For 30 years Andy's Jazz Club has been home to world-class jazz, blues and swing acts like jazz legend Von Freeman and swing saxophonist Sam Burckhardt (formerly of the Mighty Blue Kings). With three live shows a day, Andy's can’t help but showcase Chicago's best jazz and most promising up-and-comers. Andy's rocks, bops, swings and boogies all day, starting with the Monday through Friday lunch crowd via its "Jazz at Noon" sessions, and extending into the wee hours for late-night hipsters. Andy's puts its own jazzy spin on the beer and whisky dive bar ambiance, with a collection of vintage Chicago Jazz Festival banners and a jazz "Wall of Fame" featuring photos of Chicago favorites past and present. Recent renovations may have improved the restrooms and floor-coverings, but the character here is quintessential Chicago.

The lunchtime scene is conversation-friendly, with local acts performing for a mix of tourists and downtown nine-to-fivers on their lunch breaks. The "Jazz at Five" show is perfect for the rowdier, post-work, happy-hour crowd; serious jazz fans won’t want to miss the world-renowned headliners of Andy's "Jazz at Nine." Regardless of the time of day, the energy is high and the music is jumpin'.

Hungry music-lovers can choose from a wide variety of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers, pizzas and entrees that'll run you $8-$20. All the typical barroom favorites are here, but who needs buffalo wings when you can have teriyaki beef tips on garlic bread? Chef Darryl Falconer has added a gourmet touch to the traditional pub fare, and the result is a first-class menu that won't leave you singing the blues.

Centerstage Reviewer: Aimee Hall