We came here for our anniversary, jazz and brunch. I ordered the pancakes, turkey, sausage, eggs, and a side of grits along with a wonderful drink lemon martini.. my husband ordered the mule drink and it was really delicious as well. The drinks were exceptionally well, and the food was absolutely delicious. The jazz player, no matter how many people were in the restaurant played as if there were a huge crowd with all of this jazz love enthusiasm . His song choices were excellent. I was a little leery at first pulling into the parking lot, but once inside it transformed to a very elegant restaurant. The waitress/bartender was very attendant We drove an hour to get here and we were not disappointed read more

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Pros: Nice small ambient lighting romantic venue. Great customer service, the manager/owner very friendly and checks on his customers throughout the night. Drinks are good speciality drinks kinda pricey but good. Entertainment was great!,live saxophone player interacts with crowd. Cons: Wings and chicken tenders dry asf! Supposed to be voodoo but they were just reg with dipping sauce . Will venture back when there's live singing and try a different dish read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Tenders n wings...in had better :( - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

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The artist was stellar. Food and drinks were just "okay" . Venue was a little bit warm for most of the set. Definitely coming back for seconds, though. read more

Finally found a place that does live music. It's small and inside of a strip, so you wouldn't pay much attention. Oddly enough, it's next door to a daycare . We stopped in for Sunday Brunch and were pleasantly surprised. We both ordered entrees, but didn't get drinks this time. I had the chicken and waffles and my husband ordered catfish w/ greens and mac. The Mac & cheese was very flavorful. I loved my waffle, as it was fluffy on the inside with crispy edges. I'm pretty sure it had cinnamon in the batter as well and that's my jam. We will definitely come back whenever we are in the mood for live music. Make sure to make a reservation before you show up. read more

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Unfortunately, the drinks were not good to the taste nor was the food. Very disappointed, I did not make a big show of it while I was there because I realized that was their best which is unfortunate. Also, tickets for the the live Jazz were timed for 7p but we were told the musicians were not going to start until 9p. This was a waste of money, I just chalk it up as a donation, hope they do better in the future. read more

It is a hidden gem for jazz music. A friend recommended this place when I was visiting Houston and glad I stopped by. Amazing babyface saxophone with Steven Richard. When you can feel the music, you know it is a good jazz place. Service was amazing with drinks. Vic was great and provided great service. If you are looking for a date night or friend's night to chill and drink and listen to music, this is the place to try. It sells out quick, so you will have to book in advance. Great jazz place in Houston. read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

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Food was great, Service was even better!! Three waitstaff was attentive to our needs and very personable. Will definitely be back!

I enjoyeddddd! Came on a "Feel Good Friday's" night and the live band was amazingggggg. Ordered a mojito mocktail and it was perfect honestly. Decided to order the catfish nuggets along with the chicken and beef sausage gumbo. The nuggets, would definitely run it back. Hot, fresh & delicious. The gumbo was just a tad salty for my liking so I probably wouldn't order again but not bad at all. Overall, great experience. Would definitely recommend! read more

Stumbled in to a local gem and embraced the music and cuisine.....Great time! Ordered a Cajun Ribeye, it came with asparagus and mashed potatoes...absolutely delicious. The music was really alive and the saxophone was driving the music when we arrived. read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Jazz Sax performer - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

So glad we found this place ! Absolutely amazing food, staff and atmosphere. We're regulars now. 100% worth trying. read more

The service was great from the time we walked in. The food was good nice flavors and came out hot. Drinks were tasty as well. A lil pricey but what isn't these days. We really enjoyed the vibe and ambiance of the place. We came on a Friday night and caught Marcus B Quartet. Amazing. Would come again. read more

Ugh, I am so disappointed with 3/4 of this place. Before I review my disappointments, I would like to rave about the amazing band Ronnie Coleman and Merlot. They were excellent and the only reason why we stayed. The venue & Food: we attended the feel Good Friday . The tickets were $25 each. When arrived it was clear that it was a very small venue. I received the food and drink menus and skimmed over the options and prices . The mixed drinks listed ranged from $15-20 dollars and the champagne flute $20. The domestic beers are $6. Immediately, I confirmed that the drinks were extremely overpriced. Man, the food was even more of a disappointment. I ordered the $40.00 jerk lamb chops (medium) which came with mash potatoes and asparagus. Honestly, this plate should not have been served. The lamb chops taste like a frozen tv dinner reheated in the microwave, no jerk flavor with a heavy splash of lime. Very much overcooked. The pictures do not lie *. The mash potatoes were just that . No flavor or butter. The asparagus was laughable. Very tasteless, no season, salt or butter . What a complete disappointment. I honestly felt like I was eating dog food . My husband, sister and mother ordered the chicken with mash potatoes and asparagus. As of mine, their food was also very dry and distasteful. The band : Ronny Coleman and Merlot was phenomenal. They played so unbelievably beautiful. If you have a chance, check them out because they were awesome . Take backs: I would not attend this venue again . There is a 18% automatic gratuity, no split checks and the service was mediocre at best .If you do come, I would skip the food, especially if it was the same food choices that we were provided. Just enjoy the music and dj. Seriously ... read more

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Great atmosphere wonderful food great entertainment Wonderful time. The saxophone player was magnificent read more

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We bought tickets for their Valentine's Day dinner and jazz show. A pre-fixed three course menu was included with the ticket. I was really excited for date night and just found out about this jazz club on eventbrite. Doors opened at 7, and we arrived around 7:30pm. It is located in a plaza and had plenty of parking. We checked in with the hostess at the door and she escorted us to the table. The ambience was nice, dim table lights and lights on stage made a romantic setting. So far so good.... We waited at least a solid 45 min after we sat down to be greeted by a waiter. We had to flag someone down to say we haven't been asked if we wanted to order drinks. A guy finally stopped by and said he was unaware we were his table and asked for our drink and appetizer order. We asked if he wanted our entree orders as well and he said he would come back for it. Drinks took another 20-30 min to come out and the appetizer (gumbo) came out 40/45 minutes later. We thought that was unusually slow for something that is premade. We soon realized that service here is extremely slow. All the tables were sold out, but it wasn't a big place and they had 3 waiters. Yet two plates were coming out of the kitchen every 20 minutes. Once again we had to flag down our waiter to take the rest of our meal order. I asked for a lemonade three times before he finally brought it. He kept forgetting and it's already bottled. All he had to do was get it and a cup of ice, but that took him 45 min. The band (Sounds of A&R) started right on time at 8pm. They played a few sets with a couple intermissions. They sounded good and had a different style. Instead of singing regular covers, they put a jazzy rendition to it. Some were hit or miss, but overall enjoyed them! But if only I could have enjoyed my food while watching them. After we finally got our appetizers, it took another hour to get our entree! It was 10pm when our steaks came out. I cannot blame this on the waiter, it was the kitchen that was moving extremely slow. So many people were upset at the end of the evening because of the dinner service. The couple across our table didn't even get to eat. The band had packed up and left around 10:30pm and they had to wait for their food to go. We also had to ask for our desserts to go. We could not sit and enjoy them when the whole event was over. It really is a shame that we got our dinner plate 2.5 hours after being seated. And the food was actually pretty good (like 4/5 rating). Hubby had seafood gumbo which was right on point with flavor! I had the chicken and sausage gumbo. It was just a teeny tad salty but still flavorful and very meaty which I liked. My steak could have been hotter (not sure how long it sat before I got it) but it wasn't cold. It was made to order just as we asked, which we were surprised they got the temp of the meat right. They didn't have steak sauce but it was seasoned well where you really didn't need it. Mashed potatoes were good. I took a couple bites of the chocolate cake while it was still hot before we left. It was yummy. Disappointed it did not come with ice cream because it was advertised as a La mode, but we couldn't take the ice cream with us anyway. I really would have given this place 4 stars if it wasn't for the terribly slow service. Maybe it was an off-night. I'm not sure since this is my first impression. read more

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I've been wanting to come here for some time after following via IG for a while. I'm so glad I decided to come out. Located in a strip mall, there is ample parking. So if parking gives you anxiety/worries, be relieved. The spot is a cozy intimate space. Dimly lit tables create a nice ambiance. Feels like the BlueNote in NY. Just not as tight! The sign says "Live Music, Great Food. They ain't lying either. Them Jerk Lamb Chops were so tasty. Cleared my plate I was blessed to partake in musical delight from RedLoc Music (Check them out!) Customer service was top tier, immaculate! Everyone that I came In contact with was so very helpful and attentive. I didn't get many pictures/video, too busy watching the show! I really enjoyed myself. Oh and did I mention, they are Black owned Thank you Empire State Jazz Cafe for setting off the birthday festivities! read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Jerk Lamb Chops, Garlic Mashed Potatoes & Asparagus, with a The Big Apple Apple Martini. - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

My partner and I came here for date night! It is a very intimate venue. The seats, food, and beverages were not cheap. The service was good but the entertainment was the standout here! They band was awesome! They had an array of instruments and played old school and present day jams! Weboth agreed would come back for a special occasion. read more

Mandatory 18% gratuity- No split checks. I really don't like when businesses do this. I typically tip 20%+ but that's based on the actual service I receive. No split checks is just lazy. So someone has to Boss up and cover the bill for everyone or be prepared to cashapp each other. Food a little more expensive than expected based on the environment. $40 lamb chops with paper napkins is an interesting choice. Food was terrible and under seasoned. They said it was a Cajun butter chicken but it had no sauce or any butter flavor whatsoever. Strangely, even though we ordered first, somehow the food came out barely room temperature. The chicken tasted reheated and not freshly cooked. We asked for more Cajun butter but when the server returned she said they don't have any and that the chicken was marinated in it. Marinated? In butter? You BASTE with butter but marinating with butter is a wild concept. And if they did, it sure didn't work. The chicken was very dry. My wife and sister in law both got the jerk lamb chops. They ordered them medium but both came well done. They both seriously disliked the food. Everyone at our table was upset with the food they received. The asparagus by the way was cooked and then added to the plate with no seasoning whatsoever. Don't let my photography skills fool you- the food was really bad. The venue opens at 7 but live music doesn't start til 9. People started coming in around eight. There was a DJ while you wait for the live music on Fridays. TheDJ was really good. Cocktails were $16-$20 and I just went with beer. The beer was served barely cooler than room temp. The server was nice but she didn't know about the drinks nor the menu items. The live music was great though and the best part of the night. It was the ONLY reason I didn't leave upset about the $25 cover charge. We saw Ronnie Coleman Jr and Merlot Music. Mannnn these guys got down! Great music, great energy, great show. I would definitely recommend checking them out wherever they are performing. read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Cajun butter chicken. I would NOT recommend - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

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We came here for the Jazz brunch from 12-3. It's a very intimate place. Pretty much all of us there were probably 35 and over, so it was very calm and easy-going environment. We all chilled and enjoyed the company of our dates, to some food and live jazz. For the Jazz event itself, you had to pay 10 bucks for the ticket. It was well worth it. Prices vary for evening jazz, but again...it's well worth it. Will definitely be back. read more

First off, based on the outside aesthetics, I should've known that this place was poor quality. Let's start off with this was supposed to be a Jazz brunch and they had one man band. The quality of the food tastes like overheated reheated food which was not worth $100. The drinks were water down and not worth it.. I try to patronize black establishment, but are always disappointed and the fact that you tag on gratuity upfront with poor service. I thought we were being punked, and this was a joke. Houston has good food, but this is not it. read more

Incredible jazz brunch. Music by Roy L Jackson was outstanding and the food was amazing! A must visit when in Houston!! read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Jazz Brunch with Roy L Jackson September 28, 2025 - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

I went to the afternoon brunch set. There were 8 people there. My 1st impression outside was there were food trailers parked in front of the restaurant, and no I clear view of the place it looked closed... Once inside, we were greeted - there was confusion about where to sit (ticket I bought), which were 23.00 per person. NO one was on stage except for 1 sax player, I asked, "Where's the band?" The advertisement was a little deceiving. It showed a full band and a full room. This brunch was not sold out. It was just us 8 people. Brunch was tasty, but the portions were small. I had the fried fish (1 piece), mac n cheese(cup), and greens(cup) I WILL NOT be returning...total day with my date - it cost me 100.00 dollars. Things to change: -Move those trailers from the front of the restaurant. -Run specials, fill the place up. - Invite "up and coming" guest singers. To sing with playback music. read more

If you're looking for great music, food, drinks and smooth atmosphere, Empire State Jazz is the place to be. This is great for date night or a girls night out. The menu was not busy, but a bit pricy for what you were getting. I've been twice and plan on returning. read more

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Everything was perfect! The professional greeting at the door, escorting my party to our seats, the attention provided by staff was on point and food was delicious! Best entertainment good vibes all night! Highly recommended this spot. Dr Free read more

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Food comes out fresh and hot. The food is delicious from the jerk lamb chops to the shrimp and crawfish etouffee. I was able to taste every ingredient which brought out the flavor! We were greeted at the door with a smile and seated. After ordering our food, there was no long wait time. The meals were nicely plated. The atmosphere was pleasant, clean and relaxing. I will definitely return the next time I'm in Houston read more

This was a random Saturday night and my friend and I decided to give this spot a try. Let are located in a plaza off the corner of Wilcrest and Briarforest in the Westchase area of Houston. There is plenty of parking so it wasn't an issue. I would definitely go online to book a table in advance. The show we attended started at 915pm and it was awesome. The band member after first set came out to greet which was nice. So I ordered the Gumbo which was okay and the fish was a must order. The drinks were good ordered a Hennessy Lemon Drop and a Hennessy Sidecar. This place was vibey. I spoke with the staff and they informed me they were rolling out a happy hour menu starting Thursday 3/20/2025. The Thursday Happy Hour looks amazing. I was very pleased. They didn't get 5 stars cause I wish it was a little bigger otherwise they were amazing. Give this spot a try it you love smooth jazz like me then you will enjoy. read more

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The Food was great! The entertainment was wonderful Stephen Richard!! Excellent service!!! read more

Great date night with great performances and great food! Can't wait to return with couple friends read more

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Horrible - no entertainer after 2 hr wait, food not hot and mid, 1 server tried his best

Food is EXCELLENT. GUMBO was Amazing!!! Live Jazz music for entertainment. A hidden gem! read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Live Jazz music. @jeff Magnus band - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

I'm being nice by giving it two stars. 1. performance was great. No issues here 2. We did not walk in into about 30 minutes after start time which was 2. 3. Only had one waitress. One bartender who was moving extremely slow and when we got our drinks they were watered down. There were people who did not work thwre having to help. 4. Took about 45 minut before even being able to begin ordering anything then after ordering waited another 45 minutes To an hour. 5. At some point people stared to leave because the wait time was extremely long This is not how I wanted to teat my mother to Mother's Day. We made the best of it but until there are some changes made or there's a plan for where you have 3 of your 4 waitresses call out, I will not be back. read more

Totally Awesome and I Will Definitely Be Back The Jazz Was Most Definitely on Point Services Are amazing Very Classic Staff Was Amazing Place you want to go and tell family and friends about it Great Crowd read more

Empire State Jazz Cafe - Me enjoying my Mother's Day's Brunch - Cajun/Creole Near Me - Houston, Texas

It is hard to describe what I experienced last night, but in a short sentence, nice try on the business to celebrate valentine. They need to realise that they don't have the space, neither the experience or by any means the actitudes of service. One thing I have to credit is the food ( great taste) hats off to the chef. Good thing they have music to listen while waiting for more than three hours for a meal read more

Food drink and service was ok but there was an up charge of 18% you can't have separate checks.

The food was delicious and the music was on point with Roy L. Jackson, Sr. The oxtails and grits were rich and packed with flavor--pure comfort on a plate. The jerk lamb chops were perfectly seasoned with the right amount of heat and cooked to perfection. The mac and cheese was creamy, cheesy, and everything you'd hope for, and the collard greens had that soulful, slow-cooked taste that ties it all together. Definitely must-try spot! read more

The host staff is great! I didn't really like te seating arrangement. The food was great! The gumbo was the Bomb! An amazing menu! read more

ambience was good but the entertainment fee was absorbent ($25 each). we purchased food and drinks from the menu which I thought should have been reasonable for the operating cost. Entertainment was good, food was good. Bartender had to remake my drink twice because the apple wasn't applying in the matinee. Keep working here and hopefully it gets better. we will likely come back to try again but will take a bit to overcome the shock of an entertainment fee. read more

Great Sunday afternoon experience. Everyone on the staff was welcoming and friendly, and our dining experience was great. Roy L. JACKSON was very fluid musically, and commanded the crowd with skill and ingenuity of his acoustic blends read more

The food was late and the quality was tasteless. IIts typically very difficult to find bad food in Houston....but here it lives! With thhat being said the live music and the cocktails were great! read more

Great food and dessert. Smooth Jazz and a great 4th of July performance. The service was great as well.

Roy L. Jackson Sr. Performance waslAmazing! When he plays his saxophone he just takes you away. Wishing continuous Blessings to you. I can listen to you anytime and anywhere! Empire State is By far the most Amazing Black Owned Cafe that I have ever patronized. Amazing food, Amazing Service, the ambiance set the tone for our experience. Let Everyone Who Has Ears, Listen! Visit Empire State Cafe! read more