8 Amazing Restaurants and Bars with Live Music

Phoenix's Culinary Harmony: Where Flavor Meets Rhythm
January 14, 2024

Welcome to a harmonious exploration of Phoenix’s vibrant culinary and entertainment scene! Arizona City Living, we’ll take you on a melodious journey through the city’s 8 amazing restaurants and bars that offer not just delectable dishes and libations but also the enchanting presence of live music. Whether you’re a fan of soulful jazz melodies, rocking tunes, or smooth acoustic performances, Phoenix has something to offer for every music enthusiast. Join us as we uncover 8 amazing establishments where delectable flavors and captivating melodies converge, creating an unforgettable dining and entertainment experience. Get ready to savor the sounds and tastes of Phoenix like never before!

Blue Martini

Blue Martini spans across multiple states, including Florida, Nevada, and soon, Georgia, offering patrons the perfect blend of sophistication and local pub ambiance. This establishment caters to a slightly more mature crowd, inviting those who relish the opportunity to dress elegantly and take to the dance floor. Blue Martini frequently showcases popular local acts like Young Country and Nineball, treating its guests to an array of contemporary country and alt-rock performances.The beverage menu at Blue Martini is nothing short of exceptional, boasting a curated selection of wines, luxurious Champagnes, and an extensive list of specialty martinis that cater to diverse tastes. As you sip on your preferred libation, indulge in a range of trendy light bites, including delectable options such as baked Brie, beet and burrata salad, Thai chicken, and lollipop lamb chops. Experience the best of both worlds at Blue Martini – where sophistication meets the local charm of a beloved neighborhood bar. While there's a well-stocked bar serving a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, and classic cocktails, the culinary offerings here are a delightful complement to the music. You can savor a selection of "jazzy tapas" that may include delectable options like wings, fries, cod sliders, bangers and mash, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Whether you're here for the exceptional live music, the cozy ambiance, or the tasty bites, this nightclub promises an unforgettable experience.

West Side Blues & Jazz

In this intimate nightclub, you'll find small tables thoughtfully arranged facing the stage, creating an inviting and cozy atmosphere with exceptional acoustics. This layout not only exudes the charm of an old-school supper club but also ensures that every seat offers a fantastic view of the live performances. When renowned musicians, both local and nationally recognized, grace the stage – artists like Francine Reed, Alice Tatum, Chuck Hall, and Big Pete Pearson – the venue is abuzz with excitement, often seeing lines extending out the door. While there's a well-stocked bar serving a variety of beverages, including beer, wine, and classic cocktails, the culinary offerings here are a delightful complement to the music. You can savor a selection of "jazzy tapas" that may include delectable options like wings, fries, cod sliders, bangers and mash, and grilled cheese sandwiches. Whether you're here for the exceptional live music, the cozy ambiance, or the tasty bites, this nightclub promises an unforgettable experience.

Handlebar J

At this cherished, family-owned honkytonk in Scottsdale, you'll find cowboy hats adorning the rafters, a tradition that has persisted for 48 years. It's a true local institution known far and wide for its unbeatable combination of country music and hearty, Southern-inspired cuisine. The menu boasts mouthwatering delights such as barbecued ribs, juicy steaks, crispy fried chicken, and freshly baked biscuits that'll transport you to the heart of the South.As you step inside, you'll be drawn to the lively tunes of the Herndon Brothers house band, a highlight of the venue's music scene. Local talent, including bands like Hillbilly Deluxe and the Dirty Yachtin’ Scoundrels (experts in yacht rock), also take the stage, ensuring that there's always a boot-scootin' good time to be had. Whether you're here for the tunes or the delectable Southern fare, this honkytonk promises an unforgettable experience steeped in tradition and down-home charm.

The Womack

Crafted in honor of the legendary but long-gone 1960s lounge, Chez Nous, this intimate and softly illuminated hideaway pays tribute to its cool and retro ambiance while also nodding to Chez Nous' original owners, Andy and Maureen Womack. Here, you'll be transported to a bygone era where timeless style meets modern hospitality.The cocktail menu takes inspiration from iconic singers and musicians, offering a fresh twist on classic libations. Alongside your drinks, indulge in delectable fare that includes truffle popcorn, delectable stuffed mushrooms, a tantalizing shrimp cocktail, and a thoughtfully curated meat and cheese board. Each week, the addition of local pop-ups brings new and exciting culinary options to the table.On Saturday nights at 9 p.m., groove to the soulful sounds of the R&B-styled Roscoe Taylor Band, setting the perfect backdrop for your evening. Later, as the clock strikes midnight, the DJ takes over, ensuring the night continues with infectious beats and lively energy. Join us at this nostalgic haven, where Chez Nous' spirit lives on in all its retro glory.

Chars Live

After a remarkable 45-year journey, Char's Has the Blues, the beloved blues establishment nestled in the heart of the Melrose District, temporarily closed its doors during the challenging times of the pandemic. However, in 2022, it made a triumphant return under new ownership, emerging as Chars Live, with a fresh perspective and exciting updates.The venue has undergone a modern transformation, both in terms of its interior space and its eclectic cocktail menu, offering patrons a contemporary and inviting atmosphere. While it has traditionally been a hub for funk, soul, and R&B, Chars Live now proudly presents a diverse musical lineup that spans across genres such as jazz, ska, reggae, DJ sets, and more. This expansion ensures there's something for every music enthusiast to enjoy.To enhance the overall experience, Chars Live collaborates with the Phoenix Street Food Coalition, hosting a rotation of food trucks that serve up a delectable variety of culinary delights. This dynamic addition adds an extra layer of flavor and excitement to your visit.As Chars Live continues its legacy, it invites you to be a part of its vibrant community, where live music, delicious cuisine, and a lively atmosphere converge to create unforgettable memories.

The Vig Arcadia

The Vig, now boasting six thriving locations, has long held a special place as a beloved neighborhood hangout. It's not just your typical watering hole; it's also a culinary gem with an expansive menu that delights the taste buds.While The Vig is known for its vibrant atmosphere, offering amenities like cornhole, bocce ball, and live music on the patio, it's equally celebrated for its culinary offerings. Dive into a menu that features tantalizing dishes such as crab and shrimp enchiladas, hot honey chicken, birria empanadas, and expertly grilled fish.For those who appreciate live music, mark your calendar for the first Saturday of every month, as well as Friday nights from 6-9 p.m. You'll be treated to the sounds of alt-rockers Elvis Before Noon, who are frequent performers at The Vig. And keep an eye out, because you might even catch Scotty Johnson of the Gin Blossoms joining in for an unforgettable musical experience.

Fuego at The Clarendon

Nestled within the historic Clarendon Hotel, you'll discover a charming Latin-inspired restaurant that exudes an inviting, airy ambiance. The menu is a delightful fusion of flavors, offering mouthwatering options like Cubano sliders, short rib enchiladas, pernil asado, peasant paella, and green chile cornbread.But that's not all; this restaurant is a hub for live music enthusiasts. Every night of the week, you can savor not only the culinary delights but also the sweet sounds of local musicians. Whether it's the stripped-down hillbilly blues of Jimmy Pines and Washboard Jere, the James Taylor-esque tunes of Adam Smith, or the vintage country, country swing, and old-time melodies of the Rita Rose Band, you're in for a treat. Depending on the weather, these musical talents may serenade you indoors or on the cozy covered patio.

The Nash Jazz Club

Recognized on five occasions by Downbeat Magazine as one of the globe's exceptional jazz venues, this unique and intimate establishment holds a special place in Phoenix's heart. It operates as a non-profit and educational institution dedicated to the promotion of jazz, bearing the name of the legendary drummer and Phoenix native, Lewis Nash.While the beverage and food selection may be somewhat modest, offering beer, wine, and movie theater-style snacks, patrons flock here not for the culinary offerings but for the musical feast that awaits. The stage regularly hosts jazz veterans hailing from various corners of the country, with a particular emphasis on artists from New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These virtuosos deliver mind-bending performances spanning the entire spectrum of jazz genres, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all in attendance. Many attendees choose to indulge in a pre-show meal at one of the neighborhood's dining establishments, setting the stage for an evening of exceptional music.