Jazz clubs are all the rage again in New York, and we’ve been to our fair share. We were not prepared, though, for the glitz and glamor that is the Club Room.
Across from their iconic upstairs bar lies a curtain-covered doorway that leads you back in time: Art-Deco influences from the 70s, plush tufted seating and golden lamps that feel like the Gilded age, and suited up staff make you feel like you’re experiencing a different New York. The menu reflects this, too. With dishes such as the Smoked Salmon Rillettes, Lobster Louie, and Steak Tartare Gougėre, it captures the Jazz Age spirit and enhances the total experience.
We settled into our seats right before the first performer was about to go onstage. Quickly ordered some gin cocktails and enjoyed Jeff Kazee’s soulful renditions of classic songs. My drink, the Gin Blossom, was made with Dorothy Parker Rose Gin, Singani (brandy), grapefruit, lemon, and raspberry. It was like a refreshing, sophisticated take on the classic Cosmo that I loved. My partner ordered the Mood Indigo. It featured butterfly pea flower and lemon drizzle gin, which was poured into the violet-hued drink once it arrived at our table, forming a beautiful color changing effect. Not only gorgeous, it was equally delicious, with its bright, punchy citrus flavor.
As our food arrived, Jeff left the stage and William Hill III Trio came on. A drummer, bassist, and pianist took over with instrumental Jazz, and our Dressed Oysters, Cheese & Charcuterie, Lobster Louie, and Petite Club Burger arrived in succession. The oysters were so fresh and succulent, and the pairing white balsamic mignonette with cucumber and peppercorn was a delicious addition. I prefer my oysters with just lemon juice, but I love trying a unique mignonette and felt myself reaching for this with every oyster. The cheese & charcuterie board was the perfect thing to snack on while listening in-depth to the musicians. Worcestershire sauce was an unexpected addition to the honey, jam, and other classic accouterments – the whole board felt like a food adventure.
The Lobster Louie was such a new dish to me, and definitely felt from a different era of New York. Baby gem lettuce was topped with lobster tail and claw chunks, dressed in a creamy orange sauce with an avocado mousse base, but the most impressive part of this was the jammy quail eggs. They made the whole dish feel special. Our second main, the Petite Club Burger, was decadently saucy and luxe, cooked to a perfect medium rare.
The beef was extremely high quality, and you could truly taste the difference in each bite. We saved half for leftovers the next day, and it was just as delicious.
Whether you’re in the mood for some great music or quality food, or better yet – both – stop by The Club Room. Book your reservation and browse performances here. We hear that after dinner service concludes, the room turns into a full-on club, so you can enjoy the very best of nightlife as well!
