Love this place.....great ..musicians and people.... Atmosphere is fantastic...cherishing Memories of good Harlem times and childhood... read more

449 LA features jazz that is not only authentic, but also a pleasure to listen to. Last Saturday I was entertaining a friend from San Francisco, and at first I was going to take her to Fat Cat which often features live jazz, lots of seats, and has a cheap cover charge. However, on the way there she said, "Yay, jazz in Harlem! This is awesome!" So... not wanting to disappoint her, not having been to jazz in Harlem for a long time, and not knowing where to go, I looked up some places on the internet, and we decided to go to a place at 449 Lenox Ave called 449 LA. Yes, that is a rather unimaginative name, but boy am I glad we went. The cover charge was $20, which may seem expensive, but included all you can eat (red beans and rice with baked chicken), and all you can drink (a choice among various soft drinks and sangria, which was not the best sangria I've ever had, but it wasn't bad, and I do believe it was spiked with brandy to yummy effect). The website where I found it says the cover is $10, which it normally is, but it was more that night because of the included food and drink. Call ahead to see what the deal is. The place itself is intimate -- I'd say about 18 people could actually be seated. But that Saturday night was brutally cold (25F, -4C, and it was very windy), so there weren't that many people there. We arrived at around 10:30pm, and there were about 8 other people. The service was very warm and friendly; when the band wasn't playing, the server stopped to chat with us asking where we were from and made other small talk. The music was GREAT. Small band: piano, drums, bass, sax, and a guy who invented his own instrument that was two kinds of saxes joined together that he blew into at the same time so that he was always playing a chord. No brass that night. A couple of improv pieces, a few standards. A couple of songs with vocalists. Not too loud, not too abstract, all of it very enjoyable. The band didn't mind if we took pictures (non-flash, of course) and we did. I would highly recommend 449 LA if you want to go to jazz in Harlem. read more

449 LA - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New York, New York

As I walked along Lenox Avenue near 133rd Street in Harlem one recent Friday night, I heard the exciting sounds of jazz emanating from a quaint and cozy venue that is simply called 449 LA. The venue is also known as SCAT or the Showcase for Artists, located at 449 LA (Lenox Avenue). Upon entering 449 LA, I was very warmly greeted by the hosts, seated, and proceeded to enjoy a great jazz set that included some awesome musicians. I am no jazz expert, but the music sounded goooood. Bottom line, I was able to see and hear great music in a nice room that doesn't cost an arm and a leg." There is a New Renaissance going on uptown in Harlem where I lived through my teenage years. SCAT or The Showcase For Artists located at 449 LA is definitely a part of it. I recommend that you get up to Harlem and catch up with it. No Cover Days and Hours of Operation: Sun: Patio Jazz 4p - 7:30p Thu: Jazz Brunch 12p - 3p Bring lunch - refreshments available Fri: Jazz Night 9p - until Sat: Vocalists Night 8p - 11p read more

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Small and very nice neighborhood spot, Five Stars ***** Rashid The Jazz Aficionado Booker read more

449 LA - https://www.facebook.com/keepingtheidiomalive/photos/a.850265495027326.1073741837.584459258274619/1010397475680793/?type=3&theater - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New York, New York

How can so much talent fit into one room?! La Scat is amazing. I was there last night for the live jazz and an endless string of musicians kept joining the band for short stints. We even had a sultry singer grace us with some fine songs. It's a very comfortable vibe, the waitresses dance as they bring you delicious sangria, and it's amazingly cheap for an evening of such delicious music. read more

Sweet little place in Harlem. The owner is warm and friendly. The venue is small but cozy with beautiful local art work on the walls. This place is a excellent spot in Harlem to stop by to listen to nice jazz without having to pay a cover or sit down to a full meal. The owner passes around tamborines and other small instruments to get the audience involved in the performance --- very cute!! This is a very down to earth establishment. I came by myself on a Saturday night and just jived to the music, drank sangria and at the end of the performance chit chatted for a bit with one of the musician and the owner before heading out for the night. I didn't give this venue five stars only because the limited drinking options available besides sangria and non-alcoholic beverages. Also, I'm not sure if there is anything available besides the pretzels because there wasn't a menu provided. But this is no biggie if you're just trying to enjoy the music in a nice vibe! Besides the Sangria is only 10 bucks and the owner keeps refilling your glass if it's even close to empty! I love Jazz and Sangria so I wouldn't be surprised if I turned into a regular at this venue! =0) read more

No frills, no nonsense standard neighborhood Jazz spot. The home of bottomless Sangria (in plastic cups) and sensibly tiled stage. Get here and grab seats along the wall, enjoy the music, but if you want to be pleased, know your Jazz and request a song. read more

449 LA - a man playing a saxophone in a music studio - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New York, New York

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Stopped in for some jazz after touring the neighborhood on foot. The pricing structure was a little nebulous but I think it worked out to something like $10 for a few hours of music, 1 drink of your choice (I think I had a glass of wine or a mojito?) and a snack (I believe it was pretzels or mixed nuts). The musicians were solid and vibed well with each other. As I recall, they didn't swipe cards and I had to jaunt over to the grocery store across the street to use their ATM. It could be I needed the cash for some other reason, but I think she said she preferred cash. I got the impression the musicians all rotated but had some regulars. It's a nice spot to rest your legs, hear some music and chill. One awkward thing, the bathroom is behind the stage so you have to go past the musicians to access it, which feels like you're interrupting them or getting in their way or crowding them. It's tight quarters towards the back, and that's where the bathroom is! read more

I love this place. Can't get enough. Super chill, great music, authentic neighborhood vibe.

This place is definitely open. We just went there tonight and heard lovely music. Today George Braithe was playing his braithophone which was a pleasure to hear. Its a pity that more people werent there enjoying the music and this reporting on yelp that the location is closed just doesnt help. read more

Saturday, October 27, 2007 Mr George Brown and his Trio, (A reprint of Jan 2007 an evening at 449LA) Category: Music (A reprint of Jan 2007 an evening at 449LA) Mr George Brown and his Trio Mr George Brown, smooth dreamy Latin troubadour who sings with conviction and sincerity. And is a shining example of what makes Harlem nights glorious. Mr Brown was recently seen on three occasions at the 449LA a space billed as Showcase for the Artist. Art Gallery by day, Bistro Music Grotto, Jazz Room and Cabaret Room by night, is a diamond in it's truest form raw and touched only by the hands of the Creator. Neatly sitting the shadows of the Lenox Terrace Apartment Complex on Lenox Avenue."This is a space for the Artist" says Sandy the guardian of this establishment. Who has her feet firmly planted in the corner of the up and coming Artist of all media's. Mr. Brown has vastly become an audience pleaser and established himself as a sure in house attraction. Masterfully weavers his set with Latin and American pop tunes. Mr. Willie Mitchell, Piano, Mr. Don Byron, Bass and Mr. Ditto, Drums. This tightly spun trio of musicians holds the evening together and creates an atmosphere reminiscent of Harlem's hey days. These seasoned musicians could have played behind the Billie's and Ella's or as side men with Edward Kennedy Ellington. Songs like "Amour", "I Can't Give You Anything But Love", "All of Me". Mr Brown swings and sways and in an oasis of rhythm and jazz leaves one wondering what other events Sandy and her 449LA venue has in store. This reviewer suggest keeping an eye on 449LA watch the magic happen before the word spreads beyond the boundaries of Glorious Harlem and the lines bend around the block ~~~~~~~~ http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendID=151825042~~~~~~ read more

The 449 LA...what can I say? aka SCAT, the first time I rolled up in there, it already had me absorbed into it's presence. The kool, relaxing atmosphere had me feeling like home. Its music and the spirit of kindness of the host and employees made me so glad I decided to spend my Friday night there. My arrival, for the open mic my debut there, was worth the experience. With jazz artist, rappers, singers and spoken word arists (such as myself) that went up on stage to perform to please the audiences ears and minds to the most enjoyable peak of social enlightenment. I had one of the best friday nights, at this Harlem hot spot, I've had in a long time. I'd definitely recommend this place to a friend to recommend it to another friend and another and another... The people I've met there knew what they were doing when they decided to drop into 449 LA that night. The last friday and saturdays are, what I think are some of if not the best nights to stop in...for the food and entertainment. Having the honor of performing some poetry my first night there is something I'll always remember. read more

Came here yesterday after walking the streets at Harlem Week Street Festival. It was a pleasant surprise..its like a modern day jute joint..ppl playing all types of instruments...just jamming and having FUN! This lady sang a couple of songs she was really cool and jazzy!! The owner is the sweetest lady, she walks around offering everyone drinks..she has sangria, water, juice and soda! If your cup even looks as if its attempting to be too low...she comes and re-fills...the really great thing about it is..the cost is only $10..that covers ur unlimited drinks and entertainment. They do not serve food, and I am not sure if one could bring in outside food. Oh yeah I almost forgot..there is also an outdoor garden in the back...if I am in Harlem..I will mos def go back! read more

Beware: the music they advertise is not free. It's a steep $12.50 cover charge, for which you also get a very small drink. Shocked to see my bill after having spent just 30 minutes there and having a tiny sangria. read more

The best jazz spot in the heart of Harlem! Popping music, relaxed ambience and excellent service (not like some other overpriced places for tourists). This is a must if you are a Harlem resident or just visiting. read more

449 LA - a bicycle parked outside a restaurant - Jazz & Blues Near Me - New York, New York

What a beautiful place, with great music, great hostess and very cozy and comfortable setup! I live in Harlem and will be back many many times! read more

During Harlem Week in 2008 I hit 449 LA and it was one of the best evenings out I've had in a very long time. I was able to take my 12 year old grandson with me as we sat back and enjoyed the entertainment provided by musicians and guest readers (of which I was one). The cozy, comfortable feel of the club lets you know right away that it's a place where you can relax, let your hair down and sit back and enjoy yourself without worrying about anything. What I really like is that you are free to drop by anytime, whether you just come to stop by and share a friendly hello with the Owner, if you're looking for a place to read and unwind, or perhaps you are in the mood for some really great live entertainment...you can even pick up some gorgeous artwork while there! Now if that doesn't cover all the bases for a literary club, I don't know what does!! So what are you waiting for? Stop by 449 LA and judge for yourself, you won't be sorry! read more

As a Jazz noob, I can't write well enough to do this place justice. Just think of this as a very chill place to sit and enjoy some good jazz music. The proprietor is super nice, and is very happy to talk about the history of wanting a place that wasn't just a bar or a restaurant but was focused specifically on the art. Pricing is dirt cheap, you pay $10 to sit and listen and it includes a drink. I had the sangria and then got a refill for $3. I repeat, dirt cheap for what you're getting. The one draw back is that they don't have any food, but you can bring food in and with Manna's Soul Food just one block away, you are set. read more

This is a charming little neighborhood spot, run by a true lover and supporter of jazz, that gives local musicians (many amateurs, it seems) a place to play. It also features art work by local artists. There is a music charge ($12.50 includes a drink on Saturdays), which we didn't discover until we were leaving. It's a great Harlem community resource, but you can definitely find better jazz at similar prices elsewhere in New York. read more

a hidden secret jazzy jewel in the rough. cozy and cool. very friendly hostess - Miss Sandy

Darn it....I hate to do this...but I will. I am afraid if I say how much I loved this place it will become packed and I won't be able to enjoy it....but what the hell. We had reservations at Bill's around the corner but they overbooked so we did not stay. The hostess at Bill's did not have our reservation after we called a head and it seemed slightly disorganized. We were a little disappointed but decided to walk down Lenox and discovered 449 accidentally and what a wonder-filled surprise. The first set lasted well over a hour and the musicians only took at 15 minute break. They had a wonderful vocalist who did an excellent Louie Armstrong rendition - Heaven. Ended up staying for 3 hours and loved every minute. No food is served and the drink options are limited...so you may want to bring a little flask if that is important to you. Anywho....can't wait to get back and visit again. A real treasure !! read more