With a jazz legacy dating back nearly a century, Kolkata holds a special place in the genre's history. According to Naresh Fernandes' book 'Taj Mahal Foxtrot,' it was here that the groundbreaking Lequime’s Grand Hotel Orchestra recorded India's first jazz disc, 'The House Where the Shutters Are Green,' in 1926. Since 2002, the city has been hosting annual jazz festivals, small gatherings showcasing performances by top-notch artists and opening clubs and restaurants that celebrate this genre. We have curated the top 5 best spots for you to get a taste of authentic jazz bars, in and around the city!
Groove & Vibe At The 6 Best Jazz Bars In Kolkata
Trincas
Calling all Frank Sinatra enthusiasts! If you fall into the category of connoisseur, Trincas is the ultimate destination for you. Indulge in delightful jazz lunches with Trincas's Willie Walter’s Jazz Quartet every weekend from 1 PM to 3 PM. While many classic establishments from the 1960s and 70s phased out live music over time, Trincas still stands proudly as a testament to the enduring legacy of its music, which continues to resonate even after more than 60 years.
Where: 17, Mother Teresa Sarani, near Oxford Book Store, Park Street, Kolkata, 700016
Rating: 4.4
Roxy
Roxy at The Park Hotel brings the Roaring Twenties to life with flapper glamour, cool jazz, and irresistible cocktails. It's your go-to for painting the town red, especially on funky hip-hop Wednesdays, ladies' night Thursdays, and every night of pure fun. With a cover charge of INR 1,400 offering unlimited drinks until midnight, what's not to love?
Where: 17, Mother Teresa Sarani, Taltala, Kolkata, 700016
Ratings: 4.2
Skinny Mo's Jazz Club
An homage to the past and a nod to the future, Skinny Mo's is a vibrant tribute to Kolkata's enduring love affair with Jazz Music. Located on Manohar Pukur Road, this two-story establishment seamlessly blends music, food, and fashion. Their vision is to spotlight the brightest creative talents from Calcutta and beyond. Housed in a meticulously restored building from the 1950s, they have revived its former glory, with a keen focus on preserving its captivating art deco style.
Where: 91, Manohar Pukur Rd, Manoharpukur, Kalighat, Kolkata, 700029
Rating: 4.7
Phoenix
Get ready to party at Phoenix, The Astor's heritage hotspot in Kolkata. Jazz, pop, and underground beats from the Swinging Sixties to set the dance floor ablaze, with live performances here Thursdays (hosted by Thursday Jazz Encounter and Jamsteady). Sip on out-of-this-world drinks, including rare whiskies, while the food and vibes in the vintage, retro, and industrial mix make it a night to remember.
Where: 15, Shakespeare Sarani Rd, beside Nightingale Hospital, Kankaria Estates, Park Street area, Kolkata, 700071
Rating: 4.3
Chaitown Community
Diverging from our previous picks, Chaitown Community is a cosy, intimate spot. No flashy lights or top-tier sound gear, but it's all about the unique atmosphere—imagine a live music concert on your friend's terrace. Catch rare gems in the city's music scene, spanning folk, rock, jazz, pop, and blues acts. It's not about the frills; it's the genuine vibe that makes Chaitown special.
Where: Gupta Residence, Gobindapur Rd, Jodhpur Gardens, Lake Gardens, Kolkata, 700045
Rating: 4.6
TopCat CCU
No need for fancy intros here: TopCat CCU is like the coolest jazz joint in Kolkata with incredible music, comedy and arts gigs. You can catch the hottest acts from around the block and even across the globe. Plastic Parvati, Pulpy Shilpy, Tajdar Junaid, and metal maestros Gutslit and What Escapes Me have all jammed here. And don't get us started on the groovy Bodhisattwa Trio— Kolkata's beloved Jazz band.
Where: 36/F, Topsia Rd, Topsia, Kolkata, West Bengal 700039
Rating: 4.5
