The Italian eatery with a stage that abuts the bustling bar presents mostly LA.-based artists (John Pisano, Sandy Graham, Sol Marquez, Anthony Wilson), some travelers and occasional big names in the back room.

Straightahead jazz has been showcased at this cozy neighborhood bar for several years. On Friday and Saturday, bassist John Heard's trio, with crackling drummer Roy McCurdy, backs regulars and guests; Thursdays belong to drum legend Earl Palmer.

For more than 15 years, contemporary post-bop and mainstream touring stars have regularly visited this L.A. club, which recently moved to its new location.

One of the best jazz venues in the area, the Jazz Bakery is a converted bakery building that serves up top name jazz artists in a concert setting. The Jazz Bakery has been aa non-profit organization since its inception more than 10 years ago with a mission is to cultivate a future audience for the jazz art form.