Now I consider myself a fan of jazz music, but with over a decade of going out in different clubs and bars throughout Montreal, I never once thought to visit the House of Jazz. After going there for the first time to celebrate a friend's 30th birthday, I will definitely consider going back before going to many other places.
Since it was Saturday night there was a 10$ cover charge. It was the birthday boy's idea, so nobody really complained and I was just happy we paid 10$ to get into a jazz bar rather than a strip club.
The first thing you notice as you walk in as how much of an old school feel this place has. It easily felt like I can be in a New York or even in a New Orleans jazz bar. The lighting is great, and the accessories and pictures throughout the bar make for a great atmosphere while you sit back and enjoy some good music.
I did not get a chance to sample anything from the food menu but did try their signature alcoholic coffee drink which was pretty good, although a little too sweet for my taste. The one thing that bothered me and my group of friends, was how hot it was in the bar. This was an early October evening and it felt like it was well over 30 degrees in there, which had most of us sweating.
A second visit to the House of Jazz is definitely in store for me in the future, as I am curious about their food items and menu. I'll just make sure to visit on a weekday to avoid the 10$ cover charge on Friday and Saturday.