Morning Jazz

Question

Years ago, (Like 4 or 5), One morning the wife and I were walking along a side street in New Orleans. Found a place called The Yard on I believe was on Frenchman street. They had a small group of 3 or 4 people playing Jazz music. We walked up and they had a small courtyard. We sat down and had a few drinks and enjoyed the music. The next time we went They were permanantly closed. We loved it and it left a great memory. Cant find any more information on it. Just looking for something like that. Not into crowds packed into a place. ( I hear preservation hall is great but packed!) Any ideas of a place like that? This will be my 3rd visit to New Orleans and I am running out of ideas of what to do. Thanks!

Answer

It's great to hear you're returning to New Orleans for your third visit! Jazz is a huge part of the city's soul, and it’s understandable that you’re looking for a more intimate, relaxed experience away from the big crowds. The Yard on Frenchmen Street sounds like it was a wonderful gem, and it’s unfortunate that it’s no longer there. However, there are still plenty of spots where you can enjoy live jazz without the big crowds, especially in the mornings or quieter times of day. Here are some suggestions that might give you that similar vibe:

1. The Spotted Cat Music Club

Located on Frenchmen Street, The Spotted Cat is a cozy, unpretentious jazz club that often features live bands. While Frenchmen Street can be busy, this place tends to have a more relaxed atmosphere. They don’t typically have huge crowds, especially in the mornings or early evenings before the late-night rush. It has a casual, friendly vibe, and you can enjoy a drink while listening to some great local jazz musicians.

Pros: Great local jazz, intimate atmosphere, less crowded at non-peak hours.
Cons: Still on Frenchmen Street, so it can get a bit lively at night.

2. Café Negril

Café Negril offers a laid-back atmosphere with live music almost every night, including jazz. It’s known for its outdoor seating and smaller crowds compared to larger jazz clubs in the area. They have a charming courtyard where you can enjoy music in a more relaxed environment. It’s a bit off the beaten path and offers a good mix of local jazz with a quieter crowd.

Pros: Outdoor seating, relaxed atmosphere, great live music, not too crowded.
Cons: Smaller venue, so it can fill up during peak times.

3. The Maison

The Maison on Frenchmen Street offers a more laid-back environment during the day, especially in the early afternoon. It’s a large venue, but the jazz performances are typically held in the back room or on the balcony, which provides a more intimate setting. They offer great food along with their jazz music, and the crowds are usually much thinner during the early hours.

Pros: Spacious but still intimate in parts, live jazz with food, relaxed daytime atmosphere.
Cons: Can get crowded later in the evening, especially during weekends.

4. Fritzel’s European Jazz Club

If you’re looking for something off the main tourist track, Fritzel’s European Jazz Club offers an old-school vibe with fantastic jazz performances. It’s a small club with a great selection of musicians, and it tends to have fewer tourists compared to other spots. The intimate space, combined with the unique sound of live jazz, makes it a great place to enjoy a quiet afternoon or evening.

Pros: Intimate setting, fewer crowds, great local jazz talent.
Cons: Small space, so it can get packed if a big act is on.

5. Bacchanal Wine

Bacchanal Wine is a bit different in that it’s not solely a jazz venue, but it does feature live music on its outdoor patio, including jazz. The atmosphere is relaxed, with a beautiful courtyard where you can enjoy a drink, some food, and music in a very chill, non-touristy setting. It’s perfect if you want a less hectic vibe and love a good wine selection along with your music.

Pros: Relaxed outdoor setting, great wine and food, good local music.
Cons: Can get busy on weekends, especially in the evenings.

6. The Palm Court Jazz Café

If you’re in the mood for a more intimate, historic jazz experience, The Palm Court Jazz Café in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is a great option. It’s known for its cozy, intimate setting and its high-quality jazz performances. This spot feels more like stepping back in time, with beautiful decor and excellent acoustics for the live jazz bands they host.

Pros: Intimate atmosphere, historic vibe, excellent acoustics, quality performances.
Cons: May not be as lively or packed as other spots, depending on the time of day.

Conclusion:

For a peaceful, less crowded experience, I’d recommend trying places like Café Negril or Fritzel’s for their relaxed vibe and live jazz. If you’re looking for something with a bit more of the local flavor and a quieter crowd during the day, Bacchanal Wine or The Palm Court Jazz Café might be the perfect spots. Frenchmen Street has plenty of options, but by visiting during less crowded times, you can still find that intimate, classic New Orleans experience. Enjoy your trip and the music!