Jazz Texas: A Review

By Hannah Alvarado
Blog Content Contributor

Weather-worn brick can be viewed as far as the eyes can see. Music, laughter and eateries are in abundance among the many buildings intermingled within a small area known locally, as simply “The Pearl.” If you’ve never been, trust me, it’s the place to be when visiting San Antonio. The region holds much to be witness to, and has a way of paying homage to the old while remaining innovative and interesting. This renowned district in San Antonio, Texas is surely one of the hidden gems among the city. Amidst the eateries, apartment buildings, and general splendor of the outdoor greenery lays a secret worth speaking about. Its name: Jazz Texas.

One of coolest things about the place is how hidden it is. When you type in the address for the establishment into Google Maps, 312 Pearl Parkway Blvd. #6 Suite #6001, San Antonio, TX 78215, you’ll be taken to a large, off-white brick building within the heart of the Pear, a place that appears to be only a restaurant/brewery named the Bottling House. In order to enter, you must then venture down the stone steps and find yourself at two dark doors. Inside, you’re met with a podium and thick, velvet curtains. That’s right, it’s located in the cellar of a completely different establishment.

Once admitted, a classy Gatsby-esque speakeasy ambience can be felt throughout the intimate space. The room is dim, illuminated by candle-light. Modest tables face a cool-lit stage and a gorgeous bar area. Fantastic live jazz music, amazing food and people getting up to dance in the small spaces allowed are a sight to see. I had the pleasure of attending this past Valentine’s Day, and I cannot stress how incredible the food was, how great the energy of the band was and just how much my boyfriend and I felt like we stepped right into La La Land.

Their hours of operation seem to be a bit erratic as you’ve got to remember, guys, it is a live music venue. According to their website, Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., a happy hour show takes a place which will run you a five dollar cover charge on Fridays and Saturdays only. Later in the evening, Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m., the main show takes place. For that show, cover will run you from ten to thirty dollars. And just in case your class is running late, or if you’re stuck in traffic on I-35, don’t fret. There’s a Friday/Saturday 12:00 a.m. – 1:30 a.m. midnight set to attend, with no cover charge!

Because it was Valentine’s Day, the air of the space seemed even more intimate and romantic, with the roses and the rose petals, but I know full well that I’d attend again. As a San Antonio native, I can attest that there is truly no place to match it in town. Though the times are a bit erratic and its upscale nature can scare off a few people, I cannot stress how worth your time it is.

Featured image by Marina Bustillo-Mendoza.