The Jazz Club at Aman New York

The Jazz Club at Aman New York offers an intimate atmosphere for live performances, creating a luxurious escape in the heart of the city.

Some experiences are worth a year of patient anticipation—waiting to savor, to be completely immersed in. For me, attending a performance at The Jazz Club at Aman New York was one of those rare moments.

During a previous trip, I saw that one of my favorite performers from Duane Park, Esme Burlesque, was performing. As I was staying at The Hoxton Williamsburg, I really didn’t want to make the effort to go to Manhattan after a night of being at Company XIV and dinner at Laser Wolf. So, I promised myself that the next time I visited New York, I would go.

Now, the process to get entry into The Jazz Club is pretty – interesting. First, you must email reservations@thejazzclub.com no earlier than 30 days before your requested day for reservations. From there, you have a few options. You can reserve a table or a booth. The setting at the bar is first come first serve. However, you must email to be placed on the list.

For me, making a reservation for the bar was the best move. Especially, because I was heading to Harlem for dinner.

Arriving to the Aman New York

Walking to the Aman New York from my stay at 1 Hotel Central Park was a breeze. However, I made the mistake of going to the hotel entrance vs the jazz club entrance.

All it took was a short stroll around the block before I reached the actual entrance to The Jazz Club. Once I arrived, I walked up to the doorman and gave my name.

In one smooth, swift motion, he check, nodded, lifted the velvet rope, and welcomed me inside. It was an effortless motion that I knew he did repeatedly every night. But for me, the small gesture felt almost cinematic, setting the stage for the experience to come.

Welcome to The Jazz Club

Descending downstairs, I absolutely loved checking in with the front hostesses. I was led to the bar and given the choice of my preferred seat.

As I settled, a deep sense of gratitude washed over me—a quiet recognition of the determination that had brought me here. The intimate atmosphere , the view and the energy around the room —it all felt just right.

Just a few minutes after I arrived,  the first act of the evening began. Danny Jonokuchi and his ensemble of talented musicians took to the stage with an air of confidence and professionalism.

They blazed through personalized interpretation of jazz standards that made me smile.

To go with the set, I ordered a glass of Bodegas Escudero’s 2004 Serna Grand Reserva, a Temparanillo/Garnacha blend from Rioja, Spain.

Soon, Alexa Barchini was brought on to join the band as a vocalist. Her rendition of  “Oh! Look At Me Now” by Frank Sinatra made me look up the song and her Spotify artist’s page.

When she came up to the bar during their pause, I took the opportunity to share how much I admired her unique style and captivating voice.  I then seized the moment to ask if she had any favorite spots for live jazz around New York City. She paused thoughtfully, and then along with the bartender, recommended a few hidden gems.

Mezzrow in Greenwich Village, she said, was a must-visit for intimate, soulful jazz sessions. The Whitby Bar at The Whitby Hotel offered an elegant atmosphere with live music that resonated beautifully through its stylish setting.

What I also appreciated was my conversation with the bartender of the best route to get to Harlem for my dinner at Clay. After convincing me that it was best to take a Lyft vs taking the metro, I was able to stay for just one more song and savor every last note before leaving.

As I settled my tab and slipped away from my seat to move to my next stop for the evening, a deep sense of satisfaction washed over me. My entire experience at The Jazz Club had completely captivated me and watered a very deep and dear part of my artistic soul.

Quality live music is truly a blessing in this world.

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