In New York City, kids can go to Broadway shows, opera, classical music concerts … but until recently, they couldn’t go to a jazz club. Then Blue Smoke, a kid-friendly restaurant with a basement jazz club, Jazz Standard, started a Sunday jazz brunch. Jazz, of course, is associated with late nights and smoke-filled clubs. Thanks to Mayor Mike, even the late nightclubs are smoke-free, but parents are usually too tired to take their little ones out so late. The Jazz Standard brunches are held at 2pm and showcase The Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra, a large group of talented adult and teen musicians. Each week, they invite a couple of virtuoso children to play along; the week we saw the orchestra, an 8-year-old violinist and 10-year-old pianist brought down the house. Actually, there is smoke in this club, in the form of the smoked meats used in Blue Smoke’s barbecue. The restaurant uses a state-of-the-art smoker so neighbors won’t complain about the smell, but inside, the aroma is beguiling. Children aren’t known for their love of pulled pork sandwiches, but there is plenty for them to eat: delicious, cheesy macaroni and cheese; great fries; tuna sandwiches. The homemade barbecue potato chips are excellent. The club opens an hour before the music starts, so if your kids get antsy, come on the later side. Since food is being served during the music, kids don’t need to be completely quiet during the hour-long show. After the music, children can ask questions. Jazz Standard recommends the brunch for kids over age 4, but when we were there, plenty of toddlers were bopping along. But the brunch is ideal for middle and high schoolers who have outgrown kid programming, but are not yet ready for prime time.
Info: Where: Blue Smoke, 116 East 27th Street When: Sundays, 1pm-3pm How much: Donation: $5 per person. The band says it uses the money to help public school children learn about jazz. The music donation is cash only; food can be charged For more info: (212) 447-7733 Note: Reservations are suggested Further note: The club is down a flight of stairs; while there is room for strollers, you have to carry them down.
