Bad first impression, but I'll try again soon and revise my review accordingly.
My friends have been raving about this place up for the last year, and I've seen some great musician listed on their bill. So, my expectations may have been a bit high, when I finally had a chance to check out one of my favorite bands Rebirth Brass Band here this past weekend. I was sorely disappointed. The place looks great, and has a decent atmosphere with a nice layout for seeing bands play. Lots of vantage points, places to sit, places to dance, and good access to the bar. Maybe the bartenders were short handed, or maybe I was just asking for too much, but every time I ordered a drink from their drink menu, the bartenders rolled their eyes and begrudgingly made my drinks. I guess they were slammed and just wanted people to order bottle beers to make their lives easier. I don't know. Why have a drink menu if that's the case? I ordered three of the same drink (it was a rum drink but I forget the name), from three different bartenders, and I got three totally different drinks. Plus, they don't except credit cards. WTF? And what's even worse, is that they told me to use the ATM in the lobby, which was out of service!!!
Whatever, my biggest problem was with the show, which is why I went there anyway. The opening act was horrible. it was a bad woman singer with an even worse piano player, just hacking it up. Terrible. Then, Rebirth went on late and ended early. We had told all of our friends to go, and everyone was expecting to dance all night long, but all we got was one really good, really short set. Then the band walked out of the place, and the owner was left scrabbling to get background music playing as the place emptied out disappointed. What the hell did I just pay for?
Been there twice. Loved it both times.
The sound is great, sight-lines are fab, staff is cordial and warm. Â Lots of tables and chairs to sit and enjoy the music. The bar is comfortable (I sat there on my second visit). They even have a nice little library with a fake fireplace. Â Only thing I would add are some couches to make it extra comfy.
Review on Chico's House of Jazz. I'd give it a 8.5/10... Really nice place overall.. It looks small but really a nice layout. I would still reserve a table for a large party though. Also try to come a little early for a good parking spot. Asbury to me doesn't have enough parking to me.... that's just me though. Music was really great, even through the sets and afterwards the dj kept the music flowing. Everyone had a good times on the dance floor. Food was eh okay...( sandwhich and salads type of joint) but I like Brickwall Tavern or Market In The Middle are still my top places to grab a bite. The drinks are reasonable but suggest you come early because once the band gets going getting a drink becomes really hard to come by. Alot of oldheads but some soul old souls like myself are sprinkled in the crowd. I will be back ladies night ;)
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