dinner or drinks recommended. (404-266-1600)
One of the top jazz clubs in Atlanta, Cafe 290 features live music (jazz or blues) nightly. A full menu including seafood, steaks, pasta, and vegetarian specialties is available. A separate section houses a sports bar. (404-256-3942)
Megan Long