The CoMo art scene has something for everyone. For music-lovers, the city offers a variety of sites where you can listen to your favorite genre — no matter which one. And for residents and visitors who see music as an experience best enjoyed alongside other interests, take note of these key haunts whether you love food, nightlife, concerts or all three.
For foodies
Downtown, Cafe Berlin and Broadway Brewery double as venues that bring all types of musicians from solo acts to big bands. Although the kitchen isn’t open during concerts at Cafe Berlin, be sure to grab one of their signature waffle sandwiches for brunch and plan to return when the sun goes down for indie tunes and noteworthy drinks. At Broadway Brewery, Sundays equal brunch with bluegrass, and the last Monday of every month brings the Columbia Jazz Orchestra.
To the east, Jazz, A Louisiana Kitchen cooks up authentic Southern cuisine paired with jazz, blues and rock Wednesdays through Saturdays. South of Interstate 70 sits Murry’s, known for simple, good food and live jazz. With solo piano Monday through Thursday, a trio on Saturday nights and Sunday shows featuring special menus and the world’s top jazz artists, Murry’s continues its decades-long legacy in food and entertainment.
For night owls
Nights at The Gold Bar and Nightclub turn into a one-of-a-kind memory. With a nightclub and mezzanine upstairs, this updated nightlife occupies the location of the former Penguin Piano Bar and Nightclub and has ample room for swaying to whatever beat the DJ is droppin’.
Eastside Tavern transforms into a karaoke bar on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays after 9 p.m. If you’re interested in taking the stage to sing one of the hundreds of classics offered, make sure you sign up as soon as possible — slots fill up quickly. (And if singing loudly and off-key isn’t your thing, the tavern brings in local comics on Tuesdays.)
For concertgoers
On Ninth Street, The Blue Note books acts that impress. The massive music destination once hosted the Red Hot Chili Peppers — enough said. Rose Music Hall, created by the masterminds who run The Blue Note, focuses on local musicians and offers an indoor and outdoor experience. Down Broadway, bring your cowboy boots to Nash Vegas, a live country music hub where you can line dance the night away.
Part of MU, University Concert Series entertains mid-Missouri residents with renowned music from around the world. Hosted in various venues on campus, University Concert Series manager Robert Wells emphasizes the series’ diversity and how it offers viewers one-of-a-kind entertainment. “I would encourage everyone to come with an open mind and immerse themselves in the experience because every show is an experience that can’t really be replicated,” Wells says. “It’s a live performance with professionals that we get to share with others in our own community.”
