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One of LA’s finest jazz clubs, this snug venue has booked major talents, including jazz royalty such as Dizzy Gillespie. Photographs of jazz legends adorn the room, which serves Continental cuisine. Two-drink minimum for non-diners.

This glamorous venue became the center of the swing dance revival in the 1990s after being featured in the movie The Swingers . There’s still plenty of jivin’, and swing lessons at least twice weekly (usually Monday and Saturday), while hip hop, house, and other sounds draw crowds on remaining nights.

Backed by Jennifer Lopez and other celebrities, this club presents Latin and world music, with an emphasis on salsa, to a multicultural crowd. Free salsa lessons.

The biggest names in folk music from Arlo Guthrie to Al Viola have played in the back room of this legendary acoustic instruments store. The no-frills, convivial setting appeals to true devotees. Moderate ticket prices and free coffee.

Catch local and touring bands on their way to greatness – Elton John and Sheryl Crow have played here. The upstairs balcony offers good stage views and there are three bars.

Talking during performances is strictly forbidden at this sit-down club. Listen to musicians from different genres. Without dinner reservations it’s standing room only on a space available basis. Mondays are comedy nights.

This lively Long Beach venue fronted by a big patio books some of the best blues performers around. Catch emerging talent during the weekday Happy Hours (4–8pm), or hang around for the main show at 10pm.

If this club is the heart of the LA blues scene, Laura Mae Gross is its soul. Since 1964, she has nurtured new talent and hosted greats such as B.B. King. Monday’s jam nights (with free fried chicken) are legendary.

This nightclub recently reopened as a chic supper club with a musical menu of cabaret and jazz. Named after singer-pianist Michael Feinstein, it’s an intimate venue with a great sound.

Night after night, Club Spaceland hosts LA’s edgiest, most creative, and occasionally, most bizarre rock talent in front of a grungy crowd.